This travel section
is a work-in-progress, based primarily on what you want to find out
about.
I'll be inserting my
own photos, telling you about various parts of New Zealand ( based
on my own travel experiences), and providing you with links to
other websites to get the info you need.
WHERE TO
START
Probably one of the best websites to start from
is www.purenz.com ,
the official website of the NZ Tourism industry. From there
you can find details on accommodation, how to get around,
sightseeing and activities, etc.
We may be a long away from where you
live now, but rest assured, we have all levels of accommodation in
New Zealand, from backpackers to those who prefer the penthouse
suite of a top class hotel. If you want to get closer to
country people and their lifestyle, consider a B&B ( bed and
breakfast) on a farm. They are scattered all around New
Zealand, and many will welcome your involvement on the
farm.
PLANNING YOUR
HOLIDAY
I'm delighted to tell you I
now have New Zealand Maps available here at
Shopenzed.com . These are going to really help you plan your
holiday. If you are in the mood for an adventure holiday,
check out the North Island and South Island
Adventure Maps. Not only will you be able to work out
where to go for those adventures, the map provides links to the
activity provider's websites, so you can find out more
info!
YOUR QUESTIONS
ANSWERED:
1. Where can I get
info on travelling by train?
TranzRail are the only train service in New
Zealand. It is mostly a North Island passenger service, but
one of the best rides you will ever take is the TranzAlpine service
from Christchurch to Greymouth. Spectacular scenery - from
plains, to mountains, to rainforest all in one trip!!!!
The website provides info on timetables, package
deals, and prices.
2. I like staying at
Bed & Breakfast establishments. Where can I see a list of
those available in New Zealand?
Go to www.selections.co.nz
. They have a FREE guide book to New Zealand's B&Bs,
with descriptions of the properties, room rates, contact details,
maps and ideas on what to do in the region. The guide book is
free, with free shipping to most destinations!
3. You've mentioned
that you live on the Tutukaka Coast, and it sounds wonderful, as we
want to come and do lots of swimming and tramping. Can you
tell me more about it?
I sure can! Click
here to learn all about my part of the country, the Tutukaka
Coast.
4. We've heard about
the great hikes one can do in New Zealand. Where would I find
some information about them?
5. I'm going to be
jet-lagged when I arrive in Auckland. What do you suggest for
activities on the first day?
First I suggest you find
accommodation in central Auckland. This will place you close
to buses, trains, stores, and beaches. You may just want to
sleep, and if the weather is warm, take a blanket and go lie down
for a nap at Mission Bay. The sun and the fresh sea air will
revitalise you, and you'll find lots of cafes where
you can buy a rejuvenating juice, coffee or a bite to eat.
Just make sure you "slip, slop, slap and wrap", as we say
here. That means slip on a shirt, slop on the sunscreen, slap
on a hat, and wrap on the sunglasses....our sun is very strong and
your skin can burn in just a few minutes!
Mission Bay can be reached on
foot, by bike, car or bus. If you feel energetic, you can hire
a kayak or rollerblades, or take a swim. Here's the view out
to sea from Mission Bay - that's Rangitoto Island.
If you feel like exploring,
there are many coach tours available around Auckland, taking you to
the Museum, rainforests, wild west coast beaches, mountain biking,
wine and food tasting, gardens, the zoo, and more. You can
find a tour to suit your interests, and there will be brochures
available at your accommodation.
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