kiwi experience exposed guide 2012

EXPOSED!

MY NAME MY PNR

3

INFORMATION IN THIS GUIDE HAS BEEN SOURCED FROM OUR DRIVER GUIDES AND ACCOMMODATION AND ACTIVITY PROVIDERS.IT WILL HELP SATISFY YOUR APPETITE FOR ADVENTURE!

4

04 Welcome To Kiwi Experience

06 North Island Route Map

07 South Island Route Map

14 Unique Experiences with Kiwi Experience

16 Awesome Overnight Stops with Kiwi Experience

18 A Bit About The Land Of The Long White Cloud

20 Quick Facts

23 How To Use This Guide

24 Frequently Asked Questions

26 The Bay Of Islands & The Far North

34 Auckland

42 Hot Water Beach and the Coromandel Peninsula

46 Waitomo

54 Rotorua

64 Taupo & Tongariro National Park

70 East As

76 River Valley

82 Wellington

90 Kaiteriteri & Abel Tasman National Park

94 The West Coast

112 Wanaka & Queenstown

132 Bottom Bus

140 Christchurch & Kaikoura

156 Walks Around NZ

158 Mountain Biking Around NZ

160 Surfing Around NZ

162 Kiwi Experience Passes

167 Tips For Travelling With Us

168 Kiwi Experience Driver Guide Photos

172 Timetable - All Pick Up Points

175 Terms & Conditions

178 Activity Prices for Kiwi Experience Passengers

180 Accommodation Listings

5

SO, WHY CHOOSE KIWI EXPERIENCE?Legendary hop-on, hop-off bus adventures for travellers by travellers. Starting in 1989 and with over 22 years perfecting our route, you know that youll be travelling with the experts when you travel with Kiwi Experience.

Flexible travel. Choose from over 20 different pass options and hop off and hop back on when and where you like. Weve got more departures too, so more choice on when to travel.

Take your time. Youve got 12 months to complete your trip, so take it easy. Youll also spend less travel time on our buses during the day, which means more time in destinations to enjoy NZs best bits.

Driver Guides. Our legendary Driver Guides are 100% Kiwi and totally passionate about our country and their commentary, insights and advice will ensure you discover the real NZ.

Unique Stops. Our amazing unique stops will take you to the heart of NZ with interesting characters and gobsmacking landscapes.

Accommodation sorted. Your first nights accommodation at every overnight stop can be organised by your Driver Guide and is guaranteed even at the busiest times of the year.

Great deals, awesome inclusions. Our Driver Guides can sort you out with awesome deals to all sorts of activities around NZ, plus loads of great stuff that wont cost you a cent.

Weve designed this guide so that you can make the most out of your visit to Aotearoa - land of the long white cloud.

This guide is full of valuable information about the places that we take you to. Take a copy home as a souvenir. Or show it to your mates and make them green with envy.

A LITTLE BIT OF OUR HISTORY...This year, were 23. Because weve been doing what we do for so long, we feel that our legendary hop-on, hop-off service is the best youll find in New Zealand. Join the Kiwi Experience story in 2012 and find out the secret to our success.

Kiwi Experience was established in 1989 by three Kiwis recently back from their overseas experience - and a dog called Gyro, the brains behind the operation - with the aim of providing flexible transport options for independent travellers that linked New Zealands scenic locations and adventure activities.

Today Kiwi Experience is part of New Zealands premier tourism operator group - Tourism Holdings Limited (thl). thl started as a helicopter business used by hunters to recover deer in remote bush land and now theyre one of New Zealands leading tourism companies!

This guide book was produced by...THE SPEIL - a combo of past and present Kiwi Experience WhanauPHOTOS - Flea, Kiwi Experience staff, and activity operatorsDESIGN/PRODUCTION/ADVERTISING - Robyn, Liz, Jen, Justin, Alicia, Monica and Cube Creative Print & Design.

Address: 85 Beach Road, Auckland, NZPhone: +64 9 336 4286 Email: [email protected]

WELCOME TO KIWI EXPERIENCE

HERES WHERE YOU CAN FIND US:

6

KIWI EXPERIENCE ROUTE - THE NORTH ISLAND

Please note: The ferry between the North and South Island is not included, but can

be booked by your Driver Guide8

KIWI EXPERIENCE ROUTE - THE SOUTH ISLAND

2

9

GO GREEN, NOT MEAN

Dontspitorlitter-dotherightthingandputitinthebin!Chewinggumandcigarettebuttscountasrubbish-inthebin,notthegutter.Recyclepaper,cardboard,glass,plasticandcans.Be careful with pollution around waterways, it can kill New Zealands marine life.

Changethat20minuteshowertoafiveminuteoneinstead.Turntapsoffwhileyoushaveandbrushyourteeth.Usethehalfflushbuttononthetoilet...whenyoucan.Onlyturnonaheaterifyouhavetoandcloseyourcurtainsandroomdoorstokeep the heat in. Sleeping in a shared dorm helps keep you warm!

Turnoffthelightswhenyourenotintheroom(orneedtosetthemood...)Turnappliancesoffwhennotinuse.Onceyourmobile,MP3playerorcameraisfullyrecharged,unplugit. Even when fully charged the charger still uses electricity.

Teamupwithafellowtravellerandshareyourlaundryloads.

Us Kiwis love our country so weve written a few tips to help you care for New Zealand while youre cruising around on the big green bus. Make sure the only footprint you leave here is in the sand!

10

GO GREEN, NOT MEAN

Do your bit and help keep New Zealand green.

Youdontneedaplasticbagforanappleandasoftdrink.Ifyouneed a bag take an old bag or use a recyclable one.

NewZealanddrinkingwaterissomeofthebestintheworld,soreuseyourplastic water bottles (saves you money too).

Getrefillpacksforwashingdetergents,buysmallerpacksorsharewithothers so you dont throw chemicals away at the end of a trip. Give your leftovers away to other travellers.

Reuseyourbeerorwineglass.Avoidbuyingplasticcutleryandusingstrawsforyourdrinks. Straws look pretty silly anyway.

Washvegetablesinalargebowltogetherratherthanoneatatimeunder running water.

Befirewiseandalwaysobserveourforestsfireriskstatus(thecolourfulsigns you see on the side of the road).

Followmarkedtrailsonnaturewalksandsupportconservationbypayingentrance fees where requested.

Didymo(alsoaffectionatelyknownasrock-snot)canthreatenNewZealand lakes and rivers. Make sure you rinse yourself and your clothes with fresh water before re-entering another waterway.

11

As a company, were always working on new ideas about how we can be environmentally and socially responsible.

Our efforts have been recognized by a big thumbs up from Qualmark. Qualmark is New Zealands official mark of quality for tourism operators and weve scored an Enviro Silver endorsement for responsible tourism.

GREEN ON THE INSIDE TOO...

CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERING EXPERIENCE ONLY $320 4 DAY ONLY $475 6 DAY

12

KEEN TO BE GREEN?

A 4 or 6 day volunteering experience on a Conservation Volunteers project will have you helping out with a variety of tasks in a stunning location, including tree planting, seed collection and removal of weeds to create an ecological corridor spanning the mountains to the sea.

The projects are located in Punakaiki on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand. Perched on the edge of the Southern Alps, Punakaiki encompasses spectacular limestone landscapes, river gorges, caves, coastal and inland walks and the world renowned Pancake Rocks and blowholes. The coastline is the natural habitat of the Little Blue Penguin and the only nesting ground of the Westland Black Petrel. The forests bear nikau palms and rata trees that are hundreds of years old.

Your Green Not Mean pack includes transfers from the Punakaiki Visitor Centre, either 3 or

5 nights accommodation in the hostel-style accommodation at the project, and all meals. You will be guided by the expertise of an enthusiastic Conservation Volunteers Team Leader during the project and will receive a certificate of participation at the end of the project.

Conservation Volunteers are a non-profit organisation who recruit and manage teams of volunteers from Australia, New Zealand and around the world to work on important environment and wildlife conservation projects and this is your chance to get involved!

Important to note: The Green Not Mean pack is supplied by Conservation Volunteers New Zealand and must be purchased in conjunction with a Kiwi Experience national travel pass. You must select the date you wish to start your project when you purchase your Green Not Mean Pack. All Green Not Mean projects are based in Punakaiki, therefore, you must allow sufficient time to travel on Kiwi Experience in order to reach Punakaiki by the start date of your project. Please contact Kiwi Experience Reservations on +64 9 336 4286 or [email protected] for more information.

13

CONNECTING WITHKIWI EXPERIENCE... One of the best things about Kiwi Experience is the people you meet along the way: Driver Guides, fellow passengers, locals and that cutie from Kaiteriteri who said you had cool hair. However, despite best intentions most of us never get around to exchanging details or lose that tiny piece of paper they were written on. So heres how...

WWW.KIWIEXPERIENCE.COMCheck out our website where you can post videos, photos, stories, comments and questions on our community pages. You can log in and share your awesome Kiwi Experience with people who are thinking about travelling, or get your mates back home to check it out and make them jealous!

FACEBOOK GROUPofficialkiwiexperiencefanpage Kiwi Experience - the official group -check it out for travel updates, inspiration, awesome competitions and discounts.

TWITTER@kiwiexperience Follow us for all the latest gossip, competitions, specials, news, plus funny and interesting tales of life on the road with Kiwi Experience!

YOUTUBEwww.youtube.com/KiwiExShare your Sweet as Kiwi Experience videos on the Kiwi Ex site. Remember to stick Kiwi Experience in the video title so that youll have the chance to win prizes.

CONNECT, SHARE... AND WIN!

14

Post your legendary experiences, photos and video on one of our Kiwi Experience online spaces and youll have the chance to win $200 worth of prizes. Check out www.kiwiexperience.com for more information.

WINNERSThe winners will be announced by mid month of the following month. Well post the winning entries on our site and let you know if you have won! Check out www.kiwiexperience.com for more information.

CONNECT, SHARE... AND WIN!

HOW TO ENTER

viDeO phOtO cOmmeNt OR stORY

On Facebook? Upload your awesome photos or top travel experiences at officialkiwiexperiencefanpage

On Twitter? Tweet a photo or tell us about your trip to @kiwiexperience

Got a video? Upload your footage to You Tube Kiwi Ex

Got a blog? Stick a link to www.kiwiexperience.com so we can see what youre up to!

15

Sandboarding, Cape Reinga Sandboard down gigantic sand dunes at the very top of New Zealand where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea.

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Only accessible by foot or boat, check out one of New Zealands most scenic coastal spots.

Hot Water Beach, Coromandel Tides permitting, dig in the sand and make your own hot pool at Hot Water Beach.

Marae Tour of Whangara, East Coast One of the most culturally and historically significant places in the East Cape. Receive a full tour of the marae with a local. Learn the history of this very special place, home to Whale Rider.

Huka Falls See for yourself why these falls are the most visited natural attraction in New Zealand.

Secrets of Bungy, Queenstown Learn all about the Secrets of Bungy in Queenstown. More than just a visit to the Kawarau Bridge, this is a fun, informative and interactive tour.

Milford Sound Experience Experience the wonder and beauty of Milford Sound during a 2 hour cruise. This trip includes a hot buffet lunch and entry to the underwater observatory!

Karangahake Gorge Explore the native bush-clad gorge, a swing bridge or two, and a one kilometre long tunnel. Awesome views!

THE FOLLOWING UNIQUE EXPERIENCES ARE ALL INCLUDED ON SELECTED KIWI EXPERIENCE PASSES.*

Ruakuri Walk Spectacular walk through the limestone cave formations of Waitomo.

Taranaki Falls This walk is amazing! On a clear day you can see Mt Ngauruhoes symmetrical cone (also known as Mt Doom) and the older, more eroded Tongariro and Ruapehu mountains.

Cape Foulwind An excellent track to the viewing platforms overlooking the seal-breeding colony.

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks Punakaiki is best known for its Pancake Rocks and blowholes. A must-see when visiting the West Coast.

Lake Matheson A West Coast icon, Lake Matheson provides amazing late afternoon reflections, early morning sunrises and spectacular sunsets.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCESWITH KIWI EXPERIENCE

ARE YOU KIDDING?*

16

* NO JOKE. WE GIVE YOU LOADS OF INCLUSIONS THAT WILL COST YOU NOTHING SO YOU HAVE A BETTER TIME.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCESWITH KIWI EXPERIENCE

SWEET AS!

17

Travel with Kiwi Experience and it could be a remote adventure lodge, a historic West Coast pub with its own secluded beach or an isolated farm owned and run by local Maori. We take you to out there places as well as the must see destinations. Get amongst the locals and experience Kiwi hospitality at its best.

WHERE WILL YOU BE SLEEPING TOMORROW NIGHT?

AWESOME OVERNIGHT STOPSWITH KIWI EXPERIENCE

Enjoy the landscape of Franz Josef.

Chill out at RIver Valley

Stunning scenery at Nomads, Queenstown.

Backpacking at Base Taupo.

Reconnect with Nomads, Queenstown.

Soak it up at Pipi Patch, Bay of Islands.

18

Backpacking at Base Taupo.

Reconnect with Nomads, Queenstown.

CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR UNIQUE STOPS.With Kiwi Experience youll get to go to Te Kaha Homestead Lodge with the OBrien Whanau, Eastenders Farmstay at Rangitukia (next to the middle of nowhere), Tatapouri Beach Hostel - be the first to see the sunrise, River Valley Adventure Lodge - so off the beaten track, the bus cant get down the hill... and Mahinapua West Coast Pub with New Zealands oldest publican, Les.

AWESOME OVERNIGHT STOPSWITH KIWI EXPERIENCE

Enjoy sunny Kaiteriteri.

Be the first to spot the sun at Tatapouri.

Soaking up the sun at Kaiteriteri.

Cosy at River Valley.

Relaxing on the beach at Mahinapua.

Hot Water Beach.

19

warfare. No one won, but many Maori lives were lost along with many customs and traditions.

In the early to mid 1800s blocks of land were sold off to Britain under projects such as the Wakefield Scheme and the Canterbury Company. It was under these schemes that towns like Wellington and Christchurch were initially settled. Wealthy landowners held interviews with potential settlers in Britain. This was to ascertain whether or not a person would be suitable to settle here and manage the landowners land and business ventures without supervision. This differs quite a lot from the shackle dragging settlement of our Australian neighbours!

ANZAC (Australia, New Zealand Army Corps) Day marks a significant date in New Zealand history. On the 25th April 1915 during World War I, our Australian cousins and us went into Gallipoli, Turkey, but were ambushed in the since renamed ANZAC Cove. New Zealand suffered its greatest number of deaths in one day, losing 2,700 people. Bear in mind that as our population was roughly one million at the time, this loss was significant.

Today, New Zealand is a first world industrialised nation with a population of almost four and a half million. This figure pales in comparison to our sheep population of 32.4 million. Our nation is ethnically diverse and Auckland is the largest Polynesian city in the world. Sport dominates our culture, in particular; rugby, sailing, netball and cricket. Kiwis are crazy about their coastline and the great outdoors. The barbeque, bush and beach play a large part in our recreational time.

A BIT ABOUT THE LAND OFTHE LONG WHITE CLOUD

Maori mythology states that Aotearoa (land of the long white cloud) was discovered around 950AD by the legendary Polynesian explorer, Kupe. However, it wasnt until circa 1350AD that the great migration brought seven waka (canoes) from the mythical land, Hawaiki, to settle this land.

The name, Aotearoa, is said to have come about when Kupe was navigating the South Island. The Southern Alps were capped with snow at the time. Kupe mistakenly thought that he was looking at a long white cloud; snow obviously a rarity in tropical Hawaiki.

The first European arrived in 1642 with Dutch explorer, Abel Janszoon Tasman. Tasman charted the coastline without setting his foot on land. However, some of his crew stepped off at the tip of the South Island. Seen by local Maori as a threat, they were killed. When Tasman returned to Holland the land was named New Zealand after the Dutch Province, Zeeland. However, Tasman didnt pluck up the courage for a return visit.

Englishman Captain James Cook was the first European credited with stepping foot onto the land. More importantly, he brewed the first batch of beer in New Zealand (typical POMs eh?).

In 1835, the British, nervous of French colonisation, encouraged local Maori to declare independence. Five years later, the British were not satisfied that the French threat had disappeared so they created the Treaty of Waitangi between Maori Iwi (tribes) and the British Crown, supposedly to fend off the threat. It was signed on 6th February 1840 and the variations between the English and Maori text are debated to this day.

Between 1845 and 1872 there were the New Zealand Land Wars, mostly centred in the central North Island. The main premise was Maori land being sold to Europeans in contradiction to perceived Treaty obligations. Unfortunately, it was at this time that Maori introduced Europeans to trench and guerrilla

20

Location Oceania, South Pacific Ocean, Southeast of Australia

Geographic coordinates 41 00S, 174 00E

Area 268,680sqkm

Coastline 15,134km

Elevation extremes Lowest Point Pacific Ocean 0m Highest Point Mount Cook 3,754m

Population 4,436,106

Total population sex ratio 0.99 male / 1 female

Life expectancy Total Population 80.15 years, Male 78.1 years, Female 82.2 years

Ethnic groups European 74.5%, Maori 9.7%, Pacific Islander 3.8%, Asian and others 7.4%, mixed 7.8% and unspecified 3.8%

Languages English (official), Maori (official), Sign Language (official)

Currency NZ$ (New Zealand Dollar)

Main exports Dairy, meat, wool, food and wood

Religion Unspecified/no religious affiliation 26.7%, Anglican 12.9%, Catholic 11.8%, Presbyterian 9.3%, Methodist 2.3%, Jedi (yes, we put it in our census) 1.5%, Buddhist 1.2% and other 34.3%

Literacy 99%

Government type Democratic System - MMP (Mixed Member Proportional), a combination of proportional representation, and electorate MPs

Recognises the British Monarch as sovereign

Capital Wellington (Wellington City, excluding Hutt Valley, pop 179,466)

Head of State Queen Elizabeth the Second, By the Grace of God, Queen of New Zealand and Her other Realms and Territories, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith

Prime Minister John Key

Administrative divisions 16 regions; Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Canterbury, Gisborne, Hawkes Bay, Manawatu-Wanganui, Marlborough, Nelson, Northland, Otago, Southland, Taranaki, Tasman, Waikato, Wellington, West Coast

1 territory; Chatham Islands

Dependant areas Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau

Disputed territories Ross Dependency, Antarctica

Independence 26th December 1907

Flag

QUICK FACTS

CHOICE!

22

HANDY MAORI PHRASES

Maori EnglishPatua pakaru Broken downTumeke Too goodKia ora Good morning / eveningHaere ra Good byeKei te pai Im fine thanksMauri ora! Kia ora! Cheers / good healthKia makana Bon appetitHe aha te utu? How much is this?Kei hea te wharepaku? Where's the toilet?Ra whanau ki akoe Happy birthdayNau mai WelcomeHaka Chant with danceKoha Gift or presentWhare kai Dining hallMana Power, pride, authorityIwi People, nation, tribeKai FoodPuku Belly, stomachKei te tino matekai au I'm starvingKia tere Step on itMaku e taraiwa? Want me to drive?Kua mutu Thats a wrapKei te taera koe? Are you feeling horny?Pai ana ki a koe mehemea ka hoko inu au mau? Can I buy you a drink?Marena mai koe ki a au? Will you marry me?He aha to nama waea korero? What's your phone number?Taku kainga to kaina ranei? My place or yours?He ataahua koe You're beautifulKei te aroha au i a koe I love youHe arai waitatea ou? Got any condoms?Me haere atu taua? Shall we get out of here? Kei te paehea koe e hoa? Hows it going mate?He aha nga mea hou? What's new?No hea koe? Where are you from?Kaore taku reo maori i te tino pai MyMaoriisnottooflashHomai he mati e hoa Spark me up bro / give us a light mate Ka kite apopo See you tomorrowA tona wa e hoa Later man / catch you laterKei te neui te ahua o taku nono i toto i tenei? Does my bum look big in this?He aha te taima e hoa? Got the time please?

23

2 Degrees ad5 FREE

international landline minutes

with your first top up.#

Texts just

9ceach

9c a text to any

network in NZ and countries listed

below.

Calls just

44ca minute, anytime

Calls just

44ca minute, anytime to any network in NZ.

Grab a 2degrees NZ Visitor SIM for low prepay rates in NZSimply pick up a 2degrees NZ Visitor SIM and get great local and international calling, texting and data rates while in NZ. With 2degrees youll get nationwide 3G coverage, convenient ways to top up and 24/7 customer service.

#5 free international landline minutes are only available on first top up and are valid for calls to landlines in countries listed above International rates applicable on NZ Visitor SIM only. Calls rounded up to the nearest minute. For NZ Visitor SIM terms and conditions, visit 2degreesmobile.co.nz/nzvisitorsim.

2DEG

3754

Grab a FREE NZ Visitor SIM at a Kiwi Experience office.

22c a minute to landlines in:UK, Ireland, Germany, France, Australia, USA, Canada, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, China, Hong Kong, India, South Korea, Taiwan

22c a minute to mobiles in:China, Hong Kong, India, South Korea, Taiwan

2DEG3754_Kiwi Experience Advert_v1.indd 1 1/03/12 4:37 PM

of your time here. Some of our stops are so awesome we suggest two nights here - thats Taupo, Franz Josef, and Queenstown, and they are shown with a green circle with a white 2 in the middle.

HOW TO BOOK YOUR NEXT SECTORA sector is a section of your trip, eg Auckland to Hot Water Beach, or Wanaka to Queenstown. Your Driver Guide will assist you with your onward travel by circulating Forward Booking Sheets. Simply complete these sheets with your appropriate travel dates and we will organise them on your behalf. If you have questions or need more help to work out your travel dates, please call us on (09) 336 4286.

PLANNING YOUR TRIPA Kiwi Experience pass is valid for 12 months from date of purchase. If you have plenty of time, be independent. Make an effort to check out destinations that are off the beaten track. Hop-off and work amongst the locals. Explore some of our overnight hikes. Buy a season pass and head up to the mountain to ski/board for a few weeks... If you need some help, please dont hesitate to ask. Were here to help.

Check out page 172-174 for information on when and where your pick-ups will be each day.

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE We have based our travel days in this guide on our Funky Chicken pass. If you are starting in Christchurch, we have indicated the days of travel for our Tranz Alpine Dog Leg and Kea passes. Other add-on passes are described separately.

Although the travel days are listed numerically, you do not have to stick to our itinerary - in fact, we strongly recommend that you jump on and off along the way.

Our suggested itinerary automatically gives you a free day (two nights) in Taupo, Franz Josef and Queenstown. If you are short on time you may be able to cut these down to one night. Just check our current timetable (available from your Driver Guide or on our website).

COMMENCING YOUR TRAVELSTo commence your travel you will need to contact our reservations department via phone or email. Please make sure that you have your PNR number with you - this is sometimes called a booking or confirmation number. We will then arrange an appropriate pick up time and location for you.

HOPPING-ON AND HOPPING-OFF Any time that you hop-off the bus longer than the minimum time (for example, if you are spending a few days at one of our stops), you need to get your ticket from your Driver Guide. You will also need to confirm your next section of travel so contact the office on (09) 336 4286.

WHAT ABOUT OVERNIGHT STOPS?You are not restricted to hopping-off at our overnight stops alone. There are heaps of optional hop-off points throughout each travel day. Ask your Driver Guide for more details.

Whats with the green stops on the map? This is where the bus - and you and all your mates - will stop for the night.

You cant skip ahead, so if you are short on time, chat to us about how to get the most out

CONTACT USwww.kiwiexperience.comEmail: [email protected]: (09) 336 4286 or +64 9 336 4286 from outside New ZealandFax: (09) 366 1374F: facebook.com/officialkiwiexperiencefanpageT: @kiwiexperienceWe recommend that you contact us at least 72 hours prior to your first departure.

Or to find out more about New Zealand you can go to www.tourismnewzealand.com

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

25

FAQS (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)

Your shoutYour turn to buy a round of drinks

CAN I CHANGE MY DEPARTURE DATES?Yes, you can! Simply contact us by: Email: [email protected]: (09) 336 4286

HOW LONG CAN I TRAVEL FOR?Standard passes are valid for 12 months from first date of travel. You must start your pass within 12 months of purchase. Each sector can only be travelled once. The only exception is our Kea and Top Dog passes that travel through Christchurch > Kaikoura > Picton twice. If you're travelling on one of our unlimited national travel passes check out the terms and conditions.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?You should bring sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF30), insect repellent, water, credit card, walking shoes, swimwear, towel, photo identification and a camera. Make sure you have seasonal clothing as New Zealand weather can be unpredictable. We recommend layers that you can take on and off. If you have large items such as surfboards or mountain bikes, please let us know when you confirm your seat so we can arrange this with your Driver Guide.

WHATS INCLUDED WHEN I BUY MY KIWI EXPERIENCE PASS?Your Kiwi Experience pass includes coach transport and the services of your Driver Guide - including commentary and accommodation/activity bookings. En route we will take you to heaps of destinations that other services miss, giving you access to some of New Zealands best kept secrets.

WHATS NOT?Your Kiwi Experience pass does not include accommodation, ferry crossings between the North and South Island, meals or optional activities. However, in most instances, your Driver Guide will be able to assist you in organising these.

WILL THERE BE A SEAT FOR ME? We recommend booking your place on the bus at least 48 hours prior to departure. You can book your seat at any time however, and the more notice that you give, the better your chances are of having a confirmed seat on our bus. We recommend that you plan ahead during peak season. Everyone wants to travel with Kiwi Experience in summer!

26

FAQS (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)

Up your nose with a rubber hoseSaid as a firm rejection

IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?Kiwi Experience recommends a minimum age of 18 years. Travellers under 18 are required to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If youre uncertain, please contact Kiwi Experience reservations.

WHAT IF IM TRAVELLING ON MY OWN?Most of our passengers travel solo. Perhaps the best part about being a Kiwi Experience passenger is meeting people from all over the world, as well as a few locals too. Dont be surprised if those strangers become lifelong friends.

WHERE CAN I GET OFF?You can hop-off the bus anywhere on the route, and contact us when youre ready to jump back on and see something new. Each overnight stop on the map means you need to spend at least one night there, and in some places we recommend two because theyre that good. Each sector of your pass can be used once. Follow the arrows and the itinerary to see where you are headed next. Please give us your contact number before you hop-off so we can reach you if anything changes.

HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED? We recommend allowing NZ$21-NZ$30 per day for backpackers accommodation. For food and beverage allow at least NZ$15-NZ$30. Of course you can spend as much or as little as you like. Activity options are almost endless. We recommend that you do a little independent research with a Lonely Planet-type guide book. This will give you an indication of activity and accommodation costs in New Zealand.

DO I NEED TO BOOK ACTIVITIES BEFORE I START MY TRIP?Your Driver Guide can organise activities as you travel. Booking through Kiwi Experience will get you discounts on most activities.

WHAT SORT OF ACCOMMODATION IS USED?We generally overnight at backpacker hostels. However, we also stay at a historic West Coast pub, a farm stay with Maori whanau (family) and an adventure lodge in the middle of nowhere. Most rooms are dormitory style. For a few extra dollars, there are twin or double options available.

27

1, 2, 3 DAY TRIPS

28

A BIT OF HISTORY...Northland is rich in Maori history and culture. It is also renowned for its clear waters, huge ancient Kauri forests, the Bay of Islands, Cape Reinga and 90 Mile Beach. With so much to see and do, it is easy to understand why this is such a popular destination.

The Bay of Islands is one New Zealands favourite holiday locations. During early European settlement, Europeans established a roaring sealing and whaling trade in the South Pacific and the Bay of Islands was a popular port. Sailors frequently let their inhibitions down when they arrived in the Bay. Not surprisingly, the only thing that out-numbered the numerous taverns in the area was the number of brothels.

To learn more about early New Zealand history, visit the Waitangi Treaty House & Grounds. This is a beautiful 30 minute walk along Paihia Beach.HIGHLIGHTS

Awesome selection of water and land based adventure activities:AnabundanceofnaturewalksThelegendaryCapeReingavia90MileBeach day trip to the far North

MaorihistoryandcultureChillingoutonthebeachKiwiBBQandanightoutatthelocal Pipi Patch bar!

OPTIONAL HOP-OFFSWarkworth Whangarei

BAY OF ISLANDSAWESOME + TOP BIT

Rattle your dagsHurry up - Rattle your dags and get on the bus

For the best deals in the Bay of Islands, talk to your Driver Guide or the crew at Awesome NZ

DAY 1 Auckland > PaihiaDAY 2 Paihia > Cape Reinga and ReturnDAY 3 Paihia > Auckland

CAPE REINGA

AUCKLAND

PAIHIA (BAY OF ISLANDS)

29

corals, encrusting sponges, vibrant anemones, Ecklonia kelp forests, mating sting rays, triplefins, blennies and various other life forms. A dive at the Poor Knights Islands, one of New Zealands premier marine reserves, is a once in a lifetime experience.

LEG 1: AUCKLAND > PAIHIAWe depart Auckland early to get to the Bay of Islands around lunchtime, so that you can maximise your stay in the Bay. We head over the Auckland Harbour Bridge with a view over the Waitemata Harbour and north to Warkworth, where we stop for morning tea. Back on the chariot, we have a short bathroom stop at Whangarei before arriving in Paihia around midday.

If you get off in Whangarei, look into the diving options. Jacques Cousteau identified the nearby Poor Knights Islands as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. The islands are located just 23 kilometres off the coast. The volcanic islands provide spectacular drop-offs, walls, caves, arches and tunnels. The area is inhabited by an array of diverse underwater life including over 125 species of fish, soft


30


The Cape trip is a must do if you have the time. The day is packed full of nature walks and included activities at no extra cost. Take your bathers, warm clothes and a towel. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable day out.

The far north is very sacred and spiritual to Maori. If you have the time to hop-off, you will gain a real insight into New Zealand culture. Book your accommodation in Paihia prior to departure if you do choose to hop-off here.

Our first stop is at the Puketi Kauri Forest. Some of the Kauri at Puketi are nearly 1000 years old. Kauri trees were once used for boat building before some clever guy invented aluminium - he must have liked forests.

We have a morning tea break at Taipa where you can get your caffeine fix and also

Your Driver Guide will organise your activity and accommodation bookings in the short one hour drive between Whangarei and Paihia. Once in Paihia you will stop in at the Awesome NZ Centre to reconfirm any activities you may wish to do during your stay. The Awesome crew will provide free and friendly advice on the best local spots and walking tracks in the area.

Leg 2: pAihiA > CAPE REINGA DAY TRIPThe Cape Reinga day trip is full on so we start early. We use a white bus on this leg as opposed to a green one. Make sure that you note the difference so you dont get left behind! The bus is designed especially for sand conditions to ensure that you get a day packed full of adventure and entertainment.

31

grab some breakfast and/or lunch from the bakery before we continue up to Cape Reinga. Check out the famous light house at the tip of New Zealand and look out to the point where the Pacific meets the Tasman Sea. Maori people believe that their spirit transcends the land and passes through to the other world here, through a tapu (sacred) Pohutukawa tree growing from the cliff.

We stop at the isolated Tapotupotu Bay for lunch. Weather dependent, you may be able to boogie board in the Pacific, play a bit of touch (rugby) or lay back and chill in the sun.

From Tapotupotu we head west to Te Paki stream. At the end of the stream are some of New Zealands largest sand dunes. Your Driver Guide will stop here so that you can scale the dunes and have a crack at a bit of sandboarding. Make sure youve packed a towel, cos if you get all the way down youll skim through the stream and get wet while doing it!


Stiff kumaraHard luck, mate!

33

Give it heapsGive (something) a supreme effort

From here we continue out onto 90 Mile Beach, driving along the sand and in the surf. The area is very isolated with plenty of superb photo opportunities. If the tides are right you can join your driver in collecting some shellfish from the beach.

Well have a quick afternoon tea stop at the Ancient Kauri Kingdom before heading south to Mangonui, home of one of the best shops for the great New Zealand favourite, fish & chips. This is one of the few extra costs, and is great value at about eight bucks.

If youre keen to surf, why not try at one of New Zealands most pristine beaches, Taupo Bay, boasting awesome clean surf against a


Waka Taua - the Maori war canoeMaori war canoes are among the most impressive watercraft ever built. Traditionally built from a single kauri or totara tree, the canoe reached more than 25m(80ft) in length and took two years or more to complete. Early European explorers reported seeing fleets of up to 50 waka travelling together. The site of such a fleet fully laden with warriors would have been a terrifying sight!

Chill out on the beach Hire a bike Relax at the Pipi Patch bar Visit Waitangi Treaty House & grounds Take the ferry to historic Russell (free when you purchase a Fullers activity) Sandboarding

backdrop of rugged cliffs. You can learn to surf and stay in lodges just two minutes walk from the beach. When youve had enough, join the bus where you left it and continue your trip.

Well get back into Paihia early evening, where you can sit back and reflect on the days adventures.

Leg 2/3: pAihiA > AUcKLANDYou have all day to do as you please in Paihia before we depart at around 3:00pm. Its a fairly laid back four hour journey back to Auckland. You may want to jump off along the way in Whangarei to go diving and arrange a pick up a few days later. We aim to drop you at your chosen hostel before 7:30pm.

Use this time to ask your Driver Guide any questions you have about your forthcoming southbound trip. Theres a good chance that youll meet a few fellow travellers who are going south with you. Get together and have a chat to those who are completing their Kiwi Experience for useful advice. Your Driver Guide will tell you everything you need to know if youre continuing with us south from Auckland.

35

Book with your local travel agent or call Kiwi Experience (09) 336 4286www.kiwiexperience.com

See what Kiwi Experience is all about firsthandLearn about New Zealands unique history and Maori cultureBe entertained and get travel tips from our awesome Driver GuidesHead north over Aucklands Harbour Bridge and - Check out some of Aucklands great beaches - Explore a historic peninsula and its hidden war tunnels - Soak up spectacular 360 views from Mt Victoria - Munch on Kiwi fish n chips on the beach (optional)Take a FREE walk on the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge - you must have CLOSED TOE shoesTake an optional bungy jump with the guys who invented it - AJ Hackett BungyCheck out culture rich Devonport village

Price: Nil, zero, nada, nothing - its free!

To book: Talk to your hostels travel desk

Timetable: Departs from the following locations*:Kiwi Experience 9:50am > Nomads Fusion 10:20amACB 10:10am > YHA Turner St 10:00amReturns to Kiwi Experience approx 2-2:30pm and then back to inner city hostels shortly after.

*Departs 5 days a week (Monday-Friday) but subject to cancellation. In case of wet weather, the trip may be altered or postponed. Please contact your hostel reception for an alternative option.

Ask Kiwi Experience on (09) 336 4286, your travel desk or hostel for more information. Routes and timetables are subject to change.

37

AUCKLAND CITY MAP

38

AUCKLAND CITY MAP

39

KIWI EXPERIENCE OFFICE WHANAU (FAMILY)

42

KIWI EXPERIENCE OFFICE WHANAU (FAMILY)

43

Our first stop is the Kiwi Experience office for final pick-ups and any last minute info that you may need. If you are short on time, the reservations crew will be able to book all your onward coaches/sectors so that youll get where you want to go on the dates that you want to get there. Remember to book at least two or three days in advance during summer as it can be busy.

We head for a scenic convenience stop by the Wintergardens in the Auckland Domain before hitting the motorway to head south to the Coromandel. After a couple of hours of great scenery and getting to know your fellow travellers on the bus, we arrive at Tairua on the Coromandel Peninsula for a brief stop for lunch and supplies.

The mountain that dominates the picturesque town of Tairua is Mount Paku. This was once the site of a Maori Pa (fortified village).

The Coromandel Peninsula is renowned for its secluded beaches and untouched native forest. If you have plenty of time and are keen

HIGHLIGHTSPicturesquesettlementofTairuaforlunchAnabundanceofnativeNewZealand forest as you head over the Kopu Ranges

Guidedcoastalseakayakingincluding cappuccinos on the beach

CathedralCovecoastalwalkChillingoutand/orswimmingRelaxinginyourveryownnaturalhot pool at Hot Water Beach (provided it is low tide) Glassbottomboattourofthemarine reserve

OPTIONAL HOP-OFFSTairua

Up the boohaiTo be lost or in trouble

AUCKLAND > HOT WATER BEACH


FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL DAY ONE

AUCKLAND

THAMES

$20 off Cathedral Cove KayaksNB: Discount correct at time of print

HAHEICATHEDRAL COVE

TAIRUA

HOT WATER BEACH

45

CATHEDRAL COVE KAYAKSFrom Hahei you have the opportunity to explore the coast with Mike from Cathedral Cove Kayaks. This stretch of coastline is incredible. Exploring it by sea kayak will get you to amazing places not accessible by road. Explore offshore islands, snorkel in the Marine Reserve (summer only), paddle deep inside sea caves or simply enjoy one of their world famous cappuccinos!

HOT WATER BEACH Hot Water Beach is rated as one of the worlds top 10 beaches by Lonely Planet, and youll find it lives up to its name when you grab a shovel at low tide and dig your own hot water pool in the sand. It can be pretty hot, so be sure to mix it with some cold sea water. A magical spot!

to check out some walking tracks you may wish to head to the Pinnacles Hut for a two day trek. For more information, check out the Department of Conservation website at www.doc.govt.nz.

CATHEDRAL COVE Cathedral Cove is a spectacular coastal walk. Within 45 minutes youll find yourself surrounded by white sand, crystal clear water and the magnificent archway, Cathedral Cove. Take your swimwear and walking shoes. Its a beautiful place for a dip before you head back on to the bus.

HAHEI BEACH Hahei Beach is the start point of the Hahei Marine Reserve. It is an excellent beach, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, sea kayaking and dolphin spotting.


Have you seen some cool photos while looking at the Exposed 2012 guide and marketing for Kiwi Experience? These photos have been taken by Felicity Witters (aka Flea). She specialises in portrait photography, especially in the outdoors.

She has been with Kiwi Experience for ten years, working both in sales and marketing and as a Driver Guide. Over the past five years she has taken a keen interest in photography. Whilst travelling throughout New Zealand working as a Kiwi Experience Driver Guide, she takes photos of passengers getting amongst it and having lots of fun.

46


Surfing Lessons Digging your own hot pool at low tide

Youll finish your day chilling out on the sprawling deck of the brand new, purpose built, self-contained backpacker lodges at Hot Water Beach Holiday Park, just a couple of minutes walk from the beach. And why not treat yourself to real kiwi fish and chips for dinner from the caravan at the Holiday Park, or throw something on the BBQ, and watch the sun set over the hills.

All stops today are dependent on weather, time and tide. Its a good idea to have your day pack ready every morning with your beach gear, camera, sunscreen, food and water.

47

We depart Hot Water Beach early and travel over the Kopu Ranges where we stop at the Karangahake Scenic Reserve to explore the stunning bush-clad gorge. Your Driver Guide will direct you on a walk that follows the river, crosses over two swing bridges and goes through a one kilometre long railway tunnel. If you have a torch, bring it with you. You will need it for the tunnel section of the walk.

We jump back on the bus and head to Paeroa. Paeroa calls itself World famous in New Zealand. This is because of the unique Lemon and Paeroa spring water soft drink that was originally made here - L&P. As we leave Paeroa we pass by Mount Te Aroha (Aro-ha), the mountain of love.

HIGHLIGHTSKarangahakeScenicReserveand tunnel walksLegendaryBlackWaterRaftingWaitomoGlowwormCavesRuakuriCaveAranuiCave

OPTIONAL HOP-OFFSPaeroa Morrinsville

Hit the sackGo to bed

HOT WATER BEACH > WAITOMO


FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL DAY TWO

HAURAKIGULF

PAEROATE AROHA

WAIHI- KARANGAHAKESCENIC RESERVE

WAITOMO

OTOROHANGA

$35 off Black Abyss$24 off Black Labyrinth$12 off Ruakuri Cave$9 off Waitomo Glowworm CavesNB: Discount correct at time of print

MORRINSVILLE

HOT WATERBEACH

49

We drive on through the mighty Waikato and King Country regions to Waitomo (wai meaning water, tomo meaning cave). The local caves are made out of limestone and hidden beneath the countryside.

Apart from glowworms you may see stalactites, stalagmites, cave coral, fossilised oysters, and whalebones. There are plenty of adventure options for exploring the caves. The famous New Zealand glowworms are everywhere and can be seen on most of the abseiling, caving or tubing trips available.


Full of puhaTalking nonsense

The legend of Hinemoa & TutanekaiHinemoa lived on the eastern shores of Lake Rotorua. She was the daughter of a local chief and considered so beautiful that she was declared tapu (sacred). On Mokoia Island in the centre of the lake lived a family of bros. The older brothers all tried to hook up with Hinemoa, but she was like nah. Tutanekai, the youngest brother and of another father, was low class and didnt stand a chance with Hinemoa. However, he was good at local games and Hinemoa thought he was a bit of alright.

Tutanekai, lovestruck, moped on the shores of the Island playing his flute in the evening for Hinemoa. Hinemoa heard it and gushed. One night she snuck away, stole some gourds creating makeshift floats and jumped into the lake and swam to the Island.

Once there, she slipped into a hotpool. Naked, she was too embarrassed to find Tutanekai. She hid. A slave came to get water for Tutanekai from the pool. She scared him off a couple of times peeving Tutanekai. He went to get the water himself and found Hinemoa... and they hooked up.

In the morning, Tutanekais bros were worried. Tutanekai was normally first up. They went to his whare (house) to see what was up... then they saw him with Hinemoa. They were scared and saw waka (canoes) coming from the shores and were anticipating war. Much to their surprise, Hinemoas tribe offered lasting peace between the two groups and Tutanekai and Hinemoa lived happily ever after.

Glowworms - Why and how they glowA glowworm uses its glow to attract food and to burn off its waste. Its tail glows because of bioluminescence. This is a reaction between the chemicals given off by the glowworm and the oxygen in the air. This chemical reaction produces light, which the glowworm can control by reducing the oxygen to the light organ.

Insects fly towards the light and get stuck in the sticky lines that the glowworm hangs down to catch food. When the female glowworm reaches the adult stage the light is used to attract males. Glowworms also use their glow to put other creatures off eating them.

The glowworms we have in New Zealand are called Arachnocampa luminosa.

AWWH!

50


Glowworms catch their prey by hanging web-like spindles from the cave roof. The worm glows brightly to attract the attention of anything flying around in caves. As the unsuspecting prey flies toward the light they are tangled up in the thread and hastily eaten. After the larval stage, life gets grim for the glowworm. Glowworms turn into flies that havent evolved a mouth. Without a mouth they cannot feed and die within a day. Therefore their sole purpose during this stage is to reproduce - what a life!

Once we arrive in Waitomo, we check in at the Legendary Black Water Rafting Company headquarters to get you signed up for your Waitomo activities. The caving adventures in Waitomo are rated by our passengers as one of their favourite activities in New Zealand. Make the most of your stay in this unique place and go underground to explore some of the vast series of limestone caves.

For the more adventurous we highly recommend the four to five hour Black Abyss tour. This is the ultimate caving experience that features abseiling a breathtaking 35

metre tomo, tubing, flying fox, waterfall jumps and climbs. Your Driver Guide will give you the full run down on everything there is to see and do.

If youd rather do something more tame, try one of the great combos offered in Waitomo. The most popular includes the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the Ruakuri Cave. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves includes a boat journey under thousands of sparkling glowworms and stunning cave stalactites and stalagmites. While you are there dont forget to check out the amazing new Visitor Centre with its innovative weaved roof design based on a hinake, a Maori eel catcher that was used in this area. The Ruakuri Cave is an engineering jewel. Enter the cave and walk through the amazing spiral entrance before going through breathtaking caverns, narrow corridors, crystal tapestries and glowworms to the tune of distant subterranean waterfalls. An incredible package with a reasonable price. Alternatively, there are a number of great bush walking trails if you are on a tight budget and want to go exploring on foot.

Depending on your Driver Guide, there may be a group BBQ organised at either the hostel or the pub. This is a very relaxed evening in a remote setting and an excellent opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers or meet some of the locals.

Fart sackA polite term for a sleeping bag or bed

Ruakuri Reserve loop walk 2 hour return walk from Waitomo village to Ruakuri Waitomo Discovery Centre Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre

51

If you are lookIng for a real kIwI adventure, thIs Is It!The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co. is New Zealands first and world renowned black water rafting adventure operator. Weve been sharing thrills and excitement for over 24 years and have experienced guides who will take you safely through the stunning underground world of Ruakuri Cave.

Become part of the legend with an unforgettable journey through ancient caves with rivers and waterfalls, rock formations and breathtaking glowworms.

52

what Is black water raftIng?Black water rafting is one of New Zealands famous inventions in action sports and is done underground. Basically it involves wearing a wetsuit and caving helmet (complete with head lamp) and sitting on a large rubber inner tube. Once kitted up, an expert guide will take you on an awesome expedition through this subterranean world.

the black abyssBlack Abyss is the ultimate adrenalin pumping caving experience for the more adventurous. This five hour experience, includes abseiling a breathtaking 35 metre limestone tomo, whizzing down a flying fox, tubing under glowworms and climbing subterranean waterfalls. Tumbling along rocky chutes and sliding through vaulted limestone galleries, rafters finally emerge into the green of the Waitomo forest, having experienced an unforgettable journey. Qualified guides support you throughout your experience as you explore this amazing underground world.

the black labyrInthBlack Labyrinth is Waitomos original black water rafting tour that brought the company international recognition. Allow three hours for this adventure that involves a combination of walking and floating on an inner tube, though caverns lit up by thousands of glowworms.

Book now on 0800 228 464 or visit www.waitomo.com

BOOK NOW

53

Be amazed by thousands of glowworms sparkling above, as you glide silently through the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves by boat. Enjoy the ornate cave decorations and sculptures that have developed over thousands of years.

Combine Ruakuri Cave for a cave experience like no other. The crystal tapestries, incredible spiral drum entrance and glowworms up close will amaze you.

Enjoy a delicious lunch in the award winning Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre.

Book now on 0800 456 922 or visit www.waitomo.com for more information

Experience the world famousWaitomo Glowworm Caves

Book NoW

54

To suck the kumaraTo fail or lose out


History of Ruakuri CaveRuakuri has the most turbulent history of all the caves. It was first discovered as a den of dogs over 400 years ago and became a highly popular attraction. Then, in the late 1980s, it was closed due to a drawn out land dispute and then re-opened in mid 2005 following a $4m redevelopment undertaken by thl.

The Den of DogsAccording to Maori legend, Ruakuri Cave was first discovered 400-500 years ago by a young Maori hunter spearing birds for food. A pack of wild dogs inhabited the entranceway and the cave was subsequently named Ruakuri (rua meaning den and kuri meaning dogs). Later, the cave entrance was used by Maori as a burial ground (wahi tapu) and it is this sacred area that has now been protected with the construction of the spiral entrance a safe distance away.

55

Before departing Waitomo this morning, we head off for a half hour bush walk in the Ruakuri Reserve. This walk is well worth the effort. Its a great introduction to the abundance of limestone rock formations, caves, native forest and river systems in the area.

The journey then takes us to the unusual town of Rotorua, where you will see steam coming from under the streets through storm water drains, boiling mud pools and geysers galore!

HIGHLIGHTSZorb AgrodomeSheepShow Agroventuresactivities Luging TamakiToursHangiandConcert Whitewaterrafting/sledgingthe7mfalls on the Kaituna River

Like a stunned mulletDazed - Wandering around like a stunned mullet

WAITOMO > ROTORUA

WAITOMO > ROTORUA

FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL DAY THREE

$6 off Skyline Skyrides Gondola and three luge rides$17 off Tamaki Tours Hangi and Concert$13 off Kaitiaki Rafting$20 off Kaitiaki SledgingNB: Discount correct at time of print

OTOROHANGA

WAITOMO

ROTORUA

57

WAITOMO > ROTORUA

Rotorua is also known as Sulphur City, Roto-vegas and Rotten-rua. We feel that the Maori name for the Rotorua Government Gardens is more fitting - Whangapipiro (Fong-a-pe-pero), meaning an evil-smelling place.

The sulphur dioxide gas created by the geothermal activity causes the town to have a very distinctive smell.

Hot springs occur when water, beginning as rainfall, seeps through the earths crust and is heated by contact with hot rocks. A geyser erupts when an underground pond of water is

Matariki (Maori New Year) - 21 June 2012

Matariki is marked by the rise of the Pleiades (or The Seven Sisters) star cluster and the sighting of the next new moon. This normally occurs in late May and June.

Traditionally, depending on the visibility of Matariki, the coming seasons crop was thought to be determined. The brighter the stars indicated the warmer the season would be and thus a more productive crop. It was also seen as an important time for family to gather and reflect on the past and the future.

Today Matariki means celebrating the unique place in which we live and giving respect to the land we live on. Celebrations vary from iwi (tribe) to iwi.

There have previously been discussions whether the day should become a bank holiday. Nothing has been confirmed to date.

58

heated to boiling point and flashes into steam, violently expelling the water held above the flashing point.

Just a word of caution; should you bathe in any of the natural thermal pools, do not put your head under the water. There is a risk of contracting amoebic meningitis. The organism that causes it is a rare parasite, but infection can result in serious illness.

We stop at Tamaki Tours where you can book a spot for tonights Maori cultural hangi (traditional Maori meal) and concert. This activity has been rated by our passengers as one of the best value for money activities on the circuit and is a great way to learn about the Maori people and their traditions.

WAITOMO > ROTORUA

A dagAn amusing character

Mount Tarawera and the famous Pink and White Terraces

One of the most significant natural disasters in modern New Zealand history occurred on 10th June 1886. Mount Tarawera, near Rotorua, had been home to the world famous Pink and White (silicon) Terraces with thermal pools. The location had been world famous and was the cornerstone of the New Zealand tourism industry at that time.

On this day the mountain erupted, obliterating the terraces. The noise of the eruption was heard as far south as Blenheim in the South Island and earthquakes were felt throughout the North Island.

The eruption killed between 108-120 people and buried several villages in ash, scoria and other debris. Today the mountain is dormant. A large tear slices the mountain caused by the eruption. The event created the Waimangu Geyser - the largest geyser in the world.

61

WAITOMO > ROTORUA

62

WAITOMO > ROTORUA

Then we can take you along to the Agrodome to check out a good ol kiwi farmshow, and Agroventures where youll get the opportunity to try out the Swoop, Agrojet, Freefall Xtreme or the Shweeb. Or why not try zorbing a crazy kiwi invention where you get pushed off a hill inside a large beach ball.

Another popular activity option this afternoon is luging, where you drive your own cart, racing each other down five kilometres of winding tracks and trails.

Or if youd rather spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing, you can chill out and soak in the hot pool at Hot Rocks hostel.

If you choose to stay longer in Rotorua you may wish to go rafting on the Kaituna River situated 25 minutes outside of Rotorua. The legendary crew at Kaitiaki will put on an awesome rafting trip whilst giving you a unique insight into local Maori customs. Trips usually depart twice daily and you can be picked up from your hostel. Ask your Driver Guide for more details.

If you book a concert and meal with Tamaki Tours you will be collected from your hostel early evening. They will take you to their village which is a re-creation of a traditional village from the 1600s, originally located 20 kilometres north of town. You will see a Maori challenge (which determines if you come as friend or foe), experience waiata (wai-a-ta - songs), Poi dance, weaponry displays and the haka. Then feast on a buffet of traditionally prepared hangi (a meal steamed in the ground on hot rocks). The kai (food) is exceptional!

Dress warm. The first part of the evening is outdoors and can be brisk in winter months. You are welcome to take photos so bring your cameras along.

Toss the tigerTo throw up the day after the night before. KIWI LINGO

Hire a mountain bike and head up to the Redwood Forest

Relax in a natural hot spring

Go for a wander around the lake front and talk to the ducks

Walk through Kuirau Thermal Park

The 'Ka Mate' version of the haka:

This version was composed by Te Rauparaha, war leader of the Ngati Toa tribe of the North Island of New Zealand.

Ka mate! Ka mate! Ka ora! Ka ora!

Ka mate! Ka mate! Ka ora! Ka ora!

Tenei te tangata puhuru huru

Nana nei i tiki mai

Whakawhiti te ra

A upa... ne! ka upa... ne!

A upane kaupane whiti te ra!

I die! I die! I live! I live!

I die! I die! I live! I live!

This is the hairy man

Who fetched the sun

And caused it to shine again

One upward step! Another upward step!

An upward step, another... the sun shines!

63

In the morning we head to Te Puia, which is New Zealands most well known thermal park complete with; geysers, boiling mud, a Maori Arts and Crafts Centre and a kiwi bird house.

We depart Rotorua at around 11am and head towards Tongariro National Park and Taupo - the adventure capital of the north. You may be lucky enough to take in the sublime view of the Tongariro National Park in the distance. The cone shaped mountain Ngauruhoe (Na-ru-hoe-e) was used in the filming of Lord of the Rings. You may recognise it as Mount Doom.

If you are keen for a short walk we will check out the famous Huka Falls before we arrive in Taupo. The Huka (foam) Falls are situated on the Waikato River, two kilometres north of Lake Taupo. The falls are 11 metres (35 feet) high. What appears to have been a blasted out channel is completely natural and actually formed by an earthquake. If we dont make it, we strongly recommend that you check them out on your day off. Simply stroll through Spa Park and along the Waikato River. Its about a two hour return trip.

LAKE TAUPOAt 616 square kilometres, Taupo is the largest lake in Australasia and is big enough to fit the island of Singapore in it! Scientists state that the lake was the scene of one of the worlds largest known volcanic explosions around 186 AD. Ancient Chinese and Roman records tell of dark red skies that brought climatic changes to the area, likely to be caused from the Taupo eruption.

HIGHLIGHTSTePuiageorthermalreserveHukaFallsLakeTaupoFreefallskydive

Nightlife!

To be away laughingTo be successful or well on the way to success

ROTORUA > TAUPO

ROTORUA > TAUPO

FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL DAY FOUR & FIVE

ROTORUA

TAUPO

LAKE TAUPO

$5 off Taupo BungyNB: Discount correct at time of print

67

One of the most popular activities in Taupo is skydiving. Taupo is the cheapest spot in New Zealand to skydive, and also one of the best. With views of the Tongariro National Park and the lake, its spectacular. If the weather on arrival into Taupo is looking good you will have the opportunity to do your skydive in the afternoon or evening.

Today Lake Taupo is well known for trout fishing. Trout were introduced to the area in the 1860s when brown trout eggs were brought from Tasmania. If you would like to try your hand at trout fishing then get yourself a permit and gear or go out with one of the many fishing guides in town.

TAUPO Taupo was first settled by Europeans in 1869 when an armed constabulary post was established during the Maori Land Wars. The full name is Taupo-nui-a-Tia meaning great cloak of Tia. It was named after Chief Tia who laid his cloak on the ground, thus forming the lake. Apart from the natural geothermal features of the area, Taupo is fast becoming known as the adventure capital of the north. With a wide range of activities, its no wonder we stop here for two nights.

ROTORUA > TAUPO

Horo-matangi - A taniwha in Lake TaupoThis is a fierce taniwha who lives in an underwater cave by Motutaiko, an island in Lake Taupo. Two stone dogs up on the Karangahape cliffs on the lakes shore were associated with the taniwha. These dogs were never seen but are said to be heard howling on misty mornings.

68

For your evening entertainment you will find that there are some great restaurants and bars around town to finish your day off. Well point these out on the way into Taupo.

FREE DAY IN TAUPO

HIGHLIGHTSTongariro Alpine CrossingSkydivingTaupo BungyRock n RopesSkiingandsnowboarding(seasonal)

For those who want a physical challenge, spend your day off doing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with Tongariro Expeditions. Its well worth the early rise to see the stunning scenery and volcanic activity. It is rated as one of the worlds top 10 one day walks.

There are summer options that include the walk, followed by an evening skydive on the way home.

Taupo has plenty of activities to choose from. Ask your Driver Guide on the way into town for more information.

ROTORUA > TAUPO

Sleep in Huka Falls walk Soak in the natural hot spring (Spa Park at the beginning of the Huka Falls walk way) Go for a wander around the lake Climb Mt. Tauhara and check out the Craters of the Moon (1 - 2 hours to the summit) Hire a mountain bike

70

TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING

71

Nau mai haere mai ki te tairawhiti. Welcome to the East Coast.THE CHILLED OUT place to be!

tAUpO/ROtORUA tO gisBORNeFollowing our pick ups in Taupo and Rotorua we head north along the Bay of Plenty coast. We pass through Opotiki and the Waioeka Gorge to Gisborne (the first city in the world to see the sun).

From Gisborne we start heading up State Highway 35 to our first nights accommodation at Tatapouri. Tatapouri is famous for its wild sting-ray feeding, shark cage diving, surfing and rock sliding, so if you like to get amongst it there are plenty of activities for you to sink your teeth into.

GISBORNE TO RANGITUKIA

HIGHLIGHTSWhangaramaraevisit(sceneofthemovie Whale Rider - included in your pass)MaoricultureSpectacularcoastalscenerySmallruralcommunitieswithhospitality at its bestThermalhotpoolsHorsetrekking(optionalactivity-EastCape)SurfinginGisborne(optionalactivity)Stingrayfeeding(optionalactivity-Tatapouri)Sunsetsfromahottub

OPTIONAL HOP-OFFSWhakataneTokomaruBayTolagaBay

Chur me ol wooAsk Paul at Te Kaha Homestay for translation...

EAST AS - ADD-ON PASS

4 DAY tRip ON the eAst cApe Of NZ

DAY 1 Taupo/Rotorua > GisborneDAY 2 Gisborne > Rangitukia DAY 3 Rangitukia, East Cape > Te KahaDAY 4 Te Kaha > Rotorua/Taupo

73


Facts about Gisborne Due to its close proximity to the International Date Line, this is the most easterly city in the world and the first to see the sun rise. The Gisborne region has been settled by Maori for over a 1000 years. Captain James Cook made his first New Zealand landfall at Kaiti Beach in 1769. Its the surfing capital of New Zealand, you can surf anything here in Gisborne. Produces some of New Zealands finest wines. Regions first whaling station was set up

in 1839. In 1860 numerous battles with the Maori broke out, resulting in the Government crushing the opposition and transporting them to the remote Chatham Islands, including the famous Maori rebel, Te Kooti. The famous opera singer Dame Kiri Te Kanawa comes from Gisborne.

White IslandWhite Island is New Zealands most active volcano. 50 kilometres off the coast of Whakatane, its a small island of 324 hectares, formed by three separate volcanic cones, all different ages.

Erosion has worn away most of the surface of the two older cones. The youngest now occupies most of the centre of the island. Hot vents cover most of the crater floor and temperatures of 600-800 degrees Celsius have been recorded.

The highest point on the island is Mount Gisborne at 321 metres. Geographically, White Island is related to Whale Island (closer to Whakatane) and Mount Edgecumbe (Putauaki). All lie along the same volcanic trench. The island is privately owned and the only way you can visit it is with a full day guided tour by boat, which your Driver Guide can arrange.

74

Gallop along the beach, ride up into the hills and take in breathtaking views of the coastline and Mount Hikurangi. If you fancy being creative then we will introduce you to Tom and Kizzy. These crazy cats will help you create your very own bone carving with step by step instructions and a helping hand if need be.

GISBORNE TO RANGITUKIAFrom Tatapouri we carry on to the settlement of Whangara where we have a special treat for you.

Legend has it that Paikea travelled to Aotearoa on the back of a whale after his brother tried to drown him by sinking their canoe, and came to rest in Whangara. It is also the film location for the critically acclaimed movie Whale Rider. We have exclusive access to visit the local marae. You are welcomed onto these two impressive and very different meeting houses by local Maori. Each structure has a fascinating story to tell. The all-empowering statue of Paikea above the Marae seems to follow you all day.

From there we head on up to Tologa Bay and the southern hemispheres longest wharf, Tokomaru Bay for some spectacular coastal scenery and then onto Rangitukia for our second nights stop.

Once there you can hang out in the night club (an old wool shed with ping pong tables, a fridge, a radio and an old pool table). If youre feeling adventurous, take a horse trek with Reg and Jack through truly spectacular farmland.


The legend of Paikea - The Whale Rider

According to legend, Paikea came to New Zealand from the Pacific Islands on the back of a whale many centuries ago. His descendants include the Kati Kuri people of Kaikoura.

Paikea was the youngest and favourite son of the chief Uenuku from the island of Mangaia in the present day Cook Islands. This favouritism made Paikeas elder brothers extremely jealous. They conspired to kill Paikea while fishing offshore and tell Uenuku he drowned. But the night before the trip Paikea feigned sleep and overheard his brothers plotting. When far out to sea Paikea foiled their plan by deliberately sinking the canoe and drowning his brothers.

Now adrift in a great ocean, Paikea clung to a canoe plank and awaited his own death. It was then that Tohora the whale appeared and lifted Paikea onto his great back. Tohora took Paikea south to New Zealand and the settlement of Whangara just north of present day Gisborne. Here, Paikea began a new and prosperous life.

Many years later one of Paikeas sons, Tahupotiki, travelled further south and became the founder of the great South Island tribe of Ngai Tahu. It is from Tahupotiki and Paikea that the Ngai Tahu and Kati Kuri of Kaikoura claim descent.

75

RANGITUKIA TO TE KAHA Be among the first in the world to see the light of a new day. Take a 15 minute walk up the nearby hills to Sunrise Point or do it on horse back with Reg.

After breakfast we check out a beautifully carved church in Tikitiki and then head over to Te Araroa and Te Waha O Rere Kohu (the worlds oldest Pohutukawa). Then weather permitting, out to the East Cape Lighthouse for 765 steps to New Zealands most easterly point.

From here its a gentle drive to Te Kaha for our third night. We stay at the Homestead Lodge with the OBrien whanau who provide us with excellent local hospitality. The homestead is situated on the beach in an amazing spot.

Once you have put your bags away and been welcomed into Te Whanau a Apanui (the local tribe) you can soak in the atmosphere that keeps us coming back. The hot tub has always been a favourite for weary travellers. Situated on the coast, it is the perfect location to watch the sunset. Dont get out too soon. The stars put on a great show in the night sky at Te Kaha.

Once you have turned into a prune, head back up to the homestead for dinner and a few drinks - perhaps sing a few songs with our host Chay.

te KAhA tO ROtORUA/tAUpOLeaving Te Kaha is always hard so we delay it for a few hours but eventually we head off towards Whakatane. If you have time we recommend jumping off the bus for a few days to experience dolphin swimming, visit the smouldering active White Island volcano, or just hang out at this beautiful seaside town. If you can surf, you can possibly even get in a little more practice here.

From here its back to Rotorua and Taupo where the East As crew say farewell as you continue on your travels around this beautiful country of ours.


Facts about Te Kaha

Used to be a whaling station and as the whale numbers decreased, farming activities became the chief source of income.

Te Kahas climate produces some of New Zealands finest kiwifruit, in particular the golden kiwifruit.

Great hunting area, in particular deer and wild pigs.

Popular for boating and fishing.

A top tourist destination for camping and holidaying in summer.

Te Kaha (meaning to stand firm) owes its name to the many sieges by invading tribes that it withstood.

Willie Apiata who was awarded the Victorian Cross in 2007 (the highest medal in the Commonwealth) is from Te Kaha. The official ceremony took place in the Tukaki meeting house. He is the second person from Te Kaha to be decorated with a VC - amazing for a small town.

76


77

We drive around the eastern shores of Lake Taupo and into Turangi (Two-Rangi), the trout fishing capital of New Zealand, to get lunch supplies.

We then head into Tongariro for one of our many walks. Tongariro National Park is New Zealands oldest National Park, one of New Zealands three World Heritage areas and the fourth one created in the world! Due to the alpine nature of the walk, it is dependent on weather conditions. These walks offer a unique opportunity to explore native bush and waterfalls in this volcanic region. Look out for familiar scenery; you may recognise places from the Lord of the Rings trilogy. A lot of the filming took place in the National Park.

HIGHLIGHTSTongariroNationalParkandthreemightyvolcanoes

LordoftheRingssceneryTaranakiFalls(2hourloopwalk)WhakapapaVillageTawhaiFallsChilledatmosphereattheremotelylocated River Valley Adventure Lodge

OPTIONAL HOP-OFFSTurangiWhakapapaNationalParkOhakune(thecarrotcapital of New Zealand)

Wop wopsOur lodge is in the wop wops - a remote area

TAUPO > RIVER VALLEY


FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL DAY SIX

LAKE TAUPO

TAUPO

TURANGI

OHAKUNERIVER VALLEYWAIOURU

TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK

79

Walks may include the Taranaki (Tara-naki) Falls and Silica Rapids or the Tawhai Falls walk. The Maori chief Te Heuheu Tukino gifted the nucleus of Tongariro National Park to the people of New Zealand in 1867.

The park is dominated by three large volcanoes; Ruapehu (Roo-a-pay-hu), Ngauruhoe (Na-roo-ho-ay) and Tongariro. Mount Ruapehu captured world headlines in 1995 when it burst into life, blasting a plume of ash and dust 12 kilometres into the atmosphere and emptying its Crater Lake. A lahar and a small eruption made headlines again in 2007. Ngauruhoe has had several small eruptions, while Tongariro has been dormant since 1927. We head to the western side of Ruapehu passing through a groovy little village called Ohakune (O-ha-ku-neigh). If you are keen to get off and spend some time exploring

the area, there is plenty to do. There is accommodation at Turangi, Whakapapa(Fa-ka-papa), National Park Village and Ohakune. Matai Lodge in Ohakune has a great range of accommodation options and provides excellent advice and bookings for activities throughout the area. Canoeing through the Whanganui National Park is a favourite. They offer a shuttle service to the mountain for skiing and boarding during ski season.

An hours drive later, we enter the remote and green surroundings of River Valley Adventure Lodge. Towering cliffs and bush-clad hills surround the lodge. The Rangitikei(Rang-a-tea-kay) River runs right past the front door. This location offers some great activities including a very scenic horse trek and wicked rafting down some amazing rapids, or you may prefer to take part in a couple of short walks in the area or simply relax at the lodge.


80


The story of River Valley goes back half a century, when the area that is now the Lodge was the back of a family farm. The owners at the time, Brian and Robin Sage, parents and parents-in-law of the present owners, Brian and Nicola Megaw, had a dream of sharing this beautiful location with other people.

In 1978 an American river guide came through and suggested that the Rangitikei would be a great river to raft - and he was right. Today its one of only a handful of grade 5 rivers commercially rafted in New Zealand. It is famous for its steep and technically demanding rapids.

The lodge offers a range of adventure activities including horse trekking, guided walks, multi-day river journeys, kayaking, and the River Valley Spa complex complete with saunas, spa and massage therapy. Kiwi Experience found this unique place about 15 years ago and weve been coming back ever since.

River Valley is a combination of adventure, atmosphere, fun, great food, beautiful surroundings, and friendly staff. We suggest that you make the most of it. Get outside, explore, take part, immerse yourself in the surroundings and enjoy the River Valley culture.

81

footwaewae

stomachpuku

legwaewaeknee

pona

handringa

fingersmati

mouthwaha

earstaringa

headmahunga

eyeskaru/mata

noseihu

armringa

82

WELLINGTON CITY MAP

83

After a morning getting amongst the numerous adventure activities on offer, we head from River Valley through to the gumboot capital, Taihape (Tie-happy). Then we stop briefly in Bulls. Check out the names on the shops and buildings here, the Police Station is named Consta-Bull. The drive to Wellington is dominated by the Ruahine (Roo-a-he-neigh) and Tararua (Ta-ra-roo-a) Ranges, and rolling farmland. Not too far from the city we hit the Kapiti (Cup-a-tea) Coast, most of which was wrenched out of the sea by a large earthquake in 1855. Kapiti Island is a native bird sanctuary that has a very successful kiwi bird-breeding program. It was once home to one of the most feared of all Maori chiefs, Te Rauparaha and his band of warriors.

Wellington is located directly on a major earthquake fault line. Wellingtons biggest earthquake was recorded in 1855 and measured 8 on the Richter scale. There is a lot of seismic activity in the area, so dont be surprised if you feel a shake while youre here.

Were you born in a tent?Sarcastic question asked of a person who leaves the door open

RIVER VALLEY > WELLINGTON


FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL DAY SEVEN

HIGHLIGHTSRelaxandchilloutatthelodgeGrade5whitewaterraftingtripontheRangitikei River

Horsetrekkingthroughruggedandremote farmland

Bushwalks9holecountrygolfcourse (see if you can hit a sheep)Possumspotting(theflatvariety)Wellingtonnightlife

OPTIONAL HOP-OFFSTaihapeBullsLevinKapitiCoast

KAPITIISLAND

RIVER VALLEY

TAIHAPE

BULLS

LEVIN

PARAPARAUMU

WELLINGTON

$26 off River Valley rafting$16 off River Valley horse ridingNB: Discount correct at time of print

85

If youre after a bit of civilised fun or contemporary kiwi culture, chances are youll find it here. Home of the government, Wellington is also the undisputed capital of culture, the arts, dining and nightlife in New Zealand. Its home to the largest cultural attraction, Te Papa Museum, which is well worth a look - and its free!

The nightlife in Wellington is generally very good, and its busiest Thursday to Sunday. Check out Courtenay Place, a playground of restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs.

You may notice one of New Zealands most unusual pieces of architecture, the Beehive, and no prizes for guessing why its called that. It was designed by a British architect, Sir Basil Spence, who came upon the idea for the design over a couple of gin and tonics one night (one too many some say). He looked at

a box of matches and decided that the design on the front of the packet would be fitting for the offices of the Prime Minister and Members of Parliament in New Zealand. So we said, why not.

While in Wellington, youll get the chance to pick up some information on the Nelson Tasman region. Talk to your Driver Guide and make sure that you dont miss out on the Abel Tasman National Park. You will be able to book various activity options on the bus before you arrive at your next destination.

You will need to book your ferry ticket before you catch the ferry from Wellington to Picton. Talk to your Driver Guide for more information.


Grab a copy of the Whats On guide Te Papa Museum Art galleries Live theatre Take a tour of the parliament buildings and join in at the House of Parliament for some stimulating debate Take the cable car up to the Botanic Gardens Go mountain biking up Mount Victoria or just about anywhere around the area - locals rave about it Step back in time at Katherine Mansfields birthplace. She is one of New Zealands famous short story writers Kelburns Botanic Garden is worth a look, and if you have time the northern walkway winds from here above the suburbs of the city and through several parks For the beach goers, buses depart from Oriental Parade Wellington Rover does tours around all the bays and coastal walks in the area. Check out Rovers Ring tour to see a few filming spots

86

To get between the North and South Island of New Zealand you need to cross Cook Strait. Thats the bit of water between the two islands! Because there are two options to get across Cook Strait this part of your journey is not included in your Kiwi Experience ticket.

If you would like to fly across the strait, you can call Sounds Air on 0800 505 005 to book yourself a seat. You will need to organise your own transport to the airport


and make sure your flight gets into Picton before 12 noon when the coach leaves.

If you are crossing with the Interislander ferry and wish to be part of the group booking, make sure you pay for your ferry ticket at Base Backpackers the night before you travel. It doesnt matter which hostel you are staying at, just make sure Base Backpackers know you want to be part of the group booking.

88


89

Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row, column and 3x3 square must contain one of each digit. Good luck! Check your answers on page 154.

2 6 4 8 53 8 7

6 99 7 2 1 5

8 3 5 1 64 9

1 56 1 9 4

5 4 6 23 6 1 4 8 7

98 5 6 4 1 2

1 3 8 5 94 7 1 8 5 91 7 4 9

3 7 4 19 7 8

6 5 41

4 8 57 1 93 9 7 6 2 1

81 5 8

9 4 8 22 1 9 7

5 4 2 1 74 8 3 9 5

5 9 17 8 6 4 5 34 1 8 9

9 8 27 3 86 9 8

8 3

BORED ON THE FERRY?

90

Challenge yourself to our tricky little word game and see how much kiwi lingo youve picked up so far... All the words below are hidden in the puzzle. See how many you can find. Look for them horizontally, vertically, diagonally and backwards. Check your answers on page 154.

ADVENTUREBROBUNGYBUZZY BEEFUNKY CHICKENGLOWWORMSGREENSTONEGUMBOOTHANGI

JANDALSKAIKAPAIKEAKIA ORAKIWIFRUITLONG DROPMATEPAVLOVA

POSSUM STEWPRIMOSHEEPSTOKEDSWEET ASWEKAWHANAUWHITEBAIT FRITTERS

BORED ON THE FERRY?

91

Our adventure begins at the Wellington ferry terminal. The bus departs at 7:15am for the ferry departure for Picton (times can change so confirm with your Driver Guide upon arrival in Wellington). The Cook Strait crossing takes three hours. You will pass through the Queen Charlotte Sound where you may spot a dolphin or a sunbathing seal. Once at Picton, collect your luggage and meet the coach in the bus park outside the terminal.

For those of you flying across the strait with Sounds Air, you will need to make your own way to Wellington airport. The flight takes 25 minutes and gives you awesome views of Wellington, the Cook Strait and the Sounds. When you arrive at Picton Airport, collect your luggage from the plane. A shuttle will then take you to Pictons ferry terminal to meet the coach.

Picton is the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. With secluded, picturesque coves and beaches, beautiful native bush and pleasant weather, the Marlborough Sounds are a New Zealand tourism jewel. Maori have lived here for generations and the area is the subject of much folklore and legend.

The Queen Charlotte Walkway starts at Ships Cove and winds 67 kilometres down to Anakiwa at the bottom of Queen Charlotte Sound. The views on this walk are breathtaking and made all the more enjoyable with the available pack-transport service

Youre in the dog boxYoure in trouble

WELLINGTON > PICTON > KAITERITERI


FUNKY CHICKEN TRAVEL DAY EIGHT

HIGHLIGHTSFerryjourneyacrossthe Cook Straight to the South Island

MarlboroughSoundsandPictonAbelTasmanNationalPark

OPTIONAL HOP-OFFSPicton Nelson

$9 off Kaiteriteri Kayaks Split Apple Classic$10 off Kaiteriteri Kayaks Royal withCheeseNB: Discount correct at time of print

MARLBOROUGHSOUNDS

TASMANBAY

COOK STRAIT

WELLINGTON

NELSON PICTONHAVELOCK

ferry

KAITERITERI

93

(included in some ferry tickets). Travellers joining up in Picton meet the coach at 11:45am in the bus park to the left of the terminal.

Departing Picton, we head out via the scenic Marlborough Valley. Watch out for the vineyards along the steep hillsides. The Marlborough region is world famous for its delicious Sauvignon Blanc variety of wines.

We then pass through a small town called Havelock. Havelocks main claim to fame is the Greenlip Mussel Capital of the World. If you like mussels then make sure you sample some of the local fare this region is famous for.

After a brief stop in Nelson we travel through to Kaiteriteri at the doorstep of the Abel Tasman National Park. Surrounded by golden sands and blue water, Kaiteriteri boasts some of the best year-round weather New Zealand has to offer. This evening, youll enjoy your stay in the newly renovated Kaiteri Lodge, only a minutes walk from the beach, with its own bar serving cold drinks on hot afternoons.

Provided the weather gods are smiling, you may wish to go skydiving while you are in the region, with Skydive Abel Tasman. Youll be able to check out the spectacular views of the Motueka Valley and Abel Tasman National Park from above. Skydive Abel Tasman offers


94

Chill out at the beach

Hire a mountain bike for the day

Multiple days tramping through the Abel Tasman National Park on the coastal track*

Walk the Heaphy Track through Kahurangi National Park - meet the bus in Westport*

* Refer to the walks in the National Parks section in this guide for more detailed information.


a full range of skydiving options including tandem skydiving, learn to skydive packages and sport skydiving. A 360 turn during the skydive allows you awesome views of the Southern Alps (snow capped in winter), North Island mountain peaks, golden beaches, blue sea and meandering rivers.

95

With a late departure today, you can launch a kayak straight off the beach and take a guided tour past the unmistakeable Split Apple Rock with one of Kaiteriteri Kayaks half day adventures. From out on the water in your kayak, youll have a great view of the stunning coastline with the chance to get up close to seals and dolphins if youre lucky.

From Kaiteriteri you can also head out to explore the Abel Tasman N

kiwi experience exposed guide 2012

Documents

kiwi experience story

kiwi experience18

overseas experience

legendary hop

legendary driver guides

travel time

flexible travel

awesome deals