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Pure Summer Fun in Northland

Summer’s here, giving us a perfect chance to explore the picturesque natural scenery of Northland. From the Bay of Islands on the eastern shores, to the Ninety Mile Beach to the west and the lush vineyards and world-renowned wineries to the north, New Zealand’s Northland will have kiwis pouring in from all around the country to experience the summer adventure of a lifetime.

And you want to be in the thick of it. Before we dive in, you’ll need three ingredients to make this adventure a success: passion, some cash, and a car. We’re sure you can figure out the first two yourself, and as for transportation, we suggest getting a free transfer car to take you from A to B with ease.

Explore Urupukapuka Island

First stop, Russell and then the island of Urupukapuka where Otehei Bay resides among other natural beauties. Mind you, you can spend days exploring Russel and the neighbouring Paihia, getting lost in their historic heritage and breathtaking sceneries. So don’t miss that, but don’t wander to far from your destination either.

Urupukapuka Island is home to numerous natural beauties, and it’s also a place to enjoy some peace and quiet on its golden sandy beaches. On the other hand, this is also a great place to partake in water sports, diving, snorkelling, kayaking, trekking, and more.

Pure Hedonism at Carrington Estate Winery

Ready to travel even further north? After several days of exploring the natural scenery, now’s the time to unwind (yet again) and enjoy some of life’s more refined pleasures. That means sipping fine wines and playing golf at the famous Carrington Estate.

The Carrington Estate is not only the perfect place to get hitched if the romantic ambiance should inspire you to do so, but it is also the place to spend your days exploring the lush, rolling vineyards and landscapes, or even marvel in their beauty from your bedroom window. If you have a significant other, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Enjoy Nature at Gumdiggers Park

Travelling west now, you next destination is Gumdiggers Park, home to all sorts of natural sights you don’t get to see every day. The park is actually a one hundred-year-old digging site now abandoned and turned into a true nature reserve, home to numerous native plants and wildlife.

The eco trail that takes you through the area is lush with unique greenery and you’ll even get the chance to meet and greet the friendly Northland Green Gecko.

Whole-day cruise to Poor Knights Islands

Now we’re heading down to Whananaki and the famous Sandy Bay to catch a ferry to the Poor Nights Islands and the neighbouring archipelago. This is the place for all of you adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies looking to cash in on the excitement of coastal cruises, diving, snorkelling, kayaking, beach parties, and plenty more. If adventure is what you crave, this is definitely the place to be.

Chill out at the Ninety Mile Beach

On the western stretch of Northland, the famous Ninety Mile Beach awaits with its golden sands, mesmerising sunsets, and life-changing surfing opportunities – a true paradise for all adventurers. Not only is this iconic place perfect for making lifelong memories, but it’s also the place to take your significant other and capture the photos you’ll cherish forever, so don’t forget your camera.

Cruise around the Bay of Islands

Finally, it’s time to end this summer adventure with an exploration journey around the Bay of Islands. This time, you’ll be stopping by to adventure in the Moturua, Moturoa, Motuarohia, Okahu, and Waewaetorea islands, and every other small spot of land in between. You can begin your excursion from Paihia, where you can rent a boat or join one of many daily cruises.

Northland is the perfect place to spend your summer exploring the wildlife and natural wonders, dinning in world-renowned gourmet establishments, lodging in quaint villages overlooking the ocean, and partaking in adrenaline-filled water sports. Well, what are you waiting for?

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Wallet-friendly ways to explore Adelaide’s Culture this Spring

Adelaide is slowly but steadily becoming one of those cities that world travellers put on their maps as a must-see place, and rightfully so, as it’s beautiful architecture, vibrant lifestyle and breathtaking natural scenery make it one of the best spring escapades you can make in the Land Down Under.

And if you don’t have excessive amounts of money on you disposal – don’t worry, nobody expects you to bust the bank in order to experience the best this city has to offer. We’re going to run you through the most unique and rewarding spots, either affordable or absolutely free, that you simply have to visit during your stay.

Pizza Tasting in Adelaide Hills

Are you a pizza lover? Of course you are, everybody is. The best pizza place by far is located in Adelaide Hills, a gorgeous gourmet restaurant called Lost In A Forest. Now, this place is not what you would typically call cheap, so it’s best if you bring a group of friends with you, believe me, it’s worth it, as you’re destined to fall in love with the ambiance and more importantly, their world-class cuisine.

Some Serious Comedy

Having a few laughs and a pint of beer has never been easier. Actually, scratch that, this is the place to have the laugh of your life, as local and international comedians work their magic to tickle your funny bone until you burst out in tears. The Rhino Room is a definite stop for all of you looking to make lifelong memories.

Find the Best Grub

There are two ways you can try out the best local grub on a budget: by going to the Adelaide Central Market or by taking a Feast on Foot walking food tour. Your choice, the difference is that with the former you’ll work your way around different stalls of fresh local produce, tasting and mixing anything you please, while the latter will take you on a professional, guided tour around the town. The former can be cheaper, as well.

Soak in the Sunshine

When in Adelaide, it would be a shame no to bask in the warm sunshine surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the city’s coastline. Be sure to visit the famous Horseshoe Bay as well as Port Noarlunga, where surfing and sightseeing opportunities await. Oh, and this is where everyone goes to have some beachside fun so you’re bound to end up at a party here somewhere.

Beware of the Dog

Located at 63 Hyde St in the heart of the city, the retro style blues and whisky joint called Baddog awaits your sweet inebriation. There is only one rule though: you can come in only if the light outside is on. This one is a secluded gem of the city even many locals are unaware of so make sure you pay the bartender a visit during on your trip.

Karaoke in Gouger St

Finally, you can’t really say you’ve on a trip without properly embarrassing yourself and ideally recording it for the Facebook and Instagram archives. Fret not, I’ve got you covered, as the stretch of bars and karaoke joints in Gouger St in Chinatown is bound to make you have time of your life when exploring the vibrant Adelaide nightlife. Do drink responsibly, and be sure someone films your performance.

Adelaide is beautiful in springtime, and this is definitely one of the destinations we would recommend for a memorable getaway and a change of scenery without busting the proverbial bank. Be sure to grab yourself some cheap transportation such as a free transfer car to explore this marvellous city at your convenience.

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Exploring the Wonders of the Great Tropical Drive

Springtime is finally upon us and the time is better than ever to plan your very own escapade into the rich natural wonders of Australia. Fortunately, you are not left to dwell in the realm of uncertainty, as we’ll be taking you through some of the most magnificent drives, routes and destinations on this adventure.

Here are the wonders of the Great Tropical Drive you must work into your itinerary this season. Mind you, Queensland is a vast country, so you’ll need reliable transportation, as a free transfer car, to move around like we did. Let’s get down to it.

Great Barrier Reef Drive

Your journey begins at Cairns and takes you up north along the bath of the coastal drive all the way to Port Douglas and the famous Great Barrier Reef. You’ll pass through some amazing places and gems of mother nature such as Trinity Beach, Palm Cove and the breathtaking Ellis Beach, with wonderful diving opportunities waiting for you at the Reef itself from Port Douglas.

Palm Cove to Port Douglas

Be sure to make a stop at Palm Cove on your exploration route to Port Douglas, and even spend the night in a charming, quaint environment overlooking the breathtaking golden beachside scenery and the Double Island. The Town is perfect for a romantic getaway and staying at the Palm Cove Tropic Apartments imposes itself as a logical choice to this end.

Port Douglas to Daintree Village

Next stop on your adventure: the amazing Daintree Village. Here you’ll get the chance to learn about aboriginal culture of the Kuku Yalanji tribe who have preserved their history and identity to this very day. When heading to the Daintree National Park, be sure to stop at the freshwater swimming holes at Mossman Gorge.

Daintree Village to Cape Tribulation

Just a one-and-a-half hour drive to the north lies your next stop, Cape Tribulation, a remote coastal area within Daintree National Park. There are numerous activities waiting for you here, from boat tours to the Great Barrier Reef to trekking trails to Mount Sorrow. For those of you in need of a little adrenaline boost, be sure to head out to one of the numerous zip lining spots in the area.

Cooktown

Heading further up north, you will find the quaint, stunning countryside surrounding the ever-charming Cooktown. From here, you can venture back through time into the colonial days and the ancient aboriginal cultures of the region, as well. Explore the town by visiting the statue of Captain James Cook, as well as the numerous historic buildings and museums where tales of different indigenous cultures await.

Tully to Mission Beach

The next part of the adventure will take you south to a small town of Tully, situated in the Cassowary Coast Region. Here you will have the chance to unpack for a while at Beds on Bryant, as you will be exploring the Mount Mackay National Park to the east, and the Tully National Park to the west, before heading out to greet the small town of Mission Beach and its magnificent beaches and lookouts.

Paluma

Further down south lies the Paluma Range National Park, from where you will be able to visit the city of Townsville, and even spend a couple of days exploring the urban area. While at Paluma, be sure to visit the breathtaking sceneries of Jourama Falls, Crystal Creek and Lake Paluma itself.

Kirrama Range Road

Your last, and probably one of the most impressive destinations on this adventure, is the Blencoe Falls located in the Girrngun National Park, accessed via Kirrama Range Road. This is truly a unique wildlife experience, as you will be staying at the Blencoe Falls Camping Area, from where you can trek your way to the famous Blencoe Fall Lookout. Don’t forget your camera and your camping equipment (or even rent a free campervan, for that matter).

Springtime is the time to be travelling and exploring the vastness of the Great Tropical Drive. We have listed some of the spots on this immense route, but you are bound to make many other exciting discoveries along the way.

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The Most Exciting Events to Enjoy in New Zealand This Spring

The winter is over, and so with the warmer weather come all of the exciting festivities that will grace every part of New Zealand this spring. Every spring, NZ is host to hundreds of festivals, local gatherings, art installations, foodie events and many, more that will offer you loads of fun and enjoyment. Here’s our pick of the most exciting attractions during this festive season.

Nelson Arts Festival, 11 – 27 October, 2017

Starting at the northern part of the South Island, the Nelson Arts Festival in Nelson hosts numerous performers and art programmes, from theatre plays to concerts and dance spectacles all the way to visual installations and plenty more. Be sure to book your tickets in advance because many of the programmes can be sold out for weeks prior to the opening.

Aoraki Mackenzie Starlight Festival, 13 – 15 October, 2017

While recovering from the spectacles at Nelson, be sure to venture a bit south to visit the Starlight Festival at The Hermitage where you will get the chance to witness everything from scientific lectures to concerts and photographic exhibitions. You can find your tickets at the festival’s official website. If you’re anything resembling a space nut, this is the event for you!

Auckland Diwali Festival, 14 – 15 October, 2017

Travelling to the North Island, the city of Auckland will welcome you to its Diwali Festival at the Aotea Square. This festival is all about Indian culture, imbuing your mind, body and soul with the colours, aromas, sights and sounds of this rich and ancient civilisation. The festival lasts only two days though, so be sure not to miss it.

Queenstown Jazz Festival, 20 – 23 October, 2017

Time to hurry back south again to Queenstown for the Jazz spectacle of the year. Fortunately, you’ve got plenty of time to get here from Auckland. Entering its 40th year, the festival hosts more than 150 musicians from across the globe. And you want to find yourself in the middle of it all, surrounding by timeless tunes and wild times.

The New Zealand Cider Festival, 4 November 2017

Okay, you’ve had your break, time to get back on the road to Nelson, where you’ll get the chance get responsibly plastered at the NZ Cider Festival located at Nelson’s Founders Heritage Park. Not only will you be trying the latest cider crafting accomplishments from national and international artisans, but you will also be enjoying fine dining and entertainment in a more casual setting.

FAWC! Food and Wine Classic, 3 – 12 November, 2017

As if the sheer beauty of Hawke’s Bay isn’t enough to visit the region this spring, they had to put a foodie festival there to make sure you absolutely wouldn’t skip making this trip. Situated amidst the stunning natural scenery of Hawke’s Bay, the festival hosts culinary masters from around the country, as well as numerous connoisseurs and winemakers from around the world.

Sculpture on the Peninsula, 10 – 12 November, 2017

You weren’t planning to spend nine days eating fine food and drinking wine, did you? Better cut the trip at least one day short, because back in the South Island, the Sculpture on the Peninsula exhibition taking place in Christchurch and is an absolute must-see. This is the largest sculpture exhibition in NZ, and you will get the chance to support various charities by purchasing some of the artwork.

Tarawera Trail Marathon & 50K, 11 November, 2017

Feeling like going for a run? The North Island Tarawera Trail Marathon & 50K kicks off this season in the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley and finishes at Mt Tarawera. The reward? Soaking in the natural, heated geothermal waters of the area – there’s nothing quite like it and it’s an excellent way to end your spring adventure.

As you can see, there are plenty of amazing events to be witnessed in New Zealand this spring. We suggest leaving your car back home and grabbing a reliable free transfer car in order to navigate between destinations with ease.

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The Best Spots NZ has to offer to Fishing Aficionados

Fishing – an ancient skill that has long since become one of the most popular pastimes around the world. There is nothing quite like opening a cold one and imbuing yourself with the natural wonders while you patiently wait for the catch of the day, and in my case, taking photos of the magnificent scenery.

New Zealand is a vast country, with numerous popular as well as secluded fishing spots to appeal to your senses, and today I’m going to share with you the fishing regions I found to be the worthiest of exploration. Mind you, they are not necessarily close to each other, so you will need personal transportation, as a free transfer car. Let’s dive right in.

West Coast

If you are looking to start your fishing expedition, spring is the perfect time to set sail, as the entire west coast of the South Island becomes whitebait country. Be sure to bring a net because whitebait is plentiful from September to the end of November.

There are numerous lodging options here, and you can find affordable accommodation wherever you end up casting your net. I stayed at the amazing Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki from where I roamed the coastline.

Otago

Now, Otago is quite a big region, and it would be a shame if you were to skip the sightseeing or exploration opportunities. Be sure to devote plenty of time for this fishing excursion, as there are numerous lakes and rivers rich with brown trout just waiting for you to cast bait.

I decided to lodge at the affordable Clutha Gold Cottages as this location gave me the opportunity to go fishing up and down the rich Clutha River. Be sure to take your car up to Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea, as well!

Canterbury

From Otago, naturally, I took the road to the breathtaking scenery that awaited me at Canterbury, a region riddled with fly-fishing opportunities on the banks of its beautiful braided rivers. If it’s sea-run trout or salmon you’re looking for, then head to the south of Christchurch to the Rakaia River.
Myself, I stayed at the Ashley Gorge Holyday Park because it is close to the Waimakariri River, a place of sheer beauty where you can enjoy professional fishing trips complete with jet boats and guides.

Bay of Plenty

Time to head north to the famous Bay of Plenty, home to the White Island and numerous coastal fishing opportunities, of which I found – plenty. There is no shortage of excitement here, and you can expect to meet other fishing aficionados on your journey, from catching hapuka, terakihi, trevally and bluenose at the White Island to lodging in and around Whakatane.

Coromandel Peninsula

Up the coast from the Bay of Plenty lies Coromandel Peninsula with its breathtaking, idyllic countryside and, you guessed it, numerous fishing opportunities. Some of the best fishing areas here are around Whitianga and Cooks Bay, where you can give it your best to catch a snapper or a kingfish. I was left emptyhanded, but with a bounty of beautiful photographs. Don’t forget to go snorkelling at the magnificent Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve while you’re there.

Marlborough

Fancy a trip back south? Across the coast of Wellington lies a natural wonder, or should I say, a natural maze of islands and peninsulas too vast to discover and experience in a single lifetime. And yet I gave it a shot.

I stayed at the somewhat affordable Lochmara Lodge, located at the Lochmara Bay, from where I had access to all kinds of fishing opportunities. From charter fishing trips to open ocean experiences, there’s something for everyone, so be sure to devote plenty of time to this particular adventure.

If there has ever been an angler’s heaven, it’s somewhere in New Zealand, that’s for sure. I hope you find these locations interesting enough to pay them a visit this year. I suggest taking a transfer car from location to location in order to navigate your journey quickly and stress-free.

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Visiting Northern Territory in Late 2017: A Family-friendly Guide

There is no shortage of adventure in the Land of Oz, and the Northern Territory is the perfect place to be during the winter months. In case you didn’t’ know, winter is the driest season up North, making it the perfect time to visit what this amazing, scarcely populated wonderland has to offer.

And boy, does it have it all. It is the perfect place to take your entire family on a prolonged vacation, or even a weekend picnic, although one short trip is not enough to live out its wonders. Let me show you how to create lifetime memories in the vast regions of Australia’s Northern Territory.

Exploring Arnhem Land

Imbued with timeless Aboriginal culture and spanning over 97,000 square kilometres, Arnhem Land borders the famous Kakadu National Park in the northern region of NT. The untouched natural areas will allow you to spend the entire day trekking and exploring the magnificent wildlife regions, and even settle down in breathtaking wilderness lodges in the area. Although scarce, you can find accommodation if you book in advance, and then head out to popular fishing spots at Port Essington where you will be able to enjoy stunning sunsets and dine on freshly caught seafood.

Aboriginal Rock Art at Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is home to untouched aboriginal art, where you will not only be able to learn about the vast cultural heritage of these native ancestors, but also explore the park’s breathtaking scenery portrayed by wetlands and high waterfalls.

Take a guided tour around the most notable aboriginal areas, learn about the natives’ art and cultural heritage, and don’t forget to visit the famous Gunwarddehwardde lookout, which provides impressive views of both Kakadu’s escarpment and Nourlangie Rock.

The Crocosaurus Cove

Get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most dangerous and magnificent reptiles at Crcosaurus Cove, in the heart of Darwin. When visiting the Top End and Darwin, there is no missing the thrill and adventure of swimming with crocodiles, taking pictures with baby reptiles and taking a tour of the reptile house among numerous other croc shows and displays. A true family treat.

For those feeling especially brave, you will have the opportunity to test your courage in the Cage of Death, Australia’s only crocodile dive, available for your kids as well, so make sure you bring your camera in order to create some hilarious family videos!

The Islands of Smiles

The Tiwi Islands offer a unique opportunity to venture off the coast of Australia to experience true Aboriginal artisanship at work and witness the rituals of the islands’ totem pole burial ceremonies. There is no better place to learn about the language and history of the island’s indigenous people, and the only way to get there is by taking a tour with Sealink Northern Territory or the Tiwi Design.

The two islands, Bathurst and Melville that make the Tiwi Islands, also known as Islands of Smiles, present the best opportunity to not only inspire a sense of appreciation for the Aboriginal art in your kids, but to also ravel in the majestic and almost fairy-tale like scenery of the region.

Ride the Uluru Camel Tour

Located near the south border of the Northern Territory lies the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, a small sanctuary and a truly spiritual place made easily accessible by carparks and roads that lead to the summit. The best experience comes on camelback though, as you can take a guided tour around the park riding friendly camels and learning about these magnificent creatures and the history of the national park itself along the way.

The Northern Territory is vast and although you could organize alternative forms of transportation, getting a free car or campervan is by far the cheapest way to navigate the region with ease. Be sure to hit up the region during the winter months to experience it in all of its glory and create lifelong memories imbued with the true spirit of Australia.

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