Category Archives: New Zealand

Top three Things to do on Family Holiday to Christchurch

Top-three-Things-to-do-on-Family-Holiday-to-Christchurch

What makes a destination perfect for family holiday? Scenic sites, diversity of things to do, breathtakingly beautiful sceneries, lips smacking cuisine or lots of fun activities for kids? Christchurch has it all. From its magnificent gardens to jaw dropping views of hilly areas, Christchurch is one of the best family holiday destinations in New Zealand. The city has always been a prime attraction of New Zealand for its contrast culture and myriad of activities for entertainment. A family holiday to Christchurch is sure to give you a revitalizing experience that you will treasure. Though there are lots of places to visit and adventures to be a part of in this city, if you want to make the most of your trip and make it picture-perfect, there are few things in Christchurch which you should definitely not miss. Here are three of them.

Visit to Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Christchurch Botanic Gardens have a very significant place when it comes to best attractions in Christchurch. They are one of the prime reasons the city is called as ‘the garden city’. More than a million visitors visit the gardens every year. With its most exotic plants to some of the oldest trees in New Zealand, the gardens are perfect to spend an evening with family. Don’t forget to try the caterpillar ride.

Tour of the city by Garden City Helicopters

Looking at the city from above is a totally different experience and there is no better option than Garden City Helicopters (unless you have your own jet!) to have the best experience from the sky. You can choose wherever you would like to go and the widely trained operators will take you right there. Watching the breathtaking views of the city while you are relaxing with your family on a comfy seat is truly an amazing experience.

A Show at the Court Theatre

If you want your evening to be totally unforgettable and perfect, spend an evening in this theatre with your family. The Court Theatre has long been offering the highest quality entertainment for its visitors. Whether it’s a classic show of a love story or a beautifully played fairy tale for kids, The Court Theatre is sure to spellbind you!

Get Drenched in Some Thrilling Marine Activities in Kaikoura, New Zealand

Marine-Activities-in-Kaikoura

A small destination with its own attractive history and archaeological remains, the picturesque coastal town of Kaikoura is an ideal place for marine life encounters and coastal walks. The entire region acts as a strong base for different kinds of wildlife experiences including, a chance to watch whales, dolphins, sea-birds and many other species of marine life in their natural habitat. The list just not ends here, in fact there is plenty to choose from. The much popular crayfish surely spoils the travellers for choice no matter they eat in or dining out. Here’s a quick look on some of the most popular activities in Kaikoura which set holidaymakers on a mad scramble to grab air tickets aboard flights to New Zealand.

Dolphin Encounter

Swimming with or watching the dusky dolphins’ in an open ocean environment is certainly a dream come true for most travellers who wish to encounter with the nature very closely. Dolphin Encounter is a very popular tour at the shore in the ocean off Kaikoura with the highest chances of locating the marine mammals than anywhere in New Zealand. Holidaymakers can easily sight marine mammals and seabirds in their natural environment in pods numbering anywhere in between 100 to 1000. The enchanting and acrobatic dolphins in the ocean leave travellers gloating over their decision to book tickets on flights to New Zealand.

Whale Watching

Often famed as one of the best whale watching destinations in the world, Kaikoura is a perfect location to partake in an exciting up-close encounter with the world’s largest toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale. Flocked by tourists round the year, this famous town is gaining quick popularity not just amongst the adventure travellers but with the blasé souls as well. A typical whale watch tour may also include live encounter with New Zealand’s Fur Seals, Dusky dolphins and the endangered Wandering Albatross. The destination even attracts the largest concentration and variety of sea birds on mainland New Zealand that includes different species of Albatross, Petrel and Shearwater.

Bird Watching

Much popular for whales and dolphins, Kaikoura also provides a wonderful opportunity to view an impressive array of seabirds and most importantly the mighty Albatross. The town boasts a greater assortment of seabird species within a small area than anywhere along the New Zealand’s coastline making it the one of the most visited travel spot. The line encounter with Albatross enables the visitors to get up very close to the seabirds and thus allowing for some fantastic and incredible photo opportunities. A large array of petrels, shearwaters and much more can also be sighted at the shores.

Most Prominent Trails to Enjoy Mountain Biking in New Zealand

Most-Prominent-Trails-to-Enjoy-Mountain-Biking-in-New-Zealand

New Zealand is another name for adventure and thrill! Mountain biking is one activity that allows travellers to peep into the heart-pounding facet of this dazzling nation. Biking enthusiasts from across the globe plan holidays to the Kiwi Nation to ride their bikes through serene trails and experience the tranquillity of breathtaking natural surroundings. To explore the quintessential blend of nature and adventure, book flights to New Zealand and indulge in mountain biking at these trails.

Great Taste Trail

This is considered as one of the best mountain biking trails in the world. A ride through boardwalks located along the Waimea Estuary does not only allow bikers to admire the captivating beauty of unspoiled surroundings but also to take a look at popular bird species such as Royal Spoonbill and White Heron. This extensive trail is divided into six sections that are apt for venturesome travellers searching for tracks with intermediate difficulty level. While crossing through Rabbit Island, vacationers can enjoy boat trip to Mapua Wharf and travel to Motueka, an area dotted with renowned wineries.

Queenstown Bike Park

This park marks the adventurous streak of Queenstown, a NZ city known for its thrilling pursuits. This park is home to both easy as well as extreme trails offering a memorable experience to every biker. Travellers can opt for professional certified guides or coaches to enjoy a hassle free experience. Trail that winds through Ben Lomond Forest is considered as the most prominent one.

Otago Central Rail Trail

Biking lovers boarding flights to the kiwi nation cannot afford to miss out on visiting this trail which is the original ‘Great Ride’ in New Zealand. For history lovers this area offers an opportunity to dig the rich past of the country while cherishing the nature’s blessings here. While riding, one can explore various townships flaunting an astounding cultural aura of New Zealand. A spell at few townships allows you to find abandoned gold diggings. Central Otago features mountainous and rocky landscapes boasting tunnels and viaducts. Since this is one of the easiest trails to cover in the country, amateurs spending pounds on New Zealand bound flights love to add this highlight to their itineraries.

Top 3 Bungy Jumping Sites in New Zealand to Satiate Your Appetite for Adventure

Crazy, nerve-cracking and heart-chocking! It’s Bungy Jumping, we are talking about! And New Zealand is one of the best places on our earth to be a part of this exhilaration. Adventure seekers looking to add a travel experience full of delightful screams buy air tickets to fly to the Kiwi Nation and visit these cities and towns that are among the top notch bungy jumping sites in the world.

Bungy-Jumping

Queenstown

This panoramic town is home to Nevis Bungy, the highest in the Australasia and among the top places bungy jumping lovers must visit in their lifetime. It is located above gorgeous NevisRiver and thrill seekers get an opportunity to jump from a cable car that can accommodate six people. To be a jumper, you need to be over 13 and weigh at least 45kgs. Remember, weather here is quite different than the town. So, wearing warm clothes and carrying extra layers of clothes is always recommendable even if you are booking tickets to enjoy New Zealand summers.

Auckland

Auckland, the largest metropolitan region in New Zealand, is reputed for its adventure streak. This city is home to first ever harbour bridge jumping in the world which takes place at AucklandBridge. It features Bungy Pod, a specially constructed podium to take a heart-pounding plunge from the sky-piercing height. Highlight of bungy jumping here includes a rare chance to take a jump that offers a refreshing ocean dip! Adventurous souls as young as 10 years also partake in this activity and feel the adrenaline rush provided their weight is not less than 35kgs. Besides bungy jumping, this bridge is also known for Bridge Climbing that allows travellers to capture the breathtaking beauty of Auckland.

Taupo

This is another popular option among travellers spending pounds on air tickets to experience the thrill of water touch bungy in New Zealand. Honeymooners yearning to spend an adventure-filled-romantic-holiday in Kiwis can visit this heaven in NorthIsland and register for a couple jump. They can retain these astonishing moments in the form of photographs and videos.

No matter which city/town you opt for, it makes sense to inform the crew about medical conditions beforehand, if any.

Top 3 Summer Ski Resorts around the World for True Blue Skiers

It’s not just the white-sand beaches or cultural allures that tempt holidaymakers to spend on flights and hotels for a gratifying vacation. Skiing is perhaps one adventure activity that remains popular amongst skiers across the world including the UK. Though there are scores of idyllic destinations across the globe that are popular for skiing adventure, here’s a quick list of some of the world’s top summer ski resorts that offer perfect skiing conditions especially in the summer months.

Top-3-Summer-Ski-Resorts-around-the-World-for-True-Blue-Skiers

Treble Cone, New Zealand

One of the most favoured summer skiing destinations in New Zealand, Treble Cone is the largest ski area on the South Island that boasts the longest vertical drop of approximately 700m. This most celebrated backcountry resort is short drive away from Christchurch International Airport offering easy accessibility to the travellers disembarking New Zealand bound flights. Slaloms, table tops, jumps and miles of white terrain are few activities on offer for travellers visiting the place. This resort even organizes regular competitions for the adventurous skiers wishing their photos to be featured on major skiing websites.

Saas Fee, Switzerland

Located in southwest Switzerland, Saas Fee is home to the highest Allalin glacier which can only be reached using underground gondola. This popular summer skiing resort is crammed with distinct glacial activities which keeps the destination buzzing with travellers from different parts of the world. Saas Fee features blue rating slopes with a snow-park offering kickers, rails, boxes and a half-pipe. The park not only brings in much of the advanced and intermediate skiing enthusiasts but even boasts many training schools and slopes for training the beginners. Holidaymakers on a visit to the destination can also enjoy the live DJ and barbecue on offer that assure to deliver a gratifying holiday experience.

Las Lenas, Argentina

Adventure enthusiasts heading to Argentina in search of a perfect snowy vacation must ensure to visit Las Lenas. The resort is packed with a wide range of fun-filled snow activities that lures holidaymakers to book flights to the destination. Las Lenas is designated as one of the best skiing areas in the world featuring over 40 miles of pistils, perfect for the beginners. The expert skiers visiting the destination can take a ride on the Marte chairlift which offers a thrilling skiing experience. Over 150 ski-instructors are available for the tourists that help in getting through the different places and many guided tours are also on offer.

World’s Top Medical Tourism Destinations

World's-Top-Medical-Tourism

Medical tourism is a growing concept, especially among westerners who find the cost of medical facilities and cosmetic procedures a bit too steep back home. Take a look at top global destinations that are renowned for medical tourism.

India

India, with its all too well publicized poverty and social issues may not be the most likely place for sophisticated advanced treatments, but the country undoubtedly is the front runner when it comes to medical tourism. Top doctors and low costs are the biggest factors that drive people to the shores of this ancient country. The prevalent of English language in the country further drives Europeans and Americans to book their flights to India when there is a little ‘tweaking’ needed to the nose or chin!! Apart from cosmetic surgeries, eye treatments are very popular in the country.

Malaysia

Malaysia is a beautiful country and among the leading medical tourism destinations in the world. Penang, Malaysia’s beach resort town is famous for medical centers offering cosmetic surgeries. Breast augmentation is easily the most popular cosmetic surgery being sought in the area. So much so that even some travel and tour operators offer these surgeries in the flights and holiday package!! For more ‘serious’ medical procedures, Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur is the likely address. The natural surroundings and the refreshing milieu make the country a perfect option for post-surgery rehabilitation.

Iran

Iran is the blossoming destination for medical tourism. Plastic surgery is big in this country. Procedural costs are very low as compared to those in the west and this is the reason many of the westerners are often found seeking deals on flights to Iran.

Israel

Israel is another top contender when people look for places where they can have the best medical treatment. The country is known for its expertise in diverse fields, which range form cancer therapy to dermatological treatments.

Various Modes of Transfer Options from Christchurch International Airport

Various-Modes-of-Transfer-Options-from-Christchurch-International-Airport

The international airport of Christchurch is connected via many major airlines, which run flights to several destinations worldwide, including many places in the UK. Britons contemplating holidays at this Down Under destination and disembarking flights get myriad of options to get in to the city. Take a look at top transportations choices.

Taxi Services

Travellers landing on flights at the international terminal of Christchurch can hire chauffer driven taxis from the designated taxi ranks. Passengers can either head to the Regional Lounge or to the International Arrivals Hall and board taxis from the outside. Tourists disembarking flights at the international terminal of Christchurch can avail a Super Shuttle service by visiting Airport i-SITE team as well. The tariff may vary by taxi companies; hence, it is advisable to ask about the charges before boarding the cab.

Shuttles

Budget holidaymakers arriving on flights at Christchurch may find shuttle service a cheaper option than renting a cab. Shuttles offer a door-to-door service in and around Christchurch; however, you need to share the car or the van with other passengers and the shuttles may stop at various locations. Passengers can avail this service from Regional Lounge as well as from the northern end of the International Arrivals Hall.

Regional Transport

Another popular transportation mode for airport transfer is Regional Transportation System. There are various tour operates who serve transfer services on Christchurch Airport-South Island route. Ranging from lavish air-conditioned coaches to simple mini-vans – the vehicles provide a comfortable transfer experience to those travellers who land on flights at the terminal of the city. Tourists arriving on flights here can reserve these vehicles beforehand as well.

Rental Cars and Campervans

There are plenty of car hiring companies rolling out deals on car rental from the airport. Though holidaymakers can reserve cars and vans after landing on flights here, there is an option for pre-booking as well. Major Campervan brands are located near the domestic baggage reclaim area. AVIS, Hertz, Europcar are some of the big brands operating services in and around Christchurch from the terminal.

Auckland – A Glimpse at City’s Gourmet Secrets

Boasting abundance of natural wonders, awe-inspiring culture, gratifying shopping opportunities and countless of adventures, Auckland overwhelms one and all and has rightly been one of the reasons why tickets on New Zealand bound flights are so much sought after. Immersing into the city’s diverse dining scene is another prerogative which keeps epicureans pouring into this part of New Zealand like moths to a flame. Auckland, owing to its multi-cultural population, is a haven of a variety of delicacies and allows gourmets booking flights to sojourn here to dine to their hearts’ content. Here is a sneak peek into what has been cooking in this lively metropolis!

Auckland

Local Flavours

Ethnic New Zealand cuisines are now intemperately modified by Mediterranean and Asian methodologies and ingredients. Fish and chips and Pavlova are two icons amongst local delicacies and are sought after by most gourmets boarding flights to Auckland. Meat pies, cucumber sandwiches and custard squares are some other must-try dishes, which go well with cream tea, the signature Auckland drink, as well as other beverages. One can find a number of restaurants all across the city to enjoy such local flavours. Some favourite among them include Sky City Restaurant, De Post Belgian Beer Cafe and Three Lamps Bar and Eatery.

Street Food

Street food in Auckland is simply enthralling and is must-try by all making ticket reservation on flights for arriving here. From Chinese noodles to local muffins and Italian Pizzas to Indian sweets & snacks, there is all that available at street food stalls in Auckland. Take an evening off from shopping and sightseeing and just head to Auckland CBD where dining at street is a mesmeric treat for taste-buds and is a sure fire way to make the most of the monies spent on flights and holiday deals.

Chinese Cuisines

No matter whether you’re new to these globally acclaimed cuisines or are a fan already, Auckland is an excellent place to satiate your appetite to the core. Make your way to the Hees Garden Restaurant at the Mount Eden Road for delicious Chicken & Sweet Corn Soup or Spicy Spare Ribs. Chinese fried noodles and chilli crabs are other signature Auckland dishes which can be relished at many restaurants, the most popular being Bombay Chinese Indian Take Away at Dornwell Road.

New Zealand: Every Season Flaunts Its Own Splendour

Breathtaking surroundings, awe-inspiring cosmopolitan character and jaw dropping adventure summarize the magnificence of New Zealand, one of the most desirous tourist destinations in the world. The Kiwi Nation is among those holiday hotspots that see streams of visitors throughout the year. Read on to know for which season you should book flights landing in New Zealand to enjoy a vacation that you can call A Perfect Holiday!

New Zealand

Sizzling Summers
From December to February
Looking to enjoy Christmas under the sun? Buy tickets aboard New Zealand bound flights to spend the festive season away from chilling winds and without donning several layers of warm clothes. Culture vultures and foodies planning trip to this flamboyant nation during summers get a lifetime opportunity to be a part of world class food and wine events such as Wine Marlborough Festival and cultural fiestas like Te Matatini and Hokitika Driftwood & Sand Sculpture Festival.

Ardent Autumn
From March to May
Those who want to take a look at the hidden charms of New Zealand must consider seeking tickets on scheduled flights to visit the countryside and walk through the terrains that are dotted with traditional markets and vineyards during the autumn seasons. Besides walking, cycling and horseback riding could be your eccentric escape to soak in the magnificence of the country during the splendid autumn months. For swimming enthusiasts and dolphin lovers, this is the best time before snow to dive into the balmy waters and get up-close and personal with cute dolphins.

Wondrous Winters
From June to August
Winter is the time when New Zealand becomes the most felicitous playground for skiers and snowboarders craving to feel the thrill of sliding through pearly white snow at Southern Alps, Coronet Peak and Mount Ruapehu. Queenstown Winter Festival remains a must experience for amateurs as well as professional skiers. Epicureans purchasing tickets to enjoy their winters in the Kiwi nation can ill afford to overlook extravagant events such as Wellington on Plate and F.A.W.C!

Stimulating Spring
From September to November
Party animals! Pack your bags and book flights to New Zealand to enjoy spring season in an exclusively distinguished way. Since spring months feature nights that are longer than usual, you can experience the most dynamic time of the year. But it doesn’t mean that the daytime fun is not worth mentioning. Under the sun’s warmth, you may revive your relation with nature while feeling the freshness of garden festivals such as Taranaki Garden Spectacular and blossom festivals at Alexandra and Hastings.

Maori Festivals Gratifying the Cravings of Foodies in New Zealand!

New Zealand’s majestic mountains, black sand beaches, lush landscapes and rich wildlife redefine the natural exquisiteness and lend a new meaning to words like ‘Sublime’ and ‘Surreal’! Travellers book flights to experience the magnificence of the country’s tranquillity and also to feel the thrill of adventure activities. However, one aspect that brings numerous culture vultures to the country is Maori people, their traditions and lifestyle. Contemporary lifestyle of the nation is incomplete without defining old yet enchanting way of life of Maoris. Holidaymakers buying tickets to taste the richness of authentic New Zealand gastronomy should consider being part of notable Maori food festivals.

Kawhia Kai

The festival remains at the top of the minds of epicureans to savour the indigenous delicacies by booking cheap flights to New Zealand. Colloquially, the event is known as Kai Food Heaven where sumptuous menu highlights an array of mouth watering seafood dishes to satiate the taste buds of locals as well as tourists alike. Hangi Kai is a must-try speciality which is served in a hand woven basket. Travellers should check the availability of tickets arriving at RaglanAirport, which is around 30 kilometres from Kawhia, for the month of February. In 2014, the food fiesta is scheduled for the 8th day of the month.

Hokitika Wildfoods

This wild food festival entices foodies from around the world, with its servings made from herbs and spices taken from the wilderness of New Zealand. The annual festival starts spreading the aromas of plethora of unique fares on 8th March, 2014. Entry tickets will be available online from December 2013. Main highlights of its extensive menu are NZ Swamp Fowl, Muttonbird, Mountain Oysters and Wild Pork. Besides appetizing starters, meals and drinks, the festival also features variety of live shows and gigs to keep the momentum.

Maketu Kaimoana

Maketu, the pie capital of New Zealand, celebrates popular annual festival Kaimoana festival which represents Maori culture beyond seafood. Travellers’ spending money on tickets for flights to peep into the cultural sophistication of New Zealand must consider being part of this fest that is held in the month of March every year. Entertainment options at Kaimoana features numerous activities such as helicopter rides and wine tasting events in addition to astounding music and dance shows performed by popular Maori groups.