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Tag: New Zealand travel

  • Spa Vacations for Less – Pamper Getaways on a Budget

    A long soak in a jacuzzi and a luxurious massage sounds like the sort of vacation experiences out of the reach of frugal travelers. But why should budget conscious tourists miss out on all the fun? This article introduces you to several spa resorts that cost a lot less than you’d think.

    If you’re looking for a cheap spa vacation, it’s worth taking a trip to Asia. Indulgence is a way of life here, and it doesn’t cost a lot. In Japan they even offer spa experiences in their hostels! You’ll find Spa Hostel Khaosan in Beppu, a friendly Japanese city renowned for its natural hot springs and picturesque beach. The shared dorms and private rooms are pretty plain, but chances are you’ll spend most of your time winding down in the hostel’s own hot spring bath. That natural pool is definitely worth the measly $33 US you’ll pay for the cheapest room.

    For a little more money you can stay at Banpu Resort and Spa, an idyllic spot located on Thailand’s Koh Pu Peninsula. The word resort makes us think of big bucks, but its log cabins start at just $40 US a night. If the sea and garden views aren’t enough to relax you then try taking a dip in the pool. You’ll pay a little extra to indulge in the Thai massages or reflexology sessions, but your muscles will argue they’re worth the splurge.

    More expensive again but still not unreasonable is Febri’s Hotel and Spa in Bali. Its rooms start from $77 US, but your dollar buys a lot including access to the Jacuzzi, steam room, and sprawling swimming pool. If that calm water feels a bit tame for you, the famous South Kuta Beach is only a short walk away.

    Asia really has the market cornered on affordable spa experiences, but Samai Center Hotel-Spa in Ecuador is a great option for anyone wanting to stay a little closer to home. From $70 a night you can experience all the good vibes that radiate from this eco-friendly resort. Its wooden lodges are made from organic materials, and its restaurant serves local seasonal fare, including many items grown in the onsite veggie garden. The resort runs many workshops designed to give you a new lease on life, from Feng Shui classes to meditation programs.

    Spa Foot SoakAnd finally, if you can afford the flight it’s worth checking it to Spa Lodge Backpackers in Rotorua, New Zealand. Just like Spa Hostel Khaosan, this friendly hostel makes use of the hot springs its city is famous for. The natural geothermal spa will do wonders for your aching muscles, especially after an action packed day of extreme Kiwi adventures! Dorm rooms start at around $20 US, and the hostel even offers discounts for weekly visits in winter!

    So don’t dismiss that spa getaway out of hand. If you do your research and plan ahead, it could cost a lot less than you think. Just remember to consider the costs of the treatments, as they can add up quickly!

  • Travel to New Zealand in the Off Season – Save Money in Winter

    New Zealand is a natural paradise, with its unspoiled landscapes and adrenalin sports that take advantage of the great outdoors. However it’s on the opposite side of the world to most keen travelers, and the flights can get expensive. You can save yourself some cash by avoiding the peak times and traveling over winter.

    It might seem crazy to abandon the Northern Hemisphere’s summer for chilly conditions in the South, but the significant savings on flights and accommodation should sweeten your decision. And New Zealand isn’t a bad place to brave when the mercury drops. The South Island comes alive from June to August, when its ski fields are filled with Kiwis keen to test its slopes.You’ll save even more money if you frequent one of New Zealand’s ski clubs, rather than the commercial ski resorts.

    If you’re not a snow bunny don’t despair. Much of New Zealand is free of the white stuff and just as busy during winter. The North Island is warmer than the South; its major cities including Auckland, Hamilton, and Rotorua enjoy pleasant conditions during winter. Rotorua’s hot mineral pools can warm you up if the temperature dips, Auckland has several indoor tourist attractions, or you could cheer on the New Zealand Warriors or All Blacks at a sporting match.

    New Zealand money and calculatorNew Zealand also continues to party right through winter. There are events throughout the country to celebrate the Maori New Year, or Matariki, in June. Visit in August and you can indulge in some of the country’s best cuisine at the Coromandel Scallop Festival in Whitianga.

    Traveling to New Zealand in the off season is an appealing proposition for any travelers who want to avoid the usual tourist crowds and save some cash.

  • On the Buses – New Zealand’s Affordable Public Transport

    Most travelers to New Zealand tend to rent cars to get about the North and South Island. However utilizing the country’s easy-to-use bus system is a much more affordable option for your New Zealand vacation.

    Several coach companies ferry tourists between New Zealand’s major cities. The largest is InterCity Coachlines, a national organization which travels to more than 600 New Zealand cities. Its network is not quite as expansive, but the Naked Bus is the cheapest way to travel around New Zealand. Fares start from just $1, and escalate as the bus fills up. Alternatively you can buy a Naked Passport, which offers discounted travel on a minimum of five trips. Atomic Shuttles is another low cost alternative, although it only operates in the South Island. Most Kiwi coach companies offer online discounts, so it’s worth planning your itinerary and booking your seat before you leave.

    For shorter journeys within a city you’ll need to rely on the local public transport system. Auckland has its free Explorer bus servicing major tourist attractions, and other paid bus services if you want to travel outside that route. It’s best to allow plenty of time to reach your destination though, as Auckland buses are notoriously tardy. It’s not uncommon to experience delays of 15 minutes before your ride arrives.

    Wellington’s buses are much more reliable, and a great way to explore the city. You’ll find free bus maps at various locations, which make it easy to find the city’s bus stops and routes. Travelers are best served getting an all-day central bus pass, which allows for unlimited journeys.

    The Explorer Bus in Auckland
    The Explorer Bus in Auckland

    Sadly though, bus services are limited in some Kiwi tourist towns, including Rotorua, Christchurch, and Queenstown. You’ll find some buses of course, but their small number of routes and infrequent service means you may need to consider alternative transport to reach your destination.

     

  • Save on Australian & New Zealand Vacations with Entertainment Book

    Many families own the Entertainment Book for their home town. It’s a great way to save money on your neighborhood restaurants and local attractions.

    But why stop at just one? Purchasing an Entertainment Book for your upcoming Australian or New Zealand getaway is a great way to save cash while you're on holidays. The Entertainment Book is essentially a collection of coupons for local businesses. You'll find two-for-one meals, passes for tourist attractions, half-price hotels, and so much more. There are editions for tourist centers around Australia and New Zealand, including the bright lights of Sydney, the beaches of Brisbane and South East Queensland, the idyllic Waikato and the Bay of Plenty, and cosmopolitan Auckland. You can expect to pay around $50 per Entertainment Book, depending on the city you're visiting. It might seem like a significant investment, but ordinary travelers can easily make the cost of the book back in a day just through eating out.Australia travel photo The book's appeal goes beyond the obvious financial perks though. It's a great way to discover your holiday destination, with details about tourist attractions and sample menus for the best restaurant. You'll likely learn about a few places you never would have seen otherwise. If you already own an Entertainment Book, you'll save money on getting another edition. If you're new to the Entertainment Book phenomenon, you can buy one through the Australia and New Zealand Entertainment Book website.

  • Hang Ten on Surf Highway 45 – New Zealand’s Surfing Coast

    The New Zealand ski fields are more famous than its surfing beaches, but as the weather warms in the Northern Hemisphere it’s worth looking at the best places to hang ten.


    You'll find the cream of the crop along Surf Highway 45. The highway runs for 105 kilometers on the North Island's west coast, from New Plymouth to Hawera. The coastal winds ensure there's always big surf somewhere along the highway. If you're a novice, or you don't like the cold, this probably isn't the place for you. If you’re a dab hand on the board though, the black sand beaches of Oakura, Ahu Ahu, Stent Road, and Opunake are excellent. Most wouldn’t win any prizes for looks, but that matters little when you're enjoying the atmosphere. You can bring your own board of course, but if you need to borrow one there are hire shops in New Plymouth and Oakura. The winding stretch of road offers some quirky attractions and excellent eats, so don't think you need to be a waxhead to enjoy it. New Plymouth has recently reinvented itself as a gourmet destination. Call in to Paradise Valley Berry Farm and Q Gardens Providores when you need to refuel, or try the organic lager at White Cliffs Brewery. surfing in new zealand photo It’s worth making a detour to see Mount Taranaki, an extinct volcano which looks a lot like Mount Fuji. Short treks around the summit's base can be tackled at any time of year, but the long trails can get boggy underfoot during winter. A soak in the Taranaki Mineral Pools is ideal for soothing tired muscles after a long day catching waves. Finally there’s the Elvis Presley Museum at Hawera. It's a world away from Graceland, but Elvis enthusiast Kevin Wasley has assembled an impressive range of memorabilia and merchandise. It's a shame to come to the end of Surf Highway 45, but from there it's not too far to the culture of Wellington or Mount Ruapehu's ski slopes!

  • Relax at New Zealand’s Waiwera Infinity Thermal Spa Resort

    Auckland is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations, with all of the attractions, facilities, and stress that a big city provides.


    If you're looking to wind down after some time spent in the big smoke, Waiwera Infinity Thermal Spa Resort is just a short drive away. The resort, located a 35-minute drive north of Auckland, is situated on the beautiful Hibiscus Coast. Locals and international guests alike are lured by the natural hot mineral pools, wellness spa, and massage and beauty therapies. While adults relax, the kids can amuse themselves at the resort’s many water slides or the movie pool, which shows family-friendly flicks each day at 4 pm and 7 pm. You can bring your own lunch and relax in the shady BBQ and picnic areas, or enjoy burgers, roast chicken, and wood-fired pizzas at the Waiwera Café. [caption id="attachment_4537" align="alignright" width="150" caption="Girls relaxing at Waiwera Infinity Thermal Spa Resort"]Girls relaxing at Waiwera Infinity Thermal Spa Resort[/caption] A day at the Waiwera Infinity Thermal Spa Resort may be enough to help you unwind, but if you need more intensive treatment you can stay in luxury at the resort's holiday homes or studio units, or more affordably at its seaside campsites and chalets. Waiwera Infinity Thermal Spa Resort is open daily from 9 am until 9 pm on Sundays to Thursdays, and until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Entry costs $26 for adults and $15 for children aged 14 and under. This fee includes access to the pools and slides, but you'll need to pay extra for access to the private spa, sauna, and steam room, and health and beauty treatments.

    [Image Source: Mike Cochrane/Flickr]

  • New Zealand for Movie Buffs – Film Locations Around North and South Island

    Many fantasy loving tourists make a pilgrimage to New Zealand to see the sights from the epic trilogy Lord of the Rings. But you might not know the country was home to many more movie blockbusters.


    Here are many places to explore if you like your flicks without Hobbits. Peter Jackson returned to New Zealand to film his ape spectacular King Kong. Much of it was shot in a Wellington studio, but for the breathtaking scenery Jackson turned to the country's iconic countryside. Skull Island was shot in both Lyall Bay and Shelly Bay, right near Wellington. For the on-ship scenes the crew sailed to the Cook Strait, the waterway that runs between the country's North and South Islands. You can see it for yourself when you catch the ferry from Wellington to Picton. And even the New York scenes were shot in the Land of the Long White Cloud. Auckland's Civic Theatre made an excellent stand in for the New York Theater, while Seaview, Lower Hutt made a passable Big Apple. And if New Zealand can pass as the United States, why not Japan? Uruti in northern Taranaki was the ideal substitute for 19th century Japan in Tom Cruise’s 2003 film The Last Samurai. The creators simply added the image of Mount Fuji into the background once filming wrapped! The film didn’t set the world's box offices alight, but Uruti locals don't seem to care. They've recreated many of the sets, and encourage tourists to join them on guided tours of the key movie locations. The magical world of Narnia wasn't filmed inside a wardrobe, but around New Zealand.

    Fans of the epic Chronicles of Narnia series will find that mountain biking around the Woodhill Forest isn’t very scary without the White Witch camping there. If you’d prefer to see where the forces of good dwelled, visit Aslan's Camp in the Waitaki Valley’s Elephant Rocks. The great lion king also spent some time at the Vanished World Center near Duntroon, which isn’t too far away. Fans of the first movie also shouldn't miss Flock Hill in the Southern Alps, which was the site of that epic battle. Whale Rider is one of those rare Kiwi-made movies that attracted attention around the globe. Keisha Castle-Hughes earned the Oscar nomination, but the East Cape of the North Island was almost as big a star. The film was shot around the small town of Whangara; it may not enjoy a lot of action but it's worth visiting for those ocean views. So who needs Hollywood? New Zealand offers a much more picturesque alternative for film buffs.

  • Discover Maori Culture in New Zealand

    The traditional ways of the Maori people are fading as the original inhabits of New Zealand assimilate with the Europeans who now call New Zealand home.

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    However there are still many places around the country that allow you to experience the culture of these indigenous people.

    Many historians regard Waitangi in the Bay of Islands as the birthplace of the modern New Zealand nation. It was here that the white settlers and native Maoris came together to sign the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, an agreement which gave the Europeans the rule of the nation and the original inhabitants their land rights. Its history makes Waitangi a great place for learning more about Maori culture. Today Treaty House, the site where the original pact was signed, is a meeting house decorated with intricate wood carvings. A waka, or war canoe, is also on display. It was built to celebrate the centenary of the treaty, and photographs show exactly how it was done. The Waitangi National Reserve also offers Maori tours twice daily and cultural performances called He Toho. The women dance while the men channel their warrior traditions with the haka.

    A Maori warrior
    A Maori warrior

    While Rotorua has a reputation for extreme sports, it’s also rich in Maori culture. After you’ve worked up an appetite with the bungee jumping and white water rafting, make sure you visit the Tamaki Maori Village for dinner. The Maori people serve up a traditional hangi feast, which will fill you up while offering an insight into Maori traditions.

    Wellington has New Zealand’s National Museum, which is also known by its Maori name Te Papa. There are more than 30, 000 artifacts there, including clothing, weapons, jewelry, and tools. The museum also tells the history of the Maori people, from their early settlement to interaction with the white people. On Wednesday nights the museum hosts Taonga Mataora in its meeting house. This cultural event includes dancing, dinner, and a few cheeky cocktails.

    If you’re in the mood for more museums you can’t go past the Tairawhiti Museum in Gisborne. It centers on the arts and crafts of the Maori people living on the North Islands East Coast.

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    Local artists sit alongside prominent artisans from the rest of the world. It’s also a great place for souvenirs, with many of the artworks available for purchase. While in Gisborne make sure you visit the Te Poho-o-Rawiri, which is open to the public whenever official Maori business isn’t going on. The decorative wood carvings look much more impressive and authentic here than in any stuffy museum.

    While in New Zealand you don’t want to miss the Maori culture. It’s always just there below the surface, a reminder of this country’s proud heritage and history.

    [Image Source: Geoftheref/Flickr]

  • Ski Vacations For Less on New Zealand’s Club Skiing Fields

    If you’re looking for a low cost alternative to New Zealand’s popular Mt Hutt and Coronet Peak ski resorts, consider hitting one of the country’s club ski fields.

    The first club fields were established in the mountains west of Christchurch in 1929.

    Today there are ten club skiing fields in New Zealand. The North Island has Manganui on Mount Taranaki and Tukino on Mount Ruapehu. Within a two-hour drive of Christchurch you'll find Mount Cheeseman, Mount Olympus, Broken River, Craigieburn, Fox Peak, Temple Basin, and Hanmer Springs Ski Area. Drive towards Nelson in the north and you'll discover the Rainbow Ski Area. These smaller ski fields are owned and operated by club members, who pay an annual fee and volunteer on the slopes. But you don't have to be a member to join in on the fun. While the day rates aren't quite as low, non-members can still save by skiing at these non-commercial slopes.snowboarding new zealand Of course, without the commercial backing these slopes take skiing back to basics. There are small lodges with bunk beds and communal dining rather than resorts, and primitive rope tows rather than high tech chair lifts. This no frills experience has a way of bringing skiers together though, as they all pitch in to wash dishes and socialize on the slopes. While the social aspect is appealing, these slopes are also a lot quieter than the commercial fields. You won't need to worry about bumping into other skiers, and the runs are usually fresh. Club memberships typically cost around $300 a year, including season passes and discounted accommodation, with all meals and ski and boarding lessons thrown in. If you're only in New Zealand for a short time consider a day pass for around $60, about $30 less than you'll pay at the commercial ski fields. Alternatively you could pick up a seven-day CHILL pass for $345. This offers access to 11 ski areas on the South Island including seven different club fields.

    [Image Source: SnappedUp/Flickr]

  • Enjoy Auckland in Winter – Indoor Attractions to Keep You Warm

    The New Zealand city of Auckland embraces the great outdoors. Even with winter winds blowing, you can enjoy island hopping, sailing in the harbor, and exploring volcanic craters.

    But if you'd prefer to shield yourself from the cold, the city has plenty of indoor attractions to keep you warm and entertained. Enjoy all that winter has to offer without the chill at Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World. This interactive attraction encourages visitors to step inside a Snowcat and walk around a life-sized replica of the Antarctic hut built by British explorer Robert Scott. The highlight for kids is the colony of penguins, who live in freshly created snow. There's also the giant aquarium, with its piranhas, whaler sharks, and sea horses. We know that Sky City serves up great buffet meals at its Observatory restaurant, but you'll find much more in this iconic building than delicious food. In fine weather you can enjoy the full splendor of this looming tower on the Sky Walk. If walking on this narrow ledge 192 meters above the ground isn't exciting enough for you, then consider bungee jumping from it! For a different kind of thrill, step inside and enjoy a flutter at the casino tables or slot machines. [caption id="attachment_3965" align="alignright" width="150" caption="Sky City casino in Auckland, New Zealand"][/caption] Museums are always a great option for escaping wintery weather, and Auckland Museum is New Zealand's oldest and the city's largest. Its first floor showcases artifacts of the native Maoris and people of the Pacific. The second level has a natural history theme, with child discovery centers and an interactive volcano exhibition. The final floor tells the stories of New Zealand's war history. It houses an armory of weapons and warplanes from the Boer War to contemporary conflicts. Auckland doesn't slow down once winter hits as so many tourist towns around the world do, but if you need respite from the city's chill there are plenty of indoor attractions to keep you amused.

    [Image Source: CharlesLam/Flickr]