Beginner's Guide to New Zealand http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/ New Zealand en Copyright 2007 Thu, 03 Aug 2006 14:58:43 +0000 http://www.sixapart.com/movabletype/?v=3.35 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Farming Due to the large number of cities throughout the entire length of New Zealand, it is not a mainstream farming community with just 6% of arable land but a reasonable sum has been made for the local economy and mostly ground products are grown such as potatoes, vegetables but also wheat, barely and various dairy products and meats.

Out of all the economical factors throughout the country, only 10% of the annual income is due to the importing and exporting of agricultural produce but with the majority of areas being city based it is just one source of income that joins other more advanced industries.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-the-people-and-the-culture/farming.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-the-people-and-the-culture/farming.php New Zealand - The People and the Culture Fri, 26 May 2006 16:45:45 +0000 Religions New Zealand is one of many countries throughout the world that has more than a couple of different religions and these are quite equally split across the region.

The most common is Roman Catholic but the percentages do vary quite widely and you will come across a mixture of religions when visiting the local areas. 14.9% are Anglican which is closely followed by the widely followed Roman Catholic religion at 12.4%, Presbyterian 10.9%, Methodist just 2/9%, Pentecostal 1.7%, Baptist 1.3%, other Christian 9.4%, other 3.3%, unspecified 17.2% and the highest percentage of 26% is known not to be part of any religion.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-the-people-and-the-culture/religions.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-the-people-and-the-culture/religions.php New Zealand - The People and the Culture Fri, 26 May 2006 16:46:14 +0000 New Zealand - 3 Day Itinerary Overview The land of New Zealand has a lot of offer when you visit the area and whether you want to take part in some of the modern day culture by seeing some of many great art galleries in the capitol of New Zealand – Wellington or by taking in some of the natural beauty that can be seen throughout the northern and southern islands there is something for everyone to see and do no matter how long your vacation is, if anything you won’t have enough time to see everything on offer.

One place that has a feel of luxury and is ideal for a short or even longer break is a stay at the Chateau Marlborough hotel on the southern region of Blenheim. When you make the booking then you will have a choice of different suites which range from executive/honeymoon rooms, superior one bedroom suites and the simple yet equally pleasant studio suite. Upon your arrival you will receive a warm welcome with a complimentary drink at the hotel’s bar and this is a trend that will certainly continue throughout the length of your stay.

Rooms are spacious and with excellent detailed furnishings, this is where you can relax in comfort and all needs are catered for. Each suite comes with tea and coffee making facilities and it will have all basic but elegant amenities such as flat screen televisions offering Sky TV, stereo system and you will find there are good sized bathrooms and kitchens. Each suite will vary on what you decide to hire but either way it is suitable for couples or families alike, after one a long day of sightseeing then you can either have a swim in the outdoor pool (Marlborough has a long summer so you could even enjoy a twilight swim) or have a wonderful meal at the restaurant and lastly finishing it off with a drink from the hotel bar. Prices are available by request and you can direct any queries or even make a booking by contacting the hotel on + 64 (0)3 578 0064.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-3-day-itinerary/new-zealand-3-day-itinerary-overview.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-3-day-itinerary/new-zealand-3-day-itinerary-overview.php New Zealand - 3 Day Itinerary Fri, 26 May 2006 16:46:57 +0000 Day One If you cannot decide which island to visit then don’t despair because each island is connected together via the large iron bridge which creates easy access to both so you can explore both lands with relative ease.

• One part of the northern island that is screaming out to be visited is the Te Urewera National Park. It is the largest forest on the north island and you will find it to be one of the most beautiful and remote regions in New Zealand. It is the home of the Tuhoe people which were the area’s original Maori population known as the “Children of the Mist”. If you want to enjoy the natural beauty then the best area is Lake Waikaremoana, here you can take part in a large variety of water sports and fishing or one of the best walks along this area is the Waikaremoana track this 46 kilometre walk will take you through some of the natural landscape and you will come across some of the huts that home the Tuhoe people. After a hike and seeing the natural area on offer there are plenty of grassy areas when you can settle and have a pleasant family picnic.

After witnessing one of the most beautiful parts of the northern island then why not finish the evening off in a similar fashion, in a relaxing atmosphere yet a place where you can enjoy top cuisine for a great price.

The Aroy Dee restaurant can be found on Takapuna Beach – along the northern shores of Auckland. Here you will be treated to a great service and apart from outstanding cuisine, Aroy Dee can be found directly on The Promenade and is located opposite the Bruce Mason Centre (where before or after a meal you could enjoy an evening of traditional music and dancing). The restaurant has been named the winner of the North’s Shore City’s Food and Service Hygiene aware four times and each selection on the menu will be delicately prepared by award winning chefs.

The decoration may seem basic but most importantly it is clean and with it being fully licensed you can enjoy traditional Thai meals with a glass of wine or perhaps just a cool beer. On the menu there is a wide selection of meals which numbers about 80 and there is the benefit of Aroy Dee being an excellent family restaurant because you will find a separate children’s menu and if it is necessary, there is a vegetarian option as well so no one will be left out.

The menu has practically everything on the menu you would associate with a traditional Thai restaurant and with a variety of soups, stir-fry’s, seafood, salads and rice you can help feeling spoilt for choice and prices of reasonable because on average you can expect to spend around $8 for an entrée and main courses start from just under $20. The restaurant is appropriately open seven days a week from 5pm until late and in the evenings you will find that plenty of free parking is available. If you want to make a reservation to ensure you get a table on your chosen night then you can contact the restaurant on (09) 489 9211

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-3-day-itinerary/day-one.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-3-day-itinerary/day-one.php New Zealand - 3 Day Itinerary Fri, 26 May 2006 16:48:10 +0000 Day Two • On the last day of your vacation if you prefer to do a bit of shopping then it is well known that the northern shores of Auckland provide the best places to buy those bargains with the majority of major stores being located just 100 meters from the beach. The nearby Takapuna markets come highly recommended and from 6am to noon on a Sunday this is a particular favourite of visitors and locals because apart from common stalls selling clothes and other nic nacs, you will find many craft stalls offer some truly great traditional Maouri/New Zealand art.
• If you would prefer to visit one of several malls that are found in the area then you should stop off at the Milford Shopping Mall near Auckland and here you will find many high street shops under one roof with a small selection of restaurants and cafes to stop off at during your visit and in preparation for an afternoon of continued shopping or relaxing.

When the day is out then you may either decide to have a really extravagant meal or something a little bit simpler but either way, you can have this option with a number of great restaurants and cafés throughout the country.

One restaurant that is known for its high quality and is open to non guests on most evenings is The Esplanade Hotel restaurant. Located on the north shores of Auckland, you can enjoy this fully licensed restaurant with its Edwardian décor and authentic fire that will make you feel warmer on the coldest days. If you are visiting throughout the summer months then you will be treated to views of the harbour and surrounding waters whilst enjoying your meal. Prices are slightly more expensive than other restaurants throughout the area but the hotel guarantees the freshest ingredients and definitely the best seafood caught fresh from the nearby harbour.

Entrees range from about $7 or more and for a main course you can expect to spend around $24 each or more but with options like char grilled salmon and pan fried snapper in hollandaise sauce, it is not your average dining experience and don’t forget the wonderful views!

If this seems a little bit too much for you to handle and you would prefer something a bit more relaxing then why not stop off at the Shahi Café in Milford. It is known as a winner and was voted the best Indian Takeaway in 2003 however if you prefer then you can choose to eat in, the decoration is simple but the atmosphere is always bustling and you can be treated to some really outstanding cuisine.

The menu has a selection of around 30 dishes which can comprise of smaller or larger meals if you prefer but when you visit the Shahi Café, one thing is certain there is something for people of all ages. The Café does have a license to serve alcoholic beverages so whether you would like a nice glass of red or white wine or perhaps just a mineral water then you have every option available to you.

Entrees start from $7 and for main courses it is common to spend about $18 per head but you are getting some largest portions and if you are trying to watch what you eat, the freshest ingredients are used but many also meet the nutritional guidelines set down by the National Heart Foundation so apart from getting a typical curry it is also healthy. Reservations are accepted and you can contact the restaurant of +64 489 4798.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-3-day-itinerary/day-two.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-3-day-itinerary/day-two.php New Zealand - 3 Day Itinerary Fri, 26 May 2006 16:48:47 +0000 New Zealand - Week Long Itinerary Overview As a country New Zealand has the widest range of places to see and great attractions to enjoy so in terms of overall family enjoyment, this is one of the best choices you could make for your yearly vacation.

If you love the countryside then one place that comes highly recommended for a week long vacation is a stay at Kuline Cottage. Located on the beautiful Kaikoura Coast the cottage has the space to house up to four people and comprises of two bedrooms and one bathroom over 63 square meters.

When staying at the cottage you can enjoy a large number of views of the ocean, mountainside and countryside views but there is also the benefit of cultural areas being found close by and a variety of fishing, diving areas, golf courses and most importantly, just a short walk away from the beach.

The cottage is beautifully decorated and you will find many modern and essential appliances available in such as all the kitchen equipment and extra features such as DVD player, stereo/radio, all bed linen and DVD’s/music. Breakfast is not included in the price of the rental but for an extra cost this can be prepared for depending on what time of year you want to stay, the daily cost is around $300 for the whole cottage ($150 for one room) and a weekly cost can go up to $1000 but this will be during the main season (December – February)

If you have any queries or you would like to arrange a booking then you can contact the owners Mr and Mrs Cundall on +64 3 5758 911 within NZ (03) 5758 911.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary-overview.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary-overview.php New Zealand - Week Long Itinerary Fri, 26 May 2006 16:49:40 +0000 Day One • If you have time on your first day to fit in this attraction then many visitors like to take part in the Dart River Wilderness Jet boat adventure. The length of the tour lasts around 5 ½ hours and it begins with a 40 minute trip to Glenorchy where a local guide will take you down the vast river whilst enjoying the surrounding mountain peaks and here you will be told stories of the first settlers in the area. Once you head ashore then you have the change to take part in a guided bushwalk where you can learn more about the surrounding area and during all the excitement, you can enjoy a Stockman’s barbecue with traditional Billy Tea. To avoid disappointment, you need to book the trip at least 48 hours in advance and prices are excellent for all the history and facilities that are included, for adults $143 and for children $71.

After what certainly has been a busy yet enjoyable day then you should visit one of the most outstanding restaurants throughout the area and this is the Bisque on Bolton located in Wellington.

There is an extensive wine list available to accompany any meal and whether you prefer a traditional 3 course dinner or something from the a la carte menu. The menu for the restaurant has a variety of choices available, the highly recommended options include the Seared Salmon served with apple mash, mushroom mascarpone and spring onion cake and if you have room for dessert then you must try the white chocolate mousse served with prunes and sesame honey wafer. Prices range from $26 for an entrée and from $28 onwards for a main which despite its price is excellent value for money because you are getting quality with a generous portion. It is highly recommended that you book in advance and you can contact the restaurant on +64 4 472 9966.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/day-one.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/day-one.php New Zealand - Week Long Itinerary Fri, 26 May 2006 16:50:58 +0000 Day Two • If you want the ultimate trip to make your day in New Zealand really great then you must arrange a trip on the Seal Coast Safari. Here you can enjoy a ride in one of the 4WD trucks that will take you across the beach, over rocks and around the many bays and headlands in the area. After the 20 kilometre trip, you can enjoy greeting a colony of New Zealand seals in their natural habitat along the coastline near to the famous Leaning Lighthouse of Wellington. On the return journey then there is a short climb over a fault – line through a farm where you may come across some deer and possibly wild goats. You will be treated to beautiful views of the Pacific and Tasman oceans and some of the surrounding mountain ranges. Before the end of the tour, it involves a stop off at the Brooklyn Wind Turbine where you will be able to enjoy more views of the city, the harbour and surrounding countryside. The tour lasts just under 3 hours and for a cost of $69 adults and $35 children, you are getting excellent value for money for what is an area that is usually restricted and unseen by many visitors to the area. It is essential that you book ahead to avoid any unnecessary disappointment and you can contact the providers on +64 4 939 7839 or 0274 534 880.

Dining out in New Zealand offers many great experiences for you and it is very common to find that most restaurants within the country are of high quality and usually have won several awards. For an excellent evening meal then you must visit the Tables on the River restaurant in Waikato because while have a lovely meal you can enjoy the views from the balcony overlooking the Waikato River.

Tables on the River has been well known and rewarded for its excellent choices and preparation of meats on the menu along with the wine list and whilst everything on the menu is recommended, you must try the Citrus Honey Duck – this whole duck is marinated in orange and honey served on a bed and spinach with a kumara potato cake and served with a bitter orange sauce. For vegetarians, there is a separate menu to choose from and whilst the choice is not vast, there are a number of tasty options that don’t just involve salads. Prices range from just $7 for starters and can go up to around $40 for a main course but for one night, why not let your hair down? The restaurant is open from 11.30am Monday to Friday until late and on Saturday’s from 5.30pm, for larger parties there is a set menu in place so if you have any queries or you would like to make a reservation then you contact the restaurant on 07 839-6555.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/day-two.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/day-two.php New Zealand - Week Long Itinerary Fri, 26 May 2006 16:51:33 +0000 Day Three • There is no trip that can be completed without a visit to the Crystal Mountain museum. When arriving at the museum, you will be treated to the world’s best crystal mine museums with the largest collection of rare and beautiful crystals that have been imported and sourced from mines throughout New Zealand and the rest of the world. It is not just an interesting visit but also an education experience because there is a large collection of fossils dating back thousands of years and discovered from locations around the globe. If the children prefer something a little more lighthearted after browsing the museum then the small theme park within the grounds has a small farm where you can great many varieties of animals such as Llamas, Emus, Peacocks, Lambs and you can guarantee your children will love saying hello to the animals. Prices to the museum are available by request and you contact Crystal Mountain on 64 9 833 5033. After all the excitement then why not stop off at Café on The Rock where you have a choice of delicious meals which are created by the fully qualified Brazilian chef and you can enjoy traditional cuisine which is of top quality and for the little ones, there is a separate menu. Bookings are essential for the restaurant and should you wish to reserve a table then you can book a table/s online at http://www.crystalmountain.co.nz/Bookings.aspx.

The Blue Pepper Blues restaurant in Dunedin is an excellent choice for top cuisine and a great atmosphere. Firstly, the wine list is worth mentioning because with a selection of over 40 wines and champagnes, there is always something to accompany an outstanding meal. For larger parties, there are set menus but for a typical three course meal, you will be treated to a wide and varied choice of entrees, main courses, desserts and post meal coffees.


Prices for main courses range from $29 to around $33 and entrees or desserts averaging out at $13.50. There is such a vast menu it would be difficult to list them all but with choices like Pan seared beef sirloin served with black bean jus and honey roasted carrot and parsnip, this is just one suggestion of a great meal, there are many other great choices. Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant’s popularity and you can reserve a table by contacting + 64 3 4740973.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/day-three.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/day-three.php New Zealand - Week Long Itinerary Fri, 26 May 2006 16:52:03 +0000 Day Four • If you want to experience one of the ultimate adrenaline rushes and have a great time viewing the scenic mountainsides on offer then you must book a trip with Alpine and Heli mountain biking. The minimum age for this excursion is 13 years and over and the tour of the area begins with a breathtaking ride in a helicopter. You will be taken to some of the must beautiful treks with the average length being 20 kilometers and with the weather permitting, you can ride over some of the hard packed snowdrifts. It is important to allow at least 4 hours per trip and along the ride, you will enjoy stunning views of Lake Wanaka, Matukituki Valley and the Southern Alps. The ride is suitable for people of all biking abilities and a trip will cost $320 per person. Reservations are essential to avoid disappointment and you can contact the company on +64 34438943.

For an excellent service and great cuisine then you must pay at least one visit to Bistro 1284 located in Rotorua. This restaurant has won a wide array of awards that showcases its excellence and you can enjoy a wide range of food in its traditional yet friendly and intimate environment.

You can choose from a wide range of white/red wines or liqueurs and coffee whilst enjoying one of the interesting meals on the extensive menu and with options such as Grilled Squid and Asian Green salad for an entrée and chicken breast with mushroom and zucchini risotto with truffle butter with a choice of desserts for afterwards. Prices are excellent value for money with entrees starting from $15 and main courses ranging from $29 - $31 which for real chef quality in an award winning restaurant, you are getting a great meal for a good price. If you have any queries or you would like to make a reservation then you can contact the restaurant on 00 64 7 346 1284.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/day-four.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/day-four.php New Zealand - Week Long Itinerary Fri, 26 May 2006 16:52:40 +0000 Day Five • If you want to see the underwater world in a controlled environment then you must stop off at Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter Underwater World in Auckland. If you want to see the wonderful creatures that may the underwater kingdom great such as fish, sharks, penguins and many other interesting creatures then this is the place to go. Here you will learn more than what they eat, you will find out the difference they make to the planet and the areas they naturally reside in. After all that learning then you get the chance to watch the variety of animals throughout the aquarium being fed and it makes a different day out than your average aquarium, you and the family will all learn something new that you may have never known before. If after all that learning then why not stop off at the Refreshment Kiosk – next to the Stingray Bay where you can enjoy a fresh coffee or choice of cooked meals before carrying on your adventure. The underwater world is open from 9am to 6pm daily and for adults the cost is $26 and only $12 for children.
•
The Blue Rooster Café and Bar is located in North Canterbury and you can enjoy a place full of charm where it is known as the place to meet.

The restaurant is open from 8am until late on a daily basis and you can enjoy anything from a tantalizing lunch to a three course meal in the evening with wine and finished off with cheese and coffee. There are vegetarian options available and you will find a wide selection of entrees, main courses and desserts to suit all pockets. The fish of the day comes highly recommended and is served with a saffron and coconut cream broth on a bed of steamed coriander infused rice (which would go great with a glass of red or white wine from the fully licensed bar) for just $25.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/day-five.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary/day-five.php New Zealand - Week Long Itinerary Fri, 26 May 2006 16:53:14 +0000 New Zealand - The People and the Culture nzcult.jpg

New Zealand - The People and the Culture Overview

Culture

Languages

Economy

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/newbies-picks/new-zealand-the-people-and-the-culture.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/newbies-picks/new-zealand-the-people-and-the-culture.php Newbie's Picks Thu, 03 Aug 2006 14:50:39 +0000 New Zealand - Major Regions and Cities nzreg.jpg

New Zealand - Major Regions and Cities Overview

Auckland, South Island

Wellington, North Island

Bay of Islands

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/newbies-picks/new-zealand-major-regions-and-cities.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/newbies-picks/new-zealand-major-regions-and-cities.php Newbie's Picks Thu, 03 Aug 2006 14:52:47 +0000 New Zealand - Week Long Itinerary nziten.jpg

New Zealand - Week Long Itinerary Overview

Day One

Day Two

Day Three

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/newbies-picks/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/newbies-picks/new-zealand-week-long-itinerary.php Newbie's Picks Thu, 03 Aug 2006 14:56:48 +0000 New Zealand - Activities and Attractions auckla.jpg

New Zealand - Activities and Attractions Overview

Activities

Shopping

Museums

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/newbies-picks/new-zealand-activities-and-attractions.php http://beginnersguide.com/new-zealand/newbies-picks/new-zealand-activities-and-attractions.php Newbie's Picks Thu, 03 Aug 2006 14:58:43 +0000