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N e w Z e a l a n d &T h e S o u t h P a c i f i cT a i l o r - m a d e J o u r n e y s f o r t h e D i s c e r n i n g T r a v e l l e r

Dear TravellerWith truly awe-inspiring landscapes justasking to be explored and photographed,New Zealand is one of the most beautifulcountries I’ve visited on my travels.It’s not just the scenery that makes it specialhowever. There’s a wide range of outdooractivities, unique flora and fauna, andvibrant towns and cities, all bound togetherby the warmth and friendliness of the peopleyou meet. Maybe that’s why I’ve beendrawn back several times.Across both islands you will undoubtedlydiscover the delights of New Zealand’sfood and wine too, from experiencing atraditional Maori hangi to sampling localfarm produce, the freshest of seafood andthe country’s exceptional wines.Easily combined with New Zealand, or asa destination in its own right, the SouthPacific is the tropical paradise of theimagination. If you can tear yourselfaway from the beautiful beaches andturquoise lagoons you’ll also discover athriving island culture and wonderfullyfriendly people.I hope you will find that the passion ourspecialists have for the region is reflected inthe pages of this brochure, and that itinspires you to visit these beautifuldestinations for yourself.Craig BurkinshawFounder Director

Introducing AudleyAfter developing a real passion for travel in the early 1990s, Craig Burkinshaw foundedAudley, or Asian Journeys as we were then called. Craig wanted to make it possible forothers to share the same experiences and, from these small beginnings, the company was born.Audley offered a new type of travel – individual journeys, designed to match the traveller’sinterests, tastes and budget, created with an absolute commitment to quality, authenticityand a passion for travel. Today Audley is one of the UK’s most highly regarded specialisttour operators, providing tailor-made trips throughout Asia, Africa, the Middle East,Latin America, Australasia, North America, Antarctica and the Arctic.Tailor-made journeysThe beauty of tailor-made travel is that every tripis unique. Whether you want to stay in simple orluxurious accommodation, have great guides onhand or explore under your own steam, travel forone week or five, we can create a trip to matchyour tastes and budget. We can also design tripsfor a special occasion, where added touches canchange an adventurous journey into a spectacularhoneymoon, anniversary or birthday celebration.Your trip can be tailored to suit your particularinterests, such as wildlife, photography or diving,and we have the specialist knowledge to match.Throughout the brochure you will find suggesteditineraries and some of our favourite places tostay. These are included purely to offer inspirationand give you a flavour of what is possible, as eachjourney is created individually to give you theopportunity to experience a destination in exactlythe way you choose.Planning your tripOnce you have some ideas for your trip, or ifyou just want some general guidance, call oneof our New Zealand and South Pacific specialistson 01993 838 800. They can offer advice anddiscuss your plans with you before creating adetailed itinerary, which will be forwarded to youtogether with maps, accommodation information,colour photographs and a price. Your specialistcan then continue to refine the plans until you arecompletely satisfied. They will be on hand fromthe start of the planning process until your returnand are always available to answer questions andoffer sound advice.Specialist knowledgeOur New Zealand and South Pacific specialistshave all travelled extensively throughout theregion and in many cases lived there, so you canrely on their extensive, first-hand knowledge.They regularly return to see the accommodation,meet our guides – many of whom are firmfriends – experience all the excursions andactivities, and keep up-to-date with localdevelopments. They pride themselves on havingan honest ‘tell it how it is’ approach to planningyour trip and, as well as their own comprehensiveknowledge, are able to draw on the considerablecollective experience of their colleagues. Webelieve this approach is unique to Audley and theonly way that we can genuinely offer you atailor-made service.Financial securityAll travel arrangements in this brochure thatinclude a flight from the UK are ATOL protectedby the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOLnumber is 4817. Please see our bookingconditions for more information. If yourarrangements do not include any flights from theUK they are protected by a separate financialscheme; for further details please visitwww.audleytravel.com/protect.Polynesian woman, SamoaContentsIntroduction 2-7New Zealand 8-67North Island 10-33Maori cultural experience 23Cycling in New Zealand 34-35South Island 36-67New Zealand wine 42Fiordland National Park cruising 57Walking and trekking 64-65The South Pacific 68-85Cruising and sailing 73Diving 81Getting there 86Important information 87

Experience New Zealand& the South PacificHalf way round the globe yet closely connected to the UK, a trip to this part of the world isincredibly rewarding. With sublime scenery, vibrant cities, fine food and Maori culture,New Zealand has a wealth of experiences to enjoy. The exotic South Pacific islands operate ata slower pace and offer all the white tropical beaches, crystal clear lagoons and swaying coconutpalms you could wish for. Situated just a short distance from New Zealand they are perfect foran extended trip or as a stop en route.Walking the Routeburn Track, New ZealandDiving in the South PacificFijian girl, South PacificLandscapesFor the majority of visitors, it is New Zealand’smajestic scenery that is the greatest draw. Fromsnow-capped peaks to rumbling volcanoes,pristine beaches, glacial lakes, tranquil fiords andlush forests, the landscapes are incredibly diverseand almost otherworldly in their beauty. Both theNorth and South islands share many commonfeatures but they are also wonderfully different.The North Island is fertile and volcanic, cloaked indense native forest and edged with spectacularcoastlines. The South Island is less populated andmore extreme, with the jagged spine of theSouthern Alps forming a natural barrier from therolling Canterbury Plains, while further south themountains are peppered with sparkling alpinelakes. The island nations of the South Pacific offerarchetypal scenes of palm-fringed beaches andtropical lagoons, but some islands also offerdramatic mountain peaks and rolling fields ofsugar cane.CultureThe countries in this region all have dynamiccultures that are made up of a unique combinationof traditional heritage, colonial history andgeographic isolation. New Zealanders are proudof their Maori roots, and the culture and languageof the indigenous people is part of the fabric ofmodern society. The arrival of Europeans resultedin a large decline in the Maori population andalthough today Maori constitute less than 10% ofthe overall population, their culture is still verymuch alive. In the small, remote South Pacificislands, strong Polynesian and Melanesian culturalvalues survive, making them both a glorious placeto relax and a fascinating one to explore.Modern New ZealandNew Zealand is a vibrant and prosperous countrywith a strong set of values. Members of itsparliament truly represent the diversity of itspopulation and aim to tackle global issues head on.Acutely aware of the pristine habitats theypossess, New Zealanders are firmly committed tosustainable development and green living. Gettingout into the bush or mountains and enjoyingoutdoor activities is simply a way of life here, andwith such a wealth of fabulous places to explore itis hardly surprising. New Zealand’s cities offer anexciting contrast to the scenic wilderness.Composed of a delightful mix of colonial heritagebuildings and gleaming modern architecture,they also offer fine dining, superb museums,international arts, shopping and galleries, allaccessible via excellent local transportation.ActivitiesThe rugged landscape of New Zealand begs tobe explored on foot, by bike, by boat or by air.Pioneering individuals have dreamed up an arrayof adrenaline-pumping extreme sports, but youdon’t have to throw yourself off a suspendedplatform into a steep-sided gorge to appreciatethe country’s superb scenery. Drift along anuntouched coastline in a sea kayak, take to the airon a helicopter flight, skim shallow braided riversin a jet boat or cycle along an historic railwayroute; whatever you choose you will get to seeNew Zealand from a different angle. Boat tripsabound, and even those who find water traveluncomfortable will be delighted by the tranquilwaters of Fiordland or some of the country’sbeautiful lakes. You will also find world-class golfcourses and excellent fishing. The South Pacific bycomparison has palm-fringed beaches and coralatolls teeming with iridescent marine life that makefor unsurpassed swimming, snorkelling and diving.4

Savai’iSAMOASOUTH PACIFIC OCEANMarquesasIslandsYasawaIslandsMamanuca NadiIslands VitiLevuFIJIMap not to scaleVanuaLevuTaveuniUpoluTHESOUTHPACIFICCOOKISLANDSBora BoraTaha’aHuahineRaiatea PapeeteAitutakiMooreaTahiti FRENCHPOLYNESIARarotongaTuamotuIslandsWalking0 80 miles0 145 kilometresTasman SeaTasman SeaAucklandNelsonNelsonPaihiaPaihiaAucklandRotoruaNORTHISLANDRotoruaTaupoNapierTaupoWELLINGTONWELLINGTONNORTHISLANDNapierWalking – or ‘tramping’ as the locals call it – is anational pastime in New Zealand. There areendless day walks as well as multi-day ‘great walks’,and at almost any point along your route you willfind short tracks, boardwalks and nature trails justoff the main highway, always well marked andcomplete with Department of Conservationinformation boards that describe the local floraand fauna. Longer trails offer anything from basichut accommodation to comfortable lodges, butdue to their popularity these often need to bebooked well in advance. These can easily beincorporated into your itinerary and your specialistcan advise you on both the scenery and level ofdifficulty. More details can be found on pages64-65. Walking is also a delightful way to explorethe exotic landscape of the South Pacific islands;some islands offer superb beach walks whilst onothers trails take you through verdant vegetation,past waterfalls and to lookout points withsuperb coastal views.GreymouthKaikouraTe AnauGreymouthTe AnauQueenstownInvercargillQueenstownObanDunedinDunedinKaikouraChristchurchSOUTH ChristchurchISLANDSOUTHISLANDNEWZEALANDNEWZEALAND0 80 miles0 145 kilometresWalking in New ZealandInvercargillObanMountain biking, New Zealand01993 838 800 l Introduction 5

New ZealandNew Zealand remains one of the world’smost popular destinations and thoseprepared to travel half way round the worldare amply rewarded with a wonderfullydiverse array of experiences. Most famous forits sublime landscapes, New Zealand offersdramatic vistas at every turn. Even thefinest photographers struggle to fully captureits beauty and seeing it with your own eyesreally is the only option. So varied is thelandscape that you can expect to start a daydwarfed by rumbling volcanic peaks, thenjourney through dense ancient forests,traverse rich fertile plains and skirtshimmering lakes before ending on a longstretch of empty golden sand. Along with theawe-inspiring landscapes New Zealand isthe place to explore Maori heritage,experience vibrant cities, indulge in thefreshest seafood and enjoy sincere andgenerous Kiwi hospitality. A trip here offersa range of experiences from walking in themountains, spotting rare yellow-eyedpenguins and cruising on one of the peacefulwaterways of the sounds, to sampling someof the world’s finest wines. New Zealand,it soon becomes obvious, has it all.8

IIIIIIIISky Tower, Auckland, North Island0 80 miles0 145 kilometresFranz JosefGlacierFox GlacierS oGreymouthHokitikau t h eTasman SeaKarameaBightIIIIICapeReingaArthur’sPassr n A l pINelsonINew PlymouthsIII IKerikeriIIIIAucklandPictonBlenheimIIII IIIIKaikouraMount Cook ChristchurchNational ParkLake AkaroaTekapoCanterburyBightPaihiaWhangareiGreat BarrierIslandTasmanBayHamiltonTongariroNationalParkPalmerston NorthCook StraitBay ofIslandsPACIFIC OCEANCoromandelRangeRotoruaWELLINGTONCoromandelPeninsulaTaupoLake TaupoBay of PlentyWhakataneGisborneNapierHawke’sHastings BayEastCapeAudley in New ZealandNew Zealand is a particularly hassle-freedestination in which to travel, and becauseof its compact size we can plan a trip to suityou that encompasses a diverse range oflandscapes and experiences. We will makerecommendations for the most scenic walks,bicycle rides and driving routes and offer tipson really getting under the skin of the countrywith activities such as swimming withdolphins, light aircraft glacier landings andnocturnal Maori walks through ancient giantkauri forests.Our specialists regularly return to re-visittheir favourite places and to explore newareas, hand-picking hotels and bed andbreakfasts with superb locations and individualcharacter along the way. During our extensivetravels we have also identified the best wayof travelling from place to place. Internalflights are used when necessary but wherepossible we prefer to make use of thespectacular road, rail and ferry journeys thatcross the country. We would be delighted toshare our detailed knowledge of the countrywith you to ensure that you get the very bestfrom your trip.FiordlandNationalParkWanakaQueenstownLake WakatipuTe AnauDunedinInvercargillFoveaux StraitObanStewartIslandNorth IslandNew Zealand’s North Island offers an incrediblydiverse choice of attractions for visitors. It is hometo both the country’s largest city, Auckland, and itscapital, Wellington. Both cities offer waterfrontlocations, cosmopolitan nightlife and an array oftop-class restaurants. Outside the major urbancentres you will find ancient kauri tree forests,lush vegetation and big game fishing in the Bay ofIslands; secluded beaches and rugged rainforeston the Coromandel Peninsula; and volcanic peaksand sacred Maori sites in Tongariro National Park.For world-class vineyards head to Hawke’s Bay,while Lake Taupo is renowned for its fishing andwater sports, and in steamy Rotorua you will finda combination of fascinating Maori culture andfizzing geothermal activity.Abel Tasman National Park, South IslandSouth IslandThe South island is all about magnificent vistas andoutdoor experiences. Riven by mighty glacier-cladmountain ranges and punctuated with pristinealpine lakes, the sheer drama of the South Island’slandscape has to be seen to be believed. Toweringpeaks look down over tranquil sheep-grazedpastures, spectacular fiords indent the ruggedcoast and cascading waterfalls thunder intoshimmering lakes. Unsurprisingly, the region is thebirthplace of many adventure sports and you cantramp, climb, kayak, bungee, ski and sail to yourheart’s content. In addition, the beautiful cities ofChristchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown areattractions in their own right, and you willprobably find the lure of the Marlborough Sounds’sculptured valleys, Abel Tasman’s inviting beaches,and Fiordland’s awe-inspiring mountains andspectacular sounds very hard to ignore.Pohutu Geyser, RotoruaFind out moreFor suggested itineraries and practicalinformation about travel in New Zealand,please see pages 32-33 and 66-67.%www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features,further suggested itineraries,accommodation, climate informationand articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our NewZealand specialists 01993 838 820New Zealand 9

North IslandNew Zealand’s North Island offers aworld of contrasting highlights toexplore. Most visitors arrive in Auckland,the country’s largest city, with its expansiveyacht-filled harbour, islands, Maori cultureand buzzing urban environment. To thenorth lies the pretty Bay of Islands withthe historic town of Russell where theWaitangi Treaty between Great Britainand the Maori chiefs was signed in 1840.Further south, the unspoilt CoromandelPeninsula boasts pristine coastal scenerywhilst inland, pastoral farms contrast withthe sulphurous boiling mud, hissingfumaroles and spurting geysers of Rotoruaand the geothermal plateau. Mighty LakeTaupo offers a wide variety of outdooractivities and nearby lie the active volcanicpeaks of Tongariro National Park. On theNorth Island’s eastern coast, Hawke’s Bayis renowned for the art deco city of Napierand for its long-established wineries.Finally, in the south of the North Island liesthe nation’s cosmopolitan capital, Wellington,home to the superb Te Papa TongarewaMuseum, the Parliament Buildings andOld St. Paul’s Cathedral.10

Auckland Harbour at twilightAucklandAuckland revolves around its twin harbours and isknown as the ‘City of Sails’ for good reason.Cradled by and built around a series of volcaniccones, views of the waterfront abound. Thiscombination of urban and marine, coupled with asunny climate, has created a vibrant environmentwith one of the most sought-after lifestyles in theworld. The city also features a number ofarchitectural pleasures; exquisite colonial timberedhouses with elaborate detailing give way toimposing government buildings and modern glasstowers, which catch the light making the cityappear to shimmer. Queen Street, Auckland’sgolden mile, is the major shopping area,complemented by Parnell and Ponsonby – leafyinner suburbs with lovingly restored Victorian andEdwardian villas, galleries, boutiques and al frescocafés. Much of the dining and entertainment iscentred around the lively Viaduct Basin, home totwo America’s Cup sailing events.Hotel DeBrett, AucklandLocated in the heart of Auckland, Hotel DeBrettwas built in 1841 as the city’s first hotel. Today,this iconic building has been stylishly remodelledinto a 25 room boutique hotel with a glass-roofedatrium and courtyard. Each room is unique,boasting an eclectic mix of contemporaryfurniture, fittings and artwork collected by theowner from around the world. The famous HouseBar, the soul of the hotel, has been meticulouslyrestored and has become a fashionable localmeeting place that is complemented by a privatedrawing room for exclusive use by hotel guests.Sky City Grand Hotel,AucklandThe newest addition to the Sky City entertainmentcomplex, the Grand blends style and elegancewith its central city location. The rooms arespacious and contemporary with impressivefinishing touches and thoughtful décor. There is ahuge range of facilities to enjoy including abeautiful spa, heated lap pool and fully equippedgym. Dine, one of the hotel’s restaurants,specialises in mouth-watering Pacific Rim cuisine.and cafés and is only a minute’s walk away fromQueen Street’s theatres and shops. This all-suiteproperty combines the services of a top hotel withthe freedom of self-contained facilities. The roomsare large, each comes with kitchenette and city orharbour views and many have private balconies.Sofitel Auckland ViaductHarbour, AucklandThis stylish waterfront hotel is nestled betweenthe sophisticated shops and restaurants of ViaductHarbour and the attractive new WynyardQuarter overlooking the shimmering WaitemataHarbour. Guests in each of the 172 spaciousrooms and suites benefit from private balconies,floor-to-ceiling windows and luxurious marblebathrooms featuring both a rain shower and adeep bath. With impeccable service, a champagnebar, gourmet restaurant and swimming pool,sauna and spa, you may never wish to leave.The Sebel Suites, Auckland12The Sebel Suites, AucklandWith one of the best locations in Auckland, TheSebel Suites are situated right in the heart of thefamous Viaduct Harbour district. This is a bustlingarea filled with the city’s finest bars, restaurantsSofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour, Auckland

Sky City Grand Hotel, AucklandVineyards, Waiheke IslandHotel DeBrett, AucklandDevonportWith a distinctly historical flavour, Devonport is aquaint 19th century village ten minutes’ ferry ridefrom central Auckland. Now an establishedsuburb, it retains many well-preserved Victorianand Edwardian timber buildings transformed intobrasserie-style restaurants, cafés, art galleries andenchanting homes. It is a wonderful place to visiton a morning or afternoon excursion, but – with anumber of great boutique guesthouses – can alsobe a quiet and rewarding out-of-centre city base.Waiheke IslandVineyards, olive groves, white-sand beaches, rockyforeshores and relaxed seaside villages make uprustic Waiheke Island. Just off the coast fromAuckland, it is a refuge for a community of artisansand organic farmers. Waiheke offers visitors aglorious retreat from the city and boasts over adozen wineries, several of which can be visited.The island is accessed via a 30 minute ferrycrossing or short flight and is ideal for a couple ofdays’ relaxation after a long international flight.The Boatshed, Waiheke IslandThe Boatshed,Waiheke IslandThis captivating property overlooks Oneroa Bayand was inspired by the early 20th centuryboatsheds that are scattered along New Zealand’sshores. The interior stylishly reflects a subtlenautical theme and the bright, sunny guest suitesenjoy panoramic views. The excellentaccommodation, great food, friendly service andquirky local artworks create a setting that reflectsthe laid-back attitude of the island. The beachand village are within easy walking distance andthe ferry terminal for Auckland is five minutesaway by car.Hei Matau Lodge,Waiheke IslandSet within large grounds on the shores of asecluded Waiheke Island beach, Hei Matau is theperfect island getaway with a range of vineyardsand stunning coastal and native bush walks virtuallyon the doorstep. Every room at Hei Matau issea-facing with large panoramic windows that takein as much of the view as possible. Relax with acomplimentary glass of wine and enjoy theluxurious surroundings. Your hosts are friendlyand provide seamless service, and there is a widerange of facilities to enjoy including an infinity pool,extensive courtyards and decks with sun loungers.Kayaks, gym equipment, fishing rods and bicyclesare provided.A pretty Devonport suburbGreat Barrier IslandJust a 30 minute flight from Auckland andbeautifully unspoilt, Great Barrier Island is a havenfor wildlife and nature lovers. The interior is lacedwith walking paths through magnificent forests,hot springs and historical kauri dams. The bestpaths are found in Great Barrier Forest where,after a couple of hours’ tramping, you can reachHirakimata, the island’s highest point, with viewsacross to the Coromandel Peninsula andAuckland. On the coast, Great Barrier also hassome of the North Island’s finest surf beaches,whilst diving in the crystal-clear waters is a delight.With only a couple of accommodation options,the sheer isolation of the island is an attractivefactor and it is the ideal place for a tranquil retreat.Great Barrier Islandwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 13

Waikare Inlet, Bay of IslandsBay of IslandsThe small townships of the Bay of Islands regionare steeped in colonial history and are set againsta patchwork of gently rolling farmland andancient forests of venerable kauri trees. For most,however, it is the coast that is the main draw.The clear Pacific waters, which are teeming withmarine life including seals and whales, shelter 144islands fringed with countless secluded bays. Youmay wish to take to the water to fully appreciatethe area’s natural beauty, either on a Cape Brettand ‘Hole in the Rock’ cruise from Paihia, or onboard the R. Tucker Thompson, a replica of a 100year old schooner. Other highlights includeswimming with dolphins and big game fishing.Allegra House, Paihia14Decks of Paihia, PaihiaPaihiaThe centre of all water-based activities in the area,Paihia is made up of three pretty bays and issheltered from the ocean by the Russell Peninsula.The first dwelling was built here by the Europeansas a mission station in 1823, and from thesemodest beginnings it has developed into a busytravel hub for the Bay of Islands and the north.From Paihia’s bustling little wharf it is possible toarrange sea kayaking, sailing and much more.Allegra House, PaihiaIn a quiet position high on the hill overlookingPaihia and the ocean, Allegra House is bothwelcoming and well located. The guest suites allhave stylish modern furnishings, private balconiesand sunny seating areas. There is a pleasant loungeon the first floor and spectacular ocean views atevery turn. Breakfast is served either in the sunnybreakfast room or on the balcony. Your genialhosts can help plan your day with their extensiveknowledge of the area.Decks of Paihia, PaihiaThis modern and good value bed and breakfast isperched high above the town of Paihia with viewsover the native bush and out into the bay. Thereare just three guest rooms at the property, allspacious and light, which open onto expansivedecks where you can relax at the end of the day.Nestled in the gardens is a sunny pool area, andthe guest rooms all share a cosy but spaciouslounge. Your hosts, Philip and Wendy, are onhand to help you plan your time in the bay.The Sanctuary at Bay ofIslands, PaihiaWith sweeping views of the sea, this property isperfectly positioned for exploring the region’snumerous attractions. Each room features floorto ceiling windows and expansive outdoor decksoffering wonderful panoramic vistas. The lodgehas an outdoor swimming pool, library, bar and awelcoming restaurant where breakfast anddinner are served.The Sanctuary at Bay of Islands, Paihia

Collecting shellfish, Waitangi, Bay of IslandsBeach shop, Paihia, Bay of IslandsTe Whare Runanga meeting house, WaitangiWaitangi TreatyGrounds, RussellWaitangi is New Zealand’s mostrenowned historic site and is known asthe birthplace of the country. In 1840the Maori and the British Crown signedthe Treaty of Waitangi here and it soonbecame the basis of New Zealand’sconstitution. The Treaty House with itsbeautiful sweep of lawn running down tothe bay became a national memorial in1932. Inside are many photographs fromthe period and a copy of the originaltreaty, and across the lawn is theimpressively detailed Maori meetinghouse, ‘Te Whare Runanga’, which iscarved to represent all the major Maoritribes. It is well worth taking a guidedtour for greater insight into this significantchapter in New Zealand’s history.Russell Pier, Russell, Bay of IslandsCruising in the Bay of IslandsBay of IslandsOvernight CruiseAn overnight cruise is a delightfully relaxing wayto explore the beautifully secluded corners of theBay of Islands. Departing from the small port townof Opua, these 36 hour cruises provide fullcommentary on the history, environment andwildlife of the region. The Bay of Islands is hometo an abundance of marine life including dolphins,whales, seals and penguins, and a cruise gives youthe opportunity to get up close to these beautifulcreatures. The small ship is spread over twodecks and has just 30 en suite staterooms inaddition to a spacious sun deck, a restaurant anda bar. Dinner and breakfast are included andwhen the ship anchors you will be able to gosnorkelling, swimming and kayaking in the warmand clear waters.RussellIt requires a massive leap of imagination toconsider this small, peaceful township, nestled onsparkling shores in the heart of the Bay of Islandsas the ‘hell hole of the Pacific’, a moniker sprungfrom its lawless days as a whaling station. Thiscolourful past is artfully explored at PompallierHouse and the local museum. The village nowmaintains a genteel colonial charm, its quietstreets peppered with boutiques and galleriesdisplaying local arts and crafts. Set amongst lushsubtropical flora and with a selection of excellentrestaurants on the tranquil waterfront, it is aperfect secluded getaway.Arcadia Lodge, RussellArcadia Lodge, RussellArcadia lodge is an Audley favourite and overlooksone of the prettiest bays in Northland. The lodgeis full of character, is great value and with just fiverooms allows hosts David and Brad to provideattentive service during your stay. There are twocomfortable living spaces which are exclusively forguests’ use where you can relax and unwind aftera day exploring the local area. The expansive deckoverlooks the tranquil bay, and is the ideal placeto enjoy breakfast in the morning or a glass ofwine late in the day. The fruit-filled gardenprovides ingredients for homemade jams and thesmall herb garden is popular with returning guests.Many excursions out into the Bay of Islandsdepart from Russell, and Paihia is only a shortferry ride away allowing further exploration ofthis stunning region.KerikeriKerikeri was once home to the fearsome Maorichief Hongi Hika, but today is better known forcitrus orchards, historic buildings and arts andcrafts. New Zealand’s oldest stone and timberbuildings, the Stone Store and the Kerikeri MissionHouse are set virtually side-by-side in the heart oftown, still looking just as good as they did whenbuilt in the 1840s. Despite being just a smalltownship, Kerikeri has a lively café scene, plentyof wineries and several gourmet food producers.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 15

Cape Reinga lighthouseNorthland PeninsulaLying to the north of the Bay of Islands, theNorthland Peninsula extends into the PacificOcean revealing pretty bays and rugged coastalscenery. Beautiful, secluded beaches line the coastand make the perfect place to spend a day or twoswimming, snorkelling, fishing or relaxing. TheCavalli Islands, located three kilometres northeastof Matauri Bay are stunningly beautiful and caneasily be visited by boat. The islands are the finalresting place of the sunken Greenpeace vessel,Rainbow Warrior, which is now one of the topdive sites in New Zealand.Cape Reinga coast16Cape Reinga Fly & DriveA wonderful way to appreciate the spectacularscenery of the Northland region is to view it fromthe air. This unforgettable excursion is a five hourguided tour of Cape Reinga departing fromAuckland, Paihia or Kerikeri. The day starts with abreathtaking flight over Ninety Mile Beach and thenorthwest coast of the North Island in a lightaircraft. This is the perfect – indeed, the only –way to put this stunning scenery into perspective.You will land at a remote airstrip and continueexploring the very tip of New Zealand by roadwith the final hour spent flying back down theequally beautiful, but very different, east coast viathe Bay of Islands.Ninety Mile Beach &Cape ReingaKnown to the Maori as the ‘tail of the fish’, NewZealand narrows at its extreme northern tip to athin stretch of land only a few kilometres wide,flanked by two pristine coastlines dotted withuntouched beaches. World famous Ninety MileBeach is a truly impressive expanse of pristinesand washed by the crashing surf of the TasmanSea, which converges with the mighty PacificOcean at Cape Reinga. On the tip of the Capestands an ancient pohutukawa tree, believed bythe Maori to be the place from which the spiritsof their deceased leap back into the ocean.Light aircraft flight over the Bay of IslandsHuntaway Lodge,Matauri BayWith three guest rooms and three gorgeousbeaches, this boutique property offers luxuriousaccommodation for a maximum of six guests.The lodge is furnished in contemporary style withartefacts from the surrounding Pacific cultureslending personality and character to each room.Hospitality is first class, with fine wines and refinedhome-cooking, as well as mesmerising sea views inevery direction. You could spend a few days heresea kayaking, beach fishing and bathing in thesheltered ocean waters.Huntaway Lodge, Matauri Bay

Waipoua Kauri ForestNinety Mile BeachKauri CoastLying on the northwest shore, the Kauri Coast is aland of ancient kauri forests, gum-digging andlogging. The Waipoua Forest is the mostsignificant remnant of the once extensiveNorthland forests and is home to the oldestremaining kauri trees, one over 2,000 years oldand many with trunks several metres in diameter.Of great cultural importance to the Maori, theseforests are well worth exploring with a guide,while a trip to the highly interactive museum atMatakohe brings the region’s fascinating history tolife. At the northern end of the coast lies theserenely beautiful Hokianga Harbour, its turquoisewaters flanked by pristine white sand dunes.Waipoua Lodge, Kauri CoastSet on a ridge overlooking the impressiveWaipoua Forest, Waipoua Lodge is over 100years old and is steeped in history.Accommodation is in four self-contained cottageswhich have been converted from a woolshed, acalf pen and the property’s original stables andtack rooms. All the cottages open onto balconiesoverlooking the beautifully landscaped gardensand the native bush beyond. The bar and diningroom feature a pianola that provides musicalaccompaniment to the excellent food. A networkof bush walks lace the area and guided night walksoffer the chance to spot the elusive kiwi.Matakana farmers’ marketWaipoua Lodge, Kauri CoastFootprints WaipouaLocally owned and operated, these guided walkingtours provide a fascinating opportunity to learnabout the oldest and largest kauri trees in theworld, including ‘Te Matua Ngahere’, the Father ofthe Forest, and ‘Tane Mahuta’, the Lord of theForest. Maori guides bring their ancestralhomeland of Waipoua Forest to life through theirstories and songs. Several tours are availableduring the day, but our favourite is the ‘TwilightEncounter’. Rich with the sounds of evening, theforest feels ethereal as the silhouettes of the treeschange with the light.Hokianga Harbour, Kauri CoastMatakanaAn hour north of Auckland, near the bohemianvillage of Puhoi and the colonial town ofWarkworth, the Matakana area is fast becomingknown for its food, wine and thriving arts scene.There is a selection of small family-run winerieshere as well as sandy arcs of coastline washed byrolling Pacific surf. Matakana provides a perfectbreak on the drive between Auckland and theBay of Islands.Takatu Lodge & Vineyard,MatakanaMore than just a place to stay, a visit to TakatuLodge is an experience, allowing you theopportunity to sample life on a working vineyardwhile enjoying the highest standard of comfort andthe best cuisine. The lodge is contemporary instyle, but uses natural wood, marble and stone tocomplement its surroundings. Whole walls of glasscapture the stunning views and local artists’ worksadorn the main lodge. Your hosts are welltravelled and enjoy good food and wine, andguests are encouraged to indulge in a little winetasting. The four suites have fantastic views eithertowards the ocean or over the vineyard, and aredesigned for privacy, elegance and comfort.Takatu Lodge & Vineyard, Matakanawww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 17

Te Pare Point, near Hahei, Coromandel PeninsulaThe Coromandel PeninsulaJutting north into the Pacific Ocean, theCoromandel Peninsula features two beautiful butcontrasting coastlines, encompassing pretty seasidetowns and hidden bays that feel serenely remotedespite their proximity to Auckland. Along theFirth of Thames the coast follows a rockyshoreline and is quieter than the popular,sweeping beaches of the eastern coast. Inland,rugged volcanic hills are cloaked in thick, nativerainforest while gold-rush history is evident inonce-grand towns such as Waihi and Thames.The Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve is ahighlight, encompassing a wonderful stretch ofCoromandel coastline that is dotted with offshoreislands and rock stacks. Leading to the reserve isHahei Beach, a glorious stretch of golden sandenjoying a panoramic vista of the islets. CathedralCove, another highlight, is a 30 minute scenic walkfrom the nearest car park, but well worth thehike as you are rewarded with a fine beachHahei Horizon B&B, Coromandel Peninsula18Colleith Lodge, Coromandel Peninsuladominated by a gigantic arched cavern accessibleon foot except for at very high tide, and the venuefor thrilling ‘Hole in the Rock’ boat trips. At HotWater Beach, thermal waters stew just below thesand; within two hours either side of low tide youcan dig a hole in the sand and sit in your ownnatural spa pool.Hahei Horizon B&B,Coromandel PeninsulaThis small bed and breakfast offers great valueand is tucked amongst native trees on the hilloverlooking the beautiful beach at Hahei. Thehosts have designed the property to maximise thefabulous views from the guest rooms and lounge.The house itself has just two beautifully decoratedguest rooms and there is also a self-containedstudio in the garden ideal for a family withchildren. With the beach right on your doorstepyou can enjoy kayaking, swimming and boating,or simply sit back and enjoy the sea air.Colleith Lodge,Coromandel PeninsulaSet in native bush, and purpose built fromkiln-fired Hinuera stone, Colleith Lodge offersrelaxation, privacy and comfort in a beautifulsetting. The lodge is also just a short drive fromCathedral Cove, Hahei and Hot Water Beach.Each of the three guest rooms opens onto aprivate patio area with sweeping views over theTairua Estuary, Slipper Island and the PacificOcean and has direct access to the lap pool andJacuzzi. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the largedining area or on the terrace, and in the eveningdrinks and canapés are served by your hosts.Cathedral Cove, near Whitianga, Coromandel Peninsula

Historic gold mine in ThamesAbandoned mine building in WaihiStrolling on Hahei Beach, Coromandel PeninsulaWaihi & Waihi BeachLocated at the southern end of the Coromandel,and serving as a gateway to both the peninsulaand the Bay of Plenty, the townships of Waihi andWaihi Beach combine gold-rush heritage withmodern-day beachfront lifestyle. Waihi town is thehome of the richest gold mine in New Zealandand even has a vintage railway line offering visitorsa glimpse of the early gold-rush days. Waihi Beachis a few minutes’ drive away and has its ownlaid-back vibe and superb stretch of white sand.Waihi Beach Lodge,Coromandel PeninsulaThis welcoming bed and breakfast offersexcellent value and is situated just a short strollfrom Waihi Beach. A beach theme runs throughthe comfortable and stylish guest rooms, most ofwhich have sea views. With landscaped gardensand secluded deck areas you can simply enjoy thetranquillity or let your hosts assist in arranginganything from gold mine tours to torpedo fishing.Waihi Beach Lodge, Coromandel PeninsulaWaihi beachManawa Ridge, Coromandel PeninsulaManawa Ridge,Coromandel PeninsulaManawa Ridge is the brain child of artists Willemand Carla van de Veen. Adapting their skills tobuild an incredible lodge constructed from strawbales, mud bricks and carved beams, thischaracterful place provides the ultimate in luxuryand comfort. The three rooms feature handcarvedbeds, open fires and spa baths and are setin private gardens, while the ridge on which theproperty is perched affords incredible 360 degreeviews over stunning countryside to the PacificOcean beyond.970 Lonely Bay Lodge,Coromandel PeninsulaOffering luxury boutique accommodation, 970Lonely Bay Lodge is a popular choice. Set amidststunning gardens, the property offers threeone-bedroom suites and a premier two-bedroomsuite, all with a spacious terrace, and spectacularbush or water views. There is a solarium withopening roof, perfect for taking in the views andrelaxing in the sunshine, and a cosy library with afireplace, ideal for chilly evenings. With the PurangiEstuary and Cooks Beach close by, you can enjoythe natural beauty of the area, with a range ofwater sports, boating, fishing and scenic walksavailable, and kayaking tours to Cathedral Cove.970 Lonely Bay Lodge, Coromandel Peninsulawww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 19

Mount Maunganui and Ocean Beach, Bay of PlentyBay of PlentyThe Bay of Plenty is an area of thriving agricultureand endless coastline, popular with NewZealanders, many of whom escape from thetowns to their baches (holiday homes) along thestretch of coast between the principal town ofTauranga and the popular Papamoa Beach. AcrossTauranga Harbour the skyline is dominated by thevolcanic cone of Mauao, where a fairly challengingclimb is rewarded with unobstructed views alongthe coast. Mount Maunganui, the town at its base,is a centre for surf and adventure year-round.To the east is Whakatane and its smaller seasideneighbour of Ohope, offering another sweepingstretch of empty, golden sand. Off the coast liesthe small but smouldering Whakaari, NewZealand’s most active volcano, whose steamyshroud is clearly visible all along the bay.Visitors on Whakaari (White Island), Bay of Plenty20Whakaari (White Island), Bay of PlentyWhakaari (White Island)Volcanic White Island is a designated privatescenic reserve and can only be visited withrecognised operators with whom we are able toarrange day tours. Although mined for sulphurextensively in the early 1900s, it was soonacknowledged that this unique environment andits endemic species should be protected. Today,trips take visitors over by helicopter or boat, andincorporate both a visit to the old sulphur miningfactory and an exhilarating walk around thecrater’s edge, peering right into its hissing,steaming heart.Lake McLaren kayakingBeautiful Lake McLaren offers a uniqueopportunity to kayak by the light of glow worms.Accompanied by an experienced guide you canenjoy light refreshments at the side of the lake asdusk falls, before taking to the water in yourdouble kayaks, paddling gently to the far end ofthe lake. In the peace and stillness you will be ableto see the glow worms as they light up the nativebush along the lake’s shores and, if water levelsallow, you will access a narrow inlet full of glowworms whose bright glow reflects on the watermirroring the stars above.

James Cook Plaza, Poverty Bay, GisborneFlowers of the pohutukawa treeInner harbour, GisborneGisborne & surroundsStretching out into the Pacific Ocean, thelittle-visited and unspoilt eastern coast harbourssome of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery.Here the Pacific Coast Highway hugs the shore allthe way from Opotiki to Te Araroa, and passesthrough tunnels of ancient pohutukawa forest,tiny settlements rich in Maori culture, andspectacular, deserted bays. Gisborne, the country’smost easterly city, is renowned for its long hoursof sunshine and fertile plains which produce manysubtropical fruits and some of the country’s bestChardonnays. The inland driving route back toOpotiki climbs steadily up to the village ofMatawai, then plunges into the magnificentWaioeka River Gorge, which runs back down tothe Pacific Ocean.Raukokore Church, East CapeKnapdale Eco Lodge, GisborneProviding the perfect combination of greataccommodation and a warm welcome, KnapdaleEco Lodge offers a real working farm experience.Completed in 2004, the main lodge is just part ofthe owners’ dream to create an outstanding, safeand ecologically sustainable tourism venture.Winners of the 2006 North Island Farm Foresterof the Year Award, the owners continue to investhuge efforts into planting indigenous trees thatare attractive to native birds. You are encouragedHeritage and historyGisborne, set on Poverty Bay, is the first cityin the world to greet the rising sun each day,and this spectacular coastal region is rich inboth Maori and European settler history,making it a fascinating place to visit. In 1769Captain Cook’s ship Endeavour made landfallhere and the Young Nick’s Head promontorywas named for the ship’s cabin boy, NicholasYoung, who reputedly was the first to seeland. Captain Cook named the region PovertyBay because ‘it did not afford a single articlewe wanted, except a little firewood’. ManyMaori tribal battles also took place in the areain the past, the most notable of which wasthe uprising of the Maori prophet Te Kootito wander around the grounds to see thechickens, sheep, cattle and deer, and assist withfeeding or planting. There are just two guestrooms in the lodge so you can enjoy a wonderfullypeaceful stay, and with a large lounge, dining anddeck area the rest of the lodge provides amplespace for relaxation. The grounds also house asignificant Maori pa site (a traditionally fortifiedvillage), giving guests the opportunity to learnmore about the history and culture of thesurrounding area.Depiction of Captain Cook’s arrival in New Zealandwho led a rebellion against European settlersin the 1860s. Today the area is prosperoussheep and cattle country, and lush withorchards and vineyards.Knapdale Eco Lodge, Gisbornewww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 21

Champagne Pool, RotoruaRotoruaKnown for its geothermal activity and strongMaori culture, Rotorua is a popular destinationlittered with steamy mineral lakes, bursting geysersand bubbling mud pools. People have beenbathing in the hot springs for centuries and a soakin one of the many spa complexes is highlyrecommended. The original Rotorua Bath House,an elaborate Tudor-style building, now houses amuseum that reveals the mythology, history andgeology of the area. The city also has a large Maoripopulation, whose cultural activities are amongthe most interesting and accessible in the country.The deep-rooted concept of manaakitanga, theresponsibility of a host to give the best ofthemselves, their time and their history, is hugelyevident here.Executive on Fenton,RotoruaThis clean and comfortable motel is perfect forthose wanting great value accommodation inthe town centre. Located on popular FentonStreet, an easy ten minute stroll to centralRotorua, Executive On Fenton offers 20comfortable units all with spa baths, laundry andbasic kitchen facilities. There is also a café locatedconveniently across the road and a babysittingservice, making this a great choice for familieswith younger children.22Executive on Fenton, near RotoruaTreetops Lodge, near RotoruaOnly half an hour from Rotorua but located inten square kilometres of native bush, TreetopsLodge offers the ultimate in privacy. The lodge isdesigned in an elegant architectural style featuringtimber and stone. There’s a new spa, a library withhistoric Maori artworks adorning the walls, blazingfires, several courtyards and a conservatoryoffering scenic views. Eight separate villas aresecluded in the bush, with a further four suites inthe main lodge. Many activities are availableincluding hiking, mountain biking, horse riding,4x4 trips and trout fishing.Treetops Lodge, near RotoruaKoura Lodge, near RotoruaKoura Lodge, near RotoruaLying on the edge of Lake Rotorua, Koura Lodgeenjoys stunning views from its ten contemporaryand well-appointed rooms. Breakfast is served inthe dining room with views of the lake. Guestscan relax in a hot tub at the end of a busy dayand enjoy the charming setting. Seaplanes orboats can collect you from the lodge jetty forexcursions, otherwise it is just a few minutes’drive to central Rotorua.New Zealand film industryThe volcanic landscape of the North Island andmuch of the scenery around Rotorua has provideda suitable backdrop to a number of films but it isperhaps best known for appearing in the Lord ofthe Rings and Hobbit trilogies. A short distancefrom Rotorua is the Hobbiton movie set used as‘The Shire’ in the Peter Jackson films. There areregular tours of the site and it provides a niceday out for families, fans of the books and filmbuffs alike.

Maori cultural experiencesThermal plateau cultureThe thermal plateau, with its notably richcultural ties, is a superb place for discoveringsome of the fascinating Maori legends andtraditions. Te Puia, a complex on the outskirtsof Rotorua, comprises the Maori Arts andCrafts Institute and WhakarewarewaGeothermal Valley, as well as staging manyexcellent cultural performances. At the Artsand Crafts Institute visitors can watch studentslearning ancient skills which are in danger ofbeing forgotten and at Whakarewarewa youwill experience the natural wonder of thisexciting, erupting landscape of boiling mudpools and spectacular geysers and theirsignificance in Maori tribal history.Maori woodcarving, Te Puia, Rotoruaculture with different facets of modern Kiwilifestyle. In Auckland, the Urban MaoriExperience utilises city, forest and beachlocations to pass on ancestral knowledge in aninnovative and memorable day out. In contrast,out on the remote East Cape you can relivethe legend of the Maori ancestor Paikea, astory which was brought to international famein the film Whale Rider. In the Hawke’s Bayregion, local guide Sophie Kebbell has built upa network of Maori contacts who open theirdoors to her and her guests, sharing theirstories and their crafts, which she combineswith her insight into the local wineries, gourmetfoods and art deco heritage of the area tocreate a fascinating tour.Mitai Maori VillageSituated on the edge of Rotorua, thefamily-run Mitai Maori Village offers excellentcultural displays and the opportunity toexperience a hangi (feast). A visit consists of apowhiri (a formal welcome), traditional songsand dances, and a weaponry display bytalented local performers with Maori historyand legends relayed through their stories andsongs. This entertaining and educationalintroduction is followed by an impressive,traditionally-cooked hangi – chicken, lamb,kumara and potato cooked in an undergroundoven – accompanied by fresh salads andtraditional breads.Mount TaraweraStanding sentinel over the crater lakes, MountTarawera is the highest peak in the area and issacred to the local Maori. A massive eruptionMaori carving on display in Rotoruain 1886 destroyed the picturesque pink andwhite terraces of crystallising silica that hadbecome an early visitor attraction but eventoday the region is simply astounding. Localguides provide insight into Maori legend andvolcanology and add depth to any visit, whilethe nearby Whirinaki and Pureora Forests offeran ancient and spiritual backdrop to the Maorilove of storytelling, experiential learning andenvironmental sensitivity.Further Maori experiencesFurther afield, a variety of contrastingexperiences is available integrating MaoriA number of other Maori cultural experiencesare outlined within the relevant sections ofthis brochure, including Footprints Waipoua(page 17) and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds(page 15).Hongi, a traditional Maori greetingwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 23

Kayaker on Lake TaupoLake TaupoThe largest lake in New Zealand, Lake Taupo liesat the heart of the North Island, and was formedby one of most violent volcanic explosions of alltime. Set against a backdrop of the impressivepeaks of Tongariro National Park, its clear, tranquilwaters are a delight to explore. Lake Taupo is thesource of New Zealand’s longest river, theWaikato, which is famed for the thundering HukaFalls. Unsurprisingly the area is popular forwatersports and white water rafting, jet boat ridesand wakeboarding. However, it is fishing that hasreally put Taupo on the map, and it is now knownas the trout fishing capital of the SouthernHemisphere. The area is a haven of rocky coves,white pumice beaches and sheltered inlets. Thereare many tranquil corners to discover and a seriesof Maori rock carvings that can only be reached byboat. Along with all this are active thermal areas,unspoilt forests and excellent tramping trailsmaking it an excellent location to experienceNew Zealand’s great outdoors.Acacia Cliffs Lodge, Taupo24Huka Lodge, TaupoAcacia Cliffs Lodge, TaupoAcacia Cliffs Lodge offers boutiqueaccommodation in a quiet suburb overlookingLake Taupo. This stylish and contemporary lodgeaccommodates up to eight guests in four luxuryguest rooms. Three of the rooms have largeprivate deck areas with breathtaking lake viewsand the other has a private garden courtyard.The large spacious guest areas have uninterruptedpanoramic views of Lake Taupo, Mount Tauharaand the Kaimanawa Ranges. Linda and Rick areexcellent well-travelled hosts who have over 20years’ experience in the hospitality industry. Rick isan excellent cook and encourages guests to sitand talk to him with a glass of wine whilst heprepares dinner.Huka Lodge, TaupoInspired by New Zealand’s early pioneers thishistoric lodge has received countless internationalawards. Each of the 18 spacious, tasteful suites andtwo cottages are set amongst mature native trees,a short distance upstream from Taupo’s famousHuka Falls. Your time here can be spent simplyenjoying this truly magnificent property, or youcan choose to experience a variety of activitiesincluding world-class trout fishing, golf, skiing,white water rafting and horse riding. Huka Lodgeis consistently ranked as one of the world’s mostluxurious retreats, but the luxury is understatedand the relaxing atmosphere harks back to a timewhen life seemed much simpler.Maori rock carving, Lake Taupo

Emerald Lakes, Tongariro National ParkViews over Lake Rotoaira, Tongariro National ParkMount Ngauruhoe, Tongariro National ParkTongariro National ParkAt the southern end of Lake Taupo, the threeactive volcanic mountains of Ruapehu, Tongariroand Ngauruhoe are protected as a national park.In the winter the area is a playground for skiersand in summer a wilderness for walking. Dottedwith emerald lakes and criss-crossed with lavaflows, this is some of New Zealand’s most variedand remarkable terrain. The best way to exploreis by walking, but other activities including scenicflights, kayaking, rafting and mountain biking areon offer in the small local townships.The Tongariro CrossingOften billed as the finest one-day walk in NewZealand, the Tongariro Crossing is a superbintroduction to the region’s scenic beauty. Thetrack itself takes seven to eight hours to complete,with shuttles available to and from the start andend points. The track crosses alpine scrublandand moonscape craters, skirts emerald lakes andpasses hot springs before descending throughdense podocarp forest to the site of the oldKetetahi Hut. Another option is to climb thesummits of Mount Ngauruhoe and MountTongariro for panoramic views over the thermalplateau. For further information about walking inNew Zealand, please see pages 64-65.Ruapehu Country Lodge,Tongariro National ParkIdeally situated just five minutes from OhakuneTownship and 15 minutes from the gateway intothe beautiful Tongariro National Park, RuapehuCountry Lodge offers the perfect escape for thosewho love the great outdoors. Whether you wishto get the adrenalin pumping or simply relax in thetranquil surroundings, Ruapehu Lodge offers thebest of both worlds. Nearby activities includeRuapehu Country Lodge, Tongariro National Parkkayaking, fishing, trekking, mountain biking andgolfing. However, with just four spacious guestrooms boasting fantastic views across the golfcourse or mountain ranges, it is also ideallyset up for a private, peaceful or romantic getaway.The well-appointed rooms each feature adelightful terrace and are furnished in the styleof a classic French country house. Vivienne,Geoff and their dog Storm will welcome you tothe lodge.Fly fishing, Tongariro Riverwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 25

Napier, Hawke’s BayNapierDevastated by a powerful earthquake in 1931,Napier was rebuilt in the art deco style popular atthe time. Nowhere else in the world can you seesuch a variety of buildings from this period packedinto one place. The added influence of Maori artand culture is reflected in many of the motifs usedto decorate the buildings, though you will alsospot Egyptian and Mayan symbols, and somebuildings were designed in the Californian-inspiredSpanish Mission style. All this is complemented byMarine Parade, a glorious waterfront esplanadefringed with Norfolk pines. Napier’s wonderfullyunique character combined with the region’s mildclimate and laid-back, affable nature, makes it avery rewarding place to visit.HastingsIn nearby Hastings, the reconstruction processafter the earthquake took a slightly different pathand Spanish Mission style architecture dominatesthe town with stucco walls, arched windows andterracotta roof tiling found on every corner. You’llalso discover some art deco buildings here and, inthe surrounding area, some of New Zealand’soldest and most celebrated wineries.Scenic Hotel Te Pania, NapierScenic Hotel Te Pania, NapierOverlooking the waterfront, the Scenic Hotel TePania enjoys an excellent location on Napier’sMarine Parade. Each of the 109 guest rooms hasan ocean view with full-height sliding windows.The rooms are comfortable, light andcontemporary in style. The hotel has its ownbrasserie and bar and provides complimentaryaccess to the Ocean Spa gym directly across theroad. From the hotel it is an easy stroll into the artdeco town centre, while the vineyards and wildlifeof Hawke’s Bay are a short drive away.26Hastings, Hawke’s Bay

Art deco in NapierWhen much of Napier’s centre wasdestroyed by an earthquake in 1931, art decowas at the height of its popularity. With itspast destroyed, the town chose to look tothe future and adopted this fashionable,modern style. The simplicity of the designsalso offered a cheap, economical way ofimproving the aesthetics of the buildingsduring the depression, and provided a saferalternative to the more elaborateornamentation which had come down withthe original buildings. Art deco itselfrepresents the optimism of the Twenties andthe idealism and escapism of the Thirties.Typical motifs include geometric shapes,sunbursts, fountains, and symbols of speedClassic car on show during Art Deco WeekendAdvertisement for Napier’s annual Art Deco Festivaland power. Napier’s art deco is uniqueas it also incorporates elements of Maori art andsymbolism. Although much of the architecturecan be appreciated by simply strolling along themain streets, the daily walking tours operated bythe Art Deco Trust are highly recommended asthey reveal corners of the town which wouldotherwise be missed, and allow access intobuildings where the interior is as interesting asthe façade.Art deco facade, NapierNapier really comes to life during the ArtDeco Weekend, held in mid-February, whenmany of the local townspeople dress inperiod costume, bring out their vintage carsand hold events throughout the town.Accommodation fills up quickly though, soenthusiasts wishing to join in need to bookwell in advance.Parade in NapierCobden Garden Homestay, NapierCobden Garden Homestay,NapierPerched above the town centre, the excellentvalue Cobden Garden Homestay is situated inthe heart of a delightful residential suburb ofcolonial-era houses. Three guest rooms, locatedon the ground and first floor are traditionallyfurnished. A homemade breakfast of local produceis served in the breakfast room or on the verandaand your hosts welcome you to join them in theevening for some wine tasting before you ventureout to sample the city’s fine restaurants.McHardy Lodge, NapierSituated on the north side of the historic Bluff Hillin Napier, McHardy Lodge offers panoramic viewsof Hawke's Bay. This faithfully restored 1890’s villahas luxuriously appointed guest rooms, each withgreat views; it is tucked away from the hubbub ofthe city centre but only minutes away from a widerange of restaurants on the waterfront. Fromclaw-footed baths to antique furnishings everyroom has been carefully decorated in keeping withthe age of the house.The Crown Hotel, near NapierHouses on Marine Parade, NapierThe Crown Hotel,near NapierOverlooking the waterfront in the village ofAhuriri, near Napier, the Crown Hotel has 43stylish guest rooms and suites. Choose from theelegant heritage suites, located in the original 1932Crown Hotel building, modern contemporaryrooms overlooking the ocean or one of the twoor three bedroom luxury apartments. Thearchitectural elements of these two parts of thehotel combine to create a unique blend of historyand plenty of style.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 27

Vineyards, Millar Road Winery, Hawke’s BayHawthorne House, Hawke’s BayHawke’s BayThe Hawke’s Bay region, where warm sunnysummers and crisp winter frosts create an arenaperfect for horticulture, is known as the ‘fruit bowl’of New Zealand and is particularly renowned forits apples and kiwi fruit. Of greater interest tomost visitors, however, are the many localwineries. On the fertile plains between Napierand Hastings lies a veritable treasure trove ofvineyards, producing wines of international quality.(Please see page 42 for more information aboutNew Zealand’s wines.)Stretching along the coast, the crescent-shapedbay and jagged promontory of Cape Kidnapperswas so named by Captain Cook who promptlyset sail after the local Maori attempted to carryoff a young Tahitian boy from his ship Endeavour.In Maori mythology Cape Kidnappers is known asthe hook with which Maui (a demi-god in locallegends) fished the North Island from the sea.28Hawthorne House,Hawke’s BayHawthorne House is a gracious Edwardian villanestled in a peaceful setting in the heart of theHawke’s Bay’s wine region. Surrounded bymature gardens and sweeping lawns, the villaoffers a charming retreat from which to explorethe art deco attractions of Napier, the stunningcoastline and the region’s wineries. Outside youcan indulge in a game of pétanque or croquet,then dine on the open air terrace beforeretreating inside to relax in front of the large logfire. The four spacious and comfortable en suitebedrooms are well appointed and each boasts aprivate veranda.Breckenridge Lodge, Hawke’s BayBreckenridge Lodge,Hawke’s BayNestled in the picturesque Omarunui Valley,Breckenridge Lodge offers ever-changing viewsacross the vineyards and surrounding orchardsbelow. The setting is perfect and the lodge andgardens have been carefully designed to allowguests to soak up the views of the rural landscapestretching as far as the Kaweka Ranges. With onlyfive guest rooms the lodge offers an intimateexperience and real personal touches. Each roomfaces out over the endless vines and your host, atalented local chef, uses his extensive knowledgeto enhance your appreciation of this beautiful areaand its world-class wines.

Gala apples being grown, Hawke’s BayCape Kidnappers golf courseCape Kidnappers, Hawke’s BayTe Mata Peak, Hawke’s BayThe Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s BayThe Farm at Cape Kidnappers,Hawke’s BayPerched on a private 24 square kilometre farmand surrounded by rolling pasturelands, the mainlodge at The Farm enjoys incredible views outacross the mighty Hawke’s Bay. The lodge itselfhas been designed to resemble the buildings of aworking farm, but at the same time has beenexpertly crafted to provide the best in luxury andcomfort. The lounges and library allow guests tohide away and relax, and excellent cuisine can beenjoyed in the large dining room or conservatoryarea. Activities are plentiful at the lodge; there is agym, a spa, a beautiful outdoor pool area and animpressive wine cellar with its own tasting rooms.There are endless trails for walking or mountainbiking throughout the property, or you can take atour of the farm by 4x4 or quad bike. The lodgeitself sits just above the stunning Cape Kidnapperschampionship golf course. Consistently ranked inthe world’s top 40 courses, a round here is amemorable experience.Cape KidnappersGannet ReserveCape Kidnappers is the largest and mostspectacular mainland nesting place of gannetsin the world. The 6,500 pairs here areAustralasian gannets, one of three species ofgannet which belong to the booby family.With distinctive black eye markings and a palegold crown they are easily recognisable andcan be seen by taking a tractor and trailer tripalong the beach or a comfortable 4x4 drivealong the magnificent cliff edges. The gannetsare truly impressive birds with an averagelifespan of between 25 to 40 years. Youngchicks are given something of a baptism offire however as at 16 weeks old their veryfirst flight is across the Tasman Sea, a 2,800A pair of Australasian gannetsGuided tractor tourkilometre trip. The young birds return twoto three years later and spend most of theirlife around the New Zealand coast. From thecliff tops the birds can be seen preening,surfing the wind currents and performingtheir unique ritual dance of recognition.Along the cliffs and sand dunes you may alsobe able to spot the white-fronted tern,variable oystercatcher and reef heron, whilealong the shore and rocks you might noticethe distinctive fringed tubes built by sandmason worms.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 29

Wellington HarbourFishing boats in Island Bay, WellingtonWellingtonGloriously set on a magnificent harbour,Wellington is both the nation’s capital and itscentre for arts and culture. Made up of anappealing mix of modern architecture and quaintVictorian houses painted in bold colours andtiered in steep hilly suburbs, it makes a fascinatingplace to wander. Much of the action is centredaround the waterfront, including the superbnational museum, Te Papa Tongarewa. As the citystreets give way to the surrounding hills, parksabound, and a cable car connects the city withthe immaculate botanical gardens which also serveas an excellent vantage point. Away from thecentre there are several popular swimmingbeaches and pretty waterfront suburbs. On thecity outskirts you’ll find Zealandia, a uniquewildlife eco-attraction. Combining an extensivepredator-free sanctuary with a state-of-the-artindoor exhibition, it brings the story of NewZealand’s exceptional native species to life.30Wellington city food tourThere is no better way to discover the delights ofWellington than taking to the pavement with alocal guide and tasting your way around the cityknown as New Zealand’s ‘culinary, cafe andcoffee capital’. This gentle walking tour will takeyou to chocolatiers, boutique coffee roasters,delicatessens and bakeries. You can spend timebehind the scenes at some excellent food venueswhilst being introduced to local tastes, productsand people. For food enthusiasts or those wishingto see the city from a local’s perspective this iswithout doubt one of the highlights on offer inNew Zealand’s capital.Museum Art Hotel,WellingtonIdeally located just across the road from theTe Papa Tongarewa Museum and the waterfront,the unique Museum Art Hotel offers a range ofspacious rooms, suites and apartments withluxurious furnishings. Communal areas act asgallery spaces for striking artworks from theowner’s private collection, many of which are forsale. The hotel is just minutes’ walk from thediverse shopping, dining, entertainment andnightlife that Wellington has to offer, but also hasits own restaurant and bar, which takes advantageof the harbour views.Rydges WellingtonRydges WellingtonRydges Wellington is ideally located within aminute’s walk of the city’s main shopping street,Lambton Quay, and the waterfront onCustomhouse Quay. All Wellington’s mainattractions can easily be explored from here andthe bustling restaurants and cafés of CourtenayPlace are just a ten minute walk away. The 280spacious rooms have kitchenettes and the hotelhas excellent leisure facilities. There is also avibrant restaurant, renowned as one of the city’smost popular.Museum Art Hotel, Wellington

Te Papa TongarewaMuseumVictorian houses, Oriental Bay, WellingtonThe Museum of New Zealand, Te PapaTongarewa, is one of Wellington’s keyattractions. Renowned for its innovative andhighly educational exhibits which offerinteractive fun for visitors, its success isbased on its ability to remain fresh andexciting while representing all facets of thecommunity. The Maori name literallytranslates as ‘container of treasures’, and theexhibits span five main areas including artand history, Pacific and Maori culture, andthe natural environment.Despite its humble origins as the ColonialMuseum, which opened in a small woodenbuilding in 1865, Te Papa has grown intoNew Zealand’s most comprehensive archive.One of many Maori carvings on displayTe Papa TongarewaIts modern position dominates Wellington’sharbour front and is both an engineeringfeat and symbolic masterpiece. Entry is free,so you can choose to visit for an hour ortwo, or much longer, to learn about Maoriand settler history and New Zealand’spolitical, environmental and economicposition historically and up to the presentday. With an ever-changing programme ofevents and exhibits no two visits to Te Papaare the same.Farmland near Martinborough, WairarapaThe Wairarapa RegionTo the east of Wellington in the southeast cornerof the North Island, the Wairarapa Region is anattractive agricultural area famed for its beef anddairy farming, olive groves and wonderfulvineyards. There are forested valleys, an unspoiltcoastline and numerous small towns full ofcharacter. Lake Wairarapa, the biggest wetlandarea in the lower North Island is home to bothnative and migratory birds. Located close to rollingfields the historic Martinborough wine village hasplenty of cafés, restaurants and arts and craftsshops. After a lunch in the picturesque square youcan visit local vineyards on an afternoon tastingtour. To the north is Greytown, a quaint colonialvillage with a pioneering history. It was foundedin 1854 by early settlers who travelled acrosscountry with scant possessions carried by fourbullocks. The small shelters and cottages theybuilt can still be seen today.Aylstone Boutique Retreat, MartinboroughPeppers Parehua,MartinboroughSet around a willow-fringed lake against amountainous backdrop, Peppers offers a series ofluxury cottages, suites and villas with spaciousrooms and designer furnishings. Private decks,stunning views and local artwork lend a secludedbut personal touch, while the park-like groundsconceal a restaurant, tennis court and a swimmingpool (open summer months) in the tranquilwoodlands. Just a short walk from charmingMartinborough, the resort offers stylishcontemporary accommodation in the heart ofthe world-class Wairarapa wine region.Aylstone Boutique Retreat,MartinboroughLocated on the edge of Martinborough village,the Aylstone Boutique Retreat is a secluded andelegant getaway. Surrounded by vines andmountains each of the six beautifully appointedrooms are designed in a French provincial stylewith lovely furniture. Each has a private deck orcourtyard, perfect for taking in the wonderfulviews. The retreat is close to a couple of excellentrestaurants and your hosts will be all too happy tomake a reservation for you. One of the nicestaspects of a stay here are complimentary bicyclesavailable for guests wishing to go for a spin onthe flat roads that cross through the vineyardsof the area.Peppers Parehua, MartinboroughThe Kapiti CoastThe golden beaches of the Kapiti Coast extendnorth of Wellington past the seaside towns ofParaparaumu and Waikanae. This area is agourmand’s delight with local olive groves, cheeseand ice cream producers, as well as a cookingschool and chocolate factory. Though themainland coastline is stunning, the region is mostfamous for Kapiti Island, one of the country’s mostimportant nature reserves. Created by giantearthquakes in the distant past, the island is justten kilometres long and two wide. As a birdsanctuary it has played a significant part inprotecting many species and access to the islandis limited to just 50 visitors per day, ensuringprotection of this important marine environment.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 31

KerikeriAucklandWhakaariRotoruaNapierWellingtonMartinboroughThe Interislander Ferry, Marlborough SoundsTailoring your tripThe itineraries shown are designed to give you aflavour of what is possible, and are routes thatwork particularly well. We can use these as a basisto plan your trip or we can design a completelydifferent itinerary to suit your tastes and interests.Please call one of our New Zealand specialists tostart planning your itinerary.Telephone: 01993 838 820Getting aroundNew Zealand is ideally suited to a self-drivejourney with safe, generally empty roads leadingyou through an ever-changing landscape. A rangeof rental vehicles is available from compact cars to4x4s or people carriers. Motorhomes are also anoption if you like the idea of travelling a littlemore independently. An excellent network ofinexpensive domestic flights allows you to cut outsome of the longer drives if you prefer, and anumber of rail journeys can be incorporated insome of the more scenic areas, letting you sitback and enjoy the views. With rental vehicledepots at all key points along your route, it’s easyto combine methods of transport and we are ableto tailor a trip which fits together seamlessly.Interislander FerryOne of the most scenic sea journeys in the worldis that which crosses the Cook Strait, connectingthe North and South Islands. The InterislanderFerry takes about three hours to travel betweenthe capital city, Wellington, and the town of Pictonat the northern tip of the South Island. LeavingWellington Harbour you enter the open water,which can occasionally get a little choppy, beforeglimpsing the welcoming inlets of the beautifulMarlborough Sounds. Unspoilt and green, withcountless bays, coves and waterways, the soundsshelter small settlements poised between forestsand some of the best beaches in New Zealand.Marine parks protect the magnificent aquaticwildlife including seals, penguins and playfuldolphins that can often be seen swimming in thebow waves.32When to goJan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec33 33 33 3 3 Q Q Q 3 3 33 3333 The best time to travel.3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.~ Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.5 Travel is not recommended.Q Snow or ski season.New Zealand attracts a huge number of visitorsduring the peak summer months of November toMarch when the weather is at its warmest. Tripsat this time of the year need to be planned wellin advance (at least six months). Alternatively,April-May, when the leaves start to turn and thecrowds abate, is a delightful time to visit, as is thespring (September-October) when there is still adusting of snow on the peaks. New Zealand canalso be visited during the winter months, but youneed to be prepared for snow.Time difference: GMT+12 hoursFlight time from UK: 27 hoursPricesWe offer trips to cater for a wide range ofbudgets. You can find up-to-date guideline pricesfor your trip to New Zealand on our website,alternatively please call our specialists to discussyour plans.Hobbiton film set, near RotoruaNorth Island ExplorerThis trip is ideal for those who want to focus theirtime on the North Island which offers a variety ofexperiences without the need to cover hugedistances. Taking in some of the lesser exploredareas such as the Bay of Plenty, it also leads youaway from the well-trodden trail whilst ensuringyou don’t miss the key highlights. From beaches tovolcanoes, wineries to vibrant cities, there is agreat deal to see and do.Days 1-2Days 3-4Day 5Days 6-7Day 8Fly overnight from the UK toAuckland.Catch a connecting flight to Kerikeri inthe Bay of Islands and spend a coupleof days exploring.Drive the scenic coastal route toAuckland.Head to the Bay of Plenty and takea trip out to volcanic Whakaari(White Island).Drive inland to the thermal plateauregion and explore the thermalreserves or the local hot springsnear Rotorua.Days 9-10 Travel south to the Hawke’s Baywine region and the art deco townof Napier.Day 11Day 12Day 13Day 14Take a leisurely drive down toMartinborough and spend theafternoon amongst the vineyards.Arrive in Wellington and take in thedelights of the capital, including theTe Papa Tongarewa Museum.Fly back to the UK via Auckland.Arrive in the UK.Stay longerWith a few additional days you could add in a tripto the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula or drivearound the stark East Cape. Alternatively you couldrelax on the laid-back island of Waiheke, take a tripout to Kapiti Island to listen to the call of the nativebirds or spend a few days relaxing on a white-sandSouth Pacific beach.

Suggested itinerariesBay of IslandsBay of IslandsAucklandCoromandelPeninsulaRotoruaWarkworthCoromandelAuckland PeninsulaBay of PlentyAucklandCoromandelPeninsulaRotoruaNapierPictonWellingtonFranz Josef Glacier KaikouraFox Glacier ChristchurchTranzAlpine TrainTe AnauWanakaQueenstownFiordlandNational ParkNapierTranzAlpineTrainPunakaiki BlenheimGreymouthKaikouraFranz Josef GlacierFox GlacierChristchurchAkaroaQueenstownDunedinCatlins CoastWellingtonKaikouraQueenstownChristchurchMilfordSoundTe AnauDunedinStewart InvercargillIslandClassic New ZealandThis trip is ideal for a first time visit to NewZealand, allowing time to take in the manyhighlights of both the North and South Islands.Days 1-2Days 3-4Days 5-6Days 7-8Fly overnight from the UK toAuckland.Arrive in Auckland and enjoy a coupleof days in this vibrant waterfront city.Drive to the stunning CoromandelPeninsula.Make your way inland to the excitingthermal plateau near Rotarua.Days 9-10 Journey south to art deco Napier andthe Hawke’s Bay wineries.Days 11-12 Continue south and explore the cityof Wellington.Day 13Day 14Day 15Day 16Day 17Day 18Day 19Day 20Day 21Take the scenic ferry journey acrossthe Cook Strait to Picton. Drive alongthe coast to Kaikoura.Take to the water to observe whalesand dolphins.Arrive in Christchurch and explorethe garden city.Board the TranzAlpine Train in themorning and enjoy the scenic journeyto the West Coast.Explore the glaciers and LakeMatheson.Drive through some amazing sceneryand over the Haast Pass.Enjoy the picturesque lakeside townof Wanaka.Drive south to Te Anau; you maylike to visit the glow worm caves inthe evening.Take a day trip to magnificentDoubtful Sound, deep in FiordlandNational Park.Days 22-23 Journey to Queenstown and enjoythe multitude of activities on offer.Day 24Day 25Fly back to the UK via Auckland.Arrive in the UK.New Zealand Coastal JourneyNew Zealand’s varied and scenic coastlines are thefocus of this itinerary, which offers plenty of time toexplore the country’s most captivating landscapesand wildlife.Days 1-2Day 3Day 4Day 5Day 6Day 7Day 8Day 9Day 10Day 11Fly overnight from the UK toAuckland then transfer to a domesticflight to the Bay of Islands.Enjoy a day relaxing in the Bay ofIslands. You may wish to visit theWaitangi Treaty House.Drive down the coast to Warkworthto explore the giant kauri tree forests.Drive to the Coromandel Peninsula.The afternoon is free to explore.Spend the day discovering thedelightful Coromandel Peninsula.Journey to the Bay of Plenty.Drive to Napier and Hawke’s Bay,stopping to explore the town ofGisborne en route.Discover the art deco buildings ofNapier.Fly from Napier to Blenheim on theSouth Island. Drive down the coastto Kaikoura.Take a thrilling whale watching trip.Days 12-13 Drive south to Akaroa and the BanksPeninsula.Days 14-15 Continue your journey down theeast coast to Dunedin and theOtago Peninsula.Day 16Drive to the Catlins Coast.Days 17-18 Journey through more breathtakingscenery to Queenstown, where youwill have a day to explore.Days 19-20 Drive along the west coast todiscover Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers.Day 21Day 22Day 23Day 24Drive to Punakaiki to see the unusualpancake rocks.Board the TranzAlpine Train toChristchurch. Spend the afternoonexploring New Zealand’s second city.Fly back to the UK via Auckland.Arrive in the UK.New Zealand’s WildlifeThis well-paced itinerary is perfect for those seekingto experience New Zealand’s wonderful wildlife.Beginning in the north where you can swim withdolphins, you will drive through both islands and asfar south as Stewart Island, taking in the best of thecountry’s wildlife.Days 1-2Day 3Day 4Day 5Day 6Days 7-8Day 9Fly overnight from the UK toAuckland.Catch a connecting flight up toKerikeri in the Bay of Islands.Join a dolphin cruise to observe orswim with the dolphins.Enjoy the scenic coastal drive toAuckland.Take a day trip to the fantastic TiritiriMatangi Island sanctuary for birdlife.Drive to the beautiful CoromandelPeninsula.Drive inland to Rotorua and gokiwi-spotting at Rainbow Springs.Days 10-11 Journey south to Wellington andspend a day at Zealandia, a superbnature reserve just outside the city.Day 12Day 13Day 14Day 15Day 16Journey across the Cook Strait.Join a whale watching trip fromKaikoura.Drive to Christchurch.Continue south to Dunedin.Join a wildlife cruise to view the rareyellow-eyed penguins.Days 17-18 Make your way to Invercargill andtake a short flight to Stewart Island toexplore this pristine environment.Day 19Day 20Day 21Day 22Day 23Return to Invercargill by light aircraftthen make your way to Te Anau.Take a scenic journey to MilfordSound.Make your way to Queenstown.Fly back to the UK via Auckland.Arrive in the UK.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l North Island 33

Cycling in New ZealandOtago Central Rail Trail, South IslandCycling in New Zealand is incredibly rewardingand there is perhaps no better way to immerseyourself in the landscapes and magnificentscenery than from the saddle of a bicycle.Meandering along country roads where trafficis very light, you can absorb far more of yoursurroundings, capture that quintessentialphotograph, chat with passers-by and listen torushing rivers murmur and gurgle.With such varied terrain and stunning vistas acycle ride in New Zealand is a memorableexperience. Pedal through lush native forestdense with leafy ferns and moss and dappledwith light, the only sound the call of exotic birdsand the hum of your bike. Energised with freshmountain air, follow an undulating trail throughvalleys and across ridges revealing breathtakingviews of stunning snow-capped peaks mirroredin deep, still lakes.Our New Zealand specialists will be happy toadvise you on which route may best suit you,the best time to go and how fit you need to be.You may wish to hire a bicycle for your entirestay or simply for an afternoon; either way ourspecialists will be delighted to help you planyour adventure.Multi-day cycling toursBike hire is available all across New Zealandand you can rent a bike by the hour, day orweek. For those interested in more than a shortday trip, small guided group tours may be theperfect option. On guided cycling tourseverything is taken care of from your bike andsafety gear to your accommodation and yourluggage. Tours can last from a few days to a fewweeks and can be included as just a part of youritinerary or make up the bulk of your trip.Participants will need a reasonable degree offitness but tours are available that cater forboth novices and enthusiasts.Cycling near Queenstown, South IslandOld and new on The Timber Trail, North IslandNew Zealand’s Cycle TrailStretching across the North and South Islands,Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail, isa new initiative to build a network of 2,500kilometres of cycle trails across the country.The trail links many of New Zealand’s GreatRides, some only recently completed. Thenetwork is already proving popular and offerssomething for all levels of cyclists to enjoy.34

Our favourite cycle trailsThe Timber TrailWhich trail to chooseThe network of cycle trails across New Zealandshowcases a variety of landscapes and offersexperiences for all levels. We can advise you onthe best locations to include a cycle trip in youritinerary based on whether you wish to cycle forone day or multiple days and will arrange all thelogistics for you. Three of our favourite trails are:1. Twin Coast Trail2. Hauraki Rail Trail3. The Timber Trail4. Motu Trails5. Great Lake Trail6. Hawke’s Bay Trails7. Nelson & Tasman Trails8. Old Ghost Road Trail9. Alps 2 Ocean Trail10. Queenstown Trail11. Otago Central Rail Trail12. Clutha Gold TrailTasman SeaPaihia1AucklandWhanganui325PACIFIC OCEANThamesRotoruaTaupoLake TaupoTongariroNationalPark6Bay of PlentyOpotiki4NapierHawke’sBayHauraki Rail TrailThis 82 kilometre trail is easily accessed fromAuckland and can be ridden as different stages.The terrain is flat, following the path of twohistoric railway lines along the coast, throughfarmland, forests and beautiful valleys.Hawke’s Bay TrailsConnecting Napier with Hastings, Hawke’s BayTrails comprises three distinct cyclingexperiences. Our favourite is the gentlyundulating Landscape Ride that hugs thecoastline of Cape Kidnappers and provideswonderful views of the ocean and nearby TeMata Peak.Queenstown TrailThe Queenstown Trail is over 100 kilometreslong and winds around lakes, along the banks ofrivers and over mighty suspension bridges. Thereare a few hills but the trail is largely flat and youmay choose to stop at wineries or local galleriesto break up the ride.S oQueenstownMount CookNationalParku t h e r nWestportGreymouthHokitika9Wanaka10Alexandra1112A l p sMotuekaChristchurchMountCookOmaruDunedin8CanterburyBight0 80 miles70 145 kilometresTasmanBayNelsonCook StraitWELLINGTONGrade 1 These trails are suitablefor all riders. Trails generally havesmooth surfaces and gentle climbs.Grade 2 Suitable for mostriders. Trails are wide for much ofthe way with generally smoothsurfaces but there will be some hills.Grade 3 These trails suitreasonably fit and capable riders.Surfaces can be rough and muddyand there will be some steep hills.Grade 4 Challenging trails whichsuit fit and experienced adult ridersonly. Trails are mostly narrow withloose rocky surfaces and steep hills.Owharoa Falls, Hauraki Rail Trail, North IslandThe Tasman Trail, Nelson, South Islandwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l Cycling 35

South IslandBlessed with great tracts of magnificentscenery, numerous national parksand breathtaking views around everycorner, New Zealand’s South Island is amesmerising collection of some of the world’smost dramatic landscapes. In the north thewaterways of the Marlborough Soundsstretch into the Cook Strait and are flankedby some of New Zealand’s finest vineyards.From here the mighty Southern Alps headsouth forming the backbone of the islandand are home to spectacular glaciers as wellas the country’s tallest peak, Mount Cook.The island’s most iconic image, however, isthe sublime Mitre Peak in FiordlandNational Park, which casts a spectacularreflection on the still, deep waters of MilfordSound. To the south and east rich farmlandgives way to hill country, and cities such asQueenstown, Christchurch and Dunedinproudly proclaim their British roots, whileat the same time giving an effusive modernKiwi welcome. Wildlife is prolific,particularly in the Otago Peninsula whereyou can see albatrosses and yellow-eyedpenguins, while the Kaikoura region offerssuperb dolphin, whale and seal sightings.36

IIIIIIIIIIIDoubtfulSound50 80 miles0 145 kilometresFiordlandNationalParkSub-AntarcticIslands8MilfordSoundHaastMount AspiringNational ParkGlenorchyWanakaArrowtownQueenstown Cromwell4 Lake WakatipuSoTe AnauFoveaux StraitOban7utInvercargillStewartIslandCENTRALOTAGOTasman SeaFranz JosefGlacierFox GlacierTheCatlinsPunakaikiGreymouth3HokitikaWestportMount CookNationalParkLakeTekapoIIIArthur’s PassTranzAlpineRailwayI Ih e r n A l pSOUTHISLANDKarameaBightTimaruOtago PeninsulaDunedinIIIsIIIIIIINelson1 PictonBlenheimICanterburyBightAbel TasmanNational ParkTasmanBay62Coastal PacificRailwayI I IIIIIIIChristchurchAkaroaIIIIIIIIII IIIIKaikouraMarlboroughSoundsCook StraitAudley in the South IslandNew Zealand’s South Island is an outdoorenthusiasts’ paradise that is best explored byparticipating in some of the many activities onoffer. Our specialists have hiked, biked, skiedand sailed their way around the country andcan offer first-hand advice on walking tracks,cycling routes, day trips and activities toensure you have the best possible experience.We can also advise on the best vineyards tovisit, arrange eco-friendly whale watching tripsand help plan itineraries by road, rail or air, ora combination of all three. There’s nothingquite like speaking to someone who hasalready been there and we really do knowthe South Island well, so you can be sure toget plenty of recommendations to help youmake the best of your trip.AccommodationOur specialists personally inspect theproperties we feature and choose the verybest of what is on offer to suit a variety oftastes, requirements and budgets. Many stylesof accommodation are available in the SouthIsland but some of our favourites are simplebed and breakfasts, stylish wildernessretreats, traditional farmstays and smallcharacter lodges where a warm Kiwiwelcome and comfortable room awaityour return each evening.Variable oystercatchers, Stewart Island1 Marlborough wineriesTaste some of the world’s finestwines direct from the vineyard.2 Coastal Pacific RailwayLet the scenery unfold aroundyou as you travel along thecoast by rail.3 Mount CookGaze in awe at New Zealand’shighest peak; fly over it or trekin the surrounding national park.4 QueenstownImmerse yourself in theatmosphere and activities ofQueenstown.5 Fiordland National ParkCruise across the calm watersof Milford and Doubtful Soundsand take in glorious landscapes.6 Abel TasmanNational ParkPaddle a sea kayak across crystalclear waters stopping to exploredeserted beaches.7 Stewart IslandGet up close to the wildlifethat inhabits the third island ofNew Zealand.8 AntarcticaJoin a cruise to New Zealand’ssub-Antarctic Islands and theRoss Sea.Sheep station near Mount CookFind out moreFor suggested itineraries and practicalinformation about travel in the South Island,New Zealand, please see pages 66-67.%www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features,further suggested itineraries,accommodation, climate informationand articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our NewZealand specialists 01993 838 820Jet boating, QueenstownVineyard, Marlborough wine regionSouth Island 37

Marlborough SoundsMarlborough SoundsGateway to the Marlborough region, theMarlborough Sounds is often the first, and mostimpressive, sight people have of the South Island,greeting them as they arrive on the InterislanderFerry from Wellington on the North Island.Formed by the glaciers of an ancient ice age, deepvalleys were flooded by the sea creating a massof bays, inlets and hidden coves. The winding,weaving sounds are home to an abundance ofwildlife and a handful of properties tucked away incoves that are usually only accessible by watertaxi. From here you can reach the renownedQueen Charlotte Track and spend a day or soadmiring the breathtaking vistas afforded by thisgreat walk. Please see the walking feature onpages 64-65 for further details. Alternatively youmay wish to take one of the excellent boat tripsto look for resident dolphins at play, visit the birdsanctuary of Motuara Island, explore by sea kayakor simply sit and take it all in from the comfort ofone of the beaches.Raetihi Lodge, Marlborough Sounds38Bay of Many Coves, Marlborough SoundsRaetihi Lodge,Marlborough SoundsHidden away in a secluded bay in the beautifulMarlborough Sounds, the excellent value RaetihiLodge offers peace, tranquillity and comfort instunning surroundings. Each of the 14 guest roomsopens out onto a private deck and many boastmagnificent views out to Kenepuru Sound.In-house chefs create mouth-watering menuswith a natural focus on the freshest of seafood.Complimentary bikes, fishing rods and kayaks areprovided, and a host of further activities areavailable as well as pampering massage treatmentsto soothe your limbs at the end of a busy day.Bay of Many Coves,Marlborough SoundsSet in a quiet cove, this is a unique propertyoffering apartment-style accommodationoverlooking the glorious waters of the sounds.This exclusive retreat offers stylishly appointedrooms with contemporary kitchenettes, privatebalconies and sailing, fishing and kayaking on itsdoorstep. There’s an all-day café and à la carterestaurant, an all-weather swimming pool and hottub, a day spa and a beautiful swimming beach.Dolphins in Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough Sounds

Sea kayaking, Marlborough SoundsPicton HarbourPictonThe Coastal Pacific Railway, Kaikoura CoastMyths & Legends TourA delightful way to tour the sounds is bycruising in the company of a local Maori family.Your skipper and first mate, husband and wifePete and Takutai, are passionate about this partof New Zealand and their enthusiasm is infectious.Over the course of this full day trip through thesheltered inland waterways you will learn aboutthe amazing biodiversity of the sounds as well aslocal Maori legends. Your boat, Tutanekai, is abeautiful old two-masted classic launch with asomewhat eclectic character making this acharming way to experience one of NewZealand’s most beautiful areas.PictonPicton comes to life during New Zealand’ssummer months as many visitors pass through ontheir journey from the North Island. The hustleand bustle dies down during the winter, but theInterislander Ferry still ships people across theCook Strait on a regular basis. Although normallyseen in passing, Picton is actually a sweet,characterful town offering a great deal to thosewho choose to stay for a few nights. As well as allthe activities in the sounds, Picton boasts a varietyof busy cafés and good restaurants, and enjoyspretty countryside surroundings.The Peppers Portage Hotel,Marlborough SoundsThe Peppers Portage Hotel has a rich historyas a special holiday place for New Zealanders.The resort is tucked into a wide quiet bay andthe guest rooms are spread throughout thegardens with a range of views, particularly of thespectacular Kenepuru Sound. The roomsthemselves are relatively simple in style but allhave en suite facilities and most have small privatedeck areas. The main building has cosy loungeareas clustered around an open fire, a bar withconservatory and outdoor deck, and breathtakingviews. The key feature of the Portage is thewealth of experiences and activities on offer forguests. From short rambles to full day hikes,sightseeing cruises, sea kayaking and wine tastingsessions with a local Marlborough winemaker, itmakes an excellent base from which to explorethe area.McCormick House, PictonMcCormick House, PictonThis delightfully restored Edwardian countryhouse sits in large, mature native gardens whichare home to tuis (a member of the honeyeaterfamily), fantails and bellbirds. The guest bedroomsare all individually designed with quirky featuressuch as the claw-foot bath in the Captain’s Room,deluxe multi-jet spa shower in the Palm Roomand blue lighting in the Boatshed Room. Enjoy asumptuous breakfast of fresh local produce in thedining room before setting off for a day exploringthe nearby Marlborough Sounds’ walking trails,boating on the sounds or wine tasting in thevineyards surrounding Picton and Blenheim.Coastal Pacific RailwayLinking the port of Picton with the city ofChristchurch, the Coastal Pacific Railway offers afantastic opportunity to discover the east coast ofthe South Island. The track passes through theundulating hills and vineyards of the Marlboroughregion and traces the east coast through Kaikoura.With the dramatic peaks of the Kaikoura Rangeon one side and the crashing South PacificOcean on the other, the scenery is incredible.The journey takes around five hours to complete.For information about other railway routes inNew Zealand please see page 47 and 58.View from the Peppers Portage Hotelwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 39

Nelson craft marketNelsonNelson enjoys possibly the best climate in all ofNew Zealand – mild during the winter and warmduring the summer, with more hours of sunshinethan any other town. Renowned for its energy,vibrancy and colour, Nelson has a thriving localarts and crafts scene with more than 350 workingartists and craftspeople, including traditional andcontemporary Maori artists. Visitors can spendhours strolling through galleries, workshops andmuseums, and sample local produce in the town’smany cafés and restaurants. Tear yourself awayfrom the city centre though, and you’ll discoverthe glacial lakes, divine beaches and protectedforests of the Nelson Lakes, Abel Tasman andKahurangi National Parks.Edenhouse, near NelsonNestled in a serene valley in the heart of ruralNelson, Edenhouse is the epitome of luxury. Thisenchanting country retreat set in private groundsand landscaped gardens, offers two luxurious suitesin the main lodge and a beautifully appointed andvery private two-bedroom, two-bathroom gardencottage. An air of understated elegance pervadesfrom the cosy sitting room and formal dining roomto the artists’ studio, den, library and courtyards.The food is superb and most guests choose todine at Edenhouse. Above all, the care andhospitality of the owners will assure you of amost memorable stay.40Kimeret Place, near NelsonKimeret Place, near NelsonSituated on a gently rolling coastline with viewsacross the Waimea Inlet and the RichmondMountain Range, Kimeret Place is ideally situatedto explore Nelson and the nearby Abel TasmanNational Park. The two suites, which are spaciousand thoughtfully furnished, are on the upper floorof the main house, and each has its own balconyoffering views over the garden, inlet andmountains. The property is built with native rimutimbers and has a heated outdoor swimming poolas well as a self-contained two-bedroom cottage.Edenhouse, near NelsonShelbourne Villa, NelsonSituated in a quiet street yet only a short walk tothe shops, restaurants and galleries of Nelson,Shelbourne Villa offers delightful bed and breakfastaccommodation. There are four guest suites, twoof which occupy the main portion of the house,and the detached Garden Suite which has its ownprivate entrance. The Loft is the largest suite in thehouse, and comprises the entire upper level of thevilla, offering complete privacy and stunning viewsof the city and Tasman Bay. Guests can soak upthe sunshine in the colourful mature gardens whichsurround the villa.Bronte Country Estate,near NelsonTucked into the Waimea Estuary on Nelson’shistoric Bronte Peninsula, 30 minutes from centralNelson, Bronte Country Estate provides comfortand luxury with an ever-changing view. The originalhomestead occupies this prime location, nowsurrounded by purpose-built guest accommodationin five individual suites. Dressing rooms, spa bathsand kitchenettes complement the well-appointedbedrooms to provide the ultimate in luxury andcomfort. The freshest homemade and localproduce is served on the veranda and guests canenjoy the meandering gardens, heated swimmingpool, tennis court, pétanque, mountain bikes andcanoes and the seasonal beauty of the estate’sextensive coastal orchard.

Bronte Country Estate, near NelsonShelbourne Villa, NelsonSea kayaking, Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National ParkStonefly Lodge, near Abel Tasman National ParkThe Resurgence, near Abel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National ParkAbel Tasman National Park has a colourful andextensive history from Maori habitation throughto European settlement. Now it is one of NewZealand’s smallest but most beautiful nationalparks, made up of native forests fringed withstriking golden beaches. The park is at thenorthern end of a range of marble and limestonehills, honeycombed with caves and potholes. TheAbel Tasman Track is one of the country’s mostpopular walks, passing through some of the bestscenery the park has to offer (for further detailson this and other walks please see pages 64-65).Alternatively, you can explore remote beachesand sheltered waters by kayak.Copper Beech B&B, nearAbel Tasman National ParkThis delightful property is the home of artistJohn Gatenby and his wife Carol, and combines avery welcoming and comfortable B&B with John’sprivate gallery. The house, set against a mountainbackdrop, is beautifully decorated with softcolours and sensitive lighting and is surrounded bylarge gardens. Carol’s superb breakfasts are servedin the dining area or outside if the weather allows.There are lovely estuary walkways within a fewminutes stroll, the township of Motueka is justdown the road and Abel Tasman National Park isa 30 minute drive away.Stonefly Lodge, nearAbel Tasman National ParkStonefly Lodge is situated in half a squarekilometre of private forest on the banks of theMotueka River, only 50 minutes’ drive fromNelson. This luxury lodge is located betweenthree spectacular national parks, Abel Tasman,Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi, making it an idealbase for exploring the region. Activities from thelodge include fly fishing, sea kayaking, guided andself-guided hiking tours, wine tasting, white-waterrafting and horse riding. There are just four guestrooms, all with spectacular views from privatebalconies of the Motueka River and beyond to theMount Arthur Range in Kahurangi National Park.Each day a cooked breakfast, pre-dinner canapésand a three-course dinner are included.Copper Beech B&B, near Abel Tasman National ParkThe Resurgence, nearAbel Tasman National ParkLocated on the edge of the Abel Tasman andKahurangi National Parks, The Resurgenceprovides the opportunity to enjoy beingsurrounded with nature without compromisingon comfort. Hidden away in an incredible bushsetting, the property provides great views as wellas peace and privacy. The individual guest chaletsand lodges are a wonderful combination of naturalwood and luxury and include excellent kitchenfacilities and barbecues on the decks, althoughdelicious dinners can also be provided. There is apool and spa pool, and extensive grounds thatoffer numerous walking trails. The enthusiastichosts are actively involved in conservation and aremore than happy to share their passion for thenative flora and fauna.Sea kayakingAlthough Abel Tasman National Park has a rangeof activities on offer, sea kayaking here is one ofits greatest pleasures. The waters are shallow,crystal clear and calm, so even the mostinexperienced kayaker can take to the water witha guide to paddle into sheltered lagoons, searchingfor playful seals and other native fauna. With avariety of boat trips also on offer, we are able totailor a day out which combines any of theelements you are interested in, and allows youto be as active or sedate as you like.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 41

NelsonBlenheimMARLBOROUGHChristchurchCook StraitKaikouraSeaSeaTasman TasmanNelsonMartinboroughWELLINGTONBlenheimWAIRARAPANelson MARLBOROUGH MartinboroughQueenstownWELLINGTONBlenheimMARLBOROUGHCENTRAL KaikouraLake OTAGOWakatipuThe OtagoKaikoura PeninsulaChristchurch DunedinChristchurchMartinboroughWELLINGTONCook StraitCook StraitWAIRARAPAHAWKE’SBAY Hawke’sBayWAIRARAPAHAWKE’SBAYNapierNapierHawke’sBay0 80 miles0 145 kilometres0 80 miles0 145 kilometresVineyard in the Brancott Valley, Marlborough, South IslandNew Zealand wineQueenstownCENTRALLake OTAGOmilesWakatipuQueenstownCENTRAL Dunedin kilometresLake OTAGOWakatipuDunedinThe OtagoPeninsulaThe OtagoPeninsulaWine is produced almost everywhere inNew Zealand and vineyards can be found inmost corners of the country. You mightchoose to travel through all of these regions,and there is a classic route from Hawke’sBay and the Wairarapa regions in the NorthIsland to the renowned vineyards ofMarlborough and Central Otago in the SouthIsland. Each of these regions specialises indifferent grape varieties, regional food, localculture and adventure experiences, ensuring avaried tasting and exploring agenda as youtravel around.Hawke’s BayNew Zealand’s oldest and second largestwine region, Hawke’s Bay leads the way inproducing stylish Cabernet Sauvignons,Merlots, Syrahs and excellent Chardonnays.Many of the 170 vineyards and wineries areopen to the public for wine tasting tours andwinery lunches, and provide the opportunity tobuy wine direct from the vineyard. The regionis often referred to as the ‘food bowl’ of NewZealand, growing much of the country’sproduce, which has led to a proliferation ofspeciality food shops, superb restaurants andfarmers’ markets.WairarapaDivided into the three sub-regions ofMasterton, Gladstone and Martinborough, thevineyards of Wairarapa produce Pinot Noirpredominantly, but Pinot Gris and SauvignonBlanc grapes are also grown. The little townof Martinborough makes an ideal base forexploring the region’s vineyards, some of whichare within walking distance of the town.Wine festival in Wairarapa, North IslandMarlboroughA unique combination of soils and climateenables the Marlborough region to producewines with an extraordinary intensity of flavour.Combining impressive aromas, distinctive fruitcharacteristics and balanced acidity,Marlborough’s Sauvignon Blancs are some ofthe best in the world – a perfect match forlocal scallops and green-lipped mussels. Don’tmiss a winery lunch in this largest of NewZealand’s wine producing regions; it may wellbe a highlight of your trip.Central OtagoNew Zealand’s highest, and the world’s mostsoutherly wine region, Central Otago is ringedby mountains to create the country’s mostspectacular vineyard setting. The schist andglacially-derived soils are ideal for producingsuperb, intense Pinot Noirs, but Riesling, PinotGris and Chardonnay grapes are also grown.The vineyards of Central Otago are easilyreached from Queenstown.Getting around the vineyardsNew Zealand’s vineyards can be visited onfoot, by bike, by car or as part of a small-groupor private tour. You could also drive aroundthe wineries or join a tour of the lesser-knownvineyards to taste a variety of wines, often withthe option to include a winery lunch.Gourmet foodAlongside New Zealand’s outstanding wines,you will find many fine food producersincluding artisan bakers, chocolatiers, cheesefactories, cider makers and coffee roasters.With all this local produce your taste buds willbe tantalised at every turn. There are regularfarmers’ markets within each of the regions,olive presses and producers of liqueurs,schnapps, oils and vinaigrettes, as well as plentyof pick-your-own farms giving you theopportunity to match your wine tasting withthe finest fresh produce on offer.Wine cellar, Hawke’s Bay, North Island42

Wine tasting at Cloudy Bay Vineyard, Blenheim Blenheim Grapes being hand-picked, BlenheimVineyard in Blenheim, MarlboroughBlenheimBlenheim represents the heart of the worldrenownedMarlborough wine region and althoughthe town itself is not New Zealand’s mostattractive, the surrounding wineries and vineyardsare well worth exploring. This is the place to pickup a bottle, or three, of Sauvignon Blanc eitherfrom one of the more famous vineyards such asCloudy Bay or one of the many boutique wineries.You can also stop for tastings and enjoy long, lazylunches amongst the rows of vines. New Zealand’sapproach to wine production is highly professionalyet unpretentious and you will find yourselfwelcomed into the tasting rooms with typicalKiwi enthusiasm.Roses used as pest control in a Marlborough wineryThe Peppertree, BlenheimThe Peppertree, whose name is derived from thegrove of pepper trees which line the drive, is abeautiful Edwardian villa. Each of the five guestsuites is individual, featuring a fireplace, veranda orbalcony as well as homely touches such as freshfruit and home-baked cookies. The house issurrounded by lush farmland incorporating cottagegardens, an olive grove, a swimming pool and aboutique vineyard producing the hosts’ ownChardonnay. And, best of all, you will undoubtedlybe invited to sample one of their recent vintagesas you relax at the end of the day.Lake Timara Lodge,near BlenheimHousing a maximum of eight guests withinextensive, beautifully landscaped gardens, LakeTimara Lodge spoils its visitors with genuinehospitality and discreet luxury. Set on thedoorstep are some of the world’s best vineyards;each evening you are able to sample superb winesalongside gourmet food served up by the lodgechef. Each tastefully decorated bedroom iscompletely private with wonderful views of thegrounds. The lodge has its own outdoorswimming pool and also owns the next-doorwinery, Spy Valley, with exclusive tours andtastings available for guests.The Peppertree, BlenheimMarlborough Vintners Hotel,near BlenheimThe Marlborough Vintners Hotel is located in theheart of the Blenheim wine region and providescontemporary, self-contained accommodationright amongst the vines. The suites are spaciousand light with views of the surrounding vineyardsand the impressive Richmond Range. On site youwill find The Vintners Room restaurant, whichoffers fine dining and the opportunity to samplewines from throughout the Marlborough regionand beyond.Lake Timara Lodge, near BlenheimMarlborough Vintners Hotel, near Blenheimwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 43

Whales and wildlife of KaikouraDusky dolphins, KaikouraKaikoura is a small seaside town that enjoys amagnificent setting on a rocky outcrop. Setagainst a backdrop of mountain peaks, thespectacular landscape is equalled by a uniquemarine environment. Cold waters from thevast offshore depths mix with warmer currentsforcing nutrients to the surface and attractingpods of dolphins and sperm whales that inhabitthe waters year round. There are also severalcolonies of fur seals around Kaikoura and somebeautiful scenic walks. For those with limitedtime we are able to arrange excellent wildlifetrips; a great way to experience the area.Blue whale, KaikouraWhale watching by boatWhale watching trips are one of NewZealand’s most popular wildlife excursions andKaikoura offers superb opportunities to seemajestic sperm whales. The boats are equippedwith the very latest high-tech equipment tolocate the whales and have a sighting successrate of over 95%. Depending on the seasonyou may also see migrating humpback whales,pilot whales, blue whales and southern rightwhales. Orcas, the largest of the dolphin family,are also common visitors to the region.Scenic flightsAn alternative view of the whales can beenjoyed on a scenic flight. Travelling by lightaircraft you can enjoy incredible sightings ofwhales and the dramatic vistas of the KaikouraRange. Your pilot will provide commentaryabout the whales, any other marine wildlife youmay encounter, and the surrounding landscapeand local Maori fortifications.DolphinsKaikoura is equally well known for its dolphins.Whilst you will undoubtedly spot these playfulcreatures during a whale watching tour,dedicated trips are also available. Joining a podof several hundred dolphins to swim andinteract with them is a memorable experience.The most common species is the duskydolphin, which is gregarious and social, andhighly acrobatic. They genuinely seemintrigued by interaction with humans, and willchoose to follow the boats and circle theswimmers, clicking and whistling and leapingall around them.Bird watchingWith an incredible diversity of pelagic birds,Kaikoura is the albatross capital of the worldand over 14 species are known to visitthroughout the year. Many of these speciesare generally inaccessible in other parts of theworld, but in Kaikoura are found within 15minutes’ boat journey of the shore.Responsible travelHowever you choose to view or interactwith Kaikoura’s marine wildlife, you can restassured that any trip we recommend isconducted in a responsible manner and thatthe species involved are protected in everyThe Anchor Inn Motel, Kaikouraway possible. The local council has adopted anenvironmental and social sustainability policy toreduce the environmental impact of thecommunity and its visitors.Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses, KaikouraHapuku Lodge & TreeHouses, KaikouraHapuku Lodge is dramatically situatedbetween the mountains and the sea. Fromelegant lodge rooms to romantic tree houses,everything about this imaginative property hasbeen built to the highest of standards. Stylishwood-burning stoves warm the rooms but onsunnier days guests can relax by the shelteredpool. The property is just a few minutes fromKaikoura but houses its own highly regardedrestaurant and, given the tranquil setting, youare unlikely to want to venture far.The Anchor Inn Motel,KaikouraEnjoying a great location on Kaikoura’sEsplanade, most rooms at the Anchor InnMotel offer sea and mountain views. Thisexcellent value property is 30 minutes’ walkfrom the Whaleway Station, where whalewatching trips depart from, and the heart ofKaikoura town. The self-contained apartmentsall have fully equipped kitchens and there arebarbecue facilities to use on warmer days.The owners are particularly knowledgeableabout local wildlife tours and will be more thanhappy to assist you with plans and bookings.44

Punting on the River Avon, ChristchurchRegent Street, ChristchurchCycling tour of ChristchurchGourmet bike toursThe flat terrain and many cycle pathsmake Christchurch a delightful place toexplore on two wheels and this gourmetbike tour artfully combines good foodand the great outdoors. As you pedalyour way around the city you will visitfood markets, cheesemongers, coffeeroasters, a microbrewery with awardwinningales, a fudge factory and anenvironmentally sustainable restaurant.The finale is a three-course tasting lunchat an outstanding and elegant restaurantsituated in an historic building withinpicturesque gardens.Christchurch TramwayChristchurchKnown as the most English of New Zealand’scities, Christchurch is the country’s second largestcity and the international gateway to the manyscenic highlights of the South Island. Made rich bythe wool industry, the elite of Christchurchmodelled their society on the English classstructure and remnants of this heritage remain.Punts glide along the picturesque Avon River andtrams clatter through the streets. Close to theriver you’ll find the charming Botanical Gardens,a delightful display of indigenous and introducedspecies, fragranced by the heady scent of 250different roses. The city was badly affected by anearthquake in 2011 when some of its lovely oldbuildings were damaged or destroyed. It is slowlybeing re-built, however, and is an interesting placeto visit with several excellent galleries, goodshopping and nice restaurants. Christchurch issurrounded by the extensive Canterbury Plains,fertile farmland framed by the peaks of theSouthern Alps.Orari B&B, ChristchurchOriginally built in 1893 by the England brothers,renowned architects of the period, the Orari is afabulous heritage building that has been restoredand refurbished to offer comfortable bed andbreakfast accommodation. With just ten charmingrooms – eight en suite and two with privatebathroom – you are assured of a relaxing stay.The property is located right in the heart of thecultural precinct of Christchurch, directlyopposite Christchurch Art Gallery and within easywalking distance of the Arts Centre, the BotanicGardens, Canterbury Museum, Hagley Park andnumerous cafés and restaurants.Tangley on Clyde B&B,ChristchurchThis boutique bed and breakfast property is runby Ian and Janet Wallace who offer all their guestsa warm welcome. Having spent most of their livesfarming, your hosts use freshly grown localproduce to create wonderful breakfasts. They alsoprovide a finger food buffet with complimentarywine in the evenings which is a great opportunityto share your day’s experiences with fellow guests.This Edwardian home has just three guest roomsand is set in spacious, well-tended gardens in thepeaceful northwest of Christchurch.Orari B&B, ChristchurchThe George, ChristchurchIdeally located near the lovely Hagley Park andjust a stone’s throw from Cathedral Square, thisboutique hotel is just a step away from the city’skey attractions including the tram, arts market,restaurants, theatres and gardens. The Georgehas 53 spacious guest rooms furnished withunderstated elegance, many of which featurebalconies from which to take in views of the city.The George also boasts two restaurants that rateamongst the best in New Zealand.Tangley on Clyde B&B, ChristchurchThe George, Christchurchwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 45

Akaroa Harbour, CanterburyThe Banks Peninsula & AkaroaFormed by the eruption of the Akaroa volcanomillions of years ago, the Banks Peninsula is litteredwith reminders of its dramatic geological past fromrocky volcanic outcrops to craggy headlands, deepvalleys and precipitous bluffs. At the heart of thepeninsula is the historic harbour town of Akaroa,the oldest in Canterbury and by far the mostscenic. Originally a French settlement, it has thefeel of a provincial village steeped in Gallic charm,and there are still descendents of the early settlersliving in the area. The peninsula boasts a wealthof wildlife and dolphins are often seen in theharbour. This region can easily be visited on a daytrip from Christchurch but it is worth taking a fewdays to explore.The Olive Grove, Akaroa46French street names, AkaroaThe Olive Grove, AkaroaLocated in a sheltered valley, just a short drivefrom picturesque Akaroa and an hour fromChristchurch, The Olive Grove offers luxuryB&B accommodation with breathtaking views.The 1915 character home has been fullyrenovated to provide light, spacious rooms andcosy lounges with open fires. Each of the fouren suite guest rooms has its own unique characterand personality and is named after one of theolive varieties that grow in the grove. There is anoutdoor deck ideal for relaxing and taking in theviews, and a delicious breakfast of homemademuesli, yoghurts and jams, freshly squeezed juices,seasonal fresh fruits and a selection of cookeddishes is served by your hosts. Set amid the 1,000trees of a working olive plantation, you will alsohave the opportunity to sample the pure andflavoured oils and table olives produced here.Hector’s dolphinharbour cruiseThe sheltered harbour of Akaroa is an ideal placefor a unique encounter with the smallest, rarestand friendliest of the world’s dolphin species, theHector’s dolphin. Cruise the tranquil waters of thepicturesque Akaroa harbour and, if conditionsallow, take to the water to join the dolphins intheir natural environment. With only a smallnumber of passengers on board you areguaranteed a memorable and very personalexperience.Akaroa Cooking SchoolLocated right on the waterfront with spectacularviews of the harbour and surrounding hills, theAkaroa Cooking School offers an indulgent butlight-hearted day of cooking lessons, exquisitefood and fine wine. Using the finest local, seasonalproduce, much of it home grown or from artisanproducers, the chef demonstrates how to createsome signature dishes with the abundance of localproduce available in the region. Each dish is pairedwith award-winning local wines and with smallclass sizes you will have plenty of one-on-onetime with the chef so you can ask as manyquestions as you wish.

Great mountain buttercup, Arthur’s PassKea, native only to South IslandArthur’s Pass, Southern AlpsTranzAlpine train passing Mount Torlesse, CanterburyArthur’s PassA traditional Maori hunting route between theeast and west, Arthur’s Pass is a spectacularmountain crossing from Christchurch in the eastto Greymouth on the rugged west coast. A formalroute was first carved into the mountains in 1864by surveyor Sir Arthur Dudley Dobson and waslater joined by the spectacular TranzAlpineRailway. On the western side of the Alps, wherethe rainfall is high, Arthur’s Pass National Park isclad in a dense and varied rainforest, while on thedrier eastern slopes mountain beech forests andriver flats predominate. Many peaks in the parkare over 2,000 metres high, with the highest beingMount Murchison at 2,400 metres, and so theactivities of the area tend to centre aroundwalking, climbing and skiing. The settlement atArthur’s Pass provides a small selection ofaccommodation options and magnificent day walksthat reward participants with 360 degree mountainviews and some dazzling, cascading waterfalls.The TranzAlpine RailwayMaking the great traverse of the Southern Alps,the TranzAlpine train links Christchurch on thePacific coast with Greymouth on the Tasman Sea,in a journey lasting four and a half hours. After thealluvial Canterbury Plains, the track rises steadily,hugging the contours of spectacular river valleys,to cross dramatic Arthur’s Pass before descendingthrough podocarp forest and past Lake Brunner tothe western coast. The train is comfortable andwell equiped, with an open-air viewing carriageand panoramic windows that allow you to relaxand appreciate the passing scenery.Grasmere Lodge,Arthur’s PassBoth a working farm and historic country retreat,Grasmere Lodge is tucked into a powerfulmountain landscape. The original limestonehomestead constitutes the core of the lodge withspacious purpose-built guest accommodationadded alongside. The rugged and invigoratingsetting offers the adventurous a great variety ofoutdoor pursuits such as kayaking and mountainbiking, while the den, library and outdoor heatedswimming pool offer quiet spaces to survey thelandscape and enjoy the utter peace andtranquillity of this spectacular location.Wild lupins, Arthur’s PassWilderness Lodge,Arthur’s PassWilderness Lodge was designed and created bytwo keen ecologists who strive to demonstratethat responsible travel can both contribute tothe economy and help protect the environment.Set in 24 square kilometres of nature reserve ona high country merino wool sheep station, a stayhere is an experience in itself. Local materialshave been utilised to create the 24 cosy,comfortable rooms, with careful landscapingallowing the surrounding views to take centrestage. In partnership with the Department ofConservation, the lodge’s team of ecologists hasdiscovered and fostered a host of endangeredplant and bird species and a daily programme ofnature discovery activities is included.Grasmere Lodge, Arthur’s PassWilderness Lodge, Arthur’s Passwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 47

Crawling through an ice cave, Fox Glacier, Westland National ParkPunakaikiLocated in the heart of the Paparoa National Park,midway between Westport and Greymouth, isPunakaiki. This little township has grown uparound the natural attractions of the nearbyPancake Rocks – limestone rock formations whichhave been transformed by a layering andweathering process known as stylobedding intowhat look like stacks of thin pancakes. When thetide rises, seawater surges into caverns below therocks and forces its way through blowholes inimpressive geyser-like jets. You can take a shortloop walk from the main highway around therocks and main viewing areas for a bracing breathof fresh sea air and some incredible views.HokitikaWith its wide streets and historic buildings,Hokitika is certainly the west coast’s mostattractive small town. Smaller, quieter and moreinteresting than nearby Greymouth, it makes arewarding overnight stop. The self-guided HokitikaHeritage Trail incorporates 22 buildings and sights,of which the most impressive is perhaps theCarnegie Library, built in 1908 and now home tothe West Coast Museum. Hokitika is also thecountry’s major centre for locally-workedpounamu (greenstone), best purchased directlyfrom one of the many local artisans.Hokitika Heritage LodgeHokitika Heritage LodgeFrom its elevated position this traditional familybed and breakfast offers splendid views over thehistoric township of Hokitika to the Tasman Seabeyond. Your hosts Dianne and Chris provide afriendly New Zealand welcome and will offer totake you on a driving tour of Hokitika ending witha magical trip to see the local glow worms. Each ofthe three guest rooms offers beautiful views andprovides homely comforts making this a greatplace to rest on your west coast journey.Fox & Franz Josef GlaciersBuried deep within Westland National Park onthe rugged west coast, these two glaciers pourdown the mountains to the pounding surf of theTasman Sea. Nowhere else in the world at thislatitude do glaciers advance so close to the sea.The two small villages at their base serve asstarting points for exploration of these naturalwonders, with an array of excellent excursionson offer. Expert guides can take you on guidedice hikes, or you can take to the skies in ahelicopter or fixed wing aircraft for outstandingaerial views. If the weather is inclement, take a dipin the hot pools complex, or visit the West CoastWildlife Centre.Misty Peaks, Fox GlacierThere are few bed and breakfast propertieswhich can offer the views and location of MistyPeaks. Snow-capped Mounts Cook and Tasmansoar dramatically overhead, whilst Fox Glacier,mirror-like Lake Matheson and the windsweptbeaches of the coast are all within easy reach.The five contemporary guest bedrooms offercomfortable accommodation and your hostsextend a wonderfully warm welcome makingthis a delightfully inviting base for your glacierexplorations.48Pancake Rocks, Punakaiki

Heli-hiking &scenic flightsFranz Josef Glacier, Westland National ParkBy far the best way to appreciate thenatural beauty of this area is to see itfrom the air. Choose between taking tothe skies in a fixed wing ski-plane or anagile helicopter to fly through ravines,past glaciers and over craggy peaksbefore landing in some of New Zealand’smost inaccessible, awe-inspiringlandscapes. Your pilot will share with youa wealth of knowledge about the areaand its inhabitants and point out the bestphoto opportunities. Many trips includea snow landing on one of the glaciers,allowing you time to disembark and takein the views. For a more active adventureyou can combine a thrilling helicopterflight with a unique guided hike acrossthe ice following an experienced guideinto ice caves formed by the movementof the glacier.Misty Peaks, Fox GlacierGlenfern Villas, Franz Josef GlacierWestwood Lodge, FranzJosef GlacierLocated in the countryside on the outskirts ofFranz Josef township, Westwood Lodge is wellplaced for visits to both the Fox and Franz JosefGlaciers as well as Lake Matheson and Gillespie’sBeach. The lodge is a rustic log-cabin constructionwhich houses three charming suites. A furthersix suites are set in the grounds in a separatepurpose-built building. The spacious guest loungeand breakfast room houses a huge open fireplaceideal for cooler west coast evenings and a greatplace to unwind and chat with fellow guests.Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef GlacierGlenfern Villas, FranzJosef GlacierNestled in a quiet country setting with stunningmountain and native bush views, Glenfern Villasis perfectly situated just north of Franz Joseftownship and five kilometres from the glacieritself. Each villa is stylishly furnished and fullyself-contained, providing comfortableaccommodation. Many activities can be arrangedfrom the property making this an ideal, and greatvalue, base for exploring the glacier region.Te Waonui Forest Retreat,Franz Josef GlacierAt the cutting edge of sustainable accommodation,great care has been taken at Te Waonui ForestRetreat to not only respect and preserve itsenvironment, but also to incorporate therainforest within the hotel’s design. You will findeco-friendly features throughout, such as naturallighting, soft timbered detailing and recycled localmaterials that make the retreat feel part of itssurroundings. Comfort is a top priority in theluxuriously appointed rooms, and in theappropriately named Canopy Restaurant guestswill enjoy the freshest produce presented in afive-course degustation menu.Haast & Lake MoerakiFor the keen ornithologist, a visit to Haastundoubtedly offers new species to tick off the list:fantail, tui, bellbird, grey warbler and the elusivekiwi are some of the many breeds known toinhabit this coastal district. Nestled amongstabundant lowland forest in the Te Wähipounamu(South West New Zealand World Heritage Site)Haast is surrounded some of the country’s mostdramatic flora and fauna. Just to the north, LakeMoeraki is a fabulous fishing lake enclosed bypristine, virgin rainforest.Westwood Lodge, Franz Josef GlacierLake Moerakiwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 49

Lake TekapoLake TekapoThe road into the heart of the Alps leads you viaspectacular turquoise lakes, which on clear daysperfectly reflect the surrounding peaks. LakeTekapo is a shimmering example of a glacial lake,milky with the sediment created by the grindingof ice over its rocky basin during centuries ofgeological activity. The township is blessed withunobstructed views across the snowline and thetiny stone Church of the Good Shepherd onthe sweeping grassy lake shore makes for apicturesque photo opportunity. The lake iswatched over by the bronze monument of asheepdog, a tribute to the contribution theseanimals played in the development of farmingin the area.Peppers Bluewater Resort,Lake TekapoSet near the shores of Lake Tekapo andsurrounded by the dramatic landscapes of theSouthern Alps, Peppers Bluewater Resort is ina stunning location. All rooms are spacious,comfortable and contemporary; the guest roomsfeature en suite bathrooms whilst the villas havethe added convenience of full kitchen facilitiesand private balconies. Guests can unwind on thecomfortable sofas in the bar and breakfast, lunchand dinner are served in the restaurant. For themore active, a wealth of activities is availablelocally including fishing, kayaking, horse ridingand walking.Lake Tekapo LodgeLake Tekapo Lodge is a boutique property withstunning views over Lake Tekapo and themountains. Three strylish rooms with super kingbeds overlook the breathtaking vista. You canstroll across the road to a local restaurant, orarrange to have dinner in the lodge where yourchef/winemaker hosts will treat you to fine NewZealand food and wine. The property is withineasy reach of Tekapo township and the famousChurch of the Good Shepherd, with a footpathlinking the lodge to the main road.Peppers Bluewater Resort, Lake TekapoAlpine Vista B&B,Lake TekapoA family home, Alpine Vista B&B has beenreconfigured to provide comfortable and spaciousaccommodation and offers great value for money.Situated overlooking the township of LakeTekapo, you are removed from the bustle of themore touristy centre, whilst remaining withinwalking distance of the picturesque lake. In themorning a hearty breakfast will be prepared foryou in the large country-style kitchen and yourhosts invite you to join them for a pre-dinnerdrink in the lounge where you can soak up thepanoramic views and meet fellow guests.Lake Tekapo Lodge50Alpine Vista B&B, Lake Tekapo

Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake TekapoA cloud level view of Mount Cook, Mount Cook National ParkScenic flight, Mount Cook National ParkMount Cook National ParkNow part of a designated World Heritage area,Mount Cook National Park covers an area of over700 square kilometres, of which more than a thirdis permanently covered in ice and snow. No lessthan 22 of New Zealand’s highest mountains arecontained within this park, and Aoraki (as MountCook is locally called), which translates as the‘Cloud Piercer’, is the highest at 3,754 metres.The road takes you as far as Mount Cook Village,the starting point for a range of treks, flights, 4x4tours, and cruises that explore the advancingglaciers. On a clear day the views are unsurpassed.Do watch out for cheeky alpine keas – inquisitivegreen and red parrots that inhabit the SouthIsland high country.Sir Edmund HillaryAlpine CentreThe Alpine Centre pays tribute to Sir EdmundHillary, one of the world’s greatest explorers, andalso serves to showcase the Mount Cook regionand its people. In a dedicated museum space thearea’s history is outlined through the key themesof transport, climbing and the history of theHermitage Hotel. A special area is dedicated tothe life and achievements of the nation’s mostfamous explorer whose mountaineering daysbegan on the slopes of Mount Cook. The centrealso houses a full-dome planetarium, 3D cinemaand state-of-the-art star gazing decks. Educationaland entertaining, this is a must for anyone visitingthe area.Glacier boat cruise, Mount Cook National ParkGlacier boat cruiseThe Tasman Glacier is New Zealand’s largest,and unlike most glaciers it terminates in a lake.This three-hour trip includes an alpine walk alongthe shores of Lake Tasman, sheltered below theMount Cook Range, from where you boardcustom-built boats to take you on to the lake.The grandeur of this ancient ice flow towers overa setting of ultimate serenity, shattered only by theoccasional wall of ice calving off the glacier faceand falling into the still waters of the lake.The Hermitage Hotel, Mount Cook VillageThe Hermitage Hotel,Mount Cook VillageThe Hermitage Hotel is one of New Zealand’sbest-known establishments and is synonymouswith the Kiwi spirit of adventure. Set in aspectacular but isolated location, it has a colourfulhistory and is a surprisingly substantial place forsuch an unpopulated region. The hotel makes themost of the impressive views on every side andoffers a good range of guest rooms from simplemotel units to luxurious suites with expansiveviews. The hotel also offers a selection of diningoptions meaning you can enjoy a hearty mealafter a day out in the alpine air.Hooker Valley, Mount Cook National Parkwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 51

Queenstown and the Remarkables Mountain Range from the cable car lookoutQueenstownSheltered beneath the imposing RemarkablesMountain Range and with the turquoise waters ofLake Wakatipu stretching into the distance, fewtowns in the world can boast a setting as dramaticas Queenstown. This breathtaking backdrop hasled to a natural tendency for exhilarating outdoorpursuits but it wasn’t always so, the town wasnamed at a time when its sophistication wasconsidered fit for Queen Victoria. Today there isstill ample opportunity for appreciating the naturalsetting in a more sedate manner. You can take thehistoric TSS Earnslaw steamship across the lake,catch a gondola up the mountain for unbeatableviews, enjoy gentle horse treks or walk along oneof the many trails in the area.The Rees Hotel, Queenstown52Evergreen Lodge, QueenstownThe Rees Hotel, QueenstownEnjoying a delightful lakefront location on theapproach to Queenstown, The Rees is namedafter William Gilbert Rees, the pioneer settler andfounder of Queenstown. The excellent value hotelrooms and apartments are spacious and beautifullyfinished. All rooms open out onto privatebalconies with panoramic views over the lake tothe mountains beyond. The main building housesthe Rees gallery and library, the bar and theaward-winning restaurant, True South, whichoffers fine dining with a creative twist. Theproperty is two kilometres from the centre ofQueenstown with its huge selection of restaurants,shops and activities. There is a courtesy shuttle busavailable to get you there, or you could take thescenic 25 minute walk along the lakefront instead.Evergreen Lodge, QueenstownEvergreen Lodge is only a few minutes’ drive fromcentral Queenstown yet is set in peaceful naturalsurroundings. The lodge benefits from an elevatedposition and has stunning views of both LakeWakatipu and the Remarkables Range. The lodgeitself is elegant and luxurious, combining thesophistication of a small private hotel with thewarmth of a large family home. The four guestrooms are spacious and tastefully decorated.Azur Lodge, QueenstownLocated just outside Queenstown, Azur Lodgetruly maximises its breathtaking lake views.The main lodge is perched on a hillside withevery room facing out towards the lake and themountains beyond. Accommodation is in nineindividual villas nestled amongst the native bush,each with a fireplace and deck overlookingthe lake.Azur Lodge, Queenstown

Mountain biking, QueenstownOutdoor activitiesNew Zealand’s diverse landscapes haveensured the country’s place as one of theworld’s foremost outdoor activitiesdestinations. Certainly, for a relatively smallcountry, the diversity of adventureexperiences on offer is very impressive.New Zealanders themselves are particularlypassionate about the great outdoors andspend much of their leisure time tramping,sailing, rafting or getting involved with a widearray of sports. Experiencing some of theseadventures for yourself can really enhanceyour trip so here are some of the morepopular activities to consider.White water raftingNew Zealand offers a range of raftingadventures from calm river waters to raginguntamed torrents, usually around Taupo orQueenstown. These exhilarating adventuresare suitable for young and old alike; do askour specialists for advice on which trip willsuit you best.SailingAuckland is known as the City of Sails. Wherebetter to go sailing in an America’s Cup yacht?Lake Taupo, Abel Tasman and the Bay ofIslands are also excellent sailing areas.Sailing an America’s Cup yacht, AucklandAdmiring Lake Waikaremoana, Hawke’s BayFly fishing, Te AnauCycling and walkingPlease see our features on pages 34-35 and64-65 for more information about the manycycling and walking options in New Zealand.Jet boatingSkimming the surface of beautiful rivers at highspeed is a thrilling activity and jet boating isguaranteed to set your heart racing. This isavailable in Mount Aspiring National Park(near Wanaka) in Queenstown and on theDart River at Glenorchy.KayakingKayaking is a relaxing way to explore thecoastline of a bay or lake. Kayaks are easy tomanoeuvre and ideal for those with noprevious experience. Some of the best placesto try this activity are Fiordland National Park,Queenstown, Glenorchy, Abel Tasman NationalPark, Lake Taupo and the Bay of Islands.FishingSport fishing is a popular Kiwi pastime andthe seas around the upper North Islandcontain a host of big game species such asmarlin. The Marlborough Sounds is a hot spotfor red snapper whilst nearly every freshwaterriver and lake in New Zealand has anabundance of brown and rainbow trout.White water rafting, QueenstownGolfWith around 400 golf courses including manyof championship standard, good value greenfees and some breathtakingly beautifullocations, golfing in New Zealand is a realpleasure. Ask our specialists for more details.Extreme adventuresFor adrenaline junkies why not try ice-climbingat the glaciers, pot holing, rock climbing, skydiving or the luge in Rotorua or Queenstown?New Zealand is also home to the world’s firstever bungy jump, involving a heart-stopping47 metre leap off Queenstown’s KawarauBridge to the rushing river below. Theseactivities are not for the faint-hearted butguarantee a huge adrenaline rush.Other activitiesMany more activities are available includingzip-lining, 4x4 and ATV trips, diving, surfing,and taking a Harley Davidson tour around theCoromandel Peninsula. Please contact ourspecialists who would be delighted to helpyou plan your preferred activities.Bungee jumping, Queenstownwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 53

Lake Wanaka, Central OtagoWanakaRivalling Queenstown with its picture-postcardsetting, but infinitely more peaceful and laid-back,the small town of Wanaka sits on the willowedgedsouthern shores of Lake Wanaka and isthe gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park.On every side mountain peaks rise to the sky,their reflections often shimmering in the glaciallake waters. In summer the shores are bright withalpine flowers and in the winter clad in snow.The area is criss-crossed with deep forestedvalleys, rugged rock faces and secluded flats;walking paths and bridleways meander throughthe rolling hills and water-based activities abound.A biennial attraction, on even years, is the‘Warbirds over Wanaka’ show, one of the world’sbest displays of historic aircraft in flight.Wanaka Springs, WanakaAn excellent example of Kiwi hospitality,Wanaka Springs offers excellent value and isone of our favourite places to stay. Run by fifthgeneration New Zealanders, Lyn and Murray, thiseight bedroom property is both welcoming andluxurious, and has beautiful lake views. The lovelygardens and patios provide ample space for gueststo get out and enjoy the fresh alpine air, whilepre-dinner drinks can be enjoyed on the deckbefore heading out for a meal in one of Wanaka’smany restaurants.Whare Kea, WanakaSet in arguably the finest location in Wanaka,Whare Kea is a truly special place to stay. Themain guest lounge is constructed almost entirelyfrom glass and is designed to really maximise itsenviable position high above the lake shores.There is no need for artwork here – thepanoramic view alters constantly with each day’schanging light. For those seeking the ultimateescape, the lodge also has a remote mountainchalet, accessible only via helicopter andoccupying a dizzying position between MountsCook and Aspiring. Your personal host andmountain guide will ensure your comfort andsafety at all times, but with the chalet for yourexclusive use you will be free to enjoy thesolitude of this peak-top location.Wanaka Springs, WanakaRenmore House, WanakaThis delightful family home makes a welcomingbed and breakfast on the edge of central Wanaka.Blair and Rosie are your hosts and will be morethan happy to advise you on local activities whilstserving a delicious home-cooked breakfast. Thereare only three guest rooms and the entire groundfloor is set aside for guests’ use. This includes akitchenette and a separate guest lounge with asmall library and a variety of games. You can relaxon the deck or in the gardens, making use of thebarbecue and enjoying the fresh mountain air.Whare Kea, Wanaka54Renmore House, Wanaka

Dart River SafariMusician in ArrowtownGlenorchyBuckingham Street, ArrowtownGlenorchySet at the head of Lake Wakatipu, Glenorchy is atiny settlement encircled by the towering peaks ofthe Southern Alps. It feels a world away from thebuzz of Queenstown, despite being only a 40minute drive along the lake. It serves as the basefor walkers, with access to parts of the RouteburnTrack (please see pages 64 and 65 for furtherdetails) and also has its own airfield offeringscenic flights up the valleys to Fiordland. Thoseundertaking trips on the Dart River will also stopoff here before heading deep into the WorldHeritage area of Mount Aspiring National Park.Blanket Bay, GlenorchyBringing all the luxuries of the 21st century to theremote shores of Lake Wakatipu, Blanket Bay ismagnificently located in a region where sheepshearers once created shelters from stitchedblankets alone. Framed by the peaks of theHumbolt Mountains, this opulent lodge is aluxurious getaway. Timber, stone and period-stylefurnishings have been artfully combined to createa unique atmosphere and each guest suite, eitherin the main lodge or the adjacent chalets, offerspanoramic views of mountains, rivers, lake and sky.The lodge is one of the most exclusive in NewZealand and every comfort is catered for. Withimpeccable service and world-class dining you mayfind it hard to tear yourself away.Blanket Bay, GlenorchyDart River SafariThe Dart River was created by ice melt fromthe mighty Dart Glacier, which carved out aspectacular valley between the mountains. Thebest way to explore this region is by taking anexhilarating guided tour along the river on a jetboat followed by a walk through ancient foreststo learn about the local flora and fauna. The tripalso delves into the history of the area from a timewhen early Maori settlers came on a quest forjade. The final part of the journey is taken by road,leading you through more of the inspirationallandscapes used to create the alternative worldsin the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit film trilogies.ArrowtownThis beautifully preserved gold mining town is justhalf an hour from Queenstown and shares itsspectacular backdrop, but the pace of life slowsconsiderably in the quiet tree-lined streets thatshelter wooden churches and colonial buildings.At one end of Buckingham Street, restored shopfronts now house galleries, jewellers, boutiquefood outlets and local wine stores, whilst at theother end are the tiny stone miners’ cottageswhich date back as far as the 1860s.Arrowtown HouseJust a two minute stroll from the cobbled streetsof Arrowtown, this hotel is set in the originalchurch grounds on a tree-lined avenue with prettyflower-filled gardens. Accommodation is inbeautifully furnished self-contained suites completewith all facilities. Each of the guest rooms enjoysmountain and garden views from the verandas orprivate courtyard gardens.Arrowtown Housewww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 55

Rob Roy Peak, Mount Aspiring National ParkCascade Saddle, Mount Aspiring National ParkMount Aspiring National ParkStraddling what is known as the ‘great divide’ ofthe Southern Alps, Mount Aspiring National Parkpresents a breathtaking range of landscapes. At itsheart is an untouched wilderness of glaciers,snowfields, mountains and valleys. On the westernside of the divide beech forests teem with nativebirdlife and sparkling waterfalls. To the east areglacier-gouged valleys sheltering grassy river flatswhere centuries of tectonic activity have left thelandscape scarred with colourful and imposingrock formations.Te Anau Lodge56Te Anau & ManapouriLake Te Anau is New Zealand’s second largestlake, beautifully set on the edge of FiordlandNational Park. The small township perches on thelake shores and from here you can explore thelooming granite peaks, tumbling waterfalls andforested walking trails of the surroundinglandscape. Hidden away at the far end of the lakeare caves which sparkle with the light of thousandsof glow worms. Te Anau also has a boutique 52seat cinema where you can see Ata Whenua,locally filmed footage of the national park in all itsglory. Manapouri, just a short drive away, is set onits own lake, scattered with islands and framed bythe spectacular Cathedral Mountains. This is thegateway to the lesser-known Doubtful Sound aswell as the starting point for many walking andfishing trips.Te Anau Lodge, Te AnauA former convent, Te Anau Lodge has beenlovingly restored in a new location just outsideTe Anau township. Much of the original oakpanelling and timber flooring remains and eachroom has its own unique features and charm.Breakfast is served in the former chapel wherelight streams in through the stained-glass windowswhile the expansive grounds that surround theproperty add to the peaceful atmosphere.Lakefront Lodge, Te AnauLakefront Lodge, Te AnauJust across the road from Lake Te Anau’swaterfront and a two minute stroll from thecentre of town, this superior motel complex is setamongst beautiful gardens in a relaxing residentialarea. Studio rooms and luxury one-bedroomapartments all have a kitchen and offer directaccess to the garden, which has views of the lake.Milford Track day walkFor those who would like to experience a little ofthe world-famous Milford Track but are short ontime, a day trip from Te Anau is ideal. Led by anexperienced guide, you will travel up to Te AnauDowns and take a boat to the head of the lake.From here the track follows the Clinton River,crosses a swing bridge and heads into ancientbeech forests before emerging at historic GladeHouse where you can enjoy lunch and a refreshingswim. For those interested in the longer, five-daywalk please see pages 64 and 65.

Fiordland National Park cruisingViewing Fiordland National Park from the waterFiordland National Park epitomises NewZealand’s scenery at its best – dramatic,ancient, natural and pristine. The area hasachieved UNESCO World Heritage status andvisitors flock to see iconic vistas such as MitrePeak rising sharply out of the blue-green depthsof the glacially carved fiord. Although it ispossible to view some of the region from theair, to really appreciate the scale of thelandscape you need to see it from the water.Protected from the swell of the sea, themeandering waterways are tranquil and flat,ideal cruising territory for even the mostsickness-prone voyagers.Milford SoundThought by the Maori to have been carvedout by demi-gods, the fiords of New Zealandare a natural wonder, whether glistening inthe sunlight or dark and moody in the rain.Milford Sound is without doubt one of themost beautiful, and Mitre Peak, so-calledbecause of its resemblance to a bishop’s mitre,is best seen from its waters. Even the road intoMilford Sound has earned itself UNESCOWorld Heritage status as it threads throughlakeside forests, cascading alpine rivers andimpressive mountain peaks.Doubtful SoundEven more remote than Milford and thedeepest of all the fiords, Doubtful Sound isequally rewarding. Bright blue tranquil watersare surrounded by an untouched wildernessof mountain peaks, fiords and rainforests.The area supports a rich array of bird andmarine life, including crested penguins, furseals and bottlenose dolphins.Exploring the fiordsThese spectacular fiords can be reached bycar, but escorted coach transfers can also bearranged. The ultimate experience, though, isto combine an overnight cruise with a thrillinglight aircraft transfer. Please speak to your NewZealand specialist for further information.Milford MarinerThe majority of visitors to Fiordland flock toMilford Sound hoping to capture that iconicshot of Mitre Peak. However, when dusk fallsand the day’s visitors have departed, MilfordSound descends into silence and the MilfordMariner, with no more than 60 passengers onboard, quietly slips its moorings. Cruising southtowards the open sea, its passengers canappreciate the landscape in all its naturalbeauty with guides helping to spot marine andbird species and providing an unobtrusivecommentary on the magnificent scenery.Dropping anchor in the serene waters ofHarrison Cove, there’s a chance to explore bykayak or from the ship’s small boats. As theshadows lengthen, a delicious buffet dinner isserved in the spacious saloon before you retireto your private en suite cabin for the night.Milford MarinerFiordland crested penguinFiordland NavigatorThe Mariner’s sister ship, the 72 passengerFiordland Navigator, takes you on a journeyeven further from civilisation. Travelling bycoach from Lake Manapouri, you cross thesteep Wilmot Pass before descending to DeepCove where the Navigator awaits. The ship willtake you the length of Doubtful Sound and itswinding waterways, venturing out to the sealcolony that guards the entrance, beforeanchoring in a sheltered cove for kayaking,swimming and exploration in small boats. Theon-board guides will alert you to any wildlifesightings along the way and the skipper willshut down the engines and generators allowingyou to hear the calls of the native birds. Dinneron-board is included and all cabins are en suite.Fiordland Navigatorwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 57

Dunedin Railway StationDunedinThe principal city of the south, Dunedin has anintoxicating mix of classical architecture, coastalwildlife and established gardens. A resolutelyScottish enclave, the street layout was designed tomatch that of Edinburgh and as New Zealand’sonly university town, the city has a thriving cafésociety and vibrant local arts scene, as well as ahandful of excellent museums. Relatively easy tonavigate, the centre focuses around the Octagon,an eight-sided plaza at the city’s heart, withresidential streets rising sharply into the hills andoverlooking the harbour. Rail journeys along thecoast or through the spectacular Taieri Gorge,depart from the impressive central railway station;with its ornate frontage and beautiful mosaicflooring it is worth a visit even if you are notcatching a train. Perched on the edge of OtagoHarbour, Dunedin also serves as the gateway tothe scenic Otago Peninsula.The Seasider train, Dunedin58Fletcher Lodge, DunedinFletcher Lodge, DunedinThis historic property was built by Sir JamesFletcher in 1924 to serve as his private residencewhilst he oversaw the construction of the NewZealand and South Seas Exhibition complex. Itnow offers elegant and luxurious accommodationin five guest rooms, each with its own character,and two self-contained apartments. To the backof the property is a secluded garden whereguests are encouraged to relax with a drink ortake a dip in the hot tub. Despite its quietlocation, the house is just a short walk from thecity centre with a good range of shops andrestaurants on its doorstep.Hotel St Clair, DunedinHotel St Clair enjoys a delightful location righton the waterfront at pretty St Clair Beach. Theproperty offers 26 studios and apartments centredaround an attractive courtyard. Each suite openson to a balcony that affords wonderful views ofthe sea, the cliffs or the beach, and although newand contemporary in design, they are also cosyand comfortable on breezy days. The hotel housesthe delightful Pier 24 restaurant and bar, while theattractive and laid-back suburb of St Clair alsooffers a selection of restaurants and cafés.Hotel St Clair, Dunedin

Birds of theOtago PeninsulaMuch of the Otago Peninsula is managed by atrust as a wildlife sanctuary and many speciesof sea birds and waders can be found aroundthe tidal inlets, including oystercatchers, terns,spoonbills, plovers and herons. The rareStewart Island shag nests below the naturereserve viewing area, giving visitors on aguided tour an excellent viewing opportunity.Southern fur seals can be seen at Pilots Beachand often their pups can be observed fromthe clifftops playing in rock pools or sleepingin the sun. At sunset visitors can watch from adistance as little blue penguins return fromthe sea and make their way up the beachesto their burrows in the sand; the rareryellow-eyed penguins can sometimes be seentoo. This remarkable abundance of wildlife isdrawn to the area by the Southern Ocean’scold currents which rise above thecontinental shelf providing a rich and constantfood source. The peninsula’s Taiaroa Headhosts the only mainland colony of albatrossesin the world and the return of the first royalalbatross, the world’s largest sea bird, to itsTaiaroa Head breeding ground each season,is greeted by the ringing of Dunedin’schurch bells.Stewart Island shagRoyal albatrossNew Zealand bellbirdYellow-eyed penguinNisbet Cottage, near DunedinSet in a quiet area overlooking Dunedin, this isone of New Zealand’s finest eco-tourismventures. Staying in one of the two guest roomsfor either two or three nights, you will experiencesuperb hospitality combined with excellent localguiding. Your hosts will wake you before dawnfor a beach walk to observe rare yellow-eyedpenguins in their natural environment.The penguins are usually very active in the morningand you can spend time watching these fascinatingbirds from the private viewing hide. You may alsoencounter endangered New Zealand sea lions onthe beach. The tour is followed by a heartybreakfast, then an exploration of the OtagoPeninsula’s more remote areas, including a visit toTaiaroa Head, where you may be fortunateenough to see royal albatrosses in flight.Nisbet Cottage, near DunedinOtago PeninsulaEncapsulating the best of New Zealand, theOtago Peninsula offers rare and unusual wildlife,historic buildings, woodland gardens, a spectacularharbour and dramatic coastal scenery. Like somuch of the country, the peninsula is volcanic inorigin, forming part of an ancient crater wall.For this reason the landscape is high and ruggedalong the southern side and sheltered to the northalong the harbour front. A half day drive aroundthe peninsula offers the chance to explore therugged ‘high road’ which runs over the top of thepeninsula via Larnach Castle to Taiaroa Head,home to a royal albatross colony, fur seals andrare yellow-eyed penguins, as well as the moreprotected ‘low road’ along the stunning coast.Excellent wildlife cruises, which explore the area insearch of seals, albatrosses, dolphins and penguins,are also available from Dunedin.Fur seals, Otago Peninsulawww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 59

Vineyard, near Cromwell, Central OtagoCentral OtagoThe ochre land of Central Otago is recognised asNew Zealand’s ‘Middle Earth’, a barren, dry anddusty world broken up by rocky outcrops ofschist. The land was first settled during the goldrush that transfixed the nation in the early 1860sand townships such as Cromwell and Alexandrawere established in its wake. Despite its aridsetting, this patch of New Zealand is increasinglybeing recognised as a fine winemaking area.The Alexandra Wine Trail is a well-establishedroute linking several quality wineries, andnearby Cromwell has an abundance of orchardsand developing vineyards. (Please see page 42for further information about New Zealand’swine industry.)Kokonga Lodge, Ranfurly, Central Otago60CromwellThe little town of Cromwell is located deep inthe heart of the dry interior of Central Otago ina landscape of bare brown hills and schist tors.The town lies on the shores of Lake Dunstan inan area that was settled by European sheepfarmers before being exploited and transformedby gold seekers and dam builders. Today the townis at the heart of thriving sheep and deer farms,orchards and vineyards. Lake Dunstan itself is amajor attraction but visitors should not miss theClyde Dam, the beautiful Kawarau Gorge, thehistoric buildings of Old Cromwell, and perhapseven try their hand at gold panning. The nearbyart deco town of Ranfurly is also well worthvisiting and is a popular stop on the OtagoCentral Rail Trail.Kokonga Lodge, Ranfurly,Central OtagoKokonga Lodge is hidden in the heart of thedramatic Central Otago landscape. Perched onan elevated site, it enjoys panoramic views acrossdelightful gardens to the landscapes beyond, andoffers excellent value for money. The lodgehouses six guest bedrooms, a large open-planliving and kitchen area, a cosy library and a readingroom. The property is conveniently located rightnext to the Rail Trail and your hosts can helporganise bike hire as well as transport both cyclistsand walkers to any point on the trail for a day out.Otago Central RailTrailThe Otago Central Rail Trail is a walkingand cycling track that follows a formerrailway route for 150 kilometres throughthe heart of arid Central Otago. You canchoose to do as much or as little of thetrail as you like. It generally takes fourdays to complete the entire route andwe can arrange accommodation alongthe way. En route you will discover anuntamed, natural environment and learnabout Otago’s harsh and daring past andthe pioneers who completed incredibleengineering feats to lay the tracks andbuild the many tunnels and bridges. Forinformation about other cycling routes,please see pages 34 and 35.

Cathedral Caves, The CatlinsCatlins FarmstayThe CatlinsThe Catlins is a totally absorbing off-the-beatentrackarea, an untrodden world where smallpatches of tamed farmland have made littleimpression on a landscape of formidable cliffs, wildforests, pretty bays and calm estuaries. The varietyof birdlife is an ornithologist’s delight with manysea, estuary and forest birds in residence and, insome areas, the endangered yellow-eyed penguin.Here life decelerates and hours are whiled awaywalking on the beach, fishing for whitebait,wandering through native bush and exploring theCathedral Caves.Catlins Farmstay,The CatlinsAt the Catlins Farmstay you can experience lifeon a working New Zealand farm. Home to sheep,deer and cattle, the farm is located close to CurioBay making it perfectly positioned to explore thestunning Catlins area with its petrified forests,dolphins, lighthouses and scenic walks. With justthree superior quality guest rooms this property isfull of character and personality. Your hosts,Murray and June, are a wonderful source ofinformation about this fascinating area and willintroduce you to life on the land in a welcomingand homely environment.Civic Theatre, InvercargillInvercargillFounded in the 1860s, predominantly by Scottishsettlers, the southern city of Invercargill is laid outwith broad avenues, tree-lined parks and grandgranite Victorian buildings. Queen’s Park, with itslovely sunken rose gardens, lies at the heart of thecity whilst the Southland Museum and Art Galleryis one of the city’s main attractions. From excellentshopping to lively cafés, restaurants and bars,Invercargill has all the benefits of city life with fewof the drawbacks. The variety and number ofheritage buildings in the city centre add to itscharacter and there are some fine museums, artgalleries and parks to explore. Visitors can alsotake a trip to one of the nearby bush reserves,beaches or gardens.McLean Falls, The CatlinsQueen’s Park, InvercargillBeersheba, InvercargillBeersheba is a small B&B on the outskirts ofInvercargill, tucked away in a woodland gardenthat is frequented by native birds including tuis,fantails and woodpigeons. There are two stylishrooms within the house and a separate selfcontainedcottage nestled in the garden. Thewelcoming hosts serve up a gourmet breakfasteach morning and are on hand to assist you inplanning your time in the area. The attractions ofInvercargill and the south coast are only a shortdistance away, making this a good base fromwhich to explore.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 61

Halfmoon Bay, Oban, Stewart IslandWildlifeA South Island robinStewart IslandSome 29 kilometres across the Foveaux Straitfrom the South Island is Stewart Island. With apopulation of just 400, most of whom live in andaround one township, Oban, the pace of life isrelaxed and the islanders are genuinely friendlyand welcoming. There are only 27 kilometres ofroads on the entire island, so to explore beyondthe immediate vicinity of Oban, hiking or boats arethe only ways to go. Most of the island has adense cover of native bush or rainforest andnearly 90% of it is protected within RakiuraNational Park. The original Maori name, Te Pungao Te Waka a Maui translates as ‘the anchor stoneof Maui’s canoe’ and positions Stewart Islandfirmly at the heart of Maori mythology.62As much of Stewart Island is uninhabited andprotected, it offers an excellent habitat for nativebirds such as the bellbird, kakariki, kereru, tui, kakaand New Zealand’s iconic kiwi. On Stewart Islandthe kiwis, unlike their mainland cousins, are activeduring daylight hours and their calls can be heardin remote areas throughout the day and night.One of the largest of New Zealand’s six varieties,the Stewart Island kiwi is found in relatively goodnumbers on the Island – 20,000 are estimated tobe living here. They are easier to see, however, onnearby Ulva Island, where tours combine a cruisewith a kiwi spotting walk. The unique environmentof Stewart Island is also home to Stewart Islandrobins, and large populations of mollymawks andalbatrosses. There are also five species of penguinswhich nest in this southern sanctuary and a trip onthe water often includes encounters with dolphins, South Island brown kiwisea lions, fur seals and even the occasionalelephant seal. Stewart Island Lodge,Stewart IslandAn unspoilt island retreat nestled in the naturalbeauty of the bush in Halfmoon Bay, StewartIsland Lodge has unsurpassed views of the bay andsurrounding hills. The main building includes adining room and lounge, suitably appointed withleather sofas where you can relax in comfort, takein the beautiful view and converse around a largefire. In finer weather you can soak up the sea airfrom the deck.Stewart Island Lodge

Adolescent elephant seal, Macquarie Island Captain Scott’s hut, Ross Island Red-crowned parakeet, Enderby IslandZodiac on Fournier Bay, AntarcticaMacquarie Island, Southern AtlanticSub-Antarctic IslandsOff the southern coasts of New Zealand andAustralia lie the sub-Antarctic Islands, remotespecks of land that are only ever visited by ahandful of explorers, government scientists and afew expedition cruises. The islands are tiny havensfor some of the most abundant and uniquewildlife on the planet and lie in the cool temperateor sub-Antarctic zone to the south and east ofNew Zealand.Visiting any of the six groups of sub-AntarcticIslands is a unique experience. All the islands arenature reserves and have dense concentrations ofindigenous flora and fauna. As such, the BountyIslands, the Antipodes, Snares, the AucklandIslands, Campbell Island and Macquarie Island areafforded the highest protection and althoughtourism is allowed, it is only under a speciallicence, and numbers are restricted to minimiseimpact. The islands are a birdwatchers dream,with fulmars, petrels and prions in abundance,eight breeding penguin species and a vast albatrosspopulation. In addition you are sure to see largeseal and sea lion colonies and, on some islands,carpets of wild flowers.The AntarcticIt is possible to cruise beyond the far-flungsub-Antarctic Islands, through the vast emptinessof the Southern Ocean and the Ross Sea, to thegreat white continent of Antarctica itself. This partof Antarctica was the starting point for many ofthe pioneering explorers of the 20th century andremnants of their efforts can still be seen. Perhapsthe most famous is Captain Scott’s hut whichstands on Ross Island and has been beautifullypreserved amongst the snow and ice. Voyagershere will see huge populations of sea birds as wellas Adélie and king penguins and Weddell seals.Expedition cruisingThe only practical way to explore the remotesub-Antarctic Islands and Antarctica is byexpedition ship. These comfortable vessels areusually ice-strengthened and cater for a smallcomplement of passengers in simple butcomfortable cabins. The crew are experts intheir respective fields, with botanists and marinebiologists leading small passenger groups ashoreon wildlife and discovery days ensuring anycruise in this remote region will be anunforgettable experience.We also have a dedicated Polar ExpeditionCruising brochure available. Please ask us fora copy.Adélie penguins, AntarcticaThe Spirit of EnderbyThe Spirit of Enderby is a fully ice-strengthenedexpedition vessel built in 1984 for polar andoceanographic research. She carries just 50passengers and provides comfortableaccommodation in twin cabins approximatelyhalf of which have private facilities. All cabins haveoutside windows or portholes and ample storagespace. On-board there is a combined bar, libraryand lounge area, and a dedicated lecture room.Today, the Spirit of Enderby enables smallgroup expeditions to visit Antarctica and thesub-Antarctic Islands. Each expedition ismeticulously planned and led by experienced,knowledgeable and passionate naturalists, ensuringpassengers maximise every opportunity while atthe same time minimising the impact of your visit.The real focus and emphasis of every expeditionis getting you ashore in Zodiacs as often aspossible for as long as possible, in maximumsafety and comfort.The Spirit of Enderbywww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 63

Walking and trekkingPhotographing Mount Ngauruhoe, Tongariro National Park, North IslandNew Zealand offers some of the most enjoyablewalking in the world. With characteristicunderstatement, New Zealanders call it‘tramping’, and it is possibly the nation’s favouritepastime and with such a wealth of naturalsplendour it is hardly surprising. It is perfectlyfeasible to take yourself off into the wildernesson a day walk, but it is the longer multi-daytramps that really get to the heart of the country.Selected routes offer the option of beingaccompanied by a local guide who will helpunlock the secrets of the endemic flora andfauna you encounter. On such organised treks,accommodation is in simple yet comfortablelodges, often in bunk-style rooms, and heartymeals are provided at the end of every day. Inmost instances your luggage is transported foryou so all you have to carry is drinking waterand your camera. Track options cater for allages and fitness levels, and the only prerequisiteis a trusted pair of walking boots.Trails are graded by the Department ofConservation (DOC) and you are free to decidewhether to set off solo or join a guided group.The DOC is the central government organisationcharged with conserving the natural and historicheritage of New Zealand. They look after andmaintain the tramping trails, ensuring they arekept in good condition.Great WalksNew Zealand has several dedicated ‘GreatWalks’ as well as numerous other walking trails.Here we have outlined some of ourpersonal favourites:1 Tongariro Northern CircuitSnow-capped volcanoes and craters, alpinelakes, pristine rainforests, sparkling rivers,dramatic waterfalls and astonishing wildlife;Tongariro National Park has it all. This 41kilometre track, graded as medium, is widelythought to be the best of the North Island’s fineselection of routes. Beginning and ending atWhakapapa village, the trail is well marked andeasy to follow as it winds its way around thebase of Mount Ngauruhoe. For those withlimited time, the one-day Tongariro Crossingencompasses many of the highlights and can becompleted in seven to eight hours. It is widelyregarded as one of the most rewarding daywalks in the world. Please see page 25 forfurther details about the Tongariro region.Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough SoundsTree fern, Abel Tasman Coastal Track2 Abel Tasman Coastal TrackThe vast native forests of the Abel TasmanNational Park are ringed by iconic golden-sandbeaches and crystal clear seas, and enjoy one ofthe sunniest, warmest climates in New Zealand.This three to five day 51 kilometre tramp takesyou along the winding coastline past gloriousbays with plenty of opportunities for swimming.This is the easiest of our favourite tramps,suitable for all levels of experience. With a goodnetwork of local water taxis operating along theroute, it is very simple to choose sections asday walks, returning to your accommodationeach evening.64

3 Queen Charlotte TrackAt the northern tip of the South Island, thisstunning walking trail through the MarlboroughSounds is renowned for its panoramic coastalviews, native bush forest and historic landmarks.Sixty seven kilometres in length and graded asmedium, the track can be completed in fourdays, taking you into secluded inlets and alongridges between the Queen Charlotte andKenepuru Sounds. There are no huts along thisroute; accommodation is in lodges or hostelswhich also serve perfectly as bases from whichto access sections of the track for day walks, andyou can return to your start point via water taxiat the end of the day. This ridge-top walkwayaffords incredible panoramic views over the baysand forests, with side tracks plunging back downto sparkling coves.4 Milford TrackThis impressive five-day adventure tramp fromTe Anau to Milford Sound is renowned for itsglacially carved valleys, waterfalls, primevalforests and alpine flowers. It is always wise toexpect rain when in Fiordland, but you shouldn’tbe disappointed when it comes: the result isspectacular. Small streams become ragingtorrents in a matter of minutes before the sunreappears to a glistening, revitalised world.A total of 53 kilometres, and generally easywith one demanding climb on the third day,the Milford Track is a popular guided option orcan be explored independently. Our specialistswould be happy to provide further details.5 Hollyford TrackOften thought of as one of the very bestmountain-to-sea walks, the 56 kilometreHollyford Track is graded as easy to medium andtakes four to five days. Starting in the ancientbeech forests of the Southern Alps, the trackfollows the stunning Hollyford River throughdense rainforest down to the Tasman Sea.The diversity of the scenery is staggering,with glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, sand dunes,snow-capped mountains and surf all in oneunforgettable walk. We highly recommendexperiencing this track as a guided trip,incorporating jet boating, a scenic flight and acruise on Milford Sound at the end of the walk.‘Tramping’ through dense rainforest6 Kaikoura Wilderness WalkTaking you deep into the privately owned PuhiPeaks Nature Reserve, this exclusive small groupguided walk combines a wilderness experiencewith the comforts of lodge accommodation in anoutstanding alpine environment. The reserve is aprotected haven for a diverse array of rare andendangered native species, in particular Hutton’sshearwater sea bird. With a maximum group sizeof just 12 and highly knowledgeable guides whocan really help you to appreciate this pristinewilderness, the two or three day treks here arehighly rewarding.Abel Tasman Coastal TrackFiordlandNationalPark4Tasman SeaMount CookNationalPark5Queenstown7Lake WakatipuTe AnauS o u t h er n A lMountCook7 Routeburn TrackThe popular Routeburn Track traverses 32kilometres of wild and scenic mountain countrybetween the Hollyford and Dart valleys at thebase of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Thismedium trail passes through two national parks,Fiordland and Mount Aspiring, and takes youinto a world of alpine basins, tumbling waterfalls,deep forests and to the shores of shimmeringlakes. The trek takes three days to complete andtransport options are available from Te Anau orQueenstown if required, although sections canbe accessed as day-walks from Glenorchy.Routeburn Track, near QueenstownChristchurchAuckland2 TasmanAbel Tasman BayNational ParkNelson 3Blenheimp sCanterburyBight6KaikouraCook StraitTongariroNationalPark1RotoruaWELLINGTONPACIFIC OCEANTaupoLake TaupoBay of PlentyNapierHawke’sBayHollyford Track, Fiordland National ParkFoveaux Strait0 80 miles0 145 kilometres Milford Track, FiordlandNational Parkwww.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l Walking & Trekking 65

Abel Tasman National ParkNelsonBlenheimLake TekapoAkaroaDoubtfulSoundTe AnauQueenstownDunedinThe CatlinsMilford SoundTailoring your tripThe itineraries shown are designed to give you aflavour of what is possible and are routes thatwork particularly well. We can use these as a basisto plan your trip or we can design a completelydifferent itinerary to suit your tastes and interests.Please call one of our New Zealand specialists tostart planning your itinerary.Telephone: 01993 838 820Getting aroundThe South Island is usually reached by aninternal flight from Auckland to Christchurch,Queenstown, Nelson or Dunedin. Alternatively,if you are travelling from the North Island andhave a hire car, the ferry from Wellington toPicton is a scenic three hour voyage through theMarlborough Sounds. A hire car is certainly themost convenient and flexible way to explore therest of the island at your own pace, with safe andgenerally empty roads. There are two scenicrailway journeys that you may also wish toincorporate into your trip, the Coastal Pacific,which operates along the coast between Pictonand Christchurch, and the TranzAlpine betweenChristchurch and Greymouth.When to goJan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec33 33 33 3 3 Q Q Q 3 3 33 3333 The best time to travel.3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.~ Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.5 Travel is not recommended.Q Snow or ski season.The best time to visit the South Island is betweenNovember and April, the New Zealand summer.This time of year is generally warm and sunnybut winters, from June to August, are usually cold,wet and snowy. Spring and autumn can be goodtimes to visit for those who are prepared to takea risk with the weather, and certainly there arefewer visitors than during the peak summermonths of December, January and February.The South is a very mountainous island so dobear in mind climatic variations due to elevation.Rainfall is common throughout the year,especially in the mountains and along the coasts,whilst winter months offer a great variety ofsnow-related sports activities.Time difference: GMT+12 hoursFlight time from UK: 27 hoursPricesWe offer trips to cater for a wide range ofbudgets. You can find up-to-date guideline pricesfor your trip to New Zealand on our website,alternatively please call our specialists to discussyour plans.South Island ExplorerThis trip is ideal for those wanting to explore theSouth Island in depth, but at a relaxed pace. It takesin the best of the South Island’s dramatic sceneryfrom the beautiful sounds and vineyards ofMarlborough to the mountain scenery of theSouthern Alps.Days 1-2Day 3Day 4Day 5Day 6Days 7-8Fly overnight from the UK toAuckland.Fly to Nelson and relax in thislaid-back town.Explore Nelson or the neighbouringAbel Tasman National Park.Drive to Blenheim in the heart of theMarlborough wine region.Sample some of New Zealand’s finestwines or explore the picturesqueMarlborough Sounds by boat.Make your way down the coast tothe lovely French town of Akaroa fora couple of days.Days 9-10 Drive into the Alps to Lake Tekapoand enjoy stunning views of thesurrounding landscape.Days 11-12 Head south to Queenstown andenjoy the multitude of activities onoffer.Day 13Day 14Continue on to Te Anau and take atrip to the glow worm caves.Enjoy a scenic nature cruise onDoubtful Sound.Days 15-16 Make your way along the southerncoast to the little-discoveredCatlins region.Days 17-18 Drive to Dunedin. Take a guided tourto see the yellow-eyed penguins androyal albatrosses.Day 19Day 20Fly from Dunedin to the UK viaAuckland.Arrive in the UK.Stay longerYou could extend your trip by adding time in theNorth Island on arrival and incorporating the ferryjourney between the two islands, or relax for a fewdays in one of the beautiful South Pacific islands.Akaroa Harbour66

Suggested itinerariesHokiangaKerikeriAucklandAucklandCoromandelPeninsulaAucklandRotoruaGisborneNapierRotoruaNapierBlenheimGreymouthWellingtonFranz Josef Glacier KaikouraFox Glacier ChristchurchMilfordSoundTranzAlpine TrainQueenstownHanmer BlenheimSpringsMount CookKaikouraNational ParkAkoroaQueenstownCentral Otago HighlandsDoubtfulSoundFoxGlacierPictonWellingtonKaikouraChristchurchTranzAlpine TrainQueenstownNew Zealand UncoveredThis shorter itinerary is ideal for those who want ataste of all New Zealand has to offer but don’thave as long to explore. The trip is designed tocover a wide variety of landscapes and experiences,from thermal reserves and vibrant cities in theNorth Island to dramatic mountain scenery andimpressive wildlife in the South Island, whilst stilltravelling at a relaxed pace and allowing you timeto enjoy your beautiful surroundings.Days 1-2Day 3Days 4-5Day 6Day 7Day 8Day 9Day 10Day 11Day 12Day 13Day 14Fly overnight from the UK toAuckland.Arrive in Auckland; relax and enjoythis vibrant waterfront city.Drive inland to the thermal plateau.Spend a couple of days discoveringthis geological wonderland.Fly south to Wellington and explorethe delights of the capital.Take the scenic ferry journey acrossthe Cook Strait and travel to theMarlborough wine region.Drive to Kaikoura and head out onthe water for a spectacular whalewatching trip.From Christchurch board theTranzAlpine train and enjoy themesmerising journey across to thewest coast.Explore the glaciers and LakeMatheson for views of Mount Cook.Take the scenic drive over the HaastPass to Queenstown.Enjoy a full day nature cruise on iconicMilford Sound.Fly back to the UK via Auckland.Arrive in the UK.Stay longerAlthough this itinerary is designed to cover anumber of highlights in a shorter timeframe, it canbe extended at any point to allow you more timeto explore at your own pace or to includeadditional activities. You could take in theCoromandel Peninsula or Hawke’s Bay in theNorth Island, or include more time to enjoy allthe activities on offer from Queenstown in theSouth Island.New Zealand’sHidden DelightsThis carefully tailored itinerary takes in thermalwonderlands, pristine glaciers, untouched expansesof beach and popular activities such as jet boatingor tramping, immersing you in New Zealand’sfinest features whilst avoiding some of the busiervisitor hot spots.Days 1-2Day 3Day 4Day 5Days 6-7Day 8Fly overnight from the UK toAuckland.Take a connecting flight to Kerikeri,drive to the Kauri Coast.Explore the Hokianga and Waipouaforests. Visit the ancient kauri trees.Enjoy the coastal drive south toAuckland and take in the sights.Make your way to the southernCoromandel Peninsula; explore orsimply relax.Cut across the remote East Capeto Gisborne.Days 9-10 Travel south to Napier for a relaxingstay in this lovely art deco town.Day 11Day 12Day 13Day 14Day 15Day 16Day 17Day 18Day 19Day 20Fly to Blenheim via Wellington.Have lunch at a winery and continueto Kaikoura.Spend a day in Kaikoura.Drive to Hanmer Springs beforejourneying to Akaroa.Soak up the atmosphere of this prettyharbourside town.Heading inland, journey from the flatCanterbury Plains up into the majesticSouthern Alps.Enjoy the breathtaking scenery ofMount Cook National Park.Wind your way south to the CentralOtago highlands.Take a full day to walk or cycle theCentral Otago Rail Trail. Drive toQueenstown.Fly back to the UK via Auckland.Arrive in the UK.Active New ZealandOne of New Zealand’s main attractions is the hugerange of activities on offer catering to all energylevels. From sedate steamer trips across tranquillakes to exhilarating light aircraft flights overoutstanding scenery, this itinerary lets you seeNew Zealand in a new way.Days 1-2Day 3Day 4Day 5Day 6Day 7Day 8Day 9Day 10Day 11Day 12Day 13Day 14Day 15Day 16Day 17Day 18Day 19Fly overnight from the UK toAuckland.Take a connecting flight toQueenstown and relax into thetown’s exciting vibe.Take an exhilarating jet boat ride.Enjoy a full day in spectacularDoubtful Sound in the heart ofFiordland.Drive over the scenic Haast Pass andnorth to the glacier townships.Take a guided walk to the terminalface of the Fox Glacier and see thebeautiful ice formations close up.Board the TranzAlpine train for amemorable journey through theSouthern Alps to Christchurch.Drive north to Kaikoura for a superbwhale watching trip.Journey to Picton and board theInterislander Ferry to Wellington.Explore the vibrant capital.Drive north to Napier, famed for itsart deco architecture.Take a trip out to Cape Kidnappersto see the gannets.Head inland to Rotorua at the heartof the thermal plateau.Visit the Maori cultural centre at TePuia or take the Skyline gondola.Drive north to Auckland.Take to the spectacular harbouron-board an America’s Cup yacht.Fly back to the UK.Arrive in the UK.www.audleytravel.com/newzealand l 01993 838 820 l South Island 67

The South PacificThe collection of tiny volcanic islandsand coral atolls scattered across thevast South Pacific Ocean are some of themost beautiful and remote places in theworld. The powdery-white beaches,towering palm trees and sparkling turquoiselagoons perfectly encapsulate everythingyou could wish for in a tropical islanddestination. The magnificent scenery begsto be explored both above and below thewater. Lush rainforests and mountain peaksare ideal for trekking, whilst stunninglagoons and secluded bays make for excellentcruising and sailing. Take a snorkel andmask and dip below the surface of the waterwhere bright corals and remarkable marinelife await. Despite increasing modernity,ancient Melanesian and Polynesiantraditions and customs underpin everydaylife and visitors can witness time-honouredrituals and performances of song and dance,as well as enjoying numerous gastronomicdelights. In particular the practice of offeringa friendly welcome to visitors is very muchin evidence and you will experience warmand sincere hospitality whichever islandyou visit.68

YasawaMamanucaIslands1Islands2VanuaLevuNadiVitiLevuFIJITaveuniSavai’i9SAMOAApia8 Upolu7TuamotuIslands5Bora BoraTaha’aCOOKHuahineISLANDS Raiatea PapeeteAitutakiMoorea4FRENCHTahiti POLYNESIAThe Society Islands6MarquesasIslandsRarotonga3SOUTH PACIFIC OCEANmap not to scale1 Mamanuca IslandsA series of small, palm-fringedislands with sandy beachesperfect for relaxing.2 Beqa LagoonVisit Fiji’s Beqa Lagoon, one ofthe world’s best dive sites.3 RarotongaTrek through the lush volcaniclandscape of the island.Clown triggerfish, Beqa Lagoon4 AitutakiAn idyllic part of the CookIslands ideal for relaxation andsnorkelling in crystal clear waters.5 Bora BoraStay in a villa on stilts over astunning turquoise lagoon.Marquesas Islands6 Marquesas IslandsTake a cruise to these remoteand dramatic volcanic islands.7 ApiaExplore the vibrant markets ofSamoa’s bustling port city.Bora Bora8 Villa VailimaVisit the historic home ofRobert Louis Stevenson,Samoa’s most famous resident.9 Waterfalls andswim holesEnjoy Samoa’s beautifulnatural attractions.Experience aKava ritualTake in the traditionalceremonial drink of theSouth Pacific.Audley in the South PacificAlthough relaxing beneath the shade of aswaying palm is often most alluring, thescattered islands of the South Pacific offer ahuge variety of sights and activities too. Wecan recommend numerous water-basedactivities to choose from including fishing,kayaking and sailing as well as some of thebest diving and snorkelling in the world.On land you may wish to explore localvillages or picturesque, unspoilt landscapeson a drive or trek. Whether you visit theSouth Pacific as a stop en route from NewZealand or Australia or as your soledestination, we can use our extensiveknowledge of the region to help you decidewhich island to visit and how best tocombine multiple destinations.The South Pacific offers a variety ofaccommodation to suit a range of budgetsfrom locally-owned pensions whereaccommodation is simple to stylish overwaterbungalows and sophisticated resorts.Find out moreFor suggested itineraries and practicalinformation about travel in the South Pacific,please see pages 84-85.%www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features,further suggested itineraries,accommodation, climate informationand articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our South Pacificspecialists 01993 838 830Aitutaki, Cook IslandsThe South Pacific 69

Fijian man at a traditional festivalFijiNow known for their spellbinding beauty andjagged rainforest-clad peaks fringed by white-sandbeaches and clear seas, the Fijian islands wereonce notorious for their treacherous concealedwaterways and tales of ferocious cannibal warriors.Known as the ‘Cannibal Isles’ for many years, theirreputation kept even intrepid travellers at bay.However, the arrival of British missionaries as wellas indentured labourers from India brought amore conservative way of life, and Fijians are nowamong the friendliest, most welcoming people inthe world. Only 100 of the 330 Fijian islands areinhabited and it is still possible to stumble acrossdeserted beaches, tumbling waterfalls, pristinecoral reefs and the occasional tiny village. Thebeauty of these islands is beguiling, but it is theunaffected warmth of the people that makes Fijiso memorable.Royal Davui, Beqa Lagoon70Viti LevuThe main island of the archipelago, Viti Levu ishome to much of Fiji’s population and itsinternational airport. Most visitors with limitedtime stay here, heading either for the Coral Coaston the southwestern shore or Denarau Islandclose to the airport. With a little extra time it ispossible to seek out more remote retreats on thebreathtaking outer islands. Viti Levu’s landscape oflow-lying sugar cane fields, fertile deltas and thicklyforested interior is scattered with remote villagesaccessible only by 4x4 or river. Suva, the capital,provides an interesting window to Fiji’s colonialpast and those who make it to tiny Rakiraki on thenortheastern shore will be rewarded with some ofthe best sunsets in the South Pacific.Royal Davui, Beqa LagoonRoyal Davui is a luxury island escape situated ona tiny tropical paradise just off Viti Levu’s Pacificcoast. Surrounded by a coral reef and accessed viaa 45 minute boat journey, the island has just 16luxury villas spread out amongst lush vegetation.Each detached villa comes complete with averanda and private plunge pool and offersmagnificent views of the beautiful lagoon below.With a lovely restaurant and bar, secludedwhite-sand beach and excellent dive centre, thisadult-only resort provides a wonderfully luxuriousand secluded experience.Westin Resort & Spa, Port DenarauWestin Resort & Spa,Port DenarauThis beachfront resort enjoys fabulous palmfringedviews of the ocean as well as a convenientlocation just 20 minutes’ drive from NadiInternational Airport. Ideal as a base to relax for afew days or as a place to stay before transferringto one of the smaller surrounding islands, guestfacilities are comprehensive and include a privatebeach, lovely pool and health spa and access tothe adjacent world-class Denarau Golf andRacquet Club. There are 273 spacious, stylishrooms each with private balcony or patio andviews of the large landscaped pool area or beach.The restaurants offer a selection of local andinternational cuisine and cater for both formaland casual poolside dining.

Underwater marine life in the Mamanuca IslandsMalolo Island, Mamanuca IslandsYasawa Island Resort, Yasawa Islands Matamanoa Island Resort, Mamanuca Islands Likuliku, Mamanuca IslandsMamanuca & Yasawa IslandsOne of the most beautiful areas of the Fijianarchipelago, the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islandsgently curl along the western shores of Viti Levuand north into the Pacific. Renowned for theirmagnificent beaches, warm dry weather andfantastic diving, this string of tiny coral atolls andsmall volcanic islands is easily accessible both byboat and by air from Port Denarau and Nadi andthe airport. The islands are popular but extremelytranquil; many have only one resort and you canvisit local villages on the larger islands that stillsurvive on fishing and subsistence farming. It islikely you will encounter a kava ritual or two inone of the resorts or villages. This colourful ritualinvolves sharing a drink made from ground pepperplant roots served in hollowed half coconut shells.Whilst not a pleasant taste initially, the rituals aregood fun and visitors are made to feel verywelcome. You may wish to travel around thisregion and island-hop or stay put and relax onone island.Matamanoa Island Resort,Mamanuca IslandsOut of the many incredible beaches in theMamanucas, Matamanoa is arguably one of thebest. A sweeping crescent of pristine white sandcurving between lush vegetation and turquoisewaters, it provides a stunning location for thisadult-only resort. The 20 beachfront bures and 13comfortable resort rooms are designed in atraditional Fijian style and offer good value formoney. There is a great spa, a popular restaurantoverlooking the Pacific Ocean and a range ofactivities to keep you busy. There are paddleboats and kayaks for guest use and a dive centreoffering a chance to access numerous local divespots to see the incredible marine life.Tokoriki Island Resort,Mamanuca IslandsTokoriki Island Resort has 34 freestanding,thatched seafront bures and villas on a privateisland in the Mamanucas. The resort is within easyreach of the main island of Viti Levu but feelswonderfully isolated. Each bure is spacious andstylish, and features outdoor showers and fantasticocean and sunset views. Exclusively for couples,the resort is perfect for those seeking a quiet andrelaxing retreat. There is a spectacular infinitypool and a stunning spa set into the hillside. Theopen-air restaurant serves delicious food and sitson a large terrace overlooking a string of islands.Likuliku, Mamanuca IslandsOne of Fiji’s most tranquil, luxurious hideawaysand an Audley favourite, Likuliku is a stylish retreatpositioned on the edge of a stunning lagoon. The46 bures here line the pristine beach with ten ofthem perched on stilts right over the lagoon itself.Nestled amongst the palms are all the facilitiesyou would expect of a leading resort including arestaurant, dive centre, gym, spa and invitinginfinity pool. The rooms are wonderfully spaciousand utilise many local materials carefully blendedwith modern amenities to create a traditionalexperience in a luxurious setting. All roomsfeature large outdoor decks with daybeds andlagoon views.Yasawa Island Resort,Yasawa IslandsTucked amongst the palms of a beautiful island inthe Yasawa chain, the Yasawa Island Resort hasjust 18 bures offering complete and utter luxury.The bures are steps from the stunning beach andeach has a discreet outdoor shower, expansivedeck, separate living area, daybeds and a hammockstrung between the palm trees. Despite its remotesetting, comfort is never compromised and thereis a choice of dining locations and a range ofactivities on offer. With no other resort onYasawa and no radios, televisions or traffic, theresort feels wonderfully secluded and is a perfectisland escape.Tokoriki Island Resort, Mamanuca Islandswww.audleytravel.com/southpacific l 01993 838 830 l The South Pacific 71

Wairiki Mission Church, TaveuniInfinity pool at Taveuni Island Resort, Taveuni IslandNorthern IslandsVenturing north to Fiji’s second and third-largestislands, Vanua Levu and Taveuni, is like steppingback in time with a leisurely pace of life and largelyundeveloped landscape. Local culture hasremained relatively intact, the rainforest is denseand is virtually unexplored, and the surroundingreefs are pristine. Access to the islands is typicallyvia a short flight from Nadi, which gives you abird’s eye view of the landscape of tumblingwaterfalls, beautiful beaches and volcanic peakssoaring out of the rainforest canopy.Taveuni Island Resort,Taveuni IslandSet on a lush hillside on Fiji’s third largest island,Taveuni Resort is nestled between the verdantforested mountains of Bouma National HeritagePark and some of the world’s finest diving in theSomosomo Straits. A small and intimate lodge,it has just 12 bures handcrafted from localwoods and with cool tiled floors, privatecourtyard showers and wonderful ocean vistas.The two-bedroom luxury villa offers superb viewsand has its own private plunge pool, chef andbutler service. With the beach just a two minutewalk down the hill Taveuni is a perfect romanticretreat, as well as being a favourite with divers.Matangi Island Resort,Matangi IslandHorseshoe-shaped Matangi is a privately ownedisland close to Taveuni. Home to a stunningresort, it offers complete seclusion and privacy ina relaxed informal setting. There are just ninebures here along with three treehouses and atwo-bedroom villa. The island has a selection ofgorgeous beaches and is close to some of thebest dive sites in the South Pacific. The resort canprovide equipment and courses for divers of allabilities as well as plenty of other activities such askayaking and sailing.Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort,Vanua LevuThe award winning Jean-Michel Cousteau Resortis one of the most renowned in the South Pacific.Set in a coconut plantation overlooking SavusavuBay, it has 25 charming bures with king size beds,sea breezes and wonderful views. None havetelevisions or telephones ensuring complete peaceand quiet. Diving at the resort is world-class and avariety of other activities for both children andadults is available, with the kids’ club and nannyservices making this an excellent resort for families.Designated adult-only areas also mean thatcouples and honeymooners are equally wellcatered for with undisturbed beach and poolsideareas for sitting back and just soaking up theatmosphere of the South Pacific.Bure at Matangi Island Resort, Matangi Island72Boat at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Vanua Levu

Cruising and sailingTui Tai SailingWith hundreds of islands dotted across aturquoise blue ocean, the South Pacific is aparadise for sailing enthusiasts and for thosevisitors seeking to explore the islands in moredepth. Cruise the South Seas past tranquil baysand inlets and across stunning lagoons andyou’ll encounter some of the most dramaticscenery imaginable. Some of the islands areparticularly remote ensuring they retain theirtranquillity and traditional charm, with localvillages that have remained virtually unchangedfor centuries. Itineraries vary in duration froma few days to two weeks, and with a newisland and coral reef to visit every day, thereare endless opportunities for land andwater-based activities.M/V Reef EndeavourM/V Reef Endeavour, FijiThe M/V Reef Endeavour is a small cruiseship that operates from Viti Levu and sailsthroughout the Yasawa Islands and northernFiji. The ship caters for no more than 140guests and her relatively small size means shecan negotiate remote reefs, islands andshallow bays that larger ships cannot access.The ship’s design provides many big shipcomforts including swimming pool and spapools, staterooms that open onto theextensive outside deck, and an embarkationplatform with a lift from the water level tothe main deck.Breakfast tray, Aranui IIITui Tai Sailing, FijiAccommodating just 24 guests the Tui Taioffers an intimate experience. An importantlifeline to many communities, the 43 metre shipis responsible for delivering precious schooland medical supplies to remote locations.Passengers are encouraged to participate indaily activities and visit the secluded villages itstops at. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts searchingfor a unique tropical experience, Tui Taideparts from Vanua Levu and plies the watersof Fiji’s northern island group. There are plentyof opportunities to swim, dive and snorkel aswell as experience some of Fiji’s rainforestsand waterfalls. Large enough to providecomfort on board and yet small enough toenable access to most locations, a trip aboardoffers a unique opportunity to sample authenticSouth Pacific life.Mystique Princess, FijiThe elegant Mystique Princess is a 56 metreluxurious mini-cruiser with 35 spacious,air-conditioned cabins. Sailing throughout Fiji’sYasawa Islands chain, trips depart from PortDenarau on Viti Levu. The ship is wellequipped and provides the opportunity toexplore some of the more remote parts of Fijiin real comfort. Each of the luxurious cabinshas an en suite bathroom and all have largepanoramic windows providing incredibleocean views.Aranui III, French PolynesiaThe Aranui III operates from Tahiti around thedramatic Marquesas Islands. Making regularstops to unload supplies, the cruise allowspassengers a fabulous insight into traditionalisland culture and the landscapes that inspiredartists for many years. The ship is used for bothpassengers and cargo and has been tastefullydesigned with space and comfort in mind.Standard berths feature private facilities, whiledeluxe cabins are larger and have en suitefacilities with a bathtub. There are also tensuites with balconies. Whilst on board you’lllearn about Marquesan history, culture andart from the guest lecturers, while thefully-equipped gym and swimming pool allowyou to stretch your muscles whilst enjoyingthe ocean views.M/S Paul Gauguin,French PolynesiaThe M/S Paul Gauguin was designed specificallyfor sailing around the shallow waters of FrenchPolynesia and visiting smaller ports. This stylishvessel can accommodation 300 passengers andmanages to combine a relaxing environmentwith genuine comfort and luxury. It offersspacious suites and staterooms, most withprivate balconies, a choice of three diningvenues, an extensive spa and a range ofwatersports. The atmosphere on board iswarm and informal and the talented staff adda unique French Polynesian personality toevery cruise.M/S Paul Gauguinwww.audleytravel.com/southpacific l 01993 838 830 l The South Pacific 73

The lagoon, RarotongaThe Cook IslandsScattered over an area the size of WesternEurope, the 15 tiny islands that make up theCook Islands archipelago are an hypnotic blend ofrainforest-cloaked mountains, idyllic beaches,teeming coral reefs and peaceful lagoons. Even bySouth Pacific standards they are a serene andunspoiled retreat. The lack of development hereemphasises the islands’ amazing beauty, but alongwith the spectacular scenery you will alsoencounter a vibrant local culture influenced byChristian missionaries but primarily based on anancient Polynesian belief system that embraces aseries of gods, myths and legends.RarotongaThe largest of the islands, Rarotonga, rises some4,500 metres from the ocean floor. Created as aresult of violent volcanic activity millions of yearsago, the island’s interior, most of which isuninhabited and untouched, is made up of erodedvolcanic peaks clad in dense rainforest. Exploringthe interior is a rewarding experience and a 4x4expedition or cross-island trek are two of the bestways to see it. Contrasting sharply with the lushvegetation and mountainous terrain, the largelyflat coastal area is fringed with ribbons of whitesand giving way to mesmerising blue lagoons.The islands’ townships cling to the shoreline andare home to small but strong communities.74A visit to a weekend market or a local churchservice is a wonderful introduction to island life.To the southeast of the island the graceful widelagoon is protected by an outer reef making itideal for swimming, snorkelling and water sports.Local restaurants showcase a variety of seafoodand tropical fruits such as pineapples, papayas,coconuts and bananas that form the basis ofthe local diet.Royale Takitumu Villas,RarotongaSet amongst lush vegetation, tropical pools andnative flowers, this exclusive development offerscomfort, style and seclusion. The ten beautifulvillas have glorious views of the beach or are setback amongst the elegant landscaped gardens.A pool and pristine white-sand beach are idealfor lazing around but you can also use theresort’s kayaks or snorkelling equipment toexplore the lagoon.Royale Takitumu Villas, RarotongaCrown Beach Resort,RarotongaThe Crown Beach Resort offers 22 spacious,self-contained villas nestled in extensive tropicalgardens that lead onto a beautiful stretch ofwhite-sand beach. The stunning swimming pooloffers superb views of the beach and the gardensand is an ideal place to relax with a good book.There is a wonderful spa offering a range oftreatments and the resort has two restaurants; themore formal Windjammer, which serves deliciousfish and homemade bread, and the beachsideCabana Bar and Grill, for more casual dining.Little Polynesian, RarotongaPerched on palm-fringed golden sands, LittlePolynesian is operated by a professional yetincredibly friendly local team. The resort, whichhas only nine villas, retains a small and intimateambience and offers attention to detail and servicewhich is second to none. Choose betweenbeachfront villas with views across the lagoon andout to the ocean, or villas set amongst thebeautifully tailored tropical gardens. Villas areprivate and spacious and decorated in a classicyet sophisticated traditional island style. Resortfacilities include an infinity pool with magnificentviews and a delightful little restaurant.

Crown Beach Resort, RarotongaLittle Polynesian, RarotongaHibiscus flower, AitutakiSnorkelling in AitutakiRarotonga Beach Bungalows, RarotongaLocal girls, AitutakiRarotonga Beach BungalowsFacing a wide, tranquil white-sand beach,Rarotonga Beach Bungalows are located onRarotonga’s southern coast. Each bungalow looksonto the turquoise lagoon which boasts one ofthe most sheltered snorkelling areas on the islandand is home to a protected marine wildlife areawhere tropical fish and coral abound. Each one ofthe five elevated bungalows is surrounded bywhite sand and areca palms and is built to atraditional design. Decorated with coconut palms,local cloth and woven bamboo, the interiorsreflect the local style. Although there is norestaurant at the property, the excellent Paw PawPatch restaurant is just a few minutes’ walk awayand there is also a small lounge, morning coffeebar and library.The needle on the cross-island trek, RarotongaAitutakiThis atoll, first settled by Melanesian sailors around800 BC, is one of the most beautiful in the SouthPacific. The gently sloping island looks out over amassive, shimmering turquoise lagoon fringed bya ribbon of islets and a glorious ring of coral.Though just 200 kilometres north of Rarotonga,this low coral island is completely different in feelwith cruises, sailing and snorkelling expeditionsfocused on the sheltered lagoon. Bone fishing is aspecial attraction and there is superb diving onthe sheer outer reefs. For most visitors it is thepristine, white-sand beaches that are the majordraw, offering a wonderful opportunity to relaxin a place where time has little meaning.Are Tamanu Beach Village,AitutakiSet on a long stretch of powder-white beachright on Aitutaki’s expansive lagoon, Are TamanuBeach Village is an intimate family-run resortoffering warm and friendly Cook Islands hospitality.Are Tamanu means ‘house of the mahogany tree’and the ‘village’ is the result of two small resortsmerging together, which means guests have achoice of pools and bars while here. The 12spacious Tamanu Polynesian Bungalows havewooden floors, traditional thatched roofs, fullkitchen facilities and an outdoor decking areaperfect for enjoying the sunsets over the lagoon.Alternatively, stay in one of the lovely ManeaSuites, which are very spacious and ideal forcouples or families and come with lagoon views ora beachfront location. In addition, there are twofreshwater swimming pools, the Te Vaka Bar andGrill and a poolside bar.Pacific Resort, AitutakiThrow away your watch, sit back and relax at thisbeautiful resort where just 30 guest bungalows,suites and villas nestle in the shade of tropicalforest. One of the most luxurious hotels in theCook Islands, Pacific Resort offers Polynesianarchitecture, colonial furnishings and fine food andwine in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. Allaccommodation is air-conditioned and each suiteor villa has a large veranda within steps of a longwhite-sand beach washed by the waters of asheltered lagoon.Pacific Resort, Aitutakiwww.audleytravel.com/southpacific l 01993 838 830 l The South Pacific 75

Outrigger canoe race, MooreaTahitiSurfers at Teahupo’o, TahitiFrench PolynesiaFrench Polynesia is a spectacular landscape ofsmall islands that rise seductively above pristinecoral reefs and incredible turquoise lagoons thatare home to abundant tropical marine life. Thisexotic environment has lured artists and writerssuch as Paul Gauguin away from Western societyto a simpler existence and has been the inspirationfor many creative works. For such a small landmass the scenery is amazingly diverse here as arethe languages, cultures and traditions retained bythe local people. It is fascinating to immerseyourself in local history with a visit to some of themany ancient sacred sites scattered across theislands. Whether you’re looking for five star luxuryor an adventurous journey of discovery, you’ll findthe ultimate tropical paradise experience in thesebeautiful islands.The best known of all the French Polynesianislands, Tahiti is at once stunningly beautiful andgloriously relaxed. Dominated by the peak ofOrohena, the island has a rocky coastlineinterspersed with long beaches of black sandground from the island’s basalt by the poundingPacific surf. The narrow Taravao Isthmus connectsthe big island Tahiti Nui to the smaller island TahitiIti. To the northwest of Tahiti Nui is the city ofPapeete, the political and economic heart of thecountry and its international gateway. The interioris mountainous, criss-crossed by beautiful deepvalleys and offers great walks in the shade ofcathedral ferns. However, most visitors stay closePolynesian lady, Tahitito the coast, enjoying the charms of the island’ssophisticated hotels and lodges. Intercontinental Resort,TahitiThis large resort is positioned in a magicalsetting on the west coast of Tahiti. Nestled intropical gardens surrounded by clear oceanwaters and just a short journey from the airport,it is a convenient and luxurious base. The resorthas a comprehensive range of facilities with twoinfinity swimming pools, a dive school, a wideselection of watersports and a choice ofrestaurants. Perhaps the hotel is at its best atsunset however, when the sun drops over thevolcanic peaks of Moorea Island 19 kilometresaway across the Sea of Moons: a trulycaptivating sight.Intercontinental Resort, Tahiti76

Coral, French PolynesiaAerial view of HuahineHaapiti Lagoon, MooreaMooreaMan gathering coconutsTe Tiare Beach Resort, HuahineHuahineWith its jagged mountain peaks clothed in lushjungle dropping into the translucent blue watersof the South Pacific, Moorea rivals its sister islandTahiti for sheer beauty. Moorea is much smallerthan Tahiti and prides itself on being one of themost unspoilt islands in Polynesia whilst stilloffering the combination of complete relaxationand a variety of activities. The island is fringed bya reef which protects a shallow turquoise lagoonthat is home to thousands of species of fish,coral and other marine life, making a boat triphere an unmissable experience. The interior ofthe island offers a completely different perspectiveand climbing up to the lookout point betweenMount Rotui and Mount Tohiea gives dramaticviews down to Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay.Moorea is easily reached by boat or plane fromTahiti and is well-connected with the islands ofHuahine, Taha’a, Bora Bora and Raiatea –collectively known as The Society Islands.Sofitel Moorea La Ora Beach ResortMoorea Pearl ResortMoorea Pearl ResortSet on a long white-sand beach, the Moorea PearlResort offers 94 guest rooms and suites including28 over-water bungalows and a selection ofbeach and garden rooms. All rooms have ceilingfans or air-conditioning, have a sun deck, and aredecorated in a Polynesian style. There is anexcellent restaurant, a fantastic pool and a widerange of watersports available.Sofitel Moorea La OraBeach ResortThe Sofitel Moorea is situated on the edge of amagnificent bay with views towards the island ofTahiti. The resort is made up of luxuriousbungalows built over the water, on the beachfrontor surrounded by landscaped gardens. With tworestaurants, a bar, a magnificent outdoorswimming pool, day spa, Jacuzzi and tennis courtsthere are plenty of facilities on offer. A variety ofactivities and excursions can be arranged fromthe hotel.Perhaps the most picturesque of all the SocietyIslands, Huahine is actually two islands separatedby a narrow channel and linked by a bridge. Itsmountainous interior is ringed by magnificent baysand pristine white-sand beaches. It is home to oneof the largest and best-known archaeological sitesof Polynesia, the Maeva Marae, at the foot ofMount Mouatapu. Traditionally, Huahine wasknown as the ‘rebel island’ and famed for its fiercewarriors and its resistance to change. Perhaps forthis reason it remains a little-known gem amongstthe Society Islands and offers a unique chance todiscover a remote, untouched region ofoutstanding beauty. The island’s verdant forestsand fruit plantations create an impression of abeautiful garden.Te Tiare Beach Resort,HuahineAccessible only by boat from the nearby villageof Fare, Te Tiare is remote and luxurious, with 41air-conditioned bungalows set in lush tropicalgardens, on the beach or on stilts over the lagoon.A unique feature of this property is the mainbuilding which, like many of the bungalows, issituated over the lagoon and has a bar, loungearea, boutiques and an excellent restaurant. Theresort offers an array of watersports andexcursions to explore the interior of the islands.www.audleytravel.com/southpacific l 01993 838 830 l The South Pacific 77

Aerial view of Taha’aRaiatea & Taha’aThe second largest of the Society Islands, Raiateais at the heart of the indigenous culture. It isthought the island was the main stop for theearliest of the region’s settlers and today has afascinating wealth of history and legend. Raiatea ismost often visited as the gateway to its smallersister island, Taha’a, which shares the same lagoon.However, it also boasts beautiful landscapes withmountainous peaks and some good beaches aswell as the only navigable river in French Polynesiawhich passes over numerous stunning waterfalls.The island also has great surf spots, excellent Vahine Island Resortdiving and sailing, and is home to several luxuryyacht charters. Vahine Island ResortThis tiny private island resort offers the feelingof complete isolation whilst still providing all thecomforts of an idyllic stay. The nine bungalowsare dotted around the edge of the sandy motu(little coral island) while in the centre, tall palmsshade the grassy interior. The bungalows aretraditional in style with king size beds, mosquitonets and fans, and all have air-conditioning.There is a small and intimate bar area with plentyof books and local information. Staff can helporganise trips to Taha’a or Raiatea and kayaks,outriggers, windsurfers, boats and snorkellingequipment are all available for you to use.Although the accommodation is relatively simple,Vahine Island Resort is truly unspoilt and offers acharming and unique island experience.Fishing in the lagoon, Taha’aLe Taha’a Island Resortand SpaSuperbly located on the coral reef of MotuTautau, this resort, an Audley favourite, faces theisland of Taha’a on one side and Bora Bora onthe other. This boutique retreat is great value andcombines modern-day luxury with traditionalPolynesian style. Its 12 spacious beach suites havetheir own patio and tropical garden, while the 48stunning over-water suites have separate loungeareas and sun terraces. The three restaurants areset amongst the trees, and along with a diveschool and spa, there is a wide range of activitiesand excursions on offer. Getting here is easy, just30 minutes by boat from Raiatea or 15 minutesby helicopter from Bora Bora.Le Taha’a Island Resort and Spa78

Tiare flowerBora BoraFamily watching the sunset, Bora BoraIntercontinental Resort & Thalasso Spa, Bora BoraPearl Beach Resort, Bora BoraBora BoraPearl Beach Resort,Bora BoraThe elegant Pearl Beach Resort is located onMotu Tevairoa, one of the white-sand isletssurrounding the Bora Bora lagoon. ThePolynesian-style bungalows are all air-conditionedand are either secluded in the tropical gardens,perched along the beachfront or set over thelagoon itself with direct access to the water froma private deck. The resort offers two restaurantswith superb views back across the lagoon to thepeaks of Mount Otemanu and a wealth ofactivities and excursions. With regular shuttlesavailable to the main island you can choose todo as much or as little as you like in this tinyisland paradise.Intercontinental Resort& Thalasso Spa, Bora BoraOffering the ultimate in Polynesian luxury andcontemporary style, the Intercontinental Resortand Thalasso Spa has a selection of 80 fabulousover-water villas, each with stunning views of thebeach, the mountains or the lagoon. Superblyappointed and very spacious, the villas have aseparate living room, bedroom, bathroom, dressingroom, shaded terrace and bathing deck. There isan infinity pool, tennis court, dive centre andseveral bars and restaurants, as well as the ThalassoSpa Bora Bora which offers treatments using theextraordinarily pure local sea water. Located onMotu Piti Aau and looking back over the dramaticpeaks of Mount Otemanu, the resort benefitsfrom a beautiful and utterly tranquil location.This dreamy island with sandy beaches set againstthe backdrop of Mount Otemanu is known as the‘pearl of Polynesia’ and is just a 45 minute flightfrom Papeete in Tahiti. The charm of Bora Bora islegendary and inspired some of the world’s mostfamous writers, painters, philosophers andpleasure-seekers. Today the island plays host tothe finest Pacific cuisine, yachts, art galleries,jewellery shops shimmering with black pearls,and a selection of luxurious hotels offeringsophisticated facilities. Its most treasured featurehowever, is its beautiful translucent lagoon whichis ringed by tropical islets and is popular for divingand watersports.Le Maitai Polynesia, Bora BoraLe Maitai Polynesia,Bora BoraLe Maitai is a small, intimate resort located onMatira Point, which has the best beaches on theisland. It looks over a stunning lagoon and isflanked by the impressive dormant volcanic peakof the island which is covered in dense rainforest.The resort has a variety of accommodation fromluxurious over-water bungalows to well-appointed,air-conditioned rooms. There are two lovelyrestaurants and a bar, and you can take advantageof a number of excursions including a day-longtour of the island complete with picnic.www.audleytravel.com/southpacific l 01993 838 830 l The South Pacific 79

Fatu Hiva, Marquesas IslandsLagoon in the Tuamotu IslandsThe Tuamotu IslandsThe Tuamotu Islands form the largest of thePolynesian archipelagos and include over 76islands and atolls extending over more than20,000 square kilometres. Home to a mere12,500 people, the islands lay undiscovered formany years but are now opening up to visitors.They provide a wonderfully fresh experience forthose seeking a different side to Pacific island life.Scarcely influenced by the modern world, theislands are largely undeveloped except for smallcommunities of picturesque white-washed housesdecorated with shell art, and a series of pearlfarms that remain the mainstay of the region.80Pearl Resort, TikehauThis stylish and secluded hideaway is set on abeautiful beach on a small atoll. There are just 38Polynesian-style bungalows here, 14 beachfrontrooms set among the swaying palms and featuringoutdoor bathrooms, and 24 over-waterbungalows and suites with glass-bottomed coffeetables enabling you to view the lagoon’sunderwater life from your armchair. Life is centredaround the sea with snorkelling, canoe trips,fishing, scuba diving and sunset cruises filling eachday. There is an excellent open-air restaurant anda bar by the shimmering infinity pool.Pearl Resort, TikehauPaul Gauguin, Tahitian Women on the Beach 1891Paul GauguinNo artist is more indelibly tied to theSouth Pacific, and to French Polynesia inparticular, than 19th century Frenchpainter Paul Gauguin. Gauguin left Paristo travel to the South Pacific in the late19th century citing a need to live asimple life away from civilisation. Duringhis time there he sided with nativeislanders and frequently clashed withcolonial authorities and the local Catholicchurch. His colourful work reflected anobsession with his exotic adopted homeand his famous paintings of Polynesianwomen can be found in museums acrossthe world. Gauguin is buried at CalvaryCemetery (Cimetière Calvaire), Atuona,Hiva Oa in the Marquesas Islands.

DivingThe South Pacific rightly enjoys a reputationas being amongst the very best destinations inthe world for scuba diving. There’s a wealthof exotic marine life here including turtles,sharks, rays and even whales, and a stunningseascape populated by coral formations,colourful reef walls and numerous wrecks.With such a vast range of underwater siteswe would recommend taking the plunge atleast once. The water temperature rarelydrops below 26C and the visibility is generallyvery good. With such favourable conditionsthere are few better places to take scubalessons and you can qualify as a PADIcertified diver in a few days, which allows youto take on more advanced dives. Dive centresoperate at most hotels and resorts across theregion and cater for the novice through tothe most experienced diver.ClownfishDiving in FijiHere is a selection of our favourite South Pacificdive sites. Each one is very accessible and we canprovide information on which site is suitable basedon your experience.Beqa Lagoon, FijiClose to Viti Levu, the calm waters of BeqaLagoon are a renowned dive site and well-suitedto all standards of diver. Surrounded by 300kilometres of coral, the lagoon is one of theworld’s largest barrier reefs and home to a wealthof marine life. Blue ribbon eels, triggerfish, lion fish,leaf scorpions, octopuses and sharks can all bespotted along with vivid anthias and sea turtles.Tapu, French PolynesiaTapu, on the edge of the Bora Bora lagoon, is oneof the most famous dive sites in French Polynesia.Although reasonably shallow, several dramaticcoral formations harbour a multitude of life.Bright schools of parrotfish, angelfish andbutterflyfish of different varieties dance acrossthe coral whilst caves and craters hide turtlesand eels. Blacktip reef sharks and gracefullemon sharks are also a common sight.Somosomo Strait, FijiThe strait of ocean that separates Taveuni andVanua Levu in the north of Fiji is regarded asone of the best diving locations in the world.With excellent visibility and warm waters, thestrait is particularly famed for the abundanceof soft colourful coral. The nutrient-rich watersattract a great variety of pelagic species andhere schooling fish meet sharks, barracudas,manta rays and huge groupers.The Marquesas IslandsOver the years the verdant Marquesas, threehours by air from Tahiti, have been an escape forartists, writers and adventurers. Travel here andyou will quickly understand why. Unprotected bybarrier reefs, the Marquesas Islands are altogetherdifferent from their neighbours with dramaticcoastlines of cliffs, rock needles and giant volcanicamphitheatres all created by the relentless Pacificsurf. The interiors are intensely beautiful withjungle-clad peaks, herds of goats and horsesrunning wild and trees laden with tropical fruit.There are several distinct groups of islands eachwith its own particular charm and distinctivecharacter. Fiercely proud of their Marquesanculture, the friendly islanders offer a genuinewelcome to the small numbers of visitors whocome here.Keikahanui Pearl Resort, Nuku HivaVirgin Bay, Fatu HivaKeikahanui Pearl Resort,Nuku HivaLocated 50 steps above a quiet, black-sand beach,this wonderful small lodge is set in luscioustropical gardens overlooking the bay and villageof Taiohae in the Marquesas. The 20 spacious,air-conditioned guest bungalows are built fromlocal materials and are individually decorated bylocal artists. Each offers mesmerising views fromthe verandas, while the restaurant opens onto theterrace and swimming pool. Guests can takeadvantage of the superb local diving and explorethe island with a Marquesan guide who willintroduce and explain the archaeological sitesand natural wonders of the region.Tikis, Nuku Hivawww.audleytravel.com/southpacific l 01993 838 830 l The South Pacific 81

Young boy at a festival, ApiaSamoaSubmit to the languid charm of Samoa and youmay never, ever want to leave. Another enthrallingcombination of blinding white beaches, lushvegetation, extinct volcanic craters and plungingwaterfalls, Samoa is spectacularly beautiful and afascinating place to explore Polynesian history andculture. Traditional customs and values areparticularly strong here and visitors are warmlywelcomed to engage in special events andcelebrations. ‘Easy-going, merry and leisure-loving’is how Robert Louis Stevenson described thelocals in the 19th century, and not much haschanged since. Time seems to pass more slowlyhere and it is a great place to just sit back and takestock. The two principal islands of Upolu andSavai’i are scattered with areas of tremendousnatural beauty from dramatic mountains andpristine beaches to stunning sea cliffs, idyllicswimming holes and striking lava flows justwaiting to be explored.Upolu & ApiaUpolu is Samoa’s second largest and mostpopulated island, home to the bustling butlaid-back capital of Apia. The gentle coastal roadwinds around glorious bays and beaches to sleepylittle villages each of which is structured around avillage church and central malae, or green, makingthe communal way of life easy to observe.The north coast is rocky and wild, while the southcoast offers a series of white-sand beaches. Inland,the mountainous interior shelters tumbling fallsand incredible tropical vegetation. Renting a carand exploring the island is a great way to discoverits charms. Driving the Cross Island Road revealsmany of Upolu’s highlights including Villa Vailima,Robert Louis Stevenson’s former home just southof Apia, Papapapai Tai Falls, a spectacular cascadeplunging 150 metres, and O Le Pupu-Pu’eNational Park with its glorious hiking trails and lavatubes. You can also visit Mount Vaea, the burialplace of Robert Louis Stevenson, as well as oneof only seven Baha’i temples in the world.Along the south coast waterfalls and naturalswimming holes are the main draw, along withthe stunning Lalomanu Beach. Apia itself is alsowell worth exploring and the food and craftmarkets are great places to people-watch or pickup local delicacies.Sinalei Reef Resort, UpoluSinalei Reef Resort, UpoluThe island’s foremost resort, Sinalei Reef Resortoffers a range of accommodation from simpleguest rooms through to superb beachside suites.Complemented by lush gardens, a simply styledover-water restaurant serving high quality cuisine,white-sand beaches and a refreshing swimmingpool, the resort offers impeccable service andevery comfort you could imagine. The watersportscentre offers diving, snorkelling and surfing whilethere are also tennis courts and numerous localexcursions available.Villa Vailima, Upolu82Collecting coconuts, Samoa

Waterfall in UpoluMusician, SamoaChurch in Apia, Upolu Spearfishing, Samoa Le Lagoto, Savai’iSavai’iLarger than Upolu, Savai’i has a remote andslightly wild feel about it. The coastline boastssome superb beaches, but not all are protected byreefs so in places the waters can be quite fierce.The volcanic interior provides a stunning backdropand the harsh scars of relatively recent volcaniceruptions slash through the lush greenery down tothe blue Pacific Ocean. There are many places ofinterest to visit, including lava tubes (volcanic cavesformed by lava flows), blowholes and tracts ofuntouched forest making Savai’i far more than justa beach destination.Le Lagoto, Savai’iLe Lagoto means sunset, an apt name for thiswell-located resort. Set on a stunning white-sandbeach, this small and intimate property housesjust ten spacious, tastefully decorated bungalowsall with air-conditioning and private deck areaswith hammocks. The excellent restaurant serves agood range of dishes with an emphasis on localfish and seafood, and simpler snacks are availablefrom the pool bar. The pool itself looks out overthe beautiful lagoon and you can snorkel directlyfrom the beach.Seabreeze, UpoluSeabreeze, UpoluSeabreeze is a beautiful, small property locatedon the picturesque southern coast of Upolu.With just six rooms, housed in two-room units,it is a great spot to enjoy the peace and tranquillityof this secluded location. The resort is nestled intoa dramatic cove enclosed by steep hills and theprotected waters make for great snorkelling andkayaking, while keen surfers will find the breakersare only a short swim away. The excellentrestaurant is perched on the edge of the rocksmaking it a great spot for a sundowner andsome wonderful local cuisine. It is a short driveto the stunning Lalomanu beach or across theisland to Apia.Faiaai Beach, Savai’i Islandwww.audleytravel.com/southpacific l 01993 838 830 l The South Pacific 83

TaveuniMamanucaIslandsNadiViti LevuAerial view of Bora BoraTailoring your tripThe itineraries shown are designed to give you aflavour of what is possible and are routes thatwork particularly well. We can use these as a basisto plan your trip or can design a completelydifferent itinerary to suit your tastes and interests.Fiji UncoveredThis itinerary is ideal for those wanting a little beachtime but also the chance to learn a bit about thehistory and local culture of the Fijian people.Combining time on Viti Levu with relaxation in theMamanuca Islands and exploration in the north,you’ll get more of a feel for the ‘real’ Fiji.Please call one of our South Pacific specialists tostart planning your itinerary.Days 1-2Fly overnight from the UK to Fiji viaLos Angeles.Telephone: 01993 838 830Getting aroundAlthough you may wish to stay close to the beachor pool, if you intend to travel around the SouthPacific getting around can be an adventure in itselfand often involves several different modes oftransport to reach more remote corners. It takesjust 50 minutes to drive around Rarotonga in theCook Islands, whilst the Cooks’ outer islands arereached by regular flights. An excellent flightnetwork connects the major islands of eacharchipelago in French Polynesia and Fiji, so mostisland-hopping is done by plane, although manyresorts can only be reached by boat, usually ashort trip across a calm lagoon. Flight connectionsto Samoa are more limited, however travellingaround in Samoa is relatively easy and a regularferry connects the two main islands. We can alsoarrange private yacht charters or small-groupsailing adventures and comfortable cruises in manylocations. International flights into the South Pacificoften originate in Los Angeles or Auckland with anumber of flights from Sydney as well, making iteasy to stop in a different country and extendyour trip.Scuba diving, Fiji84Kayaking in Moorea, French PolynesiaWhen to goJan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec~ ~ 3 3 33 33 33 33 33 3 3 ~33 The best time to travel.3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.~ Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.5 Travel is not recommended.Q Snow or ski season.The climate across the islands of the South Pacificis largely similar with no major seasonal differencein temperature but a distinct rainy and dry season.The best time to visit is between May andNovember when conditions are dry, warm andsunny, the humidity levels are low andtemperatures in the 30s Celsius. The rainy season,when tropical cyclones can occur, spansDecember to April and is responsible for the lushverdant landscape. Both seasons are subject totrade winds which provide a pleasant morningbreeze, but are often followed by tropical showerswhich are generally short-lived.Time difference: GMT+12 hours for Fiji,GMT+14 hours for Samoa, GMT-10 hours forthe Cook Islands and French PolynesiaFlight time from UK: 22 hoursPricesWe offer trips to cater for a wide range ofbudgets. You can find up-to-date guideline pricesfor your trip to the South Pacific on our website,alternatively please call our specialists to discussyour plans.Day 3Day 4Day 5Day 6Arrive in Nadi and transfer to yourbeachfront accommodation.Spend the day at leisure exploringNadi town.You may want to visit the Sri SivaSubramaniya Swami Temple, thelargest Hindu temple outside India.Travel by boat to the MamanucaIslands and relax at your island retreat.Days 7-11 Swim, snorkel, visit tiny villages orsimply relax on the beach – thechoice is yours.Day 12Return to Nadi and fly north toTaveuni and then travel to yourisland resort.Days 13-16 Dive, hike and immerse yourself inthe culture of the north.Day 17Day 18Travel back to Viti Levu and boardyour flight home from Nadi viaLos Angeles.Arrive in the UK.Stay longerAdd additional time to your trip by taking a flighton to Australia. There are regular flights intoSydney allowing you to spend a few days in thisfantastic harbour city.Aitutaki, the Cook Islands

Suggested itinerariesAitutakiBora BoraHuahineSavai’iRarotongaMooreaPapeeteTahitiFrom AucklandApiaUpoluTo AucklandClassic Cook IslandsThis itinerary encompasses the two main islandsof the Cook Islands archipelago. You will start inRarotonga, which is the main hub for the Cooksand therefore a great place to learn about the localculture and traditional way of life. You will thenmove on to Aitutaki, which epitomises the iconicparadise island getaway, complete with clear bluelagoon waters, white sandy beaches and an arrayof marine life.Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4Day 5Day 6Day 7Day 8Day 9Day 10Fly from the UK to Rarotonga viaLos Angeles.Arrive in Rarotonga and transfer toyour beachfront accommodation.Relax and take in the beautifulsurroundings.Snorkel, swim or laze on the beach.Hop on one of the local buses toexplore the island.Visit the Te Punanga Nui marketor take a cross-island walk with alocal guide.Another day at leisure to enjoy thisidyllic location.Enjoy the 40 minute scenic flight toAitutaki and transfer to youraccommodation.Spend the day wandering along thebeach or listening to the waves fromyour veranda.Join a cruise out onto the lagoonwhere you will find a beautiful arrayof marine life.Days 11-12 Take to the water for somesnorkelling or relax on the beach.Day 13Day 14Day 15Day 16Enjoy a final meal and cocktailwhilst watching a stunning CookIsland sunset.Transfer back to Rarotonga for yourflight back to the UK.Transit through Los Angeles.Arrive in the UK.Stay longerFor an extended trip spend time in sunnyCalifornia. Start in Los Angeles and rent a car totravel around the southern part of the state.French Polynesia UncoveredThis itinerary is ideal for those wishing to explorethe Society Islands of French Polynesia andincorporates a mixture of history, culture, beachand relaxation. Starting in Tahiti you will fly toHuahine to see some of the most extensivearchaeological remains in French Polynesia. Fromhere travel to Moorea to explore verdant forestsand fruit plantations, or take a 4x4 trip into themountains. The trip ends in Bora Bora where youcan swim in the turquoise lagoons and snorkelwith sharks and rays.Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4Day 5Day 6Day 7Day 8Day 9Day 10Day 11Day 12Day 13Day 14Fly overnight from the UK to Tahitivia Los Angeles.Arrive in Tahiti and transfer to youraccommodation then spend timerelaxing or exploring.Transfer back to the airport for yourflight to Huahine.Explore the archaeological sites ofHuahine.Enjoy the beach and lagoon,swimming, snorkelling or sunbathing.Transfer back to the airport for yourflight to Moorea.Relax and enjoy your beachfrontsetting.Join a 4x4 tour of the island.Transfer to the airport for your flightto Bora Bora.Take to the water and explore thebeautiful turquoise lagoon.Enjoy a trip on a glass-bottomed boator snorkel amongst the coral.Fly back to Tahiti for your eveningflight to the UK via Los Angeles.In flight.Arrive in the UK.Stay longerAny part of this itinerary can be extended allowingyou more time on each of the islands. Alternativelyyou could add a few nights on nearby Raiatea orTaha’a, staying on a tiny atoll for a real castawayexperience. Time can also be added in Los Angelesto break up your journey.Taste of SamoaThis itinerary is designed for those interested inhistory and local culture but also looking for achance to relax on the beach. Starting with acouple of days in Auckland before heading toSamoa, you will visit both Upolu and Savai’i withsome time at local sites of interest, before a fewdays on a quiet beach.Days 1-2Day 3Day 4Day 5Day 6Day 7Day 8Day 9Day 10Fly overnight from the UK toAuckland via Los Angeles.Arrive in Auckland and transfer toyour accommodation near theharbour.Spend the day exploring Auckland.Catch your flight to Samoa. Arrivein Upolu. Use the rest of the dayto explore the markets of thecapital Apia.Drive to Villa Vailima and on to theBaha’i temple before cooling off atthe Papapapai Tai waterfall.Explore the eastern end of Upolu andsome of the soft white beaches.Catch a ferry to Savai’i and headnorth stopping at tiny villages alongthe way.Travel along the coast road stoppingto see lava flows. Attend a churchservice for an insight into local life.Explore the dramatic blowholes alongthe southern coast.Days 11-13 Return to Upolu and check into yourbeach accommodation. Spend thenext few days relaxing.Day 14Day 15Day 16Depart Upolu on a flight back toAuckland.Catch an international flight to the UKvia Los Angeles.Arrive in the UK.Stay longerThis trip could easily be extended by adding moretime in New Zealand to discover both the Northand South Islands. Alternatively you could stop inLos Angeles for a few nights en route.www.audleytravel.com/southpacific l 01993 838 830 l The South Pacific 85

Getting thereNew Zealand and the South Pacific lie about as far away from the UK as it is possible toget so almost all trips will necessitate a long flight. There are many ways to make thisjourney a pleasant part of your trip including stopping off to discover another interestingdestination on your way. There is very little difference in actual flying time whether youchoose to travel westbound, eastbound or, indeed to travel around the world. Here are ourrecommendations for the most popular places to stop en route.USA864x4 trip in the desert, DubaiHollywood sign, Los AngelesYosemite National ParkThe most popular stop for travellers flyingwestwards is Los Angeles which provides a goodstarting point for exploring some of the USA’snational parks and Hawaii. The city itself is anon-stop, hedonistic playground with fantasticweather, miles of great beaches, excellentshopping and plenty of iconic sights familiar fromfilm and television. Don’t miss smart Beverly Hillsor Malibu, glitzy West Hollywood or the beachesof Santa Monica. Other options in Californiainclude the waterfront city of San Francisco, thestunning coastal drive between San Francisco andLos Angeles, Lake Tahoe, the vineyards of theNapa Valley and iconic national parks such asYosemite, Sequoia and Death Valley.The Far EastThe intoxicating cities of the Far East offer anexciting and exotic opportunity to break yourjourney. The principal cities are Bangkok, HongKong, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, and all arevery different in character. You may wish toexplore ancient temples, visit fascinating streetmarkets, experience the aromas and tastes ofexotic cuisines or simply relax on a palm-fringedbeach. It is easy to add a connecting flight frommany of these cities to visit either remoterregions and islands, or countries such as Vietnam,Cambodia, Laos or Burma.Buddha statue with long-tailed macaque, ThailandTwelve Apostles, AustraliaAustraliaAustralia’s great eastern cities of Melbourne,Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns are a relatively shortflight away from New Zealand and open upmany opportunities for exploring this wonderfulcountry. You may wish to take a few days toexplore Sydney with its Opera House andHarbour Bridge, go wine tasting in Melbourne,or perhaps go snorkelling or diving on the GreatBarrier Reef. Of course this enormous countryoffers many other possibilities too, including theRed Centre around Uluru/Ayers Rock and AliceSprings, the beautiful west coast city of Perth,the vineyards of the Margaret River or BarossaValley or the amazing rock formations in theNorthern Territory.The Middle EastMany flights route through the United ArabEmirates with stops in either Abu Dhabi or Dubai.Both offer a hot, dry and sunny year-roundclimate, superb beaches and tax-free shopping ingleaming, modern, air-conditioned shopping malls.In addition, exciting 4x4 trips into the desert,excellent golf courses and trips that uncover theregion’s ancient history are also available.Alternatively, you may wish to soak up theatmosphere in the silk and spice souks or hagglefor carpets and leather goods at the markets.

Useful informationFiji, South PacificResponsible travelWe’re passionate about travel but also deeplyaware of the responsibility we have to the peopleand places we visit. We believe that a visit from anAudley traveller should have a positive impact onthe destination and, wherever possible, bring realbenefits. We always endeavour to use locallyowned hotels, work with local guides andoperators, and promote community and wildlifeprojects. Our Traveller’s Code offers tips andadvice you can use to ensure your trip does notthreaten the sustainability of the places you visit.We carbon offset all our staff flights and you canchoose to do the same, please speak to yourspecialist about this or follow the link on ourwebsite www.audleytravel.com/offset. Ourcommitment to responsible travel has beenaudited by AITO (Association of IndependentTour Operators) and we have been awarded fivestars, the maximum achievable. We also supporta variety of social and environmental charitiesand projects around the world.For more information about travelling responsiblyand the charities and projects we support pleasevisit www.audleytravel.com/rtTerms & Conditions andTravel InsuranceYour booking is subject to the Terms andConditions of Audley Travel, which we will includewith your personalised itinerary and can also befound on our website. It is vital that you haveadequate travel insurance and we are able tosuggest a number of policies either for theduration of your trip or on an annual basis.Maori boys at Waitangi Day festivalHoneymoonsThe South Pacific islands are iconic honeymoondestinations, offering powder-soft white sandbeaches, exotic swaying palm trees and sparklingatoll lagoons that for many make the archetypalhoneymoon destination. New Zealand, on theother hand, can offer a little bit of everything.Whether you are looking for relaxation on apristine beach, exploring the country’s spectacularmountain scenery or taking part in a wide varietyof activities, New Zealand has it all.When you arrange your honeymoon with Audleyyou can also use our Honeymoon Gift Service.This provides you with your own website, whichyour friends and family can visit to contributetowards the cost of your honeymoon.FlightsThere is a wide choice of airlines to choose fromwhen planning your itinerary to New Zealandand the South Pacific. The journey time to NewZealand is around 27 hours and it takes almostas long to reach most South Pacific destinations.The airline cabins are comfortable, well designed,and offer varying levels of leg room dependingon your choice of travel class. The average seatpitch in economy is 32 inches, 38 in premiumeconomy and 60 in business class, althoughthese do vary.On-board entertainment is excellent with achoice of films, television programmes and music.Complimentary meals and drinks, including barservice, is served by most airlines. Our specialistswill be delighted to make recommendations onthe airlines and routes to best suit you.Mount Cook National Park, New ZealandAITO MembershipAudley is a member of theAssociation of Independent TourOperators. The Association represents Britain’sleading independent tour operators andencourages high standards of quality and service.Audley abides by the Association’s Code ofConduct and adheres to the AITO QualityCharter which can be viewed on www.aito.com.Photography in this brochureWe would like to thank the followingphotographers and organisations for the imagesused in this brochure:Alamy, AWL Images, Bill Hobdell, DestinationMarlborough, Dreamstime, Hawke’s Bay TouristBoard, Istockphoto, Nelson Tasman Tourism,New Zealand Cycle Trails, Robert Harding,Steve Allen, Superstock, Thinkstock, TourismNew Zealand – Chris McLennan, Tourism NewZealand – Rob Suisted, Tourism New Zealand– Scott Venning, hotels and suppliers featuredin the brochure and members of the NewZealand team.All images used in this brochure were obtainedin good faith by Audley Travel Group Limitedand in the belief that all necessary consents andclearances were obtained for their use. For anyqueries relating to photography please contact uson 01993 838 040.Visit our officesIf you would like to discuss yourtravel arrangements in person wewelcome personal visits, pleasecall in advance to arrange anappointment with one or more ofour country specialists. Our officesare at the New Mill, a 17th centuryconverted wool mill on the outskirtsof Witney, ten miles west of Oxfordon the edge of the Cotswolds.www.audleytravel.com/visit-uswww.audleytravel.comOur website is packed withinformation, features and advicecovering all our destinationsacross the globe. On the site you canbrowse by theme, special interest orregion as well as viewing additionalaccommodation options and itinerariesthat are not featured in this brochure.You can download all our brochures onlineor contact us via the website where thereis the option to tell us about your plans sothat we can start tailoring your itinerary.Useful information 87

New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX, United KingdomTelephone: 01993 838 800 • Fax: 01993 838 010Email: newzealand@audleytravel.com • Website: www.audleytravel.comThis brochure has been printed on paper from well managed forests, approved by the Forest Stewardship Council , ® usingvegetable inks. Our printer holds ISO 14001 and FSC ® environmental certifications. Should you wish to dispose of your brochure,we kindly request that you recycle it. The paper used in this brochure has also been carbon balanced by the World Land Trust.CBP00032962103130057