Category Archives: New Zealand

All You Need to Know about Christchurch – the Largest City in New Zealand’s South Island

The newest city in the world and one of the most unique tourist attractions in New Zealand, Christchurch is where you can discover a fine combination of rich history, a bustling hospitality scene, entertainment venues, shopping extravaganza and fun-packed tours. Also called the “Garden City”, the South Island’s largest city draws the attention of travellers with its matchless beauty and exquisiteness.

Christchurch Here’s a look at what a holiday-maker must explore during a visit to Christchurch:

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

A place where beauty has no boundaries, Christchurch Botanic Gardens are a true delight for those who seek peace amidst nature. Founded in 1863 and much-loved by all sorts of tourists, it is just a perfect spot for picnicking with family and friends. What adds to the beauty of the garden is its glorious collection of the spring drifts of daffodils, summer roses, autumn leaf displays and cosy conservatories. A number of events too take place in the garden and it opens daily at 7 in the morning.

Orana Wildlife Park

If wildlife thrills your senses, Orana Wildlife Park is the place for you! It is the only open range zoo in New Zealand located on the outskirts of Christchurch. Home to the New Zealand’s only gorillas, this place draws the attention of a large number of tourists all throughout the year. You will also get to spot here animals and birds such as giraffe, white rhino and kiwi, and would love to hand feed giraffes and tigers. Guided tours with trained wildlife guides are available at the park that let you interact with various animals. One can also go for walkabout tours for a more fascinating experience.

Christchurch Canterbury Museum

Those who would be interested in discovering the rich cultural and natural heritage of the city can spend an ideal day at Canterbury Museum. The museum reflects the stories of Christchurch and Canterbury through its exclusive natural and human history collections in its beautiful stone building. There are more than 2.1 million items encircling Antarctic expeditions, Canterbury settlement, ethnology and natural history. Kids are certain to have a fun time at the Discovery. Besides, there is a cafe and a store to spend a relaxing time with your family and friends.

Victoria Clock Tower

Architecture and history lovers are certain to be in awe of the beauty of Victoria Clock Tower. Also known as the Diamond Jubilee Clock Tower, it is a heritage-registered clock tower that used to be a piece of Mountfort’s creative design for the Provincial Council Buildings. The tower is made of volcanic stone and limestone, and reflects the colonial ties between New Zealand and Britain. Visit here with your family and friends, and have an ideal day-out exploring the exquisiteness of the tower that has suffered severe damage due to an earthquake in 2011.

International Antarctic Centre

Located in the suburb of Harewood, Christchurch, International Antarctic Centre is an award-winning tourist attraction in New Zealand reflecting the wonder and spell of Antarctica. There is an array of experiences for all age groups in the form of various shows and activities including Penguin Feeding, Happy Feet, Beyond the Frozen Sunset, Ice Voyage, Husky Zone and Hagglund Rides. Foodies can treat themselves to a variety of handcrafted fresh delicacies here served at a cafe called ‘Priestley’s Antarctic Cafe’. It opens everyday from 9 AM to 5:30 PM.

Five of the Best Holiday Experiences in Auckland, New Zealand

Located in the north of New Zealand’s North Island, Auckland is a buzzing urban hub visited by a large number of tourists all throughout the year. Famed for its captivating historical museums, stunning high-rise buildings, public galleries and natural delights such as glistening Aucklandislands, crystal-clear beaches, wildlife reserves and an array of cruising options and adventure sports, the city offers a lot to do and see for visitors of all sorts. Here’s the list of some top experiences in the city:

Auckland Harbour Dinner Cruise

One of the major draws of the city, this 2.5-hour sailboat cruise on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour takes you through the stunning sights of Auckland. Visitors are served with a three-course meal during the cruise; they can choose between dining in the downstairs cabin or on deck to take in fascinating sights of the harbour. There’ll be a knowledgeable captain to share a lot of interesting information about the harbour and its history. Visitors can also have a wonderful time here steering the boat and helping the crew to hoist the sails.

Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb

If adventure is your thing, this should definitely be on your list! It is a fully-guided tour that takes you right to the top of the bridge giving a 360 degree view of Auckland. Participants are accompanied by a professional guide who helps them walk safely on a specially engineered catwalk. While you get to learn a lot about the bridge and spot Waitemata Harbour, Sky Tower, and other attractions through the walk, the last stop is a bungee jumping site, one of the thrilling spots in the city where you can take the plunge from and indulge in the lifetime thrilling experience of bungee jumping. You are provided with office lockers to keep your belongings before embarking on the adventure.

Auckland Discovery City Tour

A visit to the city is not complete without this half-day city tour. You can discover the best in the city on this tour; ranging from the stunning sights of yachts in the harbour to heritage listed buildings to the most iconic views over the city. Auckland Domain and a village of Parnell are a few of the highlights. You would also love to taste the different varieties of wines from popular wineries such as The Goldie Room Mudbrick and Te Whau, have a lunch on the Pride of Auckland yacht, and enjoy various cultural performances and much more during the tour.

Kayaking – Okahu Bay

Okahu Bay, a small sandy beach off Tamaki Drive is counted among the best places offering wonderful kayaking opportunities in the region. Be it the amateurs or the professionals, this is an ideal place for all to experience the thrill of kayaking. Besides kayaking, you can spend a perfect day here discovering the well-known Mission and St Heliers bays, and a number of cafes and restaurants along the coasts. You can also hire a boat for an individual experience.

Horse Riding on Muriwai Beach

With sparkling black sands and large colonies of gannets, Muriwai Beach is a stunning beach located in the west coast of the Auckland region. The beach is renowned for its wonderful horse-riding opportunities suitable for all, from casual riders to complete beginners to those a bit more experienced adventurers. The rides are held all throughout the week from morning to evening; and the horses here are totally kid friendly, making it an ideal family activity.

 

Where to Go for Camping on South Island, New Zealand

With diverse scenery scattered all around, New Zealand is one of the world’s best countries for camping! Holiday-makers from different parts of the world visit here all year round for a road Campstripping adventure as well as for camping under the dark blue sky in the magnificent wilderness. There are hundreds of campsites in the most beautiful parts of the country; here is the list of some of the most popular campsites on South Island of the country:

Marahau Beach Camp

Just a few steps from Marahau Beach, this camp is an exciting place to spend an adventurous time. With sheltered sunny campsites, cabins and a backpacker lodge – an individual well-furnished accommodation, the camp ensures comfort and convenience for all. It is a hygienic and quiet place that offers a car parking space with all five cabins. While the backpacker lodge is ideal for solo travellers, it’s also available for large families. The camp is provided with facilities and amenities like kitchen, laundry, showers, kids play area, BBQs, and wireless internet.

Pelorus Bridge Campground

Situated on the banks of the well-known Pelorus River, Pelorus Bridge Campground is a true marvel! The camp is fully-serviced with community kitchen, hot showers, clothes washer and dryer, a shop and a cafe. You can choose from the powered and the non-powered sites as per your requirement. This place is just perfect for avid swimmers; they can dive into the river flowing near the camp. Besides, adventure enthusiasts would love to take walks on the trails and discover the beauty of nature. We strongly recommend you to make advance bookings.

Punakaiki Beach Camp

Punakaiki Beach Camp also comes with two types of sites – powered and non-powered. Situated next to the beach and surrounded by native flora and majestic limestone cliffs, the camps here are a treat to stay at. There are 30 spacious as well as picturesque powered sites provided with dump station facilities. Besides, tourists get more options on where to camp for non-powered sites. They can choose from the ones next to a beach or from those with kid-centric attractions. Adventurers can indulge in exciting activities like walking, climbing as well as fishing.

Kina Beach Reserve

Lying on the foreshore at Kina Beach –a few kilometres from State Highway 60 at Tasman, Kina Beach Reserve is a captivating place to discover nature. Set by the crystal-clear waters, this reserve can be split into two zones – day area and camping area. Camping is permitted on the reserve; however, tourists cannot stay beyond four days at a stretch. The camps are well-provided with the facilities like barbeque areas and toilets.

Greynes Shelter Campground

Situated a few kilometres from Arthur’s Pass Village, Greynes Shelter Campground is an unpretentious campground comprising a lawn that surrounds a semi-circular gravel driveway off State Highway 73. The campground has an open lush green area and a small stone shelter with three walls, benches and a fireplace. Tourists love to spend a cosy time around the fireplace during cold evenings. The campground has a washroom in one corner. One must keep in mind that the campground does not have the availability of drinking water.

Visit Hamilton to Explore the World-class Natural Beauty of New Zealand

Located in the North Island of New Zealand, Hamilton is a beautiful place known all over the world for its rich history, warm and welcoming spirit and contrasting splendours.

Hamilton New ZealandIt is the largest inland city of New Zealand that straddles the superb Waikato River and thus, comprises an array of picturesque natural delights.

HamiltonHere we’ve collected some prominent natural attractions of Hamilton.

Hamilton Gardens

Spread over 50 hectares southeast of the city centre, Hamilton Gardens are run by the Hamilton City Council in New Zealand and are a sight to behold. Consisting of a large park, restaurant, cafe and extravagant themed enclosed gardens, this place is an ideal escape for travellers of all age groups. With Maori as well as Japanese influences in their style of construction, the gardens appeal to art and architecture lovers from different parts of the world.

Waitomo Caves

Lying under the green hills of Waitomo – a village on the North Island, Waitomo Caves are visited by nature enthusiasts flying in to New Zealand from all across the globe. The caves have thousands of glow worms that lighten up the aura entirely. Visitors will find a number of small waterfalls and limestone formations within the caves that capture the attention with their matchless beauty. The easiest way to discover the caves is with a walking or boat tour.

Hamilton Zoo

The largest zoo in the North Island of New Zealand, Hamilton Zoo is a wonderful wildlife spot with more than 600 native and exotic animals. Set amidst 25 hectares of lush and tranquil surroundings, the island ensures an ideal time with the largest walk-through aviary in New Zealand dedicated to native birds and plants. You can also explore some scenic picnic areas, an al fresco dining area and an on-site cafe within the park.

Parana Park

With a unique Kowhai theme, Parana Park draws the attention of nature lovers from all around. There are many wonderful walking paths to discover that offer stunning views of the Waikato River. The park comprises interactive bird sculptures and water features ensuring a perfect picnic time for all age groups. Besides, there is a playground area and a water park within the park where kids can have an ideal fun time.

Waikato Museum

A regional museum that captures the attention of history, architecture as well as nature lovers, Waikato Museum is one of the major draws of Hamilton. Visitors can have an insight into the arts and culture of the region through exciting exhibitions and activities here. There is a gallery within the museum presenting an array of tour exhibitions and a varied and interesting permanent collection of artwork by famed New Zealand and regional artists. Surrounded by various natural delights, the museum promises a perfect picnic time for visitors.

Top Five Ways to Admire Nature in Dunedin, New Zealand

Dunedin

Marked by verdant natural spaces, giant mountains, cascading waterfalls and a rugged coastline, Dunedin, the seventh largest city in New Zealand is for a tryst with nature more than anything else.
Here are top five ways of admiring the Mother Nature’s bounty in beautiful city:

Admire the Moeraki Boulders

The large and spherical boulders scattered across a stretch of sandy Koekohe Beach on the Otago coast of New Zealand between Moeraki and Hampden lure a lot of tourists from far and wide. Easily accessible on a side trip from Dunedin, the Moeraki Boulders are magnificent to look at, especially around the sunrise and sunset, when they assume an orange glow. When you visit here, stop by the popular Fleurs restaurant, located in a nearby fishing village. The restaurant is popular for its fresh seafood and for offering a stunning view of the nearby area.

Ride the Taieri Gorge Railway

Now known as The Dunedin Railways, this scenic train journey takes you through Central Otago Hinterland and up the rugged Otago Coast north of Dunedin. Negotiating a stunning diversity of landscapes along the mesmerising river gorge, the Dunedin Railways covers a total journey of sixty kilometres. One of the highlights of your journey will be crossing the Taeiri River Gorge’s hand dug tunnels.

Rejuvenate at the Tunnel Beach

Surrounded by majestic cliffs and headlands, the Tunnel Beach derives its name from the hand-carved rock tunnel that visitors are required to cross to access this stunning beach. Built in 1870’s, the tunnel hides the beach away, to be accessed only by the curious amongst tourists. The 7.5 kilometres long beach has seashells scattered all along its length. The waterfalls gushing onto the beach from huge cliffs makes for a dramatic background. You laze around here for hours without spotting a single soul or attempt rock climbing up the huge rocks. The beach is best visited during a low tide.

Visit the Larnach Castle

Ensconcing along the stunning Otago Peninsula, the Larnach Castle was New Zealand’s only castle until the opening of Riverstone Castle near Oamaru. Built in 1871 by entrepreneur and politician William Larnach for his wife Eliza, the castle is a brilliant specimen of ancient architecture. Now owned by one Barker family, the castle is a popular choice for local weddings and dance balls. A major highlight of the castle for locals and visitors are lush castle grounds that are open for family picnics all year around at a nominal price.

Take a Stroll in the Glenfalloch Garden

Secured by Otago Peninsula Trust, the Glenfalloch Garden provide for a serene and green escape in the Dunedin. Along with the picturesque harbour views, visitors can enjoy a stroll amongst native flower species, including rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, fuchsias as well as native ferns, exotic imports and indigenous New Zealand trees. The garden can be visited in all four seasons as every season brings its own unique colours and fragrances. The Glenfalloch Restaurant, surrounded by a lush woodland garden, can be visited for an amazing dining experience centred on fresh local produce.

Best Rated Restaurants in Wellington, New Zealand

restaurant-bar

The capital of New Zealand, Wellington is famed for promising delicious gastronomic adventures to the patrons. Here’s a list of most popular restaurants located in the city.

Hippopotamus Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

Redefining your dining experience with its sophisticated decor, romantic ambience and spectacular location, Hippopotamus Restaurant & Cocktail Bar is a fabulous restaurant in Wellington.

restaubar

Featuring a classic food and exclusive drinks’ menu, this place is perfect for those willing to enjoy a quiet dinner with their loved ones. La Citrouille, Le Poisson Du J, La Tarte Tatin Revisitée, Le Choux Fleur and Le Potiron are few of the must try dishes here. Also, the vegan menu is quite an attraction at the restaurant.
Location: 90 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington

One80° Restaurant

Best to enjoy the amazing views of the city and its surrounding landscape, One80° Restaurant is one of the finest restaurants in Wellington. Offering a dedicated menu prepared using finest seasonal ingredients and authentic spices, food here is a big hit. Oyster Kilpatrick, Ora King Salmon, Slow Cooked Free Range Pork Belly, Preston’s Local Lamb, French Croque Monsieur, Kiwi Fresh Fush & Chups, Kapiti Kikorangi Blue, Japanese Tempura Prawns, and Wedges /with Bacon & Cheese and Italian Garlic Ciabatta are few of the specialities here.
Location: 100 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay, New Zealand

Ortega

Famed for its range of fish dishes and steaks, Ortega is a popular upscale restaurant in Wellington. Owing to its love for great food and wine, dining here is truly a special experience. Offering the rich taste of traditional flavours are popular dishes such as House Baked Sourdough Baguette, Twice Baked Three Cheese Soufflé, Honey-Roasted Courgettes, Organic Mixed Leaf Salad and Fennel and Mascarpone Risotto.
Location: 16 Majoribanks Street, Mt Victoria, Wellington

Boulcott Street Bistro Restaurant

Standing as a symbol of the city’s exceptional fine dining scene, Boulcott Street Bistro Restaurant is a must visit place for food lovers in Wellington. Famed for its traditional bistro dishes, amazing wines and a classic menu, this place is perfect to enjoy a lovely evening with your friends or family. Free Range Chicken Pot Pie, Char Grilled Reserve Range Sirloin, Ora King Salmon Gravlax & Rillette, Pan Fried Lambs Liver, Red Wine Braised Lamb Shank and Falafel Croquettes are few of the must try dishes here.
Location: 99 Boulcott Street, Wellington

Dragonfly

An ideal place to enjoy sumptuous range of gastronomic delicacies, Dragonfly is a popular Pan-Asian lounge in Wellington. Featuring a specialised menu comprising of different dishes prepared by chefs from across the world, food here is among the best in the city. Duck and Shiitake Spring Rolls, Smoked Organic Beancurd, Twice Cooked Pork Belly, Red Duck Curry, Ginger Chicken Dumplings, San Choi Bao and Steamed Prawn Shumai are few of the well-known dishes at the restaurant.
Location: 70 Courtenay Place, Wellington

Chameleon Restaurant

Offering the rich taste of traditional New Zealand cuisine, Chameleon Restaurant is yet another well-known fine dining site in Wellington. Featuring a dedicated menu packed with traditional dishes prepared by talented chefs like Paul Limacher and Edmond Weicherding, food served at Chameleon Restaurant is loved by all. Sour Dough Rolls, Chameleon Soup, Chicken Consommé, Seared Yellow Fin Tuna, Ponzu Cucumber Granite, Aged Beef Tenderloin W/ Black Garlic Mash and Provenance Lamb Rack are among the most served dishes at the restaurant. Also, there’s a special children’s menu available at the restaurant.
Location: 2 Grey Street Wellington

Monsoon Poon Wellington Restaurant

Spicing up Wellington’s culinary scene since 2001, Monsoon Poon Wellington Restaurant is a beautiful spot to enjoy the wonders of fine dining. Boasting a flavourful blend of different cuisines from across the world including Thai, Indian, Chinese and Indonesian, food here is truly diversified. Kung Pao Chicken Wings, Firecracker Sliders, Salmon Tartare, Peppered Squid, Thai Gulf Jumbo Prawns, Spice Grill Chicken Satay, Wok Lobster and Sticky Pork Belly are must try dishes at the restaurant. The restaurant has an ‘allergic menu’ as well.
Location: 12 Blair Street, Te Aro, Wellington

The Larder

A beautifully decorated restaurant serving a range of local gourmet delicacies, The Larder is surely a paradise for food lovers in Wellington. Known for its classic decor, dreamy ambience and a terrific menu, this place is perfect to savour both traditional and contemporary dishes in the city. We recommend Buttermilk Crepes with Poached Peach, Portobello Mushrooms on Toast, and Gremolata Crumbed Lamb’s Brain with Radicchio. Do check out the place’s wine collection.
Location: 133 Darlington Rd, Miramar, Wellington

Logan Brown Restaurant

Known for its classic decor and speciality dishes, Logan Brown restaurant is an attraction in itself among the food lovers. Opened in 1996, this place has evolved over the years in terms of style, food and dining trends. Besides the traditional delicacies, you will love the cocktails served here. A special menu is available on occasions and festivals.
Location: 192 Cuba Street, Corner of Cuba & Vivian Streets, Wellington

Top 10 Restaurants in New Zealand

Influenced by the Maori culture mainly and culinary traditions from North America, Southeast Asia and Pacific Rim, New Zealand cuisine is a gift for the food lovers. Whether it is the traditional Maori delicacies, seafood, desserts or candies, you can have it all in this country.

RestaurantThen you have all the wonderful wines of this beautiful nation. You can enjoy it all at some of New Zealand’s most popular restaurants that are scattered all over. Take a look!

Logan Brown Restaurant

Offering the rich and inspiring taste of authentic New Zealand cuisine, Logan Brown is one of the most popular restaurants in Wellington. Famed for its full menu of sizzling signature dishes such as seafood and steaks, this place is a must visit for an avid food lover. Rabbit & Pork Rillette, Horseradish & Green Apple, Horopito & Preserved Plum and Fresh Pressed Coconut Cream are just few of the must try dishes here. Also, make sure you try out the refreshing freshly-prepared wine at Logan Brown.

The French Cafe

Awarded for its service and decor, The French Cafe is a wonderful restaurant in Auckland. With a menu that includes rich gastronomic delights, it is a fine spot to enjoy a perfect evening with your loved ones. Raw Kingfish, smoked duck, organic lamb, butter poached crayfish and cured venison are few of the best dishes served at the cafe. Also, there’s a separate private dining area within the cafe.

Boulcott Street Bistro Restaurant

Serving some of the finest traditional and modern dishes from New Zealand, Boulcott Street Bistro Restaurant is a splendid upscale bistro in Wellington. Known for its freshest seasonal delicacies and contemporary flavours, this place is a big hit among the food lovers. Roasted Aubergine, Crème Brulée, Seared Lamb Loin, Aged Fillet of Beef, Roasted Aubergine and Pan Roasted Market Fish are among the popular dishes served here. A special selection of wine and cocktails surely adds to your dining experience.

The Grove Restaurant

Renowned for its world class cocktails and delicious food, The Grove Restaurant is a famous multi-cuisine eatery in New Zealand. Serving traditional New Zealand delicacies with a pinch of French Restaurantsflavours, the place has quite a following among the locals here. Crispy chicken skin, Black Périgord truffle and confit egg yolk are some of the must try dishes here. Wine tasting events, food festivals and other events are frequently held at the restaurant.

One80° Restaurant

A great spot to enjoy dining along with taking in extraordinary views of the surrounding landscape, One80° is a beautiful fine dining restaurant in Wellington. Featuring a range of exquisite dishes and traditional delicacies, this place is a perfect paradise for a true food lover. Pulled lamb shoulder filo, Ora King Salmon, Slow Cooked Free Range Pork Belly and Preston’s Local Lamb are among the must try dishes here.

Shed 5

Known for its freshest seafood and exclusive wines, Shed 5 is a premier restaurant in Wellington. With a menu that includes gluten free bread, oysters, sashimi salad, calamari salad, crab and lobster tian and whitebait, dining here is always a pleasant experience. The restaurant has a cellar bar that offers terrific wines and cocktails.

Emporium Eatery & Bar

Established in 1932, Emporium Eatery & Bar is one of the oldest restaurants in the city of Naples. Offering contemporary fine dining amidst picture perfect surroundings, this place is a popular attraction among those who like experimenting with different cuisines. Beef rendang, Maple almonds, Grilled beef fillet, fresh bay fish and organic chicken are some of the most ordered dishes here.

Pacifica Kaimoana Restaurant

Delighting its patrons with a wonderful dining experience and a romantic aura, Pacifica Kaimoana Restaurant is an ideal spot to enjoy traditional delicacies in New Zealand. Venison carpaccio, parmesan polenta, frozen lemon parfait, warmed kingfish, Steamed mussel and scallop mousse are the top highlights at Pacifica Kaimoana.

Fleurs Place

Known for its exquisite dining and unbeatable decor, Fleurs Place is another well known restaurant in New Zealand. Located on the harbour, this is a great spot to savour tantalizing local delicacies alongside enjoying the stunning surrounding vistas. Prepared using freshest local ingredients and natural spices, food especially seafood here is simply a delight.

Dutch Delight

One of the oldest Dutch restaurants in New Zealand, Dutch Delight is a popular dining place in Auckland. Famed for its delicious food and romantic ambience, the restaurant is a perfect place to enjoy some of the best Dutch delicacies. Do order the pancakes, poffertjes and broodje frikandel here.

7 Venues to Spot Native Birds and Animals in New Zealand

New Zealand is home to a variety of bird and animal species, some of them being endemic to the country. Adorned with rocky headlands, cascading waterfalls, idyllic beaches, rivers, lakes, forests and offshore sanctuary islands, New Zealand is a great place to spot colourful birds and interesting wildlife. Read on to know more!

New Zealand

Tiritiri Matangi Island

Translated as ‘Tossed by the Wind’, Tiritiri Matangi Island is one of the most successful and well implemented conservation projects in New Zealand.  Lying on the famous Hauraki Gulf Area, this island is home to different forest birds including kokako, rare takahe, North Island robin, stitchbird and saddleback. Apart from the birds, a population of reptiles and mammals like skinks, tuatara and geckos can also be found here. A regular ferry service is available from Auckland and Gulf Harbour to the island.

Orokonui Eco-Sanctuary

Protecting native birds, lizards and fishes behind its 9km pest exclusion fence, Orokonui Eco-Sanctuary is one of the recent additions to the list of sanctuaries in New Zealand. Called ‘Te Korowai o Mihiwaka’ in Maori, this place, located in central Dunedin, is famous for being home to a range of beautiful birds and reptiles including kaka, South Island robin, saddleback, kiwi, geckos, native bats, paradise ducks, pukeko and tuatara. The kiwi crèche located within the complex is a must visit attraction among the visitors. Along with the tours, special programmes, research exhibitions and other activities, you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming and other outdoor adventures on the beaches in the nearby areas.

Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari

Sanctuary Mountains is among the oldest recognised natural reserves in New Zealand. Situated only 15 minutes drive from downtown Hamilton; it hosts a wide population of birds, mammals, reptiles, fishes and plants. North Island Kaka, fantail, stitchbird, takahe, kakariki, whitehead, North Island robin, North Island Tomtit, Western North Island brown kiwi, parson’s bird and bellbird are few of the winged creatures that can be spotted in the sanctuary. Copper Skink, tuatara, forest gecko and hochstetter’s frog can also be found here.

Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park

Nestled amidst the stunning forests of Rotorua, the Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park is a beautiful and popular kiwi preservation park in New Zealand. Home to the native kiwi birds, 13 endemic animal and bird species and over 90 native plant species, this place is best to get up and close with these amazing creatures and get your dose of bird watching and wildlife encounters. Kiwi hatchery, kiwi enclosures, free-flight bird show and rides on the big splash are some of the popular attractions enjoyed by people of every age group visiting the park.

Ulva Island

Famed for its beaches, waterfalls, rivers, native forests and wetlands, Ulva Island is another well known attraction in New Zealand. Home to almost all forms of ecosystems, the island is home to a wide variety of birds including South Island saddleback, yellowhead, Stewart Island robin, southern brown kiwi, red-fronted parakeet, bellbird, fantail, grey warbler and rifleman. The endangered yellow-eyed penguin is a unique attraction on the island. Several guided nature walks, excursions and tours are available as per request. Apart from bird watching, you can have a great time at the beaches.

Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre

A breeding centre for some of the most threatened birds, Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre is a must visit attraction in New Zealand. Located in the north of Masterton, the centre is home to species of kaka, takahe, monster eels, saddlebacks, stitchbirds, kokako, North Island brown kiwis and blue ducks. Guided tours, exclusive behind the scene tours and overnight excursions are quite popular here. For those in love with nature and are willing to contribute towards its protection and preservation, volunteer programmes and donation events are organised.

Kapiti Island Natural Reserve

Located 50km north of Wellington, Kapiti Island remains a must visit in New Zealand for all birding enthusiasts. Featuring several ecosystems together and famed for its rich biodiversity, it is a natural habitat for few of the country’s endangered birds, animals and marine species including stitchbird, kokako, takahe, brown teal, saddleback, black shags, bellbird, brown kiwi, weka, red billed gulls, white fronted tern, reef heron and spotted shags. Overnight kiwi spotting tours, visits to the biosphere reserves, treks and hikes are enjoyed by the guests.

Cheers!! 5 Popular Breweries in New Zealand

new-zealand

With over 150 commercial breweries and traditional microbreweries, New Zealand could well be the emerging hub for the beer lovers from across the world. Here is a list of some of the country’s finest breweries, where you can enjoy the beer as well as a beer tour.

Speight’s Brewery

The biggest New Zealand brewery, Speight’s is also one of the most popular breweries in the country. Founded in 1876 by James Speight, this traditional brewery is home to several handcrafted beer, which are crafted using authentic, local flavours from across the country. Speight’s Gold Rush, Speight’s Gold Medal Ale, Speight’s Summer Lager, Speight’s Summit Citrus Lager, Speight’s Summit Apple Lager, Speight’s Mild Ale and Speight’s Malt Old Drunk are among the famous beer produced here. For beer lovers, summer tours, winter hours and guided excursions to the nearby cellar house are offered.

Monteith’s Brewery

Monteith’s Brewery produces some amazing handcrafted beer in New Zealand. Located in Greymouth, this popular beer house brews Celtic Beer, Golden Lager, Original Ale, Radler, Pointers Pale Ale, Summer Ale, Pilsner Beer, Radler Bier, New Zealand Lager, Summer Ale, Winter Ale, Bock Bier, Crushed Apple Cider and Crushed Pear Cider. A personalised 25-min guided tour around the brewery along with beer tasting is offered to the guests.

Epic Brewing Company

Located in Otahuhu town, Epic Brewing Company is a famous beer hub in New Zealand. It is awarded with several accolades including the 2011 BrewNZ Beer Awards, New Zealand International Beer Awards and Gold & Best in Class – 2011 BrewNZ Beer Awards. With over 51 different types of beer including Core Beer, Stone Hammer series, One Trick Pony series, House of Nicholas, and Collaboration beer, it is great place to learn about different kinds of beer served in and around the world. Beer tasting events, tours and guided excursions to the nearby cellar house are conducted regularly for the visitors. You can also buy souvenirs and gifts from the in-house shop.

Invercargill Brewery

Established by Steve Nally in the late 90’s, Invercargill Brewery is known for being home to a classic collection of handcrafted flavoured beer including a special seasonal collection. The Pitch Black, B.Man, Wasp, Stanley Green and Nally’s Dry Cider are among the famous drinks produced at the brewery. There’s also a 20 tap in-house cellar house on the premises. The place also hosts some good beer festivals.

McCashins Brewery

Headquartered in Nelson, McCashins Brewery is yet another thriving brewery in New Zealand. Beer lovers love this place as it features some of the most amazing, flavoured beer available in the city. Stoke Beer, in particular, is a big hit with the town folks and the visitors. It is prepared using natural ingredients and no added preservative is used. 2 Stoke, Lager, Pilsner, Gold, IPA, Amber and Dark Beer are other kinds brewed here. Along with enjoying brewery tours and sampling free beer, you can buy your choice of drink from the bottle store and bar.

5 of the Finest Holiday Destinations in New Zealand

Blessed with the best of nature, New Zealand is one of the most sought after travel destinations in the world.

New-Zealand

Located in the southwest Pacific Ocean, this popular Oceania country is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history and culture, and terrific wine! For those of you heading to this island paradise, here is a list of must visit destinations in New Zealand.

Hawke’s Bay

Home to a wide variety of red and white wines, Hawke’s Bay is no less than a paradise for wine lovers. Red Blends, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are among the popular wines available in the city. Guided tours to the nearby farms, wine tasting events and wine festivals are organised both within and outside the town.

Rotorua

Often known as the heartland of Maori culture, Rotorua is a beautiful city and apt place to enjoy the rich history and culture of the country. Visiting the authentic pre-European villages, learning about cave paintings, experiencing the traditional cooking methods, wearing the traditional village costumes and participating in the Maori singing and other cultural shows are the major draws for the tourists here.

Bay of Islands

A popular enclave consisting of more than 140 subtropical islets, Bay of Islands is much loved by the travellers. Featuring some of the most beautiful beaches, attractive corals along with offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape, the island is perfect spot for the ones looking for a serene beach holiday in New Zealand. A wide range of adrenalin-pumping adventure activities including snorkelling, deep sea diving and surfing can be enjoyed on the islands.

Queenstown

Located on the shores of South Island’s Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is easily one of the most popular adventure destinations in New Zealand. The resort town is best known for its unmatched beauty and thrilling adventure opportunities, such as kayaking, bungee jumping, jet boating, white-water rafting, hiking and skiing. The nearby Milford Sound, part of the Fjordland National Park World Heritage area is a nice spot for the ones who prefer a much quieter holiday adventure.

Kaikoura

A beautiful coastal town in South Island, Kaikoura is a place to enjoy the many wonders of Mother Nature! With different wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, the town is home to rich flora and fauna. In fact, Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to spot whales and dolphins.