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NZ a land of coffee-loving beachgoers |
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 New Zealand is a nation of bad trains, great hostels and plucky, tolerant, coffee-loving beachgoers, according to the latest edition of tourist guidebook The Rough Guide.
Wellington received especially glowing reviews, being described as the country's most exciting city.
Despite being buffeted by Cook Strait winds most days, the compact city was easily walkable and had a buzzing arts scene. Its "big heart" and sophisticated cafe society made up for its small size, the authors said.
Although often regarded by visitors as being chiefly a transit hub, Auckland had a beautiful harbour and warm weather. Prim wooden villas with big gardens created a small-town feel beyond the glitzy city centre. Karangahape Rd got a special mention for its trendy cafes.
Christchurch was a relaxed city where parks and gardens rubbed shoulders with gothic architecture, according to The Rough Guide. However, its Englishness was largely skin-deep, the book said, and in recent years the city had acquired a "youthful, bohemian edge".
Dunedin, meanwhile, was "darkly attractive", with iconic architecture crafted from local stone. Its green, tree-filled Octagon drew praise, and the authors suggested tourists visit during Otago University's term-time, when local nightlife took off.
The Rough Guide, scheduled for release next week, had few pointed comments of the sort that appeared in the Lonely Planet handbook released last month.
The Lonely Planet authors described Bluff as shabby and Kaitaia as crawling with thieves, while most of Central Otago's small towns were dismissed as having little to offer.
The Rough Guide was gentler in its criticism. Whangarei was "a bit disappointing", while Akaroa was attractive but twee, and New Zealand's growing sophistication seemed to have passed Westport by.
Other towns fared better. Nelson was beguiling and "supremely placed" among beaches and national parks, while Cambridge was peaceful, understated and attractive in a rural way.
The authors pointed out that people hoping to see elves and wizards roaming countryside dotted with stone fortresses would be in for a shock.
Special effects had rendered many of The Lord of the Rings landscapes unrecognisable from their real-life states, the book warned. "Be prepared for some disappointment. Scenes rarely look as they did in the films."
Tourists thinking about using the country's passenger rail system were told there was not much left of it.
"Trains are so slow that they have ceased to be practical transport for most New Zealanders," the authors said. Features included reclining seats, "beer, but no espresso" and sporadic, not particularly diverting commentary.
Despite the lack of good coffee on the trains, making the stuff had nonetheless been turned into a national art form, The Rough Guide said.
In fact, Kiwi food and drink in general got a resounding thumbs-up, with the authors recommending local favourites including cervena, feijoas, hot dogs and lamingtons.
Budget accommodation was also singled out as being particularly impressive.
"New Zealand has pioneered the backpacker hostel. Found all over the country, hostels offer superb value to travellers. Wherever you stay, you can expect unstinting hospitality and a truckload of valuable advice."
Furthermore, New Zealanders liked to think of themselves as tolerant and open-minded people, and foreigners were generally welcomed with open arms.
Holidays were a major part of the relaxed New Zealand lifestyle, the book said, so perhaps it's no wonder locals did such a good job as hosts.
"Kiwis identify strongly with the land, and perhaps even more so with the sea. During summer large swathes of the population decamp from the town and cities to baches or camping spots by the beach."
The country's rugged beginnings also played a big part in shaping the national psyche.
"At its core the Kiwi personality is rooted in the desire to make a better life in a unique and sometimes unaccommodating land. New Zealanders are inordinately fond of stories of plucky Kiwis overcoming great odds."
SO THEY LIKE US THEN, EH?
A selection of comments from the Rough Guide travel handbook:
Landscape
Despite its diminutive size, New Zealand packs in an enormous diversity: unspoiled sub-tropical forests, rich volcanic basins, boiling mud pools and geysers, intricate and rugged coastlines with golden sand beaches and spectacular alpine regions.
Race relations
In theory, biculturalism gives equal status to the beliefs and values of Maori and Pakeha with distinct but complementary systems for things like health care and education. Such measures have detractors - some see it as pointless tokenism, while radicals see it as going nowhere near enough. While acknowledging its faults, most people are proud of their country's race relations.
Media
Travellers are always griping about low TV standards but, while much prime-time viewing is unashamedly populist, there is high-quality stuff out there. All the main papers are politically fairly neutral [but] newspaper journalists get little scope for imaginative or investigative journalism.
Sport
If God were a rugby coach almost every Kiwi would be a religious fundamentalist. Newspapers and TV news often give prominence to sport, and entire radio stations are devoted to sports talkback, usually dwelling on the occasions when Kiwi underdogs have overcome better-funded teams from more populous nations.
Sir Edmund Hillary
He embodies the qualities Kiwis hold most dear: Hard-working, straight-talking and, most of all, modest. As he said on his return from [conquering Everest]: "Well George, we knocked the bastard off." That's what gets your face on every $5 note in the country.
Kea
These kleptomaniac parrots can be persistent and frequently grab sandwiches from inattentive lunching walkers. Trampers have been known to wake up to a clinically dismembered rucksack or, in more extreme cases, a semi-digested tent.
Nuclear power
For decades, no one dared suggest New Zealand should invest in nuclear power. But the power pinch and the need to follow Kyoto commitments is beginning to change that. It would take a brave Government to take the first step but the nuclear option is no longer a total no-go.
Speech
Throughout the country, Kiwis add an upward inflection to statements, making them sound like questions; most are not and, to highlight those that are, some add the interrogative "eh?" to the end of the sentence, a trait most evident in the North Island, especially among Maori.
WHAT DID THEY SAY ABOUT YOUR TOWN?
Hamilton: Most visitors pass straight through Hamilton but it's a pretty enough place, well-sited on the banks of the Waikato River.
Gisborne: Not overly endowed with attractions but its relaxed pace and easy-going vibe make it gently appealing.
Rotorua: No amount of bad odour will keep visitors away from this small, ordered city, with its origins firmly rooted in tourism.
Taupo: This unobtrusive resort town attracts Kiwi and foreign tourists alike, the latter increasingly due to its skydiving.
Napier: A Mediterranean climate and a population barely touching 50,000 make it an easy place to warm to.
Blenheim: A sleepy service town surrounded by some of the most highly regarded vineyards in the land.
Queenstown: There is no doubt it is one of the most commercialised resorts but remains an idyllic spot, attractively set beside Lake Wakatipu.
Invercargill: Sprawling over an exposed expanse of flat land, the monotony is relieved by huge parks and friendly people.
- NZPA |
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Last Updated ( Sunday, 23 March 2008 14:19 )
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Wine's the thing in Blenheim, of course, but don't overlook the gardens, gastronomy and glorious views. Blenheim is on Marborough's Wairau Plain, 27km south of Picton. THINGS TO DO Marlborough's River Queen. Dine dockside or pootle down the Opawa River on a purpose-built paddlewheeler. Tel: (03) 577 5510 or see www.riverqueencruise.co.nz Brayshaw Museum Park. Fab old stuff- cars, tractors, trains and replica buildings from when Blenheim was"Beavertown". Arthur Baker Place, Tel: (03) 578 1712. Hortensia House. Enjoy Huguette Michel's exquisitely Monet-like gardens. Open October-May, Thursday - Saturday, 2pm- 5.30pm Arts and Crafts Train. Pottery, preserves, lavender pot-pourri, fine art, glassware etc. The Millennium Art Gallery, Seymour Square, is a good place to start. Get a brochure at the visitor centre. Winery Visits. Try bubbles at Cellier Le Brun (Terrace Rd), organic at Seresin Estate (Bedford Rd) or picnic at Forrest Estate (Blicks Rd). DON'T MISS Prenzel Distilling Company. Fruit brandies, schnapps and wine vinegars. They are all delicious and highly recommended by your editor. Open 7 days, Riverlands Estate, tel: (03) 578 2800 PLACES TO EAT Bellafico Restaurant and Wine Bar. Inventive European-inspired cuisine. 17 Maxwell Road, Tel. (03) 577 6072 Paysanne Cafe Bar and Restaurant. Cheery cafe. Closed Sunday, Upstairs, the Forum, Market Place, tel, (03) 577 6278 Highfield Estate. Sumptuous lunches matched to the estate's wines. Open 7 days 11.30am - 4.30pm Brookby road, tel, (03) 572 9244 Herzog Winery and Luxury Restaurant. The ultimate gourmet silver service indulgence. Ask about their cooking classes. 81 Jeffries Road, tel (03) 572 8770 WHERE TO STAY The Vintner's Retreat. Spacious villas surrounded by vines a few minutes' drive from Blenheim. NZ$200 - $395per villa per night. Hotel d'Urville. Themed hotel in the city centre. Try the ethereal Angel Room or red Raja Room. NZ$362 per double per night. Lugano Motor Lodge. Well appointed 1 and 2 bedroom units near Seymour Square's peaceful gardens. NZ$98- $160 per double per night. Henry Maxwell's Central B&B. Relaxed, close to restaurants and shops. NZ$80 - $130 per double per night. Contact us for bookings. |
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 The historic fishing port of Ahuriri is a seafront suburb five minutes' drive from the heart of Napier. It is known for its wharf-side eateries, galleries, shops and walks.
THINGS TO DO National Tobacco Company Building. Considered the jewel in Napier's glittering art deco crown. Foyer area is open to visitors during business hours. Corner Bridge and Ossian Streets. Whales Tail Antiques. Antiques, collectables, curiosities. Open 7 days 9am - 5pm. Corner Waghorne and Bridge Streets, tel (06) 835 9598 Boardwalk. Follow the sea front walkway from Ahuriri around the port to downtown Napier - 30-45 minutes one way. Kiwi Adventure Company. Indoor climbing facility that runs guided kayaking, caving and gorging trips in the region. Open Tuesday-Friday 3pm-9pm, weekends 10am-6pm. Cosed Monday. West Quay, tel (06) 834 3500 Red Peach Gallery. Art, Jewellery, mosaics, ceramics, glass. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm. Sunday 11am-4pm. Closed Monday. Corner Waghorne and Bridge Streets. Tel (06) 835 4773 DON'T MISS Port O' Call. Stunning tea rooms/gift shop. Open Tuesday-Sunday 9.30am-4.30pm. Closed Monday, 2/9 Nelson Quay, tel: (06) 833 6688 Vetro Mediterranean Foods. Foodie heaven offering everyday items and exotic delicacies. Next door to Port O' Call. Closed Monday, 9 Nelson Quay.Tel: (06) 834 1136 PLACES TO EAT Provodore. Divine food in casual, stylish setting. Brunch, lunch, drinks and tapas or dinner. Bookings recommended. Closed on Monday. 60 West Quay , tel. (06) 834 0189 The Gin Trap Cafe and Bar. Popular local haunt with good food and ambience to match. Outdoor easting area overlooks fishing port. Open 7 days, 10.30am till late. West Quay, tel (06) 835 0199 East Pier Beach Bar and Brasserie. Tasty food with sea views and bar. Open 7 days from 11am. Harding Road, tel (06) 834 0035 PLACES TO STAY Harbour View Motor Lodge. Three minutes from Ahuriri centre with views straight out to sea. Spa baths and cooking facilities available. From NZ$130 per double per night. No. 9 Split level homestay apartments in restored wool store with its own art gallery. NZ$ 200 per double per night including breakfast. Portside Inn Backpackers Lodge. Tidy setting NZ$15-$20 per person per night in dorm, $40-$45 for double and family rooms. Fully powered campervan sites $10 per person. Contact us for reservations. |
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Last Updated ( Sunday, 23 March 2008 14:10 )
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New Zealand - Some quirky information |
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 February 6th each year sees New Zealanders celebrate Waitangi Day. However, here are 25 things you may not have known about New Zealand!
25 THINGS YOU MAY NOT HAVE KNOWN ABOUT NEW ZEALAND !  WORLD BEATERS. New Zealand is home to the world's smallest dolphin, the Hectors Dolphin, the rarest sea lion, the Hookers Sea Lion, the largest flightless parrot, the Kakapo, the oldest reptile, the Tuatara, the heaviest insect, a weta, the biggest earth worms, the smallest bats, some of the oldest trees, and many of the rarest birds, insects and plants in the world. TROUT HEAVEN More rainbow trout in the 2kg to 3kg category are caught annually in New Zealand than in the rest of the world put together. FRESHWATER SPRING. More fresh waterflows up from cracks in the limestone at Waikoropupu, near Takaka, than from any other freshwater spring in the world - more than 2100 millionlitres every 24 hours. BAD BEHAVIOUR. New Zealand has the third highest rate of deaths in the developed world from maltreatment among under - 15-year-olds; third to Mexico and the United States. BIG READERS. New Zealand has more bookshops per head of population than any other country: one for every 7500 people. PIPEBANDS GALORE. There are more Scottish pipe bands per head of population in New Zealand than in Scotland.  CURIOUS KEA. The kea, native to New Zealand, likes to eat the strips of rubber around car windows. ANIMAL FARM. Less than 5 per cent of the population of New Zealand is human - the rest are animals. This is one of the highest ratiosof animals to humans in the world. LOST IN SPACE. In the scene of Star Trek: First Contact, when Picard shows Lily she is orbiting Earth, Australia and Papa New Guinea are clearly visible but New Zealand is missing! GOLF SWINGS. Measured by club memberships, golf is the most popular sport in New Zealand followed by netball. BLACKED OUT. The longest blackout in the world was on February 19, 1998, when the four main powercables supplying Auckland city, broke down. The disruption, which lasted 66 days, affected 7500 business and residential customers and cost businesses an estimated $300 million. RISING PRICES. In 1984, NZ$43 in New Zealand would buy approximately the same as NZ$100 today. OLYMPIC GOLD. New Zealand has won more Olympic gold medals per head than any other country. SPELLING TEST. The longest place name in the world still in use is Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipuk-akapikimaungahoronukupokaiwenuakitanatahu, a hill in Porangahau in the Hawkes Bay. The Maori name translates to "the placewhere Tamatea, the man with the big knees, who slid, climbed and swallowed mountains, known as Landeater, played his flute to his loved one". WHY BOTHER? Two Massey University students broke a Guinness World Record in December 2005 for the world's largest tape ball. The ball, which weighs 53kg and has a curcumference of more than 2.5m, was made by winding Scotch tape continually around itself. QUICK WORK. The shortest interval between seperate births in the world is 208 days. New Zealander Jayne Bleackley gave birth to Joseph Robert on September 3, 1999, and Annie Jessica Joyce on March 30, 2000 MIDDLE AGE. The median age of New Zealanders is growing. In 1901 it was 23. By 1991 it was 31 and in 2001 it was 35. By 2021 it is expected to be 40. THE SEA, THE SEA. No part of New Zealand is more than 128km from the sea.  SHEEP DIP. In the early 1980's, New Zealand was home to more than 70 million sheep, but now has 40 million, or about 10 sheep to one person. This decline hasn't stopped New Zealand from bringing in 50 per cent of all international trade in sheepmeat. CLEVER KIWIS. A New Zealander invented the tear-back velcro strip, the pop-lid on a self-sealing painttin, the child-proof pill bottle and the crinkle in hair-pins so that they don't fall out. BIG ON BUTTER. For each person who liveshere, New Zealand produces 100kg of butter and 65kg of cheese each year. OLDER BRIDES. New Zealanders are getting married older. The latest statistics show that the median ages of men and women marrying for the first time is 29.9 and 28.1 years. These brides and grooms married on average, nine years older than their parents did. MORE BIRTHS. New Zealand births exceeded deaths by 29,890 in the September 2005 year.  COOK'S CURE. Captain James Cook, the man who navigated New Zealand, is said to have discovered a cure for scurvy, a disease that results from Vitamin C deficiency, when the played around with medicines. BOTTOM LINE. No capital city in the world is further south than Wellington.
Facts sourced from Statistics NewZealand, StrangeFacts & Trust about New Zealand. |
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Destinations 
