Queenstown prices plummet

Source: stuff.co.nz

It just got a lot cheaper to visit Queenstown, with hotel prices falling by 35 percent.

Queenstown had the third biggest drop in city hotel prices in the world in the three months to Christmas, according to hotels.com Hotel Price Index.

The index looked at hotel prices for October to December, 2008, compared to the same period the year before.

It revealed hotel prices fell 41 percent in Mumbai, 36 percent Reykjavik, 35 percent in Queenstown, 32 percent in Manila, and 31 percent in Las Vegas.

The website’s president, David Roche, said hoteliers were being forced to lower their prices in order to fill rooms.

“This year really will be the year of the deal.”

The website found hotel prices fell 12 percent globally, in 2008.

On average prices were 1 percent higher than they were five years ago.

Prices in North America had the greatest decline, falling 12 per cent, while Europe shed 10 percent.

Caribbean and South American hotels dropped 7 percent in the final quarter of 2008.

The index tracked the rates paid per hotel room rather than advertised rates, and was based on prices paid by customers at 68,000 hotels across 12,500 locations, hotels.com said.

- AAP

INZ Manila Branch

Source: immigration.govt.nz

NEW VISA FEES

VISA TYPE	FEE
VISITOR VISA For Philippine Passport Holders
59 days and below	NO FEE
60 days and above	Php 3,600
For Other Nationalities	Php 3,600
For Palau Citizens	Php 2,750
LIMITED PURPOSE VISA
For Study Purpose (Philippine Citizens / Residents)	Php 5,500
Others (60 days stay & above) (Philippine Citizens / Residents)	Php 3,600
For Study Purpose (Palau Citizens)	Php 4,150
Others (Palau Citizens)	Php 2,750
Visa for the Purpose of RSE	Php 5,500
STUDENT VISA
For Philippine Citizens / Residents	Php 5,500
For Palau Citizens	Php 4,150
WORK VISA
Work to Residence – Talent / LTSSL	Php 6,600
Work Visa – Partnership (Partner of New Zealand citizen/resident)	Php 7,700
Work Visa – Essential Skills / AIP / Partner of a Worker (Philippine Citizens / Residents)	Php 5,500
Work Visa – Essential Skills / AIP / Partner of a Worker (Palau Citizens)	Php 4,950
TRANSIT	Php 3,300
RETURNING RESIDENT’S VISA	Php 3,850
LABEL TRANSFER (to new passport)	Php 2,200

Effective 12 January 2009

TRANSFER OF VISA CHECKLIST

A Guide for Applicants

It is important that you provide all the relevant information requested below so we can accept and process your application promptly. If any of the following are not received, the application may not be accepted for assessment.

All documents not in English must be translated by a translation service. A translation service may NOT certify documents as original.

Application forms can be downloaded and other relevant information may be found on our website www.immigration.govt.nz.

1. APPLICATION FORM

A “Confirmation of a Visa or Permit” must be fully completed in English. Answer each question on the form and continue that question on a separate sheet if necessary.

2. APPLICATION FEE

See separate Fee List.

3. PASSPORT OR TRAVEL DOCUMENT

Applicants must supply their current valid passport and either their old passport with a visa endorsed or evidence they reported a lost or stolen passport to the police or their Embassy.

4. LODGING YOUR APPLICATION

You can request your application to be collected by courier from anywhere in the Philippines by calling (2) 845-9222. You will be charged a return courier fee to collect the passport and have it returned to you after processing.

Applications can be lodged in person from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday at the VIA center, Unit 1003, 10/F One Corporate Plaza, 845 Antonio Arnaiz Ave (Pasay Rd), Makati City. You will need to pay a one way courier fee to have your passport returned. The courier fees are outlined below:

	Lodgments thru the Call Center		Direct Lodgments thru the VIA Center
	Roundtrip Rates (includes pickup & return)	One Way Rates (pickup of additional documents)	One Way Rates (applies to return of processed passports)
Individual	PHP 350	PHP 175	PHP 200
Family/Group*	PHP 500	PHP 250	PHP 300

* applies when there is more than 1 passport associated with the application being returned to the same address

NOTE: Please prepare separate payment for courier/postage fee in the form of either cash or cheque payable to PIASI for those applications with Direct Lodgements thru the VIA Centre.

Manila Branch Visa Application Centre Unit 901, 9/F One Corporate Plaza 845 Antonio Arnaiz Ave (Pasay Rd) Makati City. Web address: www.immigration.govt.nz/branch/manila

LODGING APPLICATIONS FROM NEW ZEALAND: You can courier applications directly to the VIA Center at the address on the header. You need to indicate how and where you want the documents returned, either to the applicant in the Philippines or to the representative in New Zealand. If we return the documents to the applicant in the Philippines, the applicant needs to pay the One Way Rates as above. The applicant can pay collect. If you would like us to return the documents back to New Zealand, please provide a prepaid courier fee.

5. PROCESSING TIME

We aim to process your application within 10 working days. If you application will take longer we will advise you of this in 10 working days.

VISITOR VISA APPLICATION CHECKLIST

A guide for applicants

It is important that you provide all the relevant information requested below so we can accept and process your application promptly. If any of the following are not received, the application may not be accepted for assessment.

All documents not in English must be translated by a translation service. A translation service may NOT certify documents as original.

Application forms can be downloaded and other relevant information may be found on our website www.immigration.govt.nz.

1. APPLICATION FORM

An “Application for Visiting New Zealand” (NZIS 1017) and Supplementary Questionnaire to accompany application for visitor visa must be fully completed in English. Answer each question on the form and continue that question on a separate sheet if necessary. A couple and their dependant children 19 years of age and under may be included on the same application form.

2. APPLICATION FEE

See separate Fee List.

3. PHOTO

One recent passport sized photo (must be less than 6 months old) of each person included in the application.

4. PASSPORT OR TRAVEL DOCUMENT

Passports must be valid for 3 months beyond intended date of departure from New Zealand. We will accept the application with a certified copy of the bio-data page of the passport but we will require the actual passport for 24 hours before a visa is issued.

5. EVIDENCE OF SUPPORT WHILE VISITING NEW ZEALAND

EITHER Evidence of funds to support yourself which must be a minimum of NZ$1,000.00 per month of stay. This can be in the form of bank records, cash, traveller’s cheques or credit card statements.

OR

A “Sponsorship Form” (NZIS1025) completed by a New Zealand citizen or resident along with evidence of their ability to support you while you are in New Zealand.

6. ADDITIONAL SUPPORTING INFORMATION

If travelling on business or attending a conference, evidence of business contacts in New Zealand such as invitations or correspondence with New Zealand business parties are required. This information is not required if you have travelled previously to New Zealand on business.

To enable us to make an informed decision, please provide any additional information which proves you will be a genuine short-term visitor to New Zealand, and shows you have incentive to return to your home country after visiting New Zealand such as:

· A letter of leave from your employer or school. Letters from an employer should include annual income, length of employment and position held. Also, it must be on company letterhead, bearing the stamp of the company and the signature of the head of the company or the responsible person of the personnel department. If you are self-employed, business or company registration certificate showing proof of ownership and company bank statements must be submitted.

· Evidence of any previous travel i.e. clear copy of visas on passport.

· Your travel/flight bookings/itinerary if available

Children under the age of 16 years travelling alone or with only 1 parent must provide a written letter of consent from both parents which include the parents contact details and identification.

7. X-RAY FOR TUBERCULOSIS SCREENING

Applicants for temporary entry to New Zealand must have an acceptable standard of health

All applicants from a high incidence TB country (which includes the Philippines) intending to be in New Zealand for more than 6 months must undergo TB screening and provide a Chest X-ray certificate (NZIS1096) completed by an approved INZ Panel Doctor. Please check our website to find the Panel Doctor nearest to you. Pregnant women and children below the age of 11 years are not required to have a chest x-ray.

8. OTHER REQUIREMENTS

FULL MEDICAL: Applicants intending to spend more than 12 months in New Zealand are required to supply a full medical certificate (NZIS1007). Medical reports must be completed by an approved INZ Panel Doctor. Please check our website to find the Panel Doctor nearest to you.

POLICE CLEARANCES: Applicants over 17 years intending to remain in New Zealand for more than 24 months are required to supply a police clearance certificate from their country of residence and any country the applicant has been in for five years or more since turning 17.

9. LODGING YOUR APPLICATION

You can request your application to be collected by courier from anywhere in the Philippines by calling (2) 845-9222. You will be charged a return courier fee to collect the passport and have it returned to you after processing.

Applications can be lodged in person from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday at the VIA Center, Unit 901, 9/F One Corporate Plaza, 845 Antonio Arnaiz Ave (Pasay Rd), Makati City. You will need to pay a one way courier fee to have your passport returned. The courier fees are outlined below:

	Lodgments thru the Call Center		Direct Lodgments thru the VIA Center
	Roundtrip Rates (includes pickup & return)	One Way Rates (pickup of additional documents)	One Way Rates (applies to return of processed passports)
Individual	PHP 350	PHP 175	PHP 200
Family/Group*	PHP 500	PHP 250	PHP 300

· applies when there is more than 1 passport associated with the application being returned to the same address

NOTE: Please prepare separate payment for courier/postage fee in the form of either cash or cheque payable to PIASI for those applications with Direct Lodgements thru the VIA Centre.

LODGING APPLICATIONS FROM NEW ZEALAND: You can courier applications directly to the VIA Center at the address on the header. You need to indicate how and where you want the documents returned, either to the applicant in the Philippines or to the representative in New Zealand. If we return the documents to the applicant in the Philippines, the applicant needs to pay the One Way Rates as above. The applicant can pay collect. If you would like us to return the documents back to New Zealand, please provide a prepaid courier fee.

10. PROCESSING TIME

We aim to process your application within 10 working days. If your application will take longer we will advise you of this in 10 working days. In some cases we may take up to 2 months to process your application, for example, if your medical certificate requires referral to New Zealand.

VISITOR VISA (Parent and Grandparent Multiple Entry) APPLICATION CHECKLIST

A Guide for Applicants

A new multiple visitor’s visa allows multiple visits by parents and grandparents of New Zealand citizens or residents for up to six months, totalling no more than 18 months in any 3 years.

It is important that you provide all the relevant information requested below so we can accept and process your application promptly. If any of the following are not received, the application may not be accepted for assessment.

All documents not in English must be translated by a translation service. A translation service may NOT certify documents as original.

Application forms can be downloaded and other relevant information may be found on our website www.immigration.govt.nz.

1. APPLICATION FORM

An “Application for Visiting New Zealand” (NZIS 1017) and Supplementary Questionnaire to accompany application for visitor visa must be fully completed in English. Answer each question on the form and continue that question on a separate sheet if necessary.

Note: Applicants’ children must complete a separate application for visitor visa and may not apply under this category.

2. APPLICATION FEE

The current application fee for this category is 4,550 Philippines Pesos. This fee applies to all Philippine Passport holders and other nationalities except for Palau Citizens which is 3,500 Philippines Pesos. The fee can be paid by bank draft made payable to “New Zealand Immigration Service”.

The application fee is a processing fee and is NON-REFUNDABLE regardless of the outcome of your visa application.

3. PHOTO

One recent passport sized photo (must be less than 6 months old) of each person included in the application.

4. PASSPORT OR TRAVEL DOCUMENT

Passports must be valid for 3 months beyond intended date of departure from New Zealand.

5. EVIDENCE OF SUPPORT WHILE VISITING NEW ZEALAND

A “Sponsorship Form for Visiting New Zealand” (NZIS1025) completed by a New Zealand citizen or resident in which the sponsor guarantees to meet the cost of the applicant(s) maintenance, accommodation, health care and repatriation.

Manila Branch Visa Application Centre Unit 901, 9/F One Corporate Plaza 845 Antonio Arnaiz Ave (Pasay Rd) Makati City. Web address: www.immigration.govt.nz/branch/manila

6. EVIDENCE OF THE NEW ZEALAND IMMIGRATION OR CITIZENSHIP STATUS OF THE SPONSOR

A certified true copy of the sponsor’s New Zealand residence permit or returning residents visa (personal details page and the page with the immigration label or stamp on it) or certified true copy of the sponsor’s New Zealand passport (personal details page) or citizenship certificate.

7. EVIDENCE OF RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN APPLICANT AND THE SPONSORING CHILD/GRANDCHILD

Birth certificate of the sponsoring child duly authenticated by National Statistics Office (NSO).

8. EVIDENCE OF ACCEPTABLE STANDARD OF HEALTH

Applicants are required to supply a full medical certificate (NZIS1007) including X-ray. Medical reports must be completed by an approved INZ Panel Doctor. Please check our website to find the Panel Doctor nearest to you.

9. LODGING YOUR APPLICATION

You can request your application to be collected by courier from anywhere in the Philippines by calling (2) 845-9222. You will be charged a return courier fee to collect the passport and have it returned to you after processing.

Applications can be lodged in person from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday at the VIA Center, Unit 901, 9/F One Corporate Plaza, 845 Antonio Arnaiz Ave (Pasay Rd), Makati City. You will need to pay a one way courier fee to have your passport returned. The courier fees are outlined below:

	Lodgments thru the Call Center		Direct Lodgments thru the VIA Center
	Roundtrip Rates (includes pickup & return)	One Way Rates (pickup of additional documents)	One Way Rates (applies to return of processed passports)
Individual	PHP 350	PHP 175	PHP 200
Family/Group*	PHP 500	PHP 250	PHP 300

· applies when there is more than 1 passport associated with the application being returned to the same address

NOTE: Please prepare separate payment for courier/postage fee in the form of either cash or cheque payable to PIASI for those applications with Direct Lodgements thru the VIA Centre.

LODGING APPLICATIONS FROM NEW ZEALAND: You can courier applications directly to the VIA Center at the address on the header. You need to indicate how and where you want the documents returned, either to the applicant in the Philippines or to the representative in New Zealand. If we return the documents to the applicant in the Philippines, the applicant needs to pay the One Way Rates as above. The applicant can pay collect. If you would like us to return the documents back to New Zealand, please provide a prepaid courier fee.

10. PROCESSING TIME

We aim to process your application within 7 working days. If you application will take longer we will advise you of this in 7 working days. In some cases we may take up to 2 months to process your application, for example, if your medical certificate requires referral to New Zealand.

Note: Fill-out the

SUPPLEMENTARY QUESTIONNAIRE TO ACCOMPANY

APPLICATION FOR VISITOR VISA

Great getaways near Auckland

You’re back at work after a nice couple of weeks lazing around on the beach in the sun … you’re trapped indoors, the boss is making
unreasonable demands and your next holiday suddenly seems a long time away. The answer is make the most of your weekends and take short breaks that are right on your doorstep.

Here are some of the best destinations within easy reach of Auckland.

Waiwera
Where: 40 minutes north of Auckland on SH1.

Why: Its swisher, gentrified neighbour Matakana may hog the attention but there’s something to be said for parking up in seaside Waiwera for a few nights. It’s right on a safe swimming beach, as well as, of course, the famous Waiwera hot pools. The beautiful Wenderholm Regional Park, with its easy walks, great beaches, and abundant birdlife, is right
next door. Stunning Tawharanui and Mahurangi regional parks are an easy drive north, along with all the food, wine and snorkelling delights of
Leigh, Matakana and Goat Island. For accommodation, choose from classic Kiwi camping at the holiday park, or go upscale at Waiwera Infinity Spa
Thermal Resort.

 

Tranquil Kauritutahi Beach in the Awhitu Regional Park. Photo / ARC

Link: www.waiwera.co.nz

Devonport
Where: Auckland’s North Shore; about a 30-minute drive from the city, or a 20-minute ferry trip.

Why: If you’re an Aucklander it may seem odd to holiday in another
part of the city, but a trip to Devonport – particularly if you take the ferry from downtown – is an easy way to get away without really having to go anywhere. After all, in Auckland’s pre-motorway history this
seaside naval village, at the foot of North Head, was a popular holiday spot for citysiders. It might be easier to get to now but Devonport
still retains an air of isolation. Book yourself into one of the excellent B&Bs and spend the weekend mooching through the boutique shops, restaurants or around the harbour’s edge. Cheltenham Beach is
an easy 30-minute walk away or stroll up North Head for spectacular views and old military tunnels.

Link: www.devonport.co.nz

Awhitu Peninsula
Where: The peninsula stretches along the southwest shores of the
Manukau Harbour, about 45 minutes’ drive from the centre of Auckland.

Why: Why not? This seems an oft-forgotten stretch of Auckland region with many city holidaymakers generally headed north or west to more famous beaches. But Awhitu is a lovely spot for a summer getaway. There are stunning beaches, such as Brooks and Kauritutahi in Awhitu Regional Park, an abundance of coastal walks, as well as kayaking, birdwatching and mountain biking. The area is also a foodie haven, with all manner of growers and producers. There’s a country market on the fourth Sunday of every month and on long weekends, elsewhere there are winemakers, olive growers, citrus orchards, arts and crafts makers, plant nurseries and honey producers, so you won’t go hungry. There are several accommodation options, from camping in the regional park, to lodges and
B&Bs.

Link: www.awhitu.com

Orere Point
Where: About an hour’s drive east from the central city.

Why: Orere Point is a tranquil spot on the region’s far eastern shores, looking across the Firth of Thames towards Coromandel Peninsula. There’s a safe beach to suit all the family and   an abundance of fish
that keeps keen fisherman returning every weekend. Miranda hot pools are about an hour’s drive along the Seabird Coast, or head back towards Beachlands and Maraetai to Duders Regional Park. On the way to Orere Point, stop at Clevedon’s Italian Country Market, and on the way
home pick a designated driver and book into Vin Alto winery, near Clevedon for one of their legendary Sunday lunches. For accommodation, there’s a Top 10 Holiday Park at Orere Point or rent a bach.

Link: www.orerepointholidaypark.co.nz

BOOK IT
Renting a bach or holiday home is often a great way to get good accommodation, especially in smaller, less-developed locations. It’s also great if there’s a group and you can split costs.

Try these sites:
www.bookabach.co.nz
www.holidayhouses.co.nz
www.holidayhomes.co.nz
www.bluepenguin.co.nz

Where to go:
Here are the 10 most popular locations for baches booked through www.bookabach.co.nz, and the average cost per night.

Whangamata $222

Waihi Beach   $224

Mangawhai Heads $201

Raglan $181

Taupo Central $236

Whitianga$241

Pauanui $236

Waikanae Beach $165

Mt Maunganui $252

Tairua $228

Source: NZ Herald

New Zealand: 10 things to do in 2009

Join the fun at the New Zealand Sevens tournament at Wellington’s Westpac Stadium on February 6-7. See www.nzisevens.co.nz.

Whale and dolphin viewing tours. Contact Whakatane Information
Centre on 07 308 6058 for various options.

Enjoy wine, food and music at Harvest Hawke’s Bay on February 7-8. See www.harvesthawkesbay.co.nz.

Savour what it means to be a part of the Pacific at the Pasifika Festival at Western Springs on March 13-14. See www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/whatson/events/pasifika/default.asp.

Chomp on huhu grubs, possum pie and fabulous West Coast whitebait at the 20th Wildfoods Festival in Hokitika on March 14. See www.wildfoods.co.nz.

Gorge on oysters at the Bluff Oyster and Food Festival which this year
will be on May 23. See www.bluffoysterfest.co.nz.

Fill the gap in your life at the Stewart Island Singles Ball on the night of August 22. See www.singlesball.co.nz.

Watch inspired craziness at the annual World of Wearable Art shows in
Wellington on most nights from September 24 to October 4. See www.worldofwearableart.com.

Lap up a heady mix of horse racing – gallops and trots – plus high fashion, top entertainment and a good old-fashioned country show at Christchurch Cup and Show Week every November. See www.nzcupandshow.co.nz.

Turn the clock back at the Oamaru Victorian Heritage celebrations in
November. See www.historicoamaru.co.nz.

Bring in the new year at Rhythm and Vines at Waiohika Estate in
Gisborne. See www.rhythmandvines.co.nz

From Herald

Destination New Zealand: Ten NZ beaches to try this summer

 

Come summer, Kiwis down-tools en masse and head for our spectacular coastline. Whether it’s the golden sands of Northland or the east coast, or the black sands of the windswept west, everybody has a top spot that beckons them year after year.

But have you seen them all?

As part of its New Zealand “must-do” series, the AA has compiled a list of 10 must-visit Kiwi beaches (in no particular order of preference – to avoid any number of over-the-barbecue arguments). Try one you’ve never been to before, you just may be converted.

New Chums Beach, Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula’s shy superstar, New Chums Beach is perhaps New
Zealand’s most beautiful beach – and we’re not the only ones who think so. The UK’s Observer newspaper has previously rated this secluded spot, about 15km northeast of Coromandel township in Wainuiototo Bay, as one of the top 20 beaches in the world. Getting to it involves a 30-minute walk – including a wade through an estuary. But it’s worth it to be greeted by a perfect stretch of gold sand, fringed by pohutukawa. And the icing on the cake? It’s often deserted.

 Kaiteriteri, Nelson Bays
On one of those perfect sun-soaked days that define summer in the top of the South Island, Kaiteriteri Beach is the place to be. The water is so clear and the sand is so golden you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve misdirected yourself on to a tropical island. And, as well as being beautiful, it’s a great, safe and sheltered place for the kids to swim. And there are other, similarly perfect spots dotted all the way
along the coast through Abel Tasman National Park. You can catch water taxis into the park from Kaiteriteri or pick up a sea kayak from Marahau, the next bay around.
Ocean Beach, Mt Maunganui
Mt Maunganui’s main beach, Ocean Beach, is spectacular – and action-packed. It’s one of the best city beaches in the country, stretching several kilometres from Papamoa all the way up to the full-stop of the Mount itself. Yes, come Christmas and for most of January it’s jam-packed full of people, but if you have kids to entertain there’s always something happening. And if the weather turns bad you can always trade in the sea for a dip in the iconic saltwater hot pools.

Wainui Beach, Gisborne
Wainui Beach, just north of Gisborne, is one of the first beaches in the world to see the sun every day and it’s one of the country’s best surf beaches. What better way to greet the New Year sunrise, than bobbing off the East Coast on your board, waiting for the next break. It’s another spot that can get busy in the summer holiday season, but the beach is so sprawling there’s plenty of room for everyone.

Sumner Beach, Christchurch
For sweltering Christchurch city-dwellers in need of an after-work dip to cool off, Sumner Beach is the perfect place to go. A 20-minute drive from the city centre and you’re on a pretty stretch of sand, with great, safe swimming. It’s a great place to take the kids during the school holidays, too, as there are playgrounds and cafes close by and it’s excellent for fun stuff like volleyball, beach cricket and windsurfing.

West Coast beaches, Auckland
Bethells, Piha, Muriwai and Karekare – Auckland’s rugged, quartet of black-sand, west coast beaches are nothing short of stunning. They can be treacherous, so you keep between the flags when you’re swimming. But even if you stick to dry land the scenery is enough to keep you happy. Hit the surf, walk the dogs, chase the frisbee, watch the people – and if you’re at Karekare, duck across the road to swim under the waterfall. If you’re at Muriwai, visit the gannets. If you’re at Piha, wander along one of the beachside tracks and, if you’re at Bethells, cast your fishing line into the surf and t catch lunch.

Hot Water Beach, Coromandel Peninsula
This long stretch of sand along the Coromandel’s west coast is home to a classic Kiwi beach experience. One of the few places in the world where you can dig your own spa pool in the sand. For two hours either side of low tide, hot spring water is there for the soaking. Take your shovel, or use your hands, and join the crowds for a spontaneous soak.

Caroline Bay, Timaru
If you’re around South Canterbury in early January with kids to keep busy, head to Caroline Bay. Every year, this Timaru beach hosts a fun carnival including plenty of rides, games and stalls. The beach is the safest of swimming spots and has a maze, mini-golf, a children’s paddling pool and a playground.

Raglan and Port Waikato, Waikato
The black-sand beaches of Raglan on the west coast of the Waikato region are world-famous for their surf. If you’re a novice you can learn to surf at one of the town’s excellent surf schools. The sleepier seaside town of Port Waikato, where the mighty North Island river flows into the Tasman Sea, keeps its retro, Kiwi small town, summer vibe even in the height of summer – and if Wainui is the place to see the sun rise, then this is definitely the place to see it set.

Ninety Mile Beach
If there’s a prize for New Zealand’s most iconic beach, this must be the winner. Despite clocking in at a mere 55 miles (88.5km) in reality Ninety Mile Beach is a spectacular, sandy highway that will take you almost right to Cape Reinga, should you choose to drive it. It’s not so great for swimming but if it’s quad biking, sand-dune sliding, or fishing you’re keen on, this is the place.

For more New Zealand “must-dos” visit www.aatravel.co.nz

From NZ Herald

Destination New Zealand: 10 Kiwi classic campsites

Whakanewha Regional Park on Waiheke Island offers a relaxing escape less than an hour from the bustle of Auckland. Photo / Herald on Sunday

by Kerri Jackson

Camping is deeply ingrained in our idea of what makes the perfect Kiwi summer.

And in these days of multi-million-dollar beach-side “baches”, tossing your tent in the car or hooking up the caravan are among the best, cheapest ways to secure yourself some coastal real estate, if only
temporarily.

The trick is to book early. Some of our best seaside campsites are booked out months, sometimes years, in advance.

Here are our picks for some of the country’s best camping spots whether you’re after beach, or comparative seclusion in native bush.

Poukaraka Flats, Whakanewha Regional Park, Waiheke Island
The beauty of Waiheke as a summer holiday spot, as every Aucklander knows, is that less than an hour after you leave the central city, you’re in a cruisy beachside resort town, permanently set to “relax”.

Poukaraka Flats camping ground, nestled at one end of Rocky Bay on the
south side of the island, is the perfect spot to loll on the beach or meander around the bay in a kayak. Alternatively, use the campsite as a base and spend your days wandering around the coastal forests, wetlands, historic sites and among the native birds of the regional park. It’s also a great safe spot for the kids to swim. You’ll need to go prepared though, the facilities are basic with just flush toilets and cold water showers.Cost per night: Adult $10, children $5; maximum seven nights.
www.arc.govt.nz/parks/

Wagener Holiday Park, Northland
Located at the entrance to Houhora Harbour on Northland’s east coast, north of Kaitaia. This is a gem of a campsite. It’s big – with more than 300 sites, but it’s still chocka come summer. It’s a beautiful spot, perfect for fishing, boating, barbecuing, swimming, diving and
gathering shellfish.

Ninety Mile Beach is a short drive away, Cape Reinga makes a great day-trip and if you check first, you can often take your pets.

Cost per night: Starts from $12 per adult and $6 per child.
www.northlandholiday.co.nz

Pohara Beach Holiday Park, Golden Bay
The jewel in the crown of the South Island is a perfect mix of gold sand, turquoise water and warm weather. Of course, that means come summer it is jam-packed with sun seekers.

The camping ground and beach gets chocka but if that gets too much there’s always neighbouring Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National parks and the famous Te Waikoropupu Springs to escape to – or take a four-wheel-drive safari up to Farewell Spit wetlands and bird sanctuary. On the way take the kids to the beautiful and safe Pakawau Beach for a swim.

Cost per night: starts from $17 per adult, $10 per child for camping.
www.poharabeach.com

Kai Iwi Lakes, Northland
For a change from sandy beach camping, but still within relatively easy reach of Auckland, it’s hard to beat Kai Iwi Lakes, found 35km northwest of Dargaville. There is a small, basic campsite among the trees on the shores of Lake Taharoa – the largest of Kai Iwi’s three lakes. The beautiful clear lake waters are perfect for safe swimming, as well as fishing and water-skiing. If you decide you must get to the beach, Baylys Beach is a short drive away.

Alternatively, take the 40-minute walk across adjoining farmland to find
yourself on the wild Tasman coast of Ripiro Beach. There is a network of walking tracks right through the Lake Domain and Waipoua Kauri Forest, home to the famous Tane Mahuta, is a few minutes’ drive up the road.

Cost per night: From $10
www.communities.co.nz/kaiiwilakes

Te Araroa Holiday Park, East Cape
The East Coast of the North Island is one long collection of spectacular beaches, none more so than those that surround East Cape. Te Araroa Campsite sits nestled between some of the best of them. The campground itself is set back a short walk off a safe swimming beach, amongst tall shady trees.

The facilities are good but fairly basic, and take a decent torch as there’s not a lot of lighting, come sundown.

The beach also has rock caves and tidal waters that are great spots for kids to explore. There’s another great swimming and surfing beach just over the hill on the way north at Hicks Bay, and there’s good fishing along this coast too. And if you’re after a little exercise head to East Cape and climb the 700 steps to the lighthouse. If you’re really keen you could do it to watch the sunrise.

Cost per night: From $11
www.nzcamping.co.nz; click on East Cape to navigate your way to the Te Araroa page.

Hanmer River Holiday Park, Hanmer Springs.
Is there anything better than being able to combine the rigours of camping with the luxuries of spa treatments? Which makes gorgeous, sheltered Hanmer Springs a perfect camping spot.

There are several grounds in the area but we like this sleepy spot about 6km from Hanmer Springs village, because it’s smaller and tends to be quieter. Set in 2km of gardens, the camping ground has good facilities and is still close enough to Hanmer to make the most of the gorgeous hot pools and the adjoining beauty spa.

If that doesn’t rock your world, there’s plenty of adventure activities such as bungy jumps or off-roading, as well as hiking and fishing. And the beautiful Waipara wine and food region makes an excellent day trip.

Cost per night: Camp sites from $24 for two people.
www.hanmerriverholidaypark.co.nz

Riverside Holiday Park, Mangawhai
Located just 100km north of Auckland this is another popular spot. Sitting on its own stretch of beach on Mangawhai Harbour, Riverside has great facilities including a playground for the kids, kayaks for hire and it is a perfect mix of summer seclusion with civilisation in the form of cafes and restaurants not too far away in Mangawhai.

A must-do in this area is a visit to the DoC-managed sand dunes, home to dotterel and oystercatchers. If you’re feeling active, take the three-hour circular coastal/cliff-top walk that starts at Mangawhai Heads, taking in farmland and bush areas with great views to Bream Head and over the Hauraki Gulf.

Cost per night: $16 adult; $8 child
www.holidayparks.co.nz/Northland/Mangawhai

Kauaeranga Valley, Coromandel
The Coromandel in summer is all about miles of white sand, beaches and hot-red pohutukawa trees, right? Wrong. There’s also the lush greenery of the Kauaeranga Valley, located 14km inland from Thames. Arguably this is one of the peninsula’s hidden treasures, known mostly to those who venture in to conquer the famous Pinnacles walk.

There are eight DoC-operated campsites here, all tucked in among native forest beside the Kauaeranga River. Facilities are good but basic. There’s not a beach in sight, but there are beautiful swimming holes in the river, as well as a range of walks and great fishing spots.

Cost per night: Adult $9, child $2.
www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation

Makarora Wilderness Resort, Southern Lakes
Here’s another one for those happy campers for whom a New Zealand summer means something other than sandy beaches.

Makarora Wilderness Resort sits just beyond the northern tip of Lake Wanaka, in a prime spot for those wanting to make the most of the Southern Lakes District’s fishing, tramping and hunting possibilities. The resort has its own restaurant and swimming pool and there are beautiful views over the river.

If you need a little more civilisation, Wanaka and Haast are both an hour’s drive away.

Cost per night: Camping is $12 for an unpowered site or $14 powered
www.makarora.co.nz

Waipatiki Beach Farm Park, Hawkes Bay
This seaside camping ground, located 35km north of Napier is a great place for kids.

It’s situated on the edge of a working farm, so there’s plenty of cows, ducks and chickens around the place to keep the kids engaged when they’re tired of the sand and sea. There’s a safe lagoon for swimming and the beach itself is a pretty white sand arch brilliant for fishing and surfing.

There are also a number of walking tracks that, as well as introducing you to the farm animals, will take in rare examples of coastal bush with 600-year-old kahikatea trees, nikau palms and other native species with abundant bird life such as kereru and fantails, tui and bellbirds. There is also a nearby redwood forest.

Cost per night: From $15
www.nzonline.org.nz/waipatiki

From NZ Herald

Destination New Zealand: Top 10 holiday spots

Writer Ian Brodie shares his pick of the 10 best places to spend your summer holiday in New Zealand.

Opito Bay, Coromandel
The jewel in the crown of the Coromandel Peninsula. Here, the pohutukawa
smother their red New Zealand Christmas flowers over the golden sands, and civilisation seems to be a long way distant. Sit on the beach
with Pink Floyd or Mike Oldfield on your iPod and savour the beauty.

Matai Bay, Northland
Every year, many thousands of tourists visit the nearby Cape Reinga, but here at Matai Bay on the Karikari Peninsula is a wonderful curve of pure white sand. The epitome of a tropical island, it is such a shame that many Kiwis travel overseas instead of tasting what is here on their
doorstep.

Wellington
The cafe culture centre of the country. Arts, good food, friendly people and enough sightseeing to fill a fortnight. Visit the Weta Cave at the centre of Wellywood, browse for a good book in Dymocks and then satisfy your taste buds at Leuven.

 Paradise & Closeburn
The Central Otago sun beats down all day on these two gems. Take one of the most scenic drives in the world between Queenstown and Glenorchy, spending a night on the lakeside at Closeburn first. In summer there is a sweet smell of native herbs in the air and the gentle calling of birds. Continue to the aptly named Paradise and feel the weight of the mighty Southern Alps as they surround you with their presence.

Luggate
A small camping ground with a cricket pitch in the middle and a real local pub means Luggate must feature in the top ten. Swim in the Luggate Creek, taste the best pinot in the world at some of the nearby vineyards, then catch a trout in Lake Hawea. Return to the cricket ground and watch the locals take on Central.

Charleston, West Coast
Surrounded by the best native bush in the country, the small bay at Charleston features a colourful seafaring historic past combined with some wonderful picnic spots. If you want to surf, spend a day at Tauranga Bay; and if you want to be amazed at Kiwi technology, visit the deserted coal mining town of Denniston.

Martinborough
Warm nor’west winds fan the grapes surrounding this beautiful Victorian village. Visit Ata Rangi Estate for a wonderful lunch, drive and then walk to the Putangirua Pinnacles (the best example of badlands in the country) and shop for antiques in nearby Greytown.

Purakanui Bay, The Catlins
The scenic coastal route from Balclutha to Invercargill is rapidly becoming a highlight of many overseas tourists’ visits to this country.  At Purakanui Bay the high white cliffs look down on to a beach that is almost always deserted. Whether the weather is a benign zephyr from the west or a howling southerly from the Antarctic, this sheer diversity of our climate never ceases to amaze me.

Ruatiti Domain
Leaving Raetihi and travelling northwards, make a detour to the Ruatiti Domain. This is an ideal place to pitch a tent and I always imagine idle holidaymakers lazing in the grass beside the river with a novel cast to one side as the sound of busy insects lulls them into a slumber.

Kaikoura
Kaikoura is well known for its various marine tours to see whales, seals and dolphins. However, there is much more to this beautiful tourist town. Drive a little way either north or south on the magnificent coast road and watch the interplay of light on the colourful shifting kelp. Back in Kaikoura, walk along the beach and watch the seals close by in their native habitat.   

In the evening, take a stroll to The Pier Hotel and take a seat at the outside bar. Order a bowl of fresh mussels and crayfish, wash them down with    a cold beer and watch one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world.

 

From NZ Herald

My first time in Macau

my favorite place in Macau

I had a very nice time in Macau. First stop was Venetian Macau. Cool place! I was transported to Venice and some parts of Europe. Next stop was the Ruins of St. Paul. It was the facade of an old church. Really nice to able to see a piece of Portugese influence. Next stop was Macau Tower, a very modern place in Macau. It was cool to see the Macau from the top. Wish I had the guts to skydive! Last stop was the Monument of turn-over of Macau back to Chinese rule.

I truly enjoyed our short, hectic and fun trip to Macau. See you soon Macau.

Interesting websites for China Trip

Train Ride
http://home.wangjianshuo.com/archives/20040801_train_from_beijing_to_shanghai.htm

http://www.mtr.com.hk/engtxt/intercity/index.html

More about Shanghai
http://www.frommers.com/destinations/shanghai/0717030262.html

F1 Sinopec Chinese Grand Prix
https://www.grandprix-tickets.com/index.asp

https://www.grandprix-tickets.com/index.asp?pageid=WWW_GPT_COM_TKTS_CHINA

http://www.china.grandprix-tickets.com/