New Zealand - May 2013
Emirates:
Without a doubt my favourite airline to fly to NZ on their A380 (this model serving Auckland only). Their service, food and entertainment are heads and shoulders above the competition on this route.
SkyCity Hotel Auckland:
4* with excellent central location. Recently renovated, including 2 casinos, 10 restaurants and bars, free live entertainment and the Sky Tower. I found the rooms nice, comfortable with all the mod cons one would expect. A great night’s sleep in their comfy beds & quiet rooms… free WiFi is also a plus! The breakfast buffet was extensive and food of a high quality.
Hobbiton Movie Set:
This is the home for the making of The Lord of the Rings Trilogy and The Hobbit Trilogy. The set is unique for being one of the only living movie sets in existence around the world, still in use, after the filming has ceased. To walk around the set, which was very realistic, one felt like being back in time in Hobbiton, with Bilbo and Frodo just around the corner, waiting for Gandalf to turn up and release some fireworks. I kept on watching over my should, unfortunately none came on this occasion
Polynesian Spa:
Excellent thermal mineral spa centre, located on the shores of Lake Rotorua, recognised in the World’s Top Ten Spas by Conde Nast on a regular basis. They have numerous pools, ‘holes’ and spa’s located throughout the precinct, all with varying temperatures to cater to people of all tastes. It’s lovely to just jump from one to the other, while being outdoors and enjoying the stars above…
Kawarau Jet:
For the more adrenaline inclined, the jet boat experience awaits. Learn the history of Sulphur Point, hear about the mystical Mokoia Island and finish the tour with a stunning walk to the origin of Hamurana Spring, passing through a massive stand of Californian Reds.
Mitai Maori Village:
Here I experienced a traditional Hangi and Maori concert. Food cooked in the earth for several hours that tasted delicious. The Maori concert, wasn’t just sit down and listen to a performance, it was actually quite involved. I was chosen as the chief of my tribe, which contained some 60-70 people and we all were engaged within the ceremony in one way or another. A wonderful opportunity to get up close with the performers, where I truly felt part of the show.
That’s one thing I must commend the Kiwi’s on, their Maori performances come straight from the heart, brimming with their culture, that all of them are truly proud of and very happy to share with everyone… an experience that touched everyone in the audience, one that will stay with me for a long time. Well recommended.
Waitomo Caves:
Beautiful limestone and glow worm caves, where one can do a passive walking and gentle boat tour through part of the cave system or engage in black water rafting, on a rubber tube. A must see in this region, for people of all shapes, ages and sizes…