New Zealand Information

Nz

2008-06-19T10:42:00.000Z

Nz: "Moving To New Zealand New Zealand New Zealand Accommodation"

Nz Lotto Results

2008-06-18T11:59:00.000Z

Nz Lotto Results

MyLotto.co.nz is the official website of the New Zealand Lotteries Commission and your gateway to play our games online. Here you can find out how easy it is to play online. You can also check game results, learn more about our games, and find out about grants to the community or recent big winners.

http://www.mylotto.co.nz/wps/wcm/myconnect/lotteries2/nzlotteries/

Real Estate New Zealand

2008-06-17T11:16:00.000Z

Real Estate New Zealand

Buying a Property in New Zealand

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Les_Calvert]Les Calvert
An island nation always has a special charm in the hearts of people who don't have the luxury of living at such a paradisiacal place. New Zealand is one such country that oozes resplendence at every step. With nearest neighbour Australia, New Zealand is not a part of Australian continent. In fact, the country belongs to the largely submerged continent of Zealandia, which stretches from the north of New Caledonia to the south of New Zealand's Sub-Antarctic islands. New Zealand is comprised of three main islands besides several other small islands that enrich the topography of the country with some breathtaking views and inspiring scenery.

New Zealand Highlights

New Zealand is blessed with some of the choicest nature's bounties, with pristine golden beaches, snow-capped alpine mountains, crystal-clear river waters, glacier-fed lakes, and abundant adventure activities you can indulge in. This means the country is agog with tourists all the year round offering numerous opportunities to earn handsome rental income from apartments and other vacation properties alongside some of the most-visited spots in New Zealand.

The inviting kiwi weather is an added incentive to visit the country. The outdoors of the country is ideal to indulge in plenty of activities, like bungee jumping, scuba diving, zorbing, mountaineering, kayaking, surfing etc.

The natural attractions of the country are enough to lure holidaymakers, retirees, and expatriates who look for real estate investment opportunities in the country. In fact, in addition to the vacation property, second-homes are also extremely popular for the property investors due to New Zealand's favourable living conditions, cost of living, and the rosy projections of the nation's economy.

If you think that New Zealand is just about adventure sports, think again. For the country has a rich history and tradition of the native Maori people, as depicted through several museums and art galleries. New Zealand also has a rich treasure of flora and fauna wildly found in the National Parks and the Ocean.

The country is extremely well connected with the rest of the world through airways and seaways. The internal transport of the country depends on efficient air, road, rail, and sea routes for a variety of commuters.

New Zealand is every bit a modern country having plenty of education opportunities for lower and higher level of students. All the modern amenities, like nightclubs, discos, pubs, restaurants, cafes, theatres, cinemas etc. can be easily accessed through major kiwi cities.

The nation's economy is also booming with Agriculture playing a major role in its upswing.

Overall, New Zealand offers one of the best places to invest in real estate. Moreover, the British investors would love the place inhabited by majority English-speaking friendly people.

Property Market in New Zealand

In recent times, New Zealand property prices have hit the roof with surging demand from the European investors, particularly the British real estate investors. This has resulted in a slowdown in the New Zealand property market. And this also means that property is now much more affordable for the budget investors. The growth is definitely on the wane and the prices are dropping, yet no one is discounting New Zealand's property potential.

Though low, the prices are still on a higher plank. For instance, luxury apartments in the capital city, Wellington, are highly priced at £400K+, and over in Auckland, it's even more. However, small accommodation is reasonably priced in major kiwi cities. For instance, you can make off-plan investment in apartments in Auckland for £60K+.

The Studio Apartments in cities, like Auckland, are a safe investment. They guarantee regular rental income through people who often flock the cities for better job prospects. And with the high expectations from the nation's economy in the coming years, major pressure has to be borne by the housing industry to feed the demand for more accommodation.

The current period is favourable for any kind of property investment in New Zealand. An astute investor will exploit the prevailing lower prices of New Zealand property, and make a killing in times to come.

The kiwi legal system is identical with the British Common Law system. Resultantly, trading in property is largely hassle-free in New Zealand. Moreover, there is no stamp duty to pay on property purchased in New Zealand.

It seems that owning a property in New Zealand is cakewalk for those who possess the required finance. However, for those who have limited budget, there are lots of financial institutions in New Zealand that offer lower interest rates on mortgages in New Zealand.

The hottest locations for property investment on the North Island include Wellington, Tauranga, and Auckland. The South Island has Nelson, Queenstown, and Christchurch as jewels in the real estate crown.

The potential real estate investors in New Zealand would do well if they hire a specialist to deal with all the legalities and other formalities required for ownership of property in the country. After all, you don't expect to be ripped off your hard-earned money just because of some negligence on your part.

Property Abroad's directory Les Calvert writes interesting and useful articles on all subjects dealing with overseas [http://www.property-abroad.com/ ]investment property and buying [http://www.property-abroad.com/new-zealand ]property in New Zealand. Visit their website to view their [http://www.property-abroad.com/new-zealand ]property for sale in New Zealand and other useful information on buying property abroad.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Les_Calvert http://EzineArticles.com/?Buying-a-Property-in-New-Zealand&id=1058405

Queenstown New Zealand

2008-06-16T07:00:00.000Z

Queenstown New Zealand

Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand is situated in a region of exceptional and diverse beauty. Inveterate world travellers regard Queenstown, New Zealand as one of the premier scenic areas of the world. Queenstown, New Zealand is the leading tourist resort in the South Island.

The major industry in Queenstown is as a service centre for surrounding lakes region and tourism and retail. The population is approximately 8600. The airport is located 7km from the town centre and the trip takes about 10 minutes by taxi. From Queenstown you drive 187km (2hr 20min) south to Invercargill or 283km (3 hours) east to Dunedin.

Queenstown, New Zealand is set in the magnificent Southern Lakes alpine district, the township nestles into a bay of Lake Wakatipu. Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand is the deepest lake in New Zealand. I have been told that at it's depths you will find salt water. Lake Wakatipu is also New Zealand's third largest lake. The township attracts tourists from all around the world. It boasts a combination of rugged alpine grandeur and sparkling blue lakes. The Remarkables range of mountains form an awesome backdrop to the township...

Nz Post

2008-06-15T10:57:00.000Z

Nz Post

New Zealand Post is the primary mail service across New Zealand. The service is an extremely reliable service. Other governments have contracted NZ Post to set up the NZ Post systems in their country.

NZ Post have streamlined systems that they continually work on improving.

In previous business I was involved closely with NZ Post and the impression that I gained was of an efficient, well run organisation. There is always some controversy over this type of operation, however, I can honestly say that nearly every occasion of missing mail was as a result of insufficient or incorrect labelling or packaging by the sender.

I hold NZ Post in very high regard!

Real Estate Nz

2008-06-13T12:39:00.000Z

Real Estate Nz: "New Zealand Queenstown New Zealand Real Estate New Zealand Realty"

Self Contained Accommodation New Zealand

2008-06-12T12:43:00.000Z

Self Contained Accommodation New Zealand

Self Contained Accommodation New Zealand

Throughout New Zealand you will not have to go far to find Self Contained Accommodation. The types of accommodation that you will find in this category will be the odd Bed and Breakfast with self contained facilities occasionally including cooking facilities.

In the standard 'motel' setup you will find cooking facilities, although it pays to confirm this prior to booking as sometimes you may not. The average motor inn will not have cooking facilities, usually they cater for tea and coffee making facilities and often you will also find a toaster and microwave. It does pay to check though.

One of the things that is worth looking for if you are interested in experiencing a piece of New Zealand, is accommodation that you find on some of the farms around the country. Often the farmer’s wives host guests in accommodation on their farm and this can give you a close look at the country side of New Zealand life. If you prefer to get away from the crowds there are some fantastic places to stay that fit into this category...

Self Contained Accommodation New Zealand

2008-05-24T13:23:00.000Z

Self Contained Accommodation New Zealand

New Zealand self catering accommodation directory to suit all budgets including motels, hotels, resorts, apartments, luxury lodges, bed and breakfast, holiday parks, holiday homes and other types of New Zealand self catering accommodation.

New Zealand self catering accommodation choices to suit individual preferences and budgets from cheap backpacker hostels to luxury exclusive lodgings. Select a New Zealand accommodation category from the extensive self catering accommodation directory below...

http://www.newzealandnz.co.nz/links/Accommodation/Self_Catering/

New Zealand Trekking

2008-05-19T13:04:00.000Z

New Zealand Trekking

Hut's Of New Zealand - The Hiker's Hidden Gem

By Thomas J J Johnson
New Zealand is a brilliant destination for hikers and backpackers. The hut system throughout the country is simply amazing. The huts are comfortable, cheap, often empty and located amongst some of the best scenery around. This article will give an overview of the hut system and show you how it can give you an amazing outdoor experience while costing you very little money.

What is a Hut?

In New Zealand a hut refers to a wide variety of simple accommodation usually only accessible by foot or helicopter. Huts range from single room shacks with no facilities to multi-room buildings with flush toilets. Typically a hut has enough bunk room and mattresses for 6-15 people. They have well maintained long drop toilets, sinks with a water supply from the hut roof and an enclosed fire place. You might be surprised at how cheap the accommodation is considering the remote locations.

How much do they Cost?

Hut prices are very reasonable ranging from $5-15 per night. But the annual hut passes are the really great thing. It costs $90 and you can stay in as many huts as you look for a whole year. Many visitors make full use of this staying in huts for most of their time in the country. Even with such low prices the huts usually aren't full.

Are they overcrowded?

The huts are typically quite underused apart from the most popular tracks. In some areas you are highly likely to have the hut to yourself. The extremely popular walks designated as great walks actually have a booking system for the huts, the rest you just have to hope they aren't full when you turn up. If all the bunks are full they usually have extra mattresses so you can sleep on the floor in comfort.

Where Are Huts Found?

Huts are generally on government land in national parks which are wilderness reserves set aside to maintain the countries natural beauty. So you'll most likely be in a remote location with beautiful scenery all around. Native forests, clear rivers and mountains are a few of the features you can expect. If you're into trout fishing, mountaineering or hunting many of the huts are in prime locations.

As you can see New Zealand's hut system makes it a brilliant destination for lovers of remote outdoor environments who want comfortable and affordable accommodation. Many of the huts have a very interesting mining and hunting history. So if this sounds good to you, get into it!

This Article was written by Thomas Johnson, creator of http://outdoorsnewzealand.co.nz

Find out more about tramping in New Zealand at http://outdoorsnewzealand.co.nz/Tramping.php

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_J_J_Johnson http://EzineArticles.com/?Huts-Of-New-Zealand---The-Hikers-Hidden-Gem&id=1168464

Car Rental New Zealand

2008-05-15T11:15:00.000Z

Car Rental New Zealand

Car Hire New Zealand - My First New Zealand Holiday

By Mike O'Brien
As I planned my first visit to the stunningly beautiful country of New Zealand, I knew that I wanted the freedom and flexibility to visit everything from the Franz Josef Glacier on the South Island to the vineyards in Hawke’s Bay on the North Island. Because I didn’t want to waste a minute of my limited time waiting for buses or being constrained by a tour group’s itinerary, I knew that I needed a New Zealand rental car to fully enjoy all that the country had to offer. What I quickly discovered was that the car rentals in New Zealand are not only affordable and convenient; they are ideal for exploring the vast array of sites on both of the country’s islands.

With a few keystrokes on my computer, I was able to reserve an economical car rental in New Zealand prior to departing on my journey. Because I was flying into Auckland, the company offered to have a representative pick me up at the airport to take me to the rental car office. I was picked up curbside right on time in the car that I was going to rent. I was amazed by the efficiency and grateful that I wasn’t going to have to transfer my bags from one car to another at the office. The paperwork process was equally as seamless, as I merely had to show my United States driver’s license, passport, and credit card. In less than one hour after arriving in Auckland, I was handed the car keys and on my way. With maps in hand and a full tank of gas in my late model New Zealand rental car, I was starting my independent journey to experience all that the country had to offer.

My first destination was the thermal city of Rotorua, 234 kilometers (145 miles) from Auckland. I must admit that I was a bit nervous the first few minutes of driving on the left side of the road, but within a short time. I was navigating as confidently as the locals. It certainly helped that the highways and roads were well paved, mapped, and signed, and that the vast majority of drivers were courteous and law-abiding. I was thoroughly impressed with New Zealand so far and pleased that I had chosen to drive myself rather than hop aboard a tour bus. Along the way, I stopped in a small town for a quick rest and a meal. I was really beginning to appreciate the freedom that my New Zealand rental car was offering me. Unlike an organized tour, I was able to stop, eat, and rest when I felt like it in the locations that I chose. That first evening I picked up some takeout fish and chips, settled into my modest motel room along the highway, and charted on the map my route for the next following days.

After a week of touring the North Island and thoroughly enjoying my New Zealand car hire holiday that had everything from farm shows to wineries and museums, I was ready to tackle the rugged splendor of the South Island. I had coordinated with the rental car company to drive my car onto the Interislander ferry in the capital city of Wellington. The rental car representatives booked the ticket, and the entire process was amazingly easy. Three hours after boarding, I had arrived on the South Island, drove my car off the ship and began the next leg of my journey.

Driving the less traveled roads of the South Island, I journeyed to national parks, explored the coasts, and even had some time to enjoy the cosmopolitan cities of Christchurch and Dunedin. As my memorable trip came to a close, I returned to the North Island and headed back to Auckland to drop off the car and head to the airport. The return procedure was quick, and the New Zealand rental car representative kindly drove me back to the airport.

My trip to New Zealand was the most memorable and wonderful vacation that I have ever experienced. I had the freedom to explore the country on my terms and time schedule. I was able to see more than just the main tourist attractions and had the pleasure of meeting many of the friendly and welcoming native New Zealanders. I honestly don’t know if I would have appreciated as much of the unique culture, diversity, and stunning beauty of the country if I had spent my days on a tour bus. Thankfully, New Zealand is ideal for exploring by rental car and perfect for those travelers looking for a little adventure and a lot of fun. And, of course, I can hardly wait to return to New Zealand for another road trip!

Mike O'Brien is the owner of © http://www.rental-car-in-new-zealand.com A quality web site with a choice of top New Zealand rental car and motor home hire information at your fingertips!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_O'Brien http://EzineArticles.com/?Car-Hire-New-Zealand---My-First-New-Zealand-Holiday&id=122771

Milford Sound

2008-05-13T12:07:00.000Z

Milford Sound

Milford Vs Doubtful Sound, New Zealand, Which One?

By Glenn Bongartz
Doubtful Sound is about 3 times bigger than Milford Sound; this gives you more to see on an overnight trip. The trip to Doubtful takes 30 minutes to drive from Te Anau to Manapouri, then an hour boat ride, then a 45 minute bus ride which includes a visit to the hydro dam. (It is not accessible by car).
The Doubtful overnight trip gives you swimming, kayaking and small boat rides. You will also get to see some dolphins and fur seals.
The trip to Doubtful sound would cost upward from $215nzd per person (this price would be for a day trip and depend on season). There is a bit of travelling to get to Doubtful Sound but this means less people and more nature.

If you are limited on time and can't do an overnight on Doubtful sound, then Milford sound is still a fantastic experience and the trails on the way to Milford Sound are spectacular. You get to go through the narrow Homer tunnel on the drive in while you drive through the rain forests of the Fiordland National park, with lots of little walks and scenic stops along the way. You should give yourself 3 hours to drive from Te Anau to Milford. Then another option would be to take a half day or full day to hike into Milford Sound, if you have any spare time.

A 90 minute boat trip on Milford Sound would cost around $75nzd depending on season, and you will still see some of the wildlife in the area.

Both sounds are great, the main thing you would have to think about is “how much time do I have”. Doubtful is said to be the better overnight trip. If you don’t have that much time take the day trip of Milford sound. Take any off-ship excursion that is offered, as this will give you a true feel for the flora and fauna in the Fiordland National park.

If you are driving to Te Anau yourself to see either sound, you are best to stay in Te Anau the night to get an early start ahead of the many tour busses that set out from Queenstown each day.
There are many great tour companies that offer trips from Queenstown for both Milford and Doubtful Sounds.

During peak and shoulder seasons from the start of November until the end of March, book well in advance for either trip.

This is one of New Zealand’s most popular scenic attractions. What ever you decide you will experience a great scenic trip. http://www.newzealandatoz.com
New Zealand AtoZ provides useful New Zealand free information and advice to travellers, including a full list of all New Zealand car, motorhome and campervan rental companies along with their daily hire rates.
Your complete guide to New Zealand.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Glenn_Bongartz http://EzineArticles.com/?Milford-Vs-Doubtful-Sound,-New-Zealand,-Which-One?&id=242351

Peter Jackson

2008-05-12T12:00:00.000Z

Peter Jackson

Waterfalls in Mordor?
By Johnny Cheng
Many people around the world familiar with the Peter Jackson rendition of the Lord of the Rings movies are well aware that much of the forbidding land of Mordor that was not created by computer was filmed in parts of Tongariro National Park. It's a fitting location considering the volcanic nature of the park and the rugged, rocky terrain that embodies the fiery wasteland appropriate for a land filled with orcs, giant spiders, and demons. But in reality, Tongariro National Park is far more diverse and scenic than its portrayal in the Lord of the Rings movies. Besides conical volcanoes, old lava flows, and jagged rocks, you'll also find colorful pools, hot springs, tussock plains, and even waterfalls! Given the relatively high rainfall that New Zealand gets and the ability of the Tongariro volcanoes to capture much of this moisture as both snow and rain, much of this water drains through gullies, springs, and gorges on their way towards their Central Plateau base. Through some walks in the area, you can witness many of the major waterfalls as well as some smaller nameless ones.

Perhaps the most dramatic waterfalls found in Tongariro National Park are on the south-facing slopes of the still-active Mt Ruapehu. After ascending parts of the Ohakune Mountain Road, you can access both Mangawhero Falls (which made an appearance in the Lord of the Rings movie as the Henneth Annun's Forbidden Pool) as well as the track for Waitonga Falls - the tallest waterfall in the National Park. On the west-facing slopes towards Ruapehu's foothills, you can see both Taranaki Falls and Tawhai Falls. Taranaki Falls, near the junction of the Tongariro Northern Circuit Track and connecting tracks leading back to Whakapapa Village, gushes through a narrow opening of an old lava flow before crashing 20m at its boulder-ringed base. Tawhai Falls occurs where the Whakapapanui Stream makes a 10m plunge into a deep pool. Finally, the world-famous Tongariro Crossing Track holds additional waterfall surprises complementing the colorful, forbidding, yet otherworldly moonscape scenery. Such surprises include Soda Springs, where mineral-laced water percolates out from the porous volcanic rock nourishing the neighboring vegetation. Meanwhile, on the north-facing slopes of the park, the track leaves the moonscape and tussock grasslands and enters a lush rainforest, where a pleasant unnamed waterfall greets trampers before the end of the trail.

Indeed, the waterfalls found in Tongariro National Park reinforce the scenic diversity you're rewarded with upon a visit to New Zealand. With its mix of volcanic moonscapes, tussock plains, rainforests, and waterfalls, it's no wonder why visitors to this part of the country remember it so fondly. And like an actress that can play many different roles movies to attract an audience, New Zealand's Tongariro National Park does the same - both on and off the silver screen.

Johnny T. Cheng is author of the award-winning A Guide to New Zealand Waterfalls (Story Nature Press).

Find out more about his book at http://www.storynature.com or visit his waterfalls blog at http://www.world-of-waterfalls.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johnny_Cheng http://EzineArticles.com/?Waterfalls-in-Mordor?&id=573198

New Zealand Adventure Sports

2008-05-05T22:42:00.000Z

New Zealand Adventure Sports

Mountain Bike Events - Ten Tips for Beginners

By Karl Check
Mountain bike events can be a great way to ride a part of the countryside you wouldn't normally be able to access and provide an opportunity to meet like minded people. Undertaking your first event may be a little daunting but rest assured there will be other first timers and plenty of support on the day. Here are ten tips for riding your first event taken from my own personal experience of riding and being part of a support crew. Take note of these and you will not only complete the race but actually enjoy it as well.

Try to train in similar terrain and conditions to those which you will experience on the day.

Get your bike in for a service at least a couple of weeks before the event to give time for any major repairs. You don't want to waste all that training with an avoidable gear failure on the day and bike shops can't be expected to turn around a significant job with a couple of days notice.

Ensure your bike is properly set-up for you. Bike shops or sports physios can help with this. Riding a poorly set-up bike at high intensity for a long period will cause you back or leg problems that will take a while to recover from.

Start using energy bars and drinks (including recovery formula) during your training so that your body becomes used to them. Don't suddenly start using a new product on the day from one of the onsite sponsors. Your body may not be used to it and react badly.

For longer rides use a chamoix cream or vasoline to reduce chafing. One of my friends goes by the "if it moves vas it!"

Organise a great support crew to help you get ready, cheer like hell during the event and be there to help you recover at the end of the race.

Get to the event early and go for a warm up ride to get rid of nerves, stretch the legs and undertake final checks on the bike.

Make sure you know the course and don't rely on those ahead of you to be taking the right turns.

Ride to your own pace and don't be tempted to blast after the pros off the start line. Also ride to your own ability in any technical sections.

Have fun, smile lots and banter with your fellow riders - you never know when you might need their help!

Karl Check writes for Perweek, a New Zealand online retail business that allows you to finance your purchases. If you are riding in New Zealand or thinking about coming out for a holiday you should read Karl's [http://www.perweek.co.nz/mountain-bike-events/]Mountain Bike Events page. The page has links to some of New Zealand's most popular mountain bike races. http://www.perweek.co.nz/mountain-bike-events

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karl_Check http://EzineArticles.com/?Mountain-Bike-Events---Ten-Tips-for-Beginners&id=1145744

Queenstown Attractions

2008-05-05T00:06:00.000Z

Queenstown Attractions

Adventure Queenstown

By Dan Cavalli
Here is a quick overview of an exciting place to visit that you are unlikely to forget in your lifetime. This is the epitome of natural and untouched beauty! Queenstown or as it is affectionately known 'adventure queenstown' in New Zealand is the gateway to the Southern Alps and some of the world's greatest skiing and snow boarding playgrounds.

Before you arrive in the adventure capital of New Zealand do a little research, find out why Adventure Queenstown is so popular and plan your trip well. Adventure queenstown has bungee jumping, jet boats and skydiving along with many other activities to get your heart pumping.

If you want excitement this is the place to be. Once you are settled in Queenstown checkout where everything is located. Plan the activities around a one way trip so you can take advantage of the magnificent panoramic countryside as you get your adrenaline dosage.

Your accommodation host will be able to give you a comprehensive run down and tourist map of what is available in this adventure paradise. Let them point out to you the best way to go. Then confirm the places to visit by asking the locals that reside in the business centre.

Remember, and contrary to popular belief your memorable stay will not necessarily depend on how much you spend in this town. There are many things to do that don't need a lot of money, including spotting the often seen movie stars that frequent the town.

That's a quick overview so book ahead if you want to have a great stay without disappointment. This place books out frequently and there has been a lot of people asking for help without accommodation. That's it for now enjoy the best in adventure queenstown.

Dan Cavalli

As an active advocate of the glorious New Zealand town of Queenstown, 'The Adventure Capital of the World', Dan enjoys writing about his experiences in this unique destination. Dan is also a renowned businessman and personal development teacher. Visit his site at http://www.commandobusiness.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dan_Cavalli http://EzineArticles.com/?Adventure-Queenstown&id=999313

Maori Weapons

2008-05-02T03:12:00.000Z

Maori Weapons: "Maori Culture Maori Designs Maori Haka"

Nz Dating

2008-04-28T11:59:00.000Z

Nz Dating: "New Zealand Girls New Zealand Golf Vacation New Zealand Herald"

Rotorua

2008-04-27T08:42:00.000Z

Rotorua

A Travel Guide to Rotorua New Zealand

By Alastair Harris

Travel Rotorua

This article is a basic tour guide to traveling in Rotorua highlight and evaluating the main sites in the district.

Introduction:

If you had only one day in the North Island of New Zealand and you asked me where should one go for that day I would without hesitation say Rotorua.

This article is my personal guide to Rotorua from someone who has visited it more times than I can remember and if given the chance I would visit it again. This article is non-commercial and is intended to be for general information.

Location:

Rotorua is approximately 2.5 - 3 hours drive south of Auckland. Head south through Hamilton and Cambridge, or for a quicker route via Mata Mata. Shortly after Cambridge turn left and take the number 5 which will lead you right to Rotorua. Coming up from Wellington head to Lake Taupo and take the number 5 to Rotorua. Train and Bus routes also service Rotorua.

Attractions:

Rotorua is a jewel in the North Island, with geothermal wonders, a center of Maori Culture, Parks, Lakes, Natural History and numerous modern day attractions. Most visitors comment on the smell when they arrive. It is Hydrogen Sulphide (rotten egg gas) and while distinct at first, if you stay for any length of time you will adapt and seldom notice it.

Geothermal Parks

The main geothermal parks in Rotorua and its surrounds include Whakarewarewa thermal area, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Waitapu Thermal wonderland, Orakei Korako Geyserland and Hell's Gate. All these required payment.

Whakarewarewa:

Visiting this site used to be standard fare in any visit to Rotorua. Unfortunately the park has now divided into two parts, and I personally don't believe either site has enough to stand alone. So what you used to get for one entry price now costs two (be warned). On the Hemo Road entrance is the NZ Maori Arts and Crafts Institute with its master carvers. Also includes a weaving house, kiwi house, and Maori meeting house. Pohutu (big splash) and the Prince of Wales geyser are also on this side. (Prince of Wales geyser so named because the 3 directions the geyser shoots out resembles the feathers on the Prince of Wales crest). On the Tyron street entrance you get another meeting house where a cultural show is put on, a village, shops and some hot pools, etc. Also here outside school hours you may find the local Maori children willing to jump off the bridge into the stream below in return for chasing your loose change thrown into the same.

Waimangu Volcanic Valley:

A nice walk along a valley with numerous hot pools, lakes, and near the end of the track the Warbrick thermal terrace - a multi coloured silica terrace, probably the most colourful terrace in Rotorua. Worth a visit if you have already seen some thermal parks and want more, or like a more expansive tour, you can link with a boat tour. (see the gallery for some photos courtesy Waimangu's website). The pink and white terraces once existed in the area prior to the 1886 eruption.

Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland:

My personal favourite, about 20 min. south of Rotorua towards Taupo. Be prepared to walk abit. Numerous rainbow pools, the huge champagne pool, artist palette, sulphur vents, boiling mud and a huge silica terrace. If you arrive early in the morning, before 10am, a short drive leads you to the Lady Knox geyser that gets set off once a day by them feeding it with soap, cost of this is included in your admission (was $25 an adult). Also on this road is a natural mud pool which is the best display of boiling mud I have seen and its free.

Orakei Korako Geyserland:

Closer to Lake Taupo than Rotorua on a side road connecting route 5 to the main route 1. You need to catch the ferry across the lake to begin exploring the park. Like most of the parks good tracks requiring you to walk to see mud pools, a large cave, the emerald terrace and the largest silica feature in the country. Worth the visit if you are passing that way.

Hell's Gate:

Another thermal park with numerous boiling things, including Adam's frying pan, a mud volcano, hot water falls and one of the few places I found I could buy the multi-colour sand in a glass container (quite pretty). Once visited by Mark Twain who stated he would have gladly paid not to have gone there. I'll have to disagree; I think it’s worth the visit.

Maori Culture

Rotorua has plenty of Maori based attractions. These include Tamaki Maori Village (I've yet to visit). The NZ Maori Arts and Crafts Institute (already spoken about), the Buried Village and numerous Hungi and Cultural Performances.

The Buried village is what it sounds like, a half buried village. During the 1886 eruption a number of local Maori perished buried in mud. Some of the village has since been dig out and rebuilt to give tourists an idea of a Maori village.

I haven't been to Tamaki Maori Village so can't give a review.

If you really want to get a good taste of Maori culture food and hospitality then book one of the many feasts and concerts put on by the local hotels. The food, music and friendship are always top rate.

Other Attractions

Rainbow Springs Park:

A nice park with trout fish as its centerpiece, beautiful clear running water and a top bushland. Lovely walking tracks and you can feed the fish. Also has a farm show attached.

Skyline Skyrides:

The main reason to take this ride on a gondola is not just to get to the top for the view, the main reason is to ride the luge. Massive fun, as long as you don't fall off. They have a small chairlift operating so that you can ride the luge for as long as your budget can afford.

Agrodome:

Everything you wanted to know about sheep. Surprising a show about sheep and farming in NZ is interesting and entertaining.

Rotorua Museum of Art:

One of the first buildings built in NZ solely with tourists in mind. Originally built as a bath house and hot water treatment center it has now been converted. Good museum but the highlight is the movie on local history, sit down and be sure to be holding on - a total multimedia experience. Definite must do. The building itself is one of the finest examples of Edwardian design and is an art piece in itself. The surrounding gardens are always nicely maintained.

Natures Wonders

There are numerous things to do, totally free for nature lovers.

Huka Falls:

Just North from Lake Taupo on the M1 is Huka Falls and the world famous Huka Falls Lodge (for the novu-rich of the world). Huka Falls itself is free for all. Near the beginning of the mighty Waikato river (NZ longest river) it’s not the height of the falls but the sheer volume of water that is forced through which is impressive, few people have gone over the falls and survived. Boat trips are now run up to the base of the falls for those wanting a different perspective.

Whakarewarewa Forrest Park:

On the road to the blue and green lakes. Contains beautiful stands of redwood trees, walking and horse riding tracks. The redwood trees are relatively young for trees, but they are already huge in size.

Government Gardens:

Outside the Rotorua museum is well kept flower beds, rose gardens, bowling greens and more.

Kuirau Park:

Opposite the main hospital on Kuirau road is Kuirau Park with numerous boiling pools and geothermal activities. Contains some foot pools to ease your sore feet and a children’s park with miniature railway. On my last visit there was a huge hole in the ground and several trees blown over or covered in mud due to a localized eruption. It is a reminder the whole area is geothermally active and has the potential to be dangerous.

Blue and Green Lakes:

Past Whakarewarewa Forrest Park is the blue lake, great for swimming or boating activities, clear water with a pumice bottom, those further out there is a problem with weeds. Keep going on the road to get a view of Mt. Tarawera. The green lake is banned and tapu (Maori for cursed, sacred, special) and no is supposed to enter it.

Mt. Tarawera:

For the true adventure fanatics. Take the back road and climb Mount Tarawera. Enter the crater and run down to the bottom at full speed. The massive crater was caused by the 10 June 1886 eruption which destroyed the pink and white terraces and buried many villages.

Lakes:

The number of lakes is simply too many to mention. Great for trout fishing, boating or picnics. Some lakes even have black volcanic glass and/or pumice stone lying on their shores.

Hamurana Springs:

If you want to see a beautiful spring feed stream, this is worth a visit, pure water with a hint of blue flowing over white pumice bed. There is also a nice stand of redwoods and I would be surprised if you didn’t' see any trout in the stream (no fishing allowed, sorry).

This list is by no means exhaustive and like any tourist destination new venues are always opening up. I hope this provides you with a basic to do list when visiting. To see pictures go to the website in the resource box below.

View the original site and pictures at http://travel-rotorua.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alastair_Harris http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Travel-Guide-to-Rotorua-New-Zealand&id=235892

Queenstown Attractions

2008-04-25T18:39:00.000Z

Queenstown Attractions

NOTE: Although this is strictly not a Queenstown attraction, it is something you will consider doing from Queenstown - my pick is Doubtful Sound, even for the day trip. The peace at Doubtful Sound is an amazing experience. Sometimes we just don't realise how much noise we become accustomed to. In all my travels this place brought to me a silence that I had forgotton existed!

I will never forget the "Sound of Silence" at Doubtful Sound.

Milford Vs Doubtful Sound, New Zealand, Which One?

By Glenn Bongartz
Doubtful Sound is about 3 times bigger than Milford Sound; this gives you more to see on an overnight trip. The trip to Doubtful takes 30 minutes to drive from Te Anau to Manapouri, then an hour boat ride, then a 45 minute bus ride which includes a visit to the hydro dam. (It is not accessible by car).
The Doubtful overnight trip gives you swimming, kayaking and small boat rides. You will also get to see some dolphins and fur seals.
The trip to Doubtful sound would cost upward from $215nzd per person (this price would be for a day trip and depend on season). There is a bit of travelling to get to Doubtful Sound but this means less people and more nature.

If you are limited on time and can't do an overnight on Doubtful sound, then Milford sound is still a fantastic experience and the trails on the way to Milford Sound are spectacular. You get to go through the narrow Homer tunnel on the drive in while you drive through the rain forests of the Fiordland National park, with lots of little walks and scenic stops along the way. You should give yourself 3 hours to drive from Te Anau to Milford. Then another option would be to take a half day or full day to hike into Milford Sound, if you have any spare time.

A 90 minute boat trip on Milford Sound would cost around $75nzd depending on season, and you will still see some of the wildlife in the area.

Both sounds are great, the main thing you would have to think about is “how much time do I have”. Doubtful is said to be the better overnight trip. If you don’t have that much time take the day trip of Milford sound. Take any off-ship excursion that is offered, as this will give you a true feel for the flora and fauna in the Fiordland National park.

If you are driving to Te Anau yourself to see either sound, you are best to stay in Te Anau the night to get an early start ahead of the many tour busses that set out from Queenstown each day.
There are many great tour companies that offer trips from Queenstown for both Milford and Doubtful Sounds.

During peak and shoulder seasons from the start of November until the end of March, book well in advance for either trip.

This is one of New Zealand’s most popular scenic attractions. What ever you decide you will experience a great scenic trip. http://www.newzealandatoz.com
New Zealand AtoZ provides useful New Zealand free information and advice to travellers, including a full list of all New Zealand car, motorhome and campervan rental companies along with their daily hire rates.
Your complete guide to New Zealand.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Glenn_Bongartz http://EzineArticles.com/?Milford-Vs-Doubtful-Sound,-New-Zealand,-Which-One?&id=242351

New Zealand Trekking

2008-04-23T04:55:00.000Z

New Zealand Trekking

Top Things to Do in New Zealand

By Glenn Bongartz
Throughout New Zealand

Buy the Lord of the Rings location guide, and do some hunting out of familiar scenes from the LOTR trilogy.

North Island

Cape Reinga and 90 Mile Beach

Swim with the dolphins in Paihia, Bay of Islands

Vertigo Climb, Auckland Skytower - beyond the observation decks, and wear an orange suit to do it.

Take a ferry or kayak from Mission Bay, Auckland to Rangitoto Island & climb to the top.

Waiheke Island - only 35 mins by ferry from Auckland, for some great wineries, maybe spend the night.

Raglan- & catch some wild surf.

Waitomo Haggas Honking Holes and tubing the glow-worm caves

Kayak from Whitianga to Cathedral Cove - then go to Hot Water beach and dig your hole in the sand

Drive from Opotiki to Gisborne then around the East Cape and back to Opotiki

Hawkes Bay- wineries, East Coast, North Island

Whakatane- Take a scenic flight over White Island, an active volcano.

Rotorua - to see the geysers, thermal activity and smell, visit Te Whakawerwera for your Maori cultural experience.

Drive out to Lake Tarawera near Rotorua- check out the Blue and Green lakes on the way

Taupo- Tandem Skydive 12,000ft

Craters of the moon outside of Taupo

Tongariro Crossing- one of the best one-day walks in the world, stunning scenery with volcanoes

Walk up Mount Taranaki- West Coast, North Island

Watch the sun rise at Te Araroa - the eastern most place in NZ

Martinborough- wineries- bottom East Coast, North Island

Te Papa Museum in Wellington- you could spend all day here learning about NZ / Maori -culture

South Island

Abel Tasman- for relaxing walking and kayaking around the National Park

Walk the Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough Sounds- Top, South Island
Marlborough- wineries, top East Coast, South Island

Kaikoura- for whale watching and swimming with dolphins

4 day hike, Banks Peninsula - East Coast, South Island

Moeraki Boulders - East Coast, South Island for unusual round boulders
Christchurch- Arts Centre

Akaroa- for a bit of French New Zealand history

Dunedin- for historic homes, albatross, yellow eyed penguins and seal colonies

Oamaru- for Old Oamaru Stone buildings and Penguin watching

Pancake Rocks and blowholes- Punakaiki, upper West Coast, South Island
Mount Cook - South Island

Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers- West Coast, South Island

While looking at the glaciers in the Fox/Franz Josef area take a cruise out to Lake Matheson first thing in the morning to take some amazing photos of the reflection of Mount Cook in the water

Wanaka- a relaxing place in Central Otago

Arrowtown- an old Central Otago Goldfields town with an old Chinese village, 20 minutes from Queenstown

Queenstown- for adventure activities and party atmosphere

Pipeline Bungy Jump in Queenstown

Drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy- have a beer at the Glenorchy pub, after stopping and taking plenty of photos whilst on the drive

Queenstown- wineries

5 day trek of Routeburn/Greenstone Track

Walk Milford Track- one of the Worlds best.

Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park- lower West Coast, South Island
Doubtful Sound in the Fiordland National Park- swim with dolphins

The Catlins- for nature East Coast, South Island

Stewart Island- for nature bottom South Island

Once you have done all these things you will have had a great look around beautiful New Zealand http://www.newzealandatoz.com
New Zealand AtoZ provides useful New Zealand information to travelers, including a full list of all New Zealand car, motorhome and campervan rental companies along with their daily hire rates
Your complete guide to New Zealand.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Glenn_Bongartz http://EzineArticles.com/?Top-Things-to-Do-in-New-Zealand&id=226959

New Zealand Food

2008-04-22T12:39:00.000Z

New Zealand Food

New Zealand's Fuzzy Little Fruit

By Frankie Goh
Westerners called it the Chinese gooseberry. But when it began being cultivated in New Zealand, promoters capitalized on the resemblance this fuzzy fruit bore to New Zealand's famous kiwi bird. Thus, it became known the world over as kiwifruit.

For decades the economic livelihood of this South Pacific land depended solely upon its wool, meat, and dairy products. But now kiwifruit has emerged as a source of income as New Zealand's main horticultural crop. This has made it possible for kiwifruit to tease the taste buds of millions. Its versatility, limited only by the imagination, has resulted in a great variety of delightful dishes.

But just what is this fuzzy little fruit? Kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) is really a berry that grows on a vine. Thriving in a mild climate, kiwifruit was originally grown in the Yangtze Valley of southern China. However, in 1934 the first commercial planting was made in New Zealand at Te Puke, a town of 5,500 inhabitants on the east coast of North Island. Soon kiwifruit cultivation was established in other parts of the country. But it is Te Puke, with its ideal climatic conditions, that has come to be called the "kiwifruit capital of the world."

Growing kiwifruit is quite an undertaking. It takes from three to five years for a newly planted vine to bear fruit. Furthermore, constant pruning of the vines is necessary to ensure that sufficient light reaches the fruit. Permanent support structures for the vines-T-bar or pergola trellises-must be constructed. And when harvest season commences, hundreds of skilled workers are required to hand pick millions of pieces of fruit that are about the size of a lemon or a small orange. It takes about four large kiwifruit to make a pound, and tens of thousands of tons of the fruit are harvested each year.

All of this might seem like a lot of trouble to grow a fruit that The Wall Street Journal once described as looking about as impressive as "an old tennis ball." But don't let its dull looks deceive you. "Cut the kiwifruit open," continued the Journal, "and it comes to life. Suddenly all is electric green and fragrant, with a violet-ringed yellow sunburst at the centre." And taste it by scooping it out with a spoon! Its pulp has a sweet, fruity flavor. In addition, this tiny fruit packs a powerful nutritional punch. Besides having significant amounts of vitamins C and E, the fiber content of a large kiwifruit is nearly four times greater than that of a cup of chopped celery. One fruit has more potassium than a banana and may supply from 20 to 70 percent of the body's daily need for chromium.

Kiwifruit is also quite versatile in the kitchen and is easily adapted to a wide range of diets. Assuming it is available locally, you might want to try the accompanying recipe. You too may become a lover of New Zealand's fuzzy little fruit!

Frankie Goh is a full-time family counsellor and researcher.
He manage a website : Earn Money Online http://www.ezy-cash.com
He is also the Internet Marketing Co-ordinator of Ultra-Herbal Products & HerbalBiz Affiliate Program.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frankie_Goh http://EzineArticles.com/?New-Zealands-Fuzzy-Little-Fruit&id=825247

Maori Art

2008-04-20T14:44:00.000Z

Maori Art

The New Zealand Maori Tiki Is A Testament To The Art And History Of Our Country

By Ru Terry

The term tiki is applied to carved human figures generally, both by the Maori and by other Polynesians. The name possibly has some connection with the myth of Tiki, the first man created by Tane. On the other hand tiki or tikitiki is also a general term for carving in many parts of Polynesia, as, for instance, in Niue, where the Tiki myth is unknown and human figures were not carved. In New Zealand, however, tiki is usually applied to the human figure carved in green stone as a neck ornament. The full name is hei-tiki.

It has been suggested that this ornament is a fertility charm representing the human embryo, and that it should be worn only by women. However, early European visitors saw men wearing the hei-tiki and it is probable that the squat shape of the figure was influenced by the hardness of the material and that it was later likened to an embryo and endowed with magical powers. The shape is also probably due to the fact that tiki were often made from adze blades. Adzes and chisels made from greenstone were also prestige items and the shape of a green stone adze lends itself to conversion into a tiki. There are several extant examples of half-finished tiki evidently originally small adzes and sometimes on completed tiki, traces of the original cutting end shaping of a adze can be seen, usually at the foot.

Tiki or heitiki are most commonly made from nephrite, a stone related to jade and found in several places in New Zealand's South Island. It is called pounamu in Maori, green stone in New Zealand English. The Maori name for the South Island, Te Wai Pounamu, refers to this stone. There are traditional accounts for the creation of the stone which relate it to the children of Tangaroa. It is a very hard stone and is laborious to work, especially so with the primitive grinding tools available to the neolithic Maori. The tiki in the form illustrated here is unique to New Zealand and arguably the most archetypical Maori artifact, although the work tiki applied to fertility symbols is extremely common throughout polynesia.

Green stone, like jade, is a beautiful stone - classed as semi-precious - and quite variable in appearance. The varieties have Maori names. Its luster improves with age, reputedly as a result of being worn next to the skin. Tiki were worn around the neck - the hei part of the name carries this implication. They are more often, but not exclusively, worn by women in recent times. Suspension is usually vertical but some are suspended on their side.

Some traditional tiki in bone and ivory exist, made from whale bone or teeth, but as bone tiki are now commonly made for commercial trade, a bone tiki found in a shop is more likely to be recent and of cow bone. Most tiki are one sided but a few are reversible showing a figure on both faces.

Although the Maori have occupied New Zealand since about 1000 AD, the historical origins of tiki are not understood as they are virtually absent from the archaeological record. For a precious item, this is not surprising because few would have been lost or discarded. Conventionally though they are associated with the later part of New Zealand's prehistory, as nephrite is uncommon in early sites. They were certainly in use at the time of the first contact with Europeans. Some individual tiki have names and traditional histories extending well back into the past. Others have renewed suspension perforations replacing old ones that have worn through, showing they have seen much use over a long time.

Sites of manufacture of nephrite tools and ornaments have been found on the east coast of the South Island. However, the tools and ornaments were much used in the North Island where most of the population lived. Trade and exchange appears not to have been all in finished goods because there are regional styles of nephrite ornaments in the North Island which suggest that at least some of the manufacture was local, either from native stone or from green stone adze blades.

There is some variety in the forms of tiki but this variation has not been very fully studied in relation to region of origin. The head inclined left or right appears to have no particular significance. One clear variation is between tiki with the head upright and those with the head tilted sideways. The likely explanation for the latter form is that it comes naturally from the use of rectangular adze blades as raw material. Iron axe and adze blades rapidly replaced nephrite adzes in the early 19th century and coincided with an increasing market for commercial tiki. Other variations occur in the positions of the arms. In some the arms are asymmetric with one arm on the torso rather than the legs, or up to the mouth.

The eyes are often filled with red sealing wax of European origin. Wax was added to the eyes of older tiki, and some have paua (Haliotus, the abalone) shell eyes.

The arrival of 19th century technology allowed a major burst of commercial manufacture of tiki mainly for a New Zealand market. Many supposedly old tiki date from the late 19th century and reveal themselves through details such as the suspension perforation being straight sided. Some nephrite ornaments were gold mounted in the 19th century. Again this does not necessarily indicate the nephrite ornament was of that date.

Tiki remain prestige items in New Zealand today; heirlooms (toanga) in Maori families and European families as well. They are worn by Maori on ceremonial occasions. Most tiki are not ancient and some are 19th century commercial products but nonetheless highly valued treasures to their owners.

Materials used

Hei-tiki are usually made of pounamu (green stone) and worn around the neck. They are often incorrectly referred to as tiki, a term that actually refers to large human figures carved in wood, and, also, the small wooden carvings used to mark sacred places.

One theory of the origin of the hei-tiki suggests a connection with Tiki, the first man in Māori legend. According to Horatio Robley, there are two main ideas behind the symbolism of hei-tiki: they are either memorials to ancestors, or represent the goddess of childbirth, Hineteiwaiwa. The rationale behind the first idea is that they were often buried when their kaitiaki (guardian) died and would be later retrieved and placed somewhere special to be brought out in times of tangihanga. In terms of the idea of Hineteiwaiwa, hei-tiki were often given to women having trouble conceiving by her husband's family.

The most valuable hei-tiki are carved from green stone or pounamu. New Zealand green stone consists of either nephrite (a type of jade, in Māori: pounamu) or bowenite (Māori: tangiwai). Pounamu is esteemed highly by Māori for its beauty, toughness and great hardness; it is used not only for ornaments such as hei-tiki and ear pendants, but also for carving tools, adzes, and weapons. Named varieties include translucent green kahurangi, whitish inanga, semi-transparent kawakawa, and tangiwai or bowenite.

Types of Hei-tiki

Traditionally there were several types of hei-tiki which varied widely in form. Modern-day hei-tiki however, may be divided into two types. The first type is rather delicate. with a head/body ratio of approximately 30/70, with small details included, such as ears, elbows, and knees. The head is on a tilt, and one hand is placed on the thigh, and the other on the chest. The eyes are relatively small. The second type is in general heavier than the first. It has a 40/60 head/body ratio, both hands are on the thighs, and the eyes are proportionately larger.

Manufacture

From the size and style of traditional examples of hei-tiki it is likely that the stone was first cut in the form of a small adze. The tilted head of the pitau variety of hei-tiki derives from the properties of the stone - its hardness and great value make it important to minimise the amount of the stone that has to be removed. Creating a hei-tiki with traditional methods is a long, arduous process during which the stone is smoothed by abrasive rubbing; finally, using sticks and water, it is slowly shaped and the holes bored out. After laborious and lengthy polishing, the completed pendant is suspended by a plaited cord and secured by a loop and toggle.

Current popularity

Among the other tāonga (treasured possessions) used as items of personal adornment are bone carvings in the form of earrings or necklaces. For many Māori the wearing of such items relates to Māori cultural identity. They are also popular with young New Zealanders of all backgrounds for whom the pendants relate to a more generalized sense of New Zealand identity. Several artistic collectives have been established by Māori tribal groups. These collectives have begun creating and exporting jewelery (such as bone carved pendants based on traditional fishhooks hei matau and other green stone jewelery) and other artistic items (such as wood carvings and textiles). Several actors who have recently appeared in high-profile movies filmed in New Zealand have come back wearing such jewelery, including Viggo Mortensen of The Lord of the Rings fame, took to wearing a hei matau around his neck. These trends have contributed towards a worldwide interest in traditional Māori culture and arts.

Because the nature of our culture is graphical please visit our store for more details http://www.maoricertified.com

Maori Certified is owned and operated by two brothers from the west coast of New Zealand with a deep passion for their culture and after seeing so many fake, knock offs of their very own cultural gifts decided to do something about it.

They are absolutely dedicated to Certifying genuine hand carved pieces to all those around the world. Our culture is rich with talent and resources which you can see for yourselves in the many categories we have available.

Hand crafted New Zealand bone carving, jade carving and pearl shell carving in its many forms, from the very traditional Maori carving styles to the more contemporary designs for gifts and jewelry.

Some are set into sterling silver mounts, some are in the form of delicate earrings and others are unique gifts such as key rings, framed artworks or free standing sculptures.

We specialize in only the highest quality genuine work from the very best of local artists. [http://www.maoricertified.com]maoricertified.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ru_Terry http://EzineArticles.com/?The-New-Zealand-Maori-Tiki-Is-A-Testament-To-The-Art-And-History-Of-Our-Country&id=571011

Rental Car In New Zealand

2008-04-20T06:41:00.000Z

Rental Car In New Zealand

New Zealand Car Rental - Useful Tips

By Chris Webber
If you're visiting New Zealand a rental car is one of the best ways to get around. New Zealand is a small country but has the astounding geographic diversity of a major continent squeezed into its small size. For example, within 3- 4 hours drive of Auckland, New Zealand's biggest city, are sub-tropical beaches, volcanic mountains with ski fields, boiling mud pools, ancient forests, unspoiled trout fishing rivers and world class golf courses.

Having a rental car gives you the freedom and flexibility to go where you want and when you want.

Driving in New Zealand

For most overseas visitors driving in New Zealand is a breeze because, compared to what they are used to, there is surprisingly little traffic on the roads - especially in the South Island. Whilst New Zealand is about the size of UK its population is only 4 million - UK by comparison has over 60 million.

Another difference is the limited number of motorways and freeways. Roads are generally only 2-laned and frequently windy due to the ever changing landscape. In New Zealand we drive on the left, as in UK. If you're from America or another country that drives on the right then you might feel apprehensive about having to drive on the "wrong side of the road". Don't be - it's straight-forward and tens of thousands of foreign visitors happily do it every year.

New Zealanders typically show a little less consideration to other drivers than is seen in UK, Australian, and the US where more cars on the road force people to be more considerate. Having said that, don't be put off - driving in New Zealand is nothing like the harrowing experience of driving in Italy or parts of Asia!

New Zealand Car Rental Firms

New Zealand car rental firms range from the familiar multi-national big brands through to small local car rental firms. The advantage of the big name rental firms is they can be found throughout New Zealand and offer the biggest and newest range of rental vehicles. The disadvantage is that generally they're the most expensive and often have lots of hidden costs.

At the other end of the scale are the small local operators who typically have older rental cars. Whilst you may not end up driving this year's latest model the advantage is that the smaller car rental firms can be substantially cheaper, so leaving you more money to spend on the many exciting attractions New Zealand offers. Between these extremes you'll find a wide range of NZ car rental firms catering to different needs and budgets.

What Sort of Driving Licenses are Required in New Zealand?

You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have either a current driver's license from your home country, or an International Driving Permit.

Most car rental companies require drivers to be over the age of 25 and to have held a full license for at least 3 years. Some firms will rent vehicles to younger drivers. For example, Discount Car Rentals rents vehicles to drivers who are 20 or older and hold a full driver's license. At the manager's discretion, a holder of a license for less than three years is acceptable but may incur a higher insurance excess.

Make sure your overseas driver's license is current. If your license is not in English, you should bring an English translation with you or obtain an International Driving Permit. Contact your local automobile club for further details about obtaining a translation or an International Driving Permit.

In New Zealand it's a legal requirement that all drivers, including overseas visitors, must carry their license or permit when driving. Naturally you will only be able to drive the same types of vehicles you are licensed to drive in your home country.

What are New Zealand's Road Rules?

Here's a brief over-view. You can get more details the NZ Government Land Transport Authority website (www.ltsa.govt.nz/roadcode/)

• In New Zealand, all vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road as in UK.

• When turning left, give way (or yield) to traffic crossing or approaching from your right

• When the traffic light is red, you must stop

• Speed limits are strictly enforced by police using radar, speed cameras and un-marked patrol cars. Fines for speeding can be expensive

• The speed limit on the open road is 100 km/h (approx 60 mph)

• In built up areas the speed limit is 50 km/h. (approx 30 mph)

• Drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times

In Summary

If you're planning to visit New Zealand a rental car is one of the best options, especially for independent travelers who want to experience everything New Zealand has to offer. A rental car gives you the freedom and flexibility to go where you want and when you want to enjoy this wonderful country.

Article by Chris Webber who works for Discount Car Rentals ( http://www.discount-car-rental.co.nz/), one of the largest independent car rental companies in New Zealand. Apart from rental cars, they also offer minibus rentals and 4x4 rental vehicles. Discount Car Rentals specialise in providing New Zealand car rental at the lowest rates with no deposit and no hidden costs. If you want to save money check them out.

Copyright © 2006. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Webber http://EzineArticles.com/?New-Zealand-Car-Rental---Useful-Tips&id=205731

Ruapehu

2008-04-17T22:06:00.000Z

Ruapehu

What to Do in New Zealand

By Kat Beechum
"Ki Ora! Welcome to New Zealand!" This is often the comment you will get when you step off the plane into one of our international airports at Christchurch, Hamilton or Auckland.

New Zealand is an amazing place to live and a fantastic place to visit. We have lush, green rolling hills surrounding us in many parts of the country but then we also have acres and acres of lush, green flats with flowing rivers all leading out to the Pacific Ocean.

There is so much to do here and no matter what your age, there is something for everyone. Having lived in New Zealand all my life and having traveled around most of the North and South Islands, I can tell you there is no other place in the world I would rather live.

So, what can you do in New Zealand? Well, if you are into hiking and camping, this is going to be like heaven for you. We have some fantastic mountain ranges. The best places to go for hiking and camping are Taupo, which is in the middle of the North Island, Wellington, Christchurch and the west coast of the South Island, where there are some amazing hiking tramps down there.

Not into hiking or camping? Prefer shopping? I have just the place for you! Auckland, our largest city, has got one of the best places for shopping ever! There are so many factory shops and bargains to be had, you will most certainly find something and being a bargain shopper myself, I would recommend checking out "Dressmart" at Onehunga, it is huge and has some of the best shopping to be had! Another fantastic place to shop is the main street of Wellington; catch a cable car to get around. Christchurch has some fantastic shopping malls also.

Ok, so you are over shopping? Want to see all the different attractions New Zealand has to offer? Well, where do I start?! Here is a list of my favourites spots throughout New Zealand, there are many more but these are the ones I love:

Swimming at 90 mile beach at the top of the North Island. This is just past Kaitia which is about 6 hours drive from central Auckland.
Fishing off Great Barrier Island. There are some great charters and this is some of the best deep sea fishing you can find.
Enjoying a good coffee on the waterfront at Mission Bay in Auckland. This is a fantastic place to be during summer.Visiting the Auckland Museum for some history about our beautiful country. Learn about the Maori culture and how our country has evolved through the ages.
Head on down to the Waitomo district and go to the Waitomo caves where you can go white and black water rafting and see the amazing glow worms in the caves. This is a truly surreal experience.Visit our national bird, the Kiwi at the Kiwi house in Otorohanga. Get up close and personal with this two legged flight less birds. They are gorgeous.
Taupo - my favourite place to be during summer and winter. Taupo has one of the largest lakes in the world which is the crater left behind by one of the biggest volcanic explosions to rock this world. The lake is renound for its amazing trout fishing. Also one of my favourite things to do is para gliding behind a boat on the lake, you get some amazing views! Take it that step further and do a tandem sky dive over the Taupo district. My Dad did this for his 50th birthday last year; he was on a high for days after that!Drive an hour and half out of Taupo and you will come across some of the best skiing in the world. Mt Ruapehu (which is still an active volcano!) is one of the busiest mountains during winter; you can ski on either side of the mountain as there are two ski fields.
Cape Kidnappers is another great historical place to visit and it is one of the warmest places in New Zealand. Take the tour up to the point at Cape Kidnappers and visit the colony of Gannets (birds) that gather there. Be warned about the smell though, it's something you have to experience!
Catch the ferry at Wellington across to Picton in the South Island and you will find a very different New Zealand. The South Island is not so much hustle and bustle, it is more a relaxed, take your time atmosphere, a great place to chill out.
Nelson is one of the fastest growing cities in New Zealand and it is not hard to see why. This is a great beach side city and lots of people are retiring here or bringing their families to for the lifestyle.
Head down the west coast of the South Island and you will come across a town called Kaikoura, where you can take a cruise on a boat to see some of the most amazing dolphins and whales, up close and personal.
Queenstown is probably my favourite town in New Zealand, it has a great atmosphere all year round, is surrounded by a beautiful lake and one of the best ski fields in New Zealand. Whether visiting during summer or winter, you will love the locals and tourists a like, this is definitely a place to be.
Invercargill, where one of my brothers lives, is a small town at the very bottom of the South Island. On a clear day, you can see Stewart Island in the distance. Drive half an hour out of Invercargill and you will come across Bluff… famous for it's Bluff Oysters, this sleepy little town has "lands end" marked by street signs pointing you in the direction you want to head. A great place to have your picture taken and of course if you like shell fish, you will want to taste their oysters.
There you have it, some of my favourite places throughout New Zealand, my home country and the place I will always come back to. Please come and visit us and come up with your own favourite places to visit!

Kat Beechum writes about things she is passionate about, which are many and varied. Kat lives in New Zealand with her man and two cats, Cooper and Phoenix, both male.

You can visit her website here http://www.money-or-excuses.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kat_Beechum http://EzineArticles.com/?What-to-Do-in-New-Zealand&id=294804

Rotorua

2008-04-17T11:38:00.000Z

New Zealand Tour

2008-04-16T05:05:00.000Z

New Zealand Tour

Car Hire New Zealand - My First New Zealand Holiday

By Mike O'Brien
As I planned my first visit to the stunningly beautiful country of New Zealand, I knew that I wanted the freedom and flexibility to visit everything from the Franz Josef Glacier on the South Island to the vineyards in Hawke’s Bay on the North Island. Because I didn’t want to waste a minute of my limited time waiting for buses or being constrained by a tour group’s itinerary, I knew that I needed a New Zealand rental car to fully enjoy all that the country had to offer. What I quickly discovered was that the car rentals in New Zealand are not only affordable and convenient; they are ideal for exploring the vast array of sites on both of the country’s islands.

With a few keystrokes on my computer, I was able to reserve an economical car rental in New Zealand prior to departing on my journey. Because I was flying into Auckland, the company offered to have a representative pick me up at the airport to take me to the rental car office. I was picked up curbside right on time in the car that I was going to rent. I was amazed by the efficiency and grateful that I wasn’t going to have to transfer my bags from one car to another at the office. The paperwork process was equally as seamless, as I merely had to show my United States driver’s license, passport, and credit card. In less than one hour after arriving in Auckland, I was handed the car keys and on my way. With maps in hand and a full tank of gas in my late model New Zealand rental car, I was starting my independent journey to experience all that the country had to offer.

My first destination was the thermal city of Rotorua, 234 kilometers (145 miles) from Auckland. I must admit that I was a bit nervous the first few minutes of driving on the left side of the road, but within a short time. I was navigating as confidently as the locals. It certainly helped that the highways and roads were well paved, mapped, and signed, and that the vast majority of drivers were courteous and law-abiding. I was thoroughly impressed with New Zealand so far and pleased that I had chosen to drive myself rather than hop aboard a tour bus. Along the way, I stopped in a small town for a quick rest and a meal. I was really beginning to appreciate the freedom that my New Zealand rental car was offering me. Unlike an organized tour, I was able to stop, eat, and rest when I felt like it in the locations that I chose. That first evening I picked up some takeout fish and chips, settled into my modest motel room along the highway, and charted on the map my route for the next following days.

After a week of touring the North Island and thoroughly enjoying my New Zealand car hire holiday that had everything from farm shows to wineries and museums, I was ready to tackle the rugged splendor of the South Island. I had coordinated with the rental car company to drive my car onto the Interislander ferry in the capital city of Wellington. The rental car representatives booked the ticket, and the entire process was amazingly easy. Three hours after boarding, I had arrived on the South Island, drove my car off the ship and began the next leg of my journey.

Driving the less traveled roads of the South Island, I journeyed to national parks, explored the coasts, and even had some time to enjoy the cosmopolitan cities of Christchurch and Dunedin. As my memorable trip came to a close, I returned to the North Island and headed back to Auckland to drop off the car and head to the airport. The return procedure was quick, and the New Zealand rental car representative kindly drove me back to the airport.

My trip to New Zealand was the most memorable and wonderful vacation that I have ever experienced. I had the freedom to explore the country on my terms and time schedule. I was able to see more than just the main tourist attractions and had the pleasure of meeting many of the friendly and welcoming native New Zealanders. I honestly don’t know if I would have appreciated as much of the unique culture, diversity, and stunning beauty of the country if I had spent my days on a tour bus. Thankfully, New Zealand is ideal for exploring by rental car and perfect for those travelers looking for a little adventure and a lot of fun. And, of course, I can hardly wait to return to New Zealand for another road trip!

Mike O'Brien is the owner of © http://www.rental-car-in-new-zealand.com A quality web site with a choice of top New Zealand rental car and motor home hire information at your fingertips!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_O'Brien http://EzineArticles.com/?Car-Hire-New-Zealand---My-First-New-Zealand-Holiday&id=122771

New Zealand Wool Rugs

2008-04-14T22:37:00.000Z

New Zealand Wool Rugs

New Zealand Wool Rugs

By Damian Sofsian
Wool is renewable and biodegradable and thus New Zealand wool rugs are an environmentally friendly décor choice. New Zealand wool is renowned to be the purest and whitest wool in the world.

Sheep from which New Zealand wool is sourced are raised on land unsuitable for food-crop cultivation or other agricultural purposes. No banned pesticides are used on New Zealand sheep-farms thus making this industry one of the world's most environment-friendly animal production industries. New Zealand wool rugs are produced in an eco-friendly manner so that the delicate and vital balance in nature is not upset.

New Zealand wool rugs come in varying sizes and myriad patterns. They are plush, soft and luxurious. As New Zealand wool lends itself well to dyeing, New Zealand wool rugs have long lasting colors. They are available in both traditional and contemporary designs. A bright white base which plays up all colors is used to create all kinds of vibrant and stylish New Zealand wool rugs. Good quality rugs use color fast and stain resistant yarns.

New Zealand wool rugs can be either hand-tufted or machine woven. Their quality, thickness and density also differ due to this factor. Typically, handmade rugs are thicker and denser than machine woven ones. If properly maintained, wool rugs can last for 6 to 10 years depending upon the quality of the rugs.

Sheepskin rugs are a by product of the New Zealand wool rug industry and are among the most popular rugs. They are lavish and grand and compliment home furnishings. The length of the rugs can vary from 75cm to around 250cm and the minimum width required ranges from 50cm onwards. Sheepskin rugs can cost anything from $100 upwards depending on size, method of manufacture and other such factors.

New Zealand wool rugs can also be custom made. Several companies allow you to choose from different center designs, border designs, shape options, patterns, pile and colors. Some companies also let you create your own design to match the décor and feel of your home. [http://www.i-woolrugs.com]Wool Rugs provides detailed information on Braided Wool Rugs, Contemporary Wool Rugs, Discount Wool Rugs, Hand Tufted Wool Rugs and more. Wool Rugs is affiliated with [http://www.i-AreaRugs.com]Cheap Area Rugs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Damian_Sofsian http://EzineArticles.com/?New-Zealand-Wool-Rugs&id=405823

Peter Jackson

2008-04-14T10:50:00.000Z

Peter Jackson

Waterfalls in Mordor?

By Johnny Cheng
Many people around the world familiar with the Peter Jackson rendition of the Lord of the Rings movies are well aware that much of the forbidding land of Mordor that was not created by computer was filmed in parts of Tongariro National Park. It's a fitting location considering the volcanic nature of the park and the rugged, rocky terrain that embodies the fiery wasteland appropriate for a land filled with orcs, giant spiders, and demons. But in reality, Tongariro National Park is far more diverse and scenic than its portrayal in the Lord of the Rings movies. Besides conical volcanoes, old lava flows, and jagged rocks, you'll also find colorful pools, hot springs, tussock plains, and even waterfalls! Given the relatively high rainfall that New Zealand gets and the ability of the Tongariro volcanoes to capture much of this moisture as both snow and rain, much of this water drains through gullies, springs, and gorges on their way towards their Central Plateau base. Through some walks in the area, you can witness many of the major waterfalls as well as some smaller nameless ones.

Perhaps the most dramatic waterfalls found in Tongariro National Park are on the south-facing slopes of the still-active Mt Ruapehu. After ascending parts of the Ohakune Mountain Road, you can access both Mangawhero Falls (which made an appearance in the Lord of the Rings movie as the Henneth Annun's Forbidden Pool) as well as the track for Waitonga Falls - the tallest waterfall in the National Park. On the west-facing slopes towards Ruapehu's foothills, you can see both Taranaki Falls and Tawhai Falls. Taranaki Falls, near the junction of the Tongariro Northern Circuit Track and connecting tracks leading back to Whakapapa Village, gushes through a narrow opening of an old lava flow before crashing 20m at its boulder-ringed base. Tawhai Falls occurs where the Whakapapanui Stream makes a 10m plunge into a deep pool. Finally, the world-famous Tongariro Crossing Track holds additional waterfall surprises complementing the colorful, forbidding, yet otherworldly moonscape scenery. Such surprises include Soda Springs, where mineral-laced water percolates out from the porous volcanic rock nourishing the neighboring vegetation. Meanwhile, on the north-facing slopes of the park, the track leaves the moonscape and tussock grasslands and enters a lush rainforest, where a pleasant unnamed waterfall greets trampers before the end of the trail.

Indeed, the waterfalls found in Tongariro National Park reinforce the scenic diversity you're rewarded with upon a visit to New Zealand. With its mix of volcanic moonscapes, tussock plains, rainforests, and waterfalls, it's no wonder why visitors to this part of the country remember it so fondly. And like an actress that can play many different roles movies to attract an audience, New Zealand's Tongariro National Park does the same - both on and off the silver screen.

Johnny T. Cheng is author of the award-winning A Guide to New Zealand Waterfalls (Story Nature Press).

Find out more about his book at http://www.storynature.com or visit his waterfalls blog at http://www.world-of-waterfalls.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johnny_Cheng http://EzineArticles.com/?Waterfalls-in-Mordor?&id=573198

White Pages Nz

2008-04-13T09:58:00.000Z

White Pages Nz: "New Zealand White Pages New Zealand Women New Zealand Wool Rugs"

New Zealand Music

2008-04-10T22:23:00.000Z

New Zealand Music

One of my favourite New Zealand singer, songwriters is Edwin Derricutt.

Have a listen to his music here http://www.edwinderricutt.com.

New Zealand White Pages

2008-04-09T22:51:00.000Z

New Zealand White Pages: "What Time Is It In New Zealand White Pages New Zealand White Pages Nz"

Maori Tribe

2008-04-08T23:44:00.000Z

Maori Tribe: "Maori Maori Art Maori Culture"

New Zealand Travel Tips

2008-04-06T23:04:00.000Z

New Zealand Travel Tips

Tipping In New Zealand

By Glenn Bongartz
Minimum wages in New Zealand are $10.25 an hour for a worker
over 18 and $8.20 for under 18, so they are not dependent on
tips to subsidize their income, as is the case in the United
States.

Most New Zealanders would not like tipping to become the normal
procedure. This could factor into your wages when negotiating
for a job. If tipping was a major part of New Zealand life, the
minimum wage rates could go down. With workers getting paid less
they are then required to put more pressure on the customer to
leave a good tip. The other option would be for businesses put
prices up that would then cover extra income for workers on
lower wage rates. New Zealand now has a great balance between
the non-tipping and the tip.

With a non-tipping society it also gives a better feeling when
you have finished your transaction. You do not feel guilty about
leaving the right tip, and do not feel like being held captive
at a restaurant or cafe until the tip is paid.

One of the more common New Zealand tipping practices in New
Zealand is to round up taxi fares to the nearest couple of
dollars. Tipping at casinos for drinks are also becoming more
common, especially if you are winning.

Restaurants, hotels or bars do charge an extra service charge
on public holidays around 10%-20%. This has now become a common
levy.

This charge is to cover the cost of paying staff extra for
working on a public holiday.

If you get great service feel free to leave a tip, $5 would be
a good tip and a nice way of saying thanks for going out of your
way. It will be much appreciated, it is not expected.

Enjoy the relaxed New Zealand people and atmosphere of a
non-tipping country.

Do not feel “cheap” if you don’t leave a tip, think “when in
Rome”.

About the Author: http://www.newzealandatoz.com New Zealand
AtoZ provides useful New Zealand information to travelers,
including a full list of all New Zealand car, motorhome and
campervan rental companies along with their daily hire rates
Your complete guide to New Zealand.
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=62522&ca=Culture

Nz White Pages

2008-04-06T13:03:00.000Z

Nz White Pages: "New Zealand White Pages New Zealand Women New Zealand Wool Rugs"

Property For Sale New Zealand

2008-04-06T10:29:00.000Z

Property For Sale New Zealand: "New Zealand Queenstown New Zealand Real Estate New Zealand Realty"

New Zealand Wather

2008-04-02T10:13:00.000Z

New Zealand Wather: "Weather New Zealand Weighing System New Zealand Wellington"

New Zealand Food

2008-03-31T11:27:00.000Z

New Zealand Food

What Makes New Zealand Colostrum Better?

By Farrell Seah
As more is understood about the influence of colostrum sources
and processing techniques on the overall effectiveness of
nutritional and dietary colostrum supplements, New Zealand
continues to stand out as a leading provider of high quality
colostrum, and a leading manufacturer of high quality colostrum
supplements.

New Zealand’s climate, farming practices, and production
regulations all contribute in making New Zealand colostrum
unsurpassed in its purity and biological activity, and New
Zealand colostrum supplements unrivaled in the efficiency of
their manufacture and the uniformity of their source supply.

New Zealand farming practices are very strictly regulated, and
dairy farmers in New Zealand are required to uphold standards of
quality similar to those governing the production of certified
organic dairy products in the United States. New Zealand cows
are raised in an environment that is free of pesticides, and
they are not treated with growth hormones or antibiotics.

Combined with New Zealand's heightened standards for the
certification, pasteurization, and storage of the dairy products
it produces, these naturally healthy cows make New Zealand
colostrum among the purest in the world.

The feeding practices of New Zealand dairies are also subject
to very high standards, and are very different from those of the
United States. Whereas organic herds in the US are often
restricted to a diet a dried, processed foods, New Zealand cows
are always pasture fed, and this is thought to contribute to the
superior quality of New Zealand colostrum as well. Pasture-fed
cows are exposed through grazing to a full spectrum of antigens
in their environment, and therefore are able to develop a
stronger natural immunity.

It is believed that pasture feeding provides a more optimal
diet, and has been further suggested that the enhanced immunity
of pasture fed cows makes New Zealand colostrum more effective
through increased concentrations of its beneficial
immunotherapeutic components, and the transfer of this enhanced
immunity to humans.

Because New Zealand's climate restricts its calving season to a
single three-month period within each year, New Zealand
colostrum can be collected in bulk and transported immediately
from farms to processing plants. This eliminates the need for
freezing colostrum after it is harvested, allowing New Zealand
colostrum to be processed without damaging its protein molecules
through the application of rapid freezing and thawing
techniques.

This is in general not possible in the US and other countries,
where calving occurs year-round and colostrum is collected in
batches too small for their individual processing to be
economically efficient. The ability to collect colostrum in bulk
and use gentler processing techniques therefore contributes to
both the higher consistency and superior bioactivity found in
New Zealand colostrum supplements.

About the Author: Feel free to use this article on your website
or ezine as long as the following information about
author/website is included. http://www.BuyBovineColostrum.com

Source: http://www.isnare.com

Permanent Link:
http://www.isnare.com/?aid=87326&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

Milford Sound

2008-03-27T12:50:00.000Z

Milford Sound

Milford Vs Doubtful Sound, New Zealand, Which One?

By Glenn Bongartz
There are a lot of people that ask “which sound is better to
see Milford or Doubtful sound” The sounds are in the Fiordland
National park, at the bottom of the South Island of New Zealand.
Here are some thoughts on the subject.

Doubtful Sound is about 3 times bigger than Milford Sound; this
gives you more to see on an overnight trip. The trip to Doubtful
takes 30 minutes to drive from Te Anau to Manapouri, then an
hour boat ride, then a 45 minute bus ride which includes a visit
to the hydro dam. (It is not accessible by car).

The Doubtful overnight trip gives you swimming, kayaking and
small boat rides. You will also get to see some dolphins and fur
seals.

The trip to Doubtful sound would cost upward from $215nzd per
person (this price would be for a day trip and depend on
season). There is a bit of travelling to get to Doubtful Sound
but this means less people and more nature.

If you are limited on time and can't do an overnight on
Doubtful sound, then Milford sound is still a fantastic
experience and the trails on the way to Milford Sound are
spectacular. You get to go through the narrow Homer tunnel on
the drive in while you drive through the rain forests of the
Fiordland National park, with lots of little walks and scenic
stops along the way. You should give yourself 3 hours to drive
from Te Anau to Milford. Then another option would be to take a
half day or full day to hike into Milford Sound, if you have any
spare time.

A 90 minute boat trip on Milford Sound would cost around $75nzd
depending on season, and you will still see some of the wildlife
in the area.

Both sounds are great, the main thing you would have to think
about is “how much time do I have”. Doubtful is said to be the
better overnight trip. If you don’t have that much time take the
day trip of Milford sound. Take any off-ship excursion that is
offered, as this will give you a true feel for the flora and
fauna in the Fiordland National park.

If you are driving to Te Anau yourself to see either sound, you
are best to stay in Te Anau the night to get an early start
ahead of the many tour busses that set out from Queenstown each
day.

There are many great tour companies that offer trips from
Queenstown for both Milford and Doubtful Sounds.

During peak and shoulder seasons from the start of November
until the end of March, book well in advance for either trip.

This is one of New Zealand’s most popular scenic
attractions.What ever you decide you will experience a great
scenic trip.

About the Author: http://www.newzealandatoz.com New Zealand
AtoZ provides useful New Zealand free information and advice to
travellers, including a full list of all New Zealand car,
motorhome and campervan rental companies along with their daily
hire rates. Your complete guide to New Zealand.
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=67724&ca=Travel

New Zealand People

2008-03-26T11:25:00.002Z

New Zealand People

Sir Edmund Hillary

2008-03-24T12:51:00.000Z

Sir Edmund Hillary: "New Zealand Currency New Zealand Facts New Zealand Holidays"

Nz Army

2008-03-21T13:07:00.000Z

Nz Army: "New Zealand Anthem New Zealand Army New Zealand Business Opportunities"

Trademe.co.nz

2008-03-18T11:23:00.000Z

Trademe.co.nz

Trade Me Co NZ

‘Trade Me’ is the main New Zealand auction site. It is the brainchild of Sam Morgan, a young entrepreneur who left University to pursue this project and developed it into a very successful business. The whole family played a part in the formation of Trade Me. His mother, Jo, was the trader of the family who obviously taught him a few skills and gave him some ideas. His father, Gareth, is a well-known financial planner with an ability to see outside the square. The pair are ardent motor cycle fans and have produced a photo gallery of their travels with script about their adventures.

Why do I mention this when this article is about TradeMe.co.nz? Because you can see that Sam was not brought up in a household from the average financial planner. Sam sold Trade Me last year for over $700M. It is by no accident that he has become an extremely successful entrepreneur and I look forward to seeing what his next projects will be...

TradeMe.co.nz has opened up the internet to thousands of kiwis and shown them how things are changing. A good quantity of New Zealanders now create there incomes from the Trade Me platform. In my view it is an amazing auction platform with self regulation that really is something 'Kiwi'...

New Zealand Fly Fishing Guide

2008-03-17T11:44:00.000Z

New Zealand Fly Fishing Guide: "Taupo Luxury Accommodation Tongariro Crossing Tourism New Zealand"

New Zealand Pictures

2008-03-12T10:16:00.001Z

New Zealand Pictures

This picture is taken from the top of the Christchurch Gondola on the Port Hills that are the backdrop for Christchurch city.

The photo looks down across Banks Peninsula.

The base of the Gondola is in the suburb of Ferrymead in Christchurch and you can get their by bus from Cathedral Square...

One Way Tickets New Zealand

2008-03-10T16:54:00.000Z

One Way Tickets New Zealand: "Air New Zealand Air New Zealand Fares Air Nz"

New Zealand Girls

2008-03-10T11:06:00.000Z

New Zealand Girls: "Trade Me Trademe.co.nz Trade Me New Zealand"

New Zealand Hotels

2008-03-09T07:27:00.000Z

New Zealand Hotels: "New Zealand Accommodation New Zealand Adventure Sports New Zealand Airlines"

New Zealand Haka

2008-03-07T02:23:00.000Z

New Zealand Haka: "Haka Haka Maori Video Haka Mp3"

New Zealand History

2008-03-07T00:46:00.000Z

New Zealand History: "The Treaty Of Waitangi Time In New Zealand Tongariro Crossing"

New Zealand Jobs

2008-03-06T12:46:00.000Z

New Zealand Jobs: "Nz Post Nz Railway Workshop Addington Peter Jackson"

New Zealand Jobs

2008-03-04T00:42:00.000Z

New Zealand Jobs: "New Zealand Adventure Sports New Zealand Airlines New Zealand All Blacks"

New Zealand Flag

2008-02-28T21:39:00.001Z

New Zealand Flag

New Zealand Fishing

2008-02-27T00:13:00.000Z

New Zealand Fishing

FROM http://www.troutfishingservices.co.nz/

I'm Dick Marquand, a professional fishing guide based in Cromwell, Central Otago, New Zealand. I offer top quality tailor-made trout fishing trips in prime locations throughout the lower portion of New Zealand's spectacular South Island.

The variation of trout fishing experiences that I offer is almost limitless - fly fishing, spin fishing, or boat fishing.

I can guide you on a heli-fishing charter into a pristine wilderness location, take you into the estuaries of South Westland rivers to fish for sea-run brown trout, you can fish with me in our back country streams and high country lakes or you can choose to harl for rainbow trout and brown trout from one of my boats on Lake Dunstan - a renowned trout fishery.

I cater for everyone from beginners to specialists. So visit me for the
"Best Fishing in the South!"

I offer a money back guarantee for my clients when harling -

NO FISH - NO PAY!!

New Zealand Hunting

2008-02-26T02:56:00.000Z

New Zealand Hunting

FROM http://www.trophyhuntnz.com/

Experience the beauty and excitement of a unique backcountry adventure in New Zealand.

Harvey and Patsy of Backcountry Safaris are highly experienced outfitters offering truly unique hunting and fishing experiences in some of the most remote and beautiful places in New Zealand.

Our Local knowledge is vital in providing the hunter with the optimum chance of securing that special trophy fish or animal, all with the added bonus of unforgettable scenery. Harvey has a wealth of knowledge with over 30 years of flying and hunting experience in the Southern Lakes and West Coast areas.

Specialising in small groups of up to four people, Backcountry Safaris provides the ultimate in personal service and guided hunting. Each safari is totally designed around your individual requirements from the animals you wish to hunt, the choice of locations, where you wish to stay and any other local sightseeing attractions you want to include in your holiday plans. More on accommodation and activities here.

Personal, Professional & Friendly Service
Packages designed to suit your individual skill level and requirements.

Experience! Experience! Experience!
Leaders in the field of outstanding backcountry adventures with over 30 years of flying and hunting in the area.

New Zealand Queenstown

2008-02-26T01:44:00.000Z

New Zealand Queenstown

Queenstown is one of my favourite places to have a fun holiday...

FROM http://www.queenstown.nz.com/

Queenstown

Queenstown is the New Zealand destination for international visitors. Its natural beauty changes with the seasons, the lake gleans in the summer sun, and snow clad mountains tower above the township in winter.

Queenstown is a great place to visit all year round. Nestled in beside the mysterious Lake Wakatipu, in the Southern Lakes district of New Zealand, Queenstown is a cosmopolitan haven, offering a limitless adventure, southern wine and cuisine, and breathtaking alpine scenery.

Queenstown doesn't earn its title of Adventure Capital of the World for nothing. Here, you can bungy jump, ski or snowboard, paraglide, jet boat, white water raft, skydive, hang glide, jetski, and drive quadbikes to your heart's content!

For its remoteness, Queenstown is one the busiest little towns in the country, sporting the equivalent to around half the population of New Zealand in tourists in 2006, who came to experience the unique "Adventure Capital of the World", and to relax on the scenic walks, flights, and cruises, taking in the vast lakes, rushing rivers, and awe-inspiring mountains.

Queenstown possesses the perfect location to base yourself while you explore the wonders of Fiordland National Park and the rest of the Southern Lakes region. The magnificence of Queenstown's lake side location and the range of accommodation and attractions available make it an essential part of any visit to New Zealand.

New Zealand Music

2008-02-24T21:02:00.000Z

New Zealand Music

http://www.myspace.com/edwinderricutt

Edwin is one of my favourite New Zealand artists. Have a listen and let me know what you think...

New Zealand Real Estate

2008-02-22T08:33:00.001Z

New Zealand Real Estate

New Zealand Government

2008-02-18T22:16:00.000Z

New Zealand Government: "New Zealand Culture New Zealand Currency New Zealand Facts"

New Zealand Fly Fishing

2008-02-18T08:32:00.000Z

New Zealand Fly Fishing

FROM http://www.fishingguides.co.nz/

New Zealand Professional Fishing Guides' Association Is The National Body Representing Fishing Guides Throughout New Zealand

The Fishing Guides Association advocates on behalf of members with Government and other bodies, promotes guided fishing trips around New Zealand, investigates complaints and disputes and communicates with members via a regular newsletter.

Fishing guide members are located in all areas of new Zealand and this website provides links to individual members websites.

The Professional Fishing Guides Association has a strong focus on sustainable fisheries management within New Zealand and works with many fishery managers and environmental groups to protect and enhance rivers and fishery habitats.

New Zealand Professional Fishing Guides Association adheres to the highest ideals of angling ethics.

New Zealand professional fly fishing guides offer excellent guided trips from the alps to the sea, around the rivers and lakes. From fly tying to rod and reel outfitting, expect professional advice and support tailored to your specific fishing vacation expectations.

Experience a memorable and rewarding New Zealand fly fishing adventure holiday with an accredited fishing guide. New Zealand fly fishing offers some the finest quality brown and rainbow trout trophy fishing in the world.

New Zealand Photos

2008-02-17T10:27:00.001Z

New Zealand Photos

Hanmer Springs Hot Pools about one and a half hours drive north of Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand

New Zealand Facts

2008-02-15T07:48:00.000Z

New Zealand Facts

New Zealand Facts

• Furthest From Sea
The furthest settlement from salt water in New Zealand is Garston, Southland. There is no part of New Zealand more than 128km from the sea.

• Centre of New Zealand
Nelson’s botanical Hill is the official “centre” of New Zealand.

• Largest Island
The South Island of New Zealand is 150,718 sq km making it the largest island in New Zealand. The North Island is 114, 453 sq km.

• Hottest Island
White Island, Bay of Plenty off the coast of the North Island of New Zealand, is no place for tourists. Temperatures from cracks in the earth can reach 850 to 900 degrees C and the rock glows dull red.

• Smallest Islands
The smallest islands legally part of New Zealand are the Kermadecs, 800 km north-west of North Cape and 34 sq. km in area.

• Disappearing Islands
Four islands have reportedly “disappeared” since the days of European exploration of the Pacific:

o The Emerald Island, a mountainous island due-south of the Macquaries
o The Nimrod Islands, south-east of the Antipodes
o Royal Company Island, south of Tasmania
o Dougherty or Keates Island, halfway between New Zealand and Cape Horn

Who knows, maybe with global warming they will turn up again!

New Zealand Honeymoon

2008-02-12T12:23:00.000Z

New Zealand Honeymoon

Where in New Zealand would I want to go for my honeymoon?

One of the places that appeals is Mount Cook village. Why? Well you see I love the mountains.

And, if it was winter, then what better than to snuggle up in bed and look at the snow outside with the amazing mountains looking down on you?

Besides that they are used to pampering tourists, so surely they can pamper us...

Around the area there are numerous walks of various levels of challenge and you can always take a memorable ski plane trip around the mountains that are outside the door of the Hermitage. Maybe we could even ski the Tasman Glacier?

The Mount Cook village is the sort of place that is extremely memorable and I want to remember the enjoyment of my honeymoon!

New Zealand Maps

2008-02-11T00:09:00.000Z

New Zealand Maps

A couple of Places that you will find New Zealand maps are the Wises site at http://www.wises.co.nz/ or the Automobile Association site at http://www.aatravel.co.nz/main/index.php.

This is from the AA site...

Travelling New Zealand
New Zealand is a traveller's dream. Jam-packed with surreal landscapes of magnificent lakes and beaches, lush rainforests, snow-capped mountains and virtually untouched national parks, the scenery alone is enough to entice most visitors.

This raw natural beauty combines with thousands of things to do, making New Zealand one of the world's top holiday destinations.

Consisting of two main islands - North and South - New Zealand is similar in size to Japan or Great Britain but only has a population of 4.1 million, leaving much of the land secluded and preserved.

National parks, where many mountains, glaciers and walking tracks are found, cover a third of the country.

The rugged west coast of both islands is lined with black sand and iron ore beaches; while their east coasts dazzle with long, white sandy beaches and pohutukawa-lined harbours - New Zealand is definitely a place to bring your camera.

New Zealand Newspapers

2008-02-10T22:02:00.000Z

New Zealand Newspapers

FROM http://www.stuff.co.nz/thepress/?source=thepress

More Kiwis to lose homes
By LIZ McDONALD and CHARLIE GATES - The Press
Real estate experts have warned of increased mortgagee sales this year as the housing market cools and interest rates rise.

Lengthy recovery for injured pilot
By REBECCA TODD - The Press
The Nelson pilot stabbed by an alleged hijacker is recuperating at his home but faces "significant rehabilitation time".

Holcim wins right to build Oamaru plant
The Press | 10:17AM
Cement giant Holcim has been granted all consents to build and operate a cement plant and associated quarries and pits near Oamaru.

Doubts raised over timing of SIT funding boost
By REBECCA TODD - The Press
The timing of a $6.5 million boost for the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) is not linked to recent funding cuts, says the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC).

New Zealand Populatoin

2008-02-09T08:48:00.000Z

New Zealand Population

NEW ZEALAND POPULATION
Europeans were first counted by census in New Zealand in 1851. The first Maori census did not take place until six years later and took a full year to complete. It showed a Maori population of 56,049, virtually the same as the European population in that year; this was the only time in history the two races were equal in number.

The New Zealand first million of population was recorded in 1908, the second in 1952, the third in 1973 and the fourth in 2003. The New Zealand population is currently a little over 4,257,159.

More than three quarters of the population of New Zealand live in the North Island of New Zealand. In 2005 the population figure for the North Island was around 3,116,100, while the population for the South Island was 981,400.

The principal agglomeration is Auckland area (includes Auckland, Manukau, North Shore and Waitakere cities) with a population of 1,241,600 in 2005, Wellington with 370,000 was next, Hamilton was fourth with 185,000, Napier was fifth with 119,600 and Tauranga was seventh with 109,100. These are all in the North Island of New Zealand.

Christchurch the major South Island city had a population of 367,700 in 2005, making it the third largest agglomeration. The next largest South Island city is Dunedin with a population of 114,700 in 2005, placing it as the sixth largest population agglomeration...

New Zealand Earthquakes

2008-02-05T10:06:00.000Z

New Zealand Earthquakes

New Zealand Earthquakes

Each year some four hundred significant earthquakes are recorded in New Zealand, of which roughly one hundred are likely to be noticed without instruments. The balance is recorded by seismological instruments, but is not of sufficient importance to warrant public notice.

The earliest known record of an earthquake in New Zealand is found in cook's journals (1769-70). The earliest detailed record of a destructive earthquake is of one which shook Wellington on 19 October 1848, killing 3 people and doing considerable damage to buildings. This quake was centred in the Awatere Valley, Marlborough.

The biggest New Zealand earthquake in historical times was the Wellington earthquake of 23 January 1855, with a magnitude of about 8 on the Richter scale. This quake was felt over an area of about 940,000 sq km and tilted a block of land 50m wide and 190km long. The highest uplift of 3m occurred on the coast at Mukamuka, east of Wellington. In Wellington itself the uplift was 1.5m; and great stretches of shore became permanently exposed. The centre lay along the Wairarapa Fault, and the horizontal movement on this fault is estimated to have been at least 12m compared with about 6m for the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Despite this huge movement, only 5 pakehas died in the quake, because Wellington was still sparsely populated at that stage. The number of Maoris killed was not ascertained...

New Zealand Realty

2008-02-01T01:23:00.000Z

New Zealand Realty: "Real Estate New Zealand Real Estate Nz Self Contained Accommodation New Zealand"

New Zealand Rugby Team

2008-01-31T06:01:00.000Z

New Zealand Rugby Team

From http://www.allblacks.com/

2008 Iveco Series
Date
Game
Venue
Time(NZ)
Result
07 Jun
All Blacks v Ireland
Wellington
7:35 pm
0-0
14 Jun
All Blacks v England
Auckland
7:35 pm
0-0
21 Jun
All Blacks v England
Christchurch
7:35 pm
0-0
Please note: Game dates/times are stated in NZ times - not local time.
2008 Philips Tri Nations
Date
Game
Venue
Time(NZ)
Result
05 Jul
New Zealand v South Africa
Wellington
7:35 pm
0-0
12 Jul
New Zealand v South Africa
Dunedin
7:35 pm
0-0
20 Jul
Australia v South Africa
Perth
12:05 am
0-0
26 Jul
Australia v New Zealand
Sydney
10:05 pm
0-0
02 Aug
New Zealand v Australia
Auckland
7:35 pm
0-0
17 Aug
South Africa v New Zealand
Cape Town
1:00 am
0-0
24 Aug
South Africa v Australia
Durban, SA
1:00 am
0-0
31 Aug
South Africa v Australia
Johannesburg
1:00 am
0-0
13 Sep
Australia v New Zealand
Brisbane
10:05 pm
0-0
Please note: Game dates/times are stated in NZ times - not local time.

New Zealand Sheep

2008-01-29T10:11:00.000Z

New Zealand Sheep

New Zealand Sheep

Although Captain Cook landed a ram and a ewe at Ship's Cove in Queen Charlotte Sound in 1773, these first arrivals did not survive. The missionary Samuel Marsden brought merino sheep to the Bay of Islands in 1814, but there is no record of whether they survived either. More sheep were brought in the 1820's but the first fully recorded flock arrived at Mana Island, near Wellington, on 30 March 1834. The 105 merinos were imported from Australia by John Bell Wright, who exported a few bags of their wool to Sydney the following year. This was the first export of wool from the colony.

The perendale breed of sheep was developed after experimental work at Massey Agricultural College in 1940, demonstrating its usefulness under unfavourable grazing conditions. It was bred from a Cheviot-Romney cross and requires less shepherding than any other breed of sheep. It is reared primarily for its meat.

The South Suffolk breed is a new breed produced in Canterbury by interbreeding the progeny of Suffolk-Southdown crosses. The first flocks were recognised by the New Zealand Sheepbreeders Association in 1940...

New Zealand Flax

2008-01-28T11:02:00.000Z

New Zealand Flax

From http://www.teara.govt.nz/1966/F/Flax/Flax/en

FLAX
Phormium tenax Forst., called harakeke by the Maori, and generally known as New Zealand flax, is a monocotyledon. It belongs to the agave family, and is native to New Zealand and Norfolk Island. It is a tall perennial “herb” with rigid leaves 3 to 9 ft long, and 2 to 5 in. wide, which grow in fans. The red or yellow flowers are borne in large panicles on stems up to 15 ft high, and yield nectar which attracts birds. The plant grows abundantly throughout New Zealand in lowland swamps and alluvial soils, from sea level to 4,500 ft. Phormium colensoi is the smaller, yellow-flowered species found on the sea coast, and in the mountains.

Captain Cook and Joseph Banks recorded the presence of flax in New Zealand in 1770, and the first published account of it is in Hawkes-worth's edition of Cook's first voyage. J. R. and G. Forster, botanists on Cook's second voyage in 1772, named the plant Phormium tenax, in allusion to baskets which the Maoris made from the leaves–phormium from the Greek phormos, a basket, and the Latin tenax, strong.

New Zealand Real Estate

2008-01-27T12:55:00.000Z

New Zealand Real Estate

From http://www.richmastery.com/default.aspx

Property News
Latest TV Episode
NOW SHOWING Divide And Conquer – Part 1

New slump means shares in bear market

Boeing confirms Dreamliner delays

NZ sharemarket in freefall, losing streak into 12th day

November retail sales 'stronger than expected'

Masport stands the test of time

New Zealand Real Estate

2008-01-25T01:34:00.000Z

New Zealand Real Estate

New Zealand Real Estate Investments

by Dave Klein
There are a number of options in New Zealand real estate to make it a solid and profitable investment. There are basically three things to look at in the New Zealand real estate market that will aid you. Think about investing in rental properties, beach front living, or you may even want to consider a vineyard for your international real estate investment.

In terms of rentals in New Zealand real estate, you will want to start your search in or near a larger city, since this is where most of New Zealand’s population resides. Auckland is the most modern and well known of the New Zealand regions and is really the only one with an active market for real estate.

With little or no effort, your international real estate investment may be a New Zealand rental which can fairly easily return 12% annually. Rentals will give you an annual and continual return on your investment and with New Zealand being a fairly hot rental property market right now, New Zealand real estate may just be your best rental investment property bet.

Another thought is the idea of New Zealand real estate as an investment for resale. This is not a bad idea if you are trying to diversify your international real estate investments. Looking around Auckland, in the Bay of Islands, or in Queenstown, you should be able to find New Zealand real estate that is not only affordable, but also increasing in value and easy to purchase. Ease of purchase is important since in many countries international real estate investment is frowned upon.

In New Zealand, you will likely only run into trouble if you try to purchase a large piece of land on the ocean or close to Auckland. New Zealand real estate of this type will require you to get the approval of an Overseas Private Investment Council. The council was set up to prevent US and Japanese investors from buying all of the good New Zealand real estate and pushing out the natives.

Now if you are not really looking for New Zealand real estate as an international real estate investment, so much as a place to live or retire, then you may want to consider areas other than Auckland. Larger, more isolated, and enjoyable homes are located in regions where the New Zealand real estate market may not be increasing so quickly.

Lastly, if you are considering New Zealand real estate investments, you may want to think about a vineyard. The Marlborough region of New Zealand offers some of the best wine making in the world. Since the rest of the globe is just now catching on to this, an international real estate investment in New Zealand vineyards may be just the way to go.

New Zealand real estate offers buyers an opportunity to make money in a number of ways. However, it is important to understand the value that may be there when considering a move or retirement in New Zealand. With the US dollar’s strength, good property prices and a beautiful country, you will likely profit in some way whether it is through a rental property, a vineyard or a resale property.

Dave Klein is a successful International Real Estate investor. Make great returns with New Zealand Real Estate and profit today.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com

New Zealand Rugby

2008-01-24T04:29:00.000Z

New Zealand Rugby

From http://www.allblacks.com/

Ellis set for senior role
24/01/2008

Andrew Ellis is clearly the number one No. 9 at the Crusaders now that Kevin Senio has headed to France and the responsibility that comes with that sits comfortably on his shoulders.

For two years, Ellis and Senio shared a keen rivalry for the starting role with coach Robbie Deans often opting to take turns with his two All Black halfbacks.

While Tasman newcomer Kahn Fotuali'i, 25, is senior in years to Ellis, who turns 24 next month, the younger halfback has the international experience with four test caps.

The Crusaders start their Rebel Sport Super 14 campaign with the first of three pre-season hit-outs against the Hurricanes before an expected capacity 10,500 crowd at Motueka on Friday night, and both halfbacks are certain to receive good game time with Fotuali'i expected to start on home turf.

But Ellis will be a key player for the Crusaders and he said after their training on Wednesday that he was only too happy to assume a senior role.

"Kahn and I work hard together just as Kevvy and I did for the last two years. He's a really good fellow and we're always out there practicing our passing and kicking together which does make a big difference in a team environment."

A calf injury to Test first five-eighth Dan Carter will keep him out of the Hurricanes clash and the exciting Stephen Brett is expected to wear the No. 10 jersey.Not that Ellis worries about who is outside him.

"I've played with Stevie throughout varsity and we started together with the Canterbury under-16 team. DC is such a great footballer - you wouldn't need to play with him before to strike up a good combination."

"We're pretty lucky in Canterbury to have two such classy players like that who can make good calls and run the game well."

Although Ellis has been making runs and taking wickets for Diamond Harbour in country cricket recently, his attention is now firmly fixed on rugby and the medial ligament tear he suffered in 2006 is now well behind him.

"I'm in good nick, fit and strong, and excited that the season is just around the corner. We've been training so hard and everyone is in good shape and now just wanting to play."

"Starting this Friday (against the Hurricanes) there's a reward at the end of the week for all the hard work we do."Leading Taranaki referee Chris Pollock has helped take the players through the experimental law variations at the two practices this week in preparation for the upcoming season.

New Zealand Soccer

2008-01-23T00:23:00.000Z

New Zealand Soccer

from http://www.nzsoccer.com/

Challenging situation recoverable with game's help - Morris
-->
NZF/January 20, 2008 AUCKLAND - New Zealand Football chairman John Morris is confident the code’s challenging financial position is recoverable – but only with the concerted support of the entire football fraternity.
Morris confirmed the national body faced a loss of $834,000 for 2007 – $511,000 of which is directly attributable to the cancelled All Whites-Fiji World Cup qualifier in October and a poor gate at the following month’s qualifier against Vanuatu in Wellington.
He said NZ Football were “extremely disappointed and concerned” that a confidential discussion document circulated to each of its seven regional Federations – designed to ensure the on-going growth of a game the Federations are charged with serving - had been leaked.
Morris said the document - proposing four options to reverse the sport’s on-going financial challenges - was a work in progress and its premature public release had “inflamed the situation with a number of emotionally and politically driven inaccuracies”.
An example of this was a Sunday newspaper report suggesting NZ Football had already introduced a nationwide $10 player levy and that the National Women’s League had been canned, neither of which was the case.
“This was an attempt by NZ Football to work with the Federations, to take them into our trust, and at least one of them has reacted in a very disappointing manner,” Morris said.
“We have attempted to grow the game, expecting revenue streams such as sponsorship to strengthen as our activity and credibility built. The revenue has not grown as anticipated so we need to find a different way to move forward which is what we are attempting to do in conjunction with the Federations.”
The most radical of the proposals included the moth-balling of the All Whites, something NZ Football’s board agreed was “not feasible” given the massive impact this would have on the profile of the game and the severe financial ramifications, including FIFA sanctions.
Instead, NZ Football’s board advocates an increase in user-pays activity, particularly at age-group international level (U-20s down), the re-direction of Trust funding that is currently used for the direct benefit of the Federations, a nationwide $10 player levy and the reduction of administration overheads.
Morris said NZ Football had already begun ‘cutting its cloth’ accordingly, an example of which is the recently abandoned proposal to fund a U-16 New Zealand development squad in the up-coming National Youth League.
“We will only undertake activity, both internationally and domestically, if it is break even proposition as we work to move forward.”
NZ Football found itself caught between a “rock and a hard place” when Australia defected to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) in January 2006 – leaving NZ as the biggest player in the small Oceania Football Confederation (OFC).
The board of NZ Football agreed that the long-term profile and development opportunities this unique situation presented - including increased opportunities to participate at FIFA World Cups – could not be missed.
However, the four major revenue sources most national football associations rely on around the world - broadcast rights, apparel sponsorship, gate takings and government funding – are not available to NZ Football to any significant degree because of their geographical isolation and relatively weak World Cup Qualifying opponents.
That has meant NZ Football, despite the sport’s best profile since the All Whites participated at the 1982 World Cup in Spain, has been forced to look at new ways of ensuring critical player, coach and referee pathways are consolidated in a financially “measured and managed way”.
Last year’s All Whites programme cost NZ Football $695,000. Home internationals - including mandatory World Cup qualifiers - costs approximately 15 times more than playing matches offshore where most of the All Whites costs are met by the host association.
Morris agreed the All Whites were a catch 22 proposition – costly qualifiers were a prerequisite if NZ Football desired a greater profile and the economic benefits of qualifying for tournaments such as the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup which guarantees a minimum $US1 million payday. A place at the 2010 FIFA World Cup would generate a minimum $US4.5 million.
In addition to the $311,000 cost associated with the cancelled Fiji game, NZ Football faces a bill of up to $200,000 to fund the rescheduled game to be held in Apia, Samoa on June 23 this year without any hope of generating any significant income through a home gate.
Morris said NZ Football Chief Executive Graham Seatter had the board’s backing.
“Graham still has his job and still wants his job and the board is committed to working with him and senior management to turn this around.”
Morris also conceded the fragmented football community was holding the sport back, as evidence by the leaking of the options document.
“You have to question the motives of these shadowy figures and ask what they’re trying to achieve. Is it a cheap points scoring opportunity at Graham Seatter’s expense?
“It’s hard to argue with shadowy figures. We invite this person, or people, to reveal themselves so we can get around a table to discuss their concerns.”
Morris said the game had to ask itself whether it was happy to remain a major sport with a ‘minor’ tag in New Zealand or whether it was prepared to forge ahead together and grasp the significant growth opportunities presented by being the No 1 association in OFC.
“Very few new businesses turn a profit in the short-term. But with careful management we’re confident we can deliver all our stakeholders an attractive and prosperous game on and off the pitch,” Morris said.
Federations have until Friday, January 25 to make submissions on the options document which will be voted on at a special January 31 meeting of the Federations.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Points of clarification:
Nationwide levy: The proposed $10 levy per player would be the first NZ Football affiliation increase since 2004. NZF current receives approximately $640,000 from affiliation fees – roughly $6 per player per year if all players are counted – which equates to less than 10 percent of total NZF revenue.
Small Whites: NZ Football currently receives no affiliation fees from players under the age of 12, a group estimated to be more than 100,000-strong. These stakeholders pay their local Federation an affiliation fee despite much of NZ Football’s work being dedicated to support this age-group.
NZ Football activity since February, 2005: NZ Football has hugely increased domestic and international activity – and thus profile – in the last three years. This has been supported by revenue that has nearly doubled in that period.
Domestic initiatives include coach development through the CoachForce programme, referee development and the growth of national leagues including improved stakeholder communications.
NZ Football’s international programme has grown from 6 games in 2005, to 68 in 2006 and 73 last year. These activities have included participation at four profile-boosting World Cups and are more than 80% self-funded.
NZ Football also brokered the deal that led to the establishment of the Wellington Phoenix and currently hold NZ’s sole Hyundai A-League participation licence.
Federation Funding: NZ Football re-directed $1.3 million in Trust funding to projects run in its seven regional Federations in 2007. This does not include indirect benefits such as referee development which is funded by NZ Football.
In the seven years since the Federations structure was established, NZ Football (and NZ Soccer before it) granted each Federation $50,000 annually which equates to more to $2 million in that period. In addition to this figure, extra funding was provided to two Federations to drag them out of financial difficulties.
The 2007 funding included $560 from the New Zealand Community Trust - $80,000 to each Federation - for the Federation’s “Football for Life” programmes and administration.
The Lion Foundation contributed $100,000 towards the National Women’s League to pay for travel and some related expenses of Federation teams.
The Perry Foundation contributed $165,000 and the Infinity Foundation $65,000 towards the National Age-Group Tournament to pay for travel and coaching development of Federation teams.
The Southern Trust contributed $371,000 towards the national development officers working in six of the federations.
NZ Football also paid for referee development ($163,000), Small Whites programmes, and coach development ($447,000).
NZF staffing levels: NZ Football currently employs 14.5 head office staff (an increase of 1 staff member since February 2005) plus six partially-funded CoachForce development officers working in each of the Federations. During this time NZF has administered a significant increase in domestic activity and an international programme that has grown from six matches in 2005 to 73 in 2007.
A large number of NZF Staff are partially funded by external sources, such that NZ Football only bears approximately half of its total staff costs.
These figures do not include FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup staff which is financed separate of NZ Football (FIFA and local funding initiatives).
National Women’s League: NZ Football has no intention of ‘canning’ the National Women’s League; indeed it is NZ Football’s intention to eventually expand this to a double round-robin competition. However, NZF does propose the deferment of the league until early 2009 due to up-coming Olympic (China) and U-17 (NZ) and U-20 (Chile) World Cup campaigns which will have a significant drain on player resources in the current November-December time-slot.
Referees: NZ Football will not cut funding of referee programmes. However, NZ Football proposes Referees operate on a cost neutral basis and recommend a user-pays model including contributions by end users including Federations.

New Zealand Stock Exchange

2008-01-21T23:56:00.000Z

New Zealand Stock Exchange

Market Data - 22 January, 12:54
Headline Indices
Index
Value
Movement (%)
NZX 50
3535.1
-3.16%

NZX 15
6572.4
-3.00%

NZX 50 Portfolio
2053.6
-3.36%

NZX SciTech
1139.0
-1.28%

New Zealand Soccer

2008-01-21T06:59:00.000Z

New Zealand Soccer: "New Zealand Climbing New Zealand Cruises New Zealand Culture"

New Zealand Map

2008-01-16T03:15:00.000Z

New Zealand Map: "Map Of New Zealand Marlborough Milford Sound"

New Zealand Holidays

2008-01-16T01:18:00.000Z

New Zealand Holidays

Need a holiday? New Zealand is the destination of choice

by Nigel
Action, adventure or just relaxation, why not plan a holiday in New Zealand or a honeymoon in New Zealand which is one of the most sought after destinations in the world. There is heap’s to do on your holiday in New Zealand with outdoor & adventure activities, tourist attractions, wildlife viewing & nature, food & wine, Maori culture, museums & art galleries, shopping & more. Enjoy a fun filled holiday in New Zealand, one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Holiday
Holidays are your time to relax and enjoy New Zealand’s recreation. Working with the right holiday company will maximise your opportunity to get the very best out of your holiday. They often offer opportunities to see New Zealand in a way most holiday makers cannot. With a number of outdoor activities and sights to see, you can stay in various types of holiday homes in New Zealand with a price to match anyone’s budget. Visitors looking for holiday homes in New Zealand have two main islands to choose from. The North Island or the South Island. Both Islands have a wide variety of activities and scenery to please everyone’s holiday taste.

Accommodation
New Zealand has a wide of range of quality accommodation options to suit all budgets. With hotels, resorts, luxury lodges, self contained motels & apartments, bed & breakfast / homestays, holiday homes, backpacker, holiday parks & camping. Accommodation options range from a single night’s Bed and Breakfast, to Customised, Multi-day all inclusive packages. Many accommodation providers offer the flexibility to extend your stay in a place you love for an extra day or 2 within off peak times with little or no fuss. Motel accommodation is one of the most flexible accommodation arrangements available in New Zealand.

Activities
Fresh air, breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities are the main attractions of New Zealand, with a tremendously friendly, honest and helpful population, colloquially nicknamed after their country's distinct symbol, the unusual but amiable flightless bird “The Kiwi”. New Zealand offers a lot of activities, especially for the adventurous kind. New Zealand's awesome landscapes, lush forests and amazing wildlife make it a haven for many outdoor activities, and a great place to unwind. New Zealand offers a huge variety of action-packed and laid back activities, from bungy jumping to skiing, swimming with dolphins, scenic flights and boat cruises on the fjords, as well as several world famous walking trails with unrivalled scenery. Most adventurous activities are available in the South Island, whereas North Island offers the charm of the big cities, some great shopping as well as some uniquely New Zealand attractions, like the Maori village in Rotorua. These activities are strong contributors to overall holiday satisfaction and deliver an enjoyable holiday experience to the interactive traveller in New Zealand.

Part of the challenge in planning a New Zealand holiday is what to leave out. Adding a dash of culture to your New Zealand holiday is simply a matter of knowing where to go. Everything you need for a great New Zealand holiday is available: Fishing off the beach, golf courses, horse riding, surfing and swimming, vineyards, white sandy picturesque beaches, fishing boat charters including diving and snorkelling, local craft and pottery shops and fabulous restaurants. With long sandy beaches, warm seas and miles of scenic beauty you will soon realise that a New Zealand holiday is an experience and a half. For many, a holiday in New Zealand is a once in a lifetime experience. Whichever way you like it, a New Zealand holiday is pure magic.

Nigel is a successful webmaster and publisher of www.bignelstreetmotel.co.nz an Accommodation Wanganui website. Bignell Street Motel offers value for money Wanganui Accommodation.
Article Source: http://www.articlerich.com

New Zealand Flights

2008-01-10T10:52:00.000Z

New Zealand Flights: "Air New Zealand Air New Zealand Fares Air New Zealand Freight Air Nz"

New Zealand Herald

2008-01-10T03:33:00.000Z

New Zealand Herald

Today
Police dive squad recover body of drowned man
Belfast Pool reopens
Police appeal for witnesses to gunpoint robbery
War memorial pillars to be handed back
Young killer freed to course attended by children
Napier home targeted by aggressive teenage girls
Rescued caver tells of 7hr chasm ordeal
Goat fight continues
Black day in court for hotel con suspect
Cheated franchisee loses faith in New Zealand
Stars' names used in ironing scam
New Alleged hotel conman denied bail
New Three more arrests over fatal bashing of NZ man
New Where is Keith Lapham?
Teens in custody

New Zealand Flag

2008-01-09T05:02:00.000Z

New Zealand Flag

New Zealand Lotto Results

2008-01-09T00:38:00.000Z

New Zealand Lotto Results: "Lord Of The Rings Lord Of The Rings Pictures Luxury Accommodation New Zealand"

New Zealand News

2008-01-06T12:07:00.000Z

New Zealand News: "New Zealand Herald New Zealand History New Zealand Holidays"

New Zealand Immigration

2008-01-05T04:56:00.000Z

New Zealand Immigration: "New Zealand Government New Zealand Haka New Zealand Herald"

New Zealand Music Search Engine

2008-01-04T11:08:00.000Z

New Zealand Music Search Engine: "Maori Haka Maori Language Maori Music"

New Zealand National Anthem

2008-01-03T00:09:00.000Z

New Zealand National Anthem: "New Zealand Maps New Zealand Music New Zealand Music Search Engine"

New Zealand Sim Card

2007-12-30T08:07:00.000Z

New Zealand Sim Card: "Telecom Nz Time In New Zealand Vodafone Nz"

Maori Tattoos

2007-12-29T06:39:00.000Z

Maori Tattoos: "Tana Umaga Taupo Luxury Accommodation Telecom Nz"

Maori Tattoo Designs

2007-12-29T05:56:00.000Z

Maori Tattoo Designs: "Maori Culture Maori Designs Maori Design Tattoo"

Maori Tattoo Art

2007-12-28T02:40:00.000Z

Maori Tattoo Art: "New Zealand Culture New Zealand Currency New Zealand Facts"

Maori Tattoo

2007-12-26T02:05:00.000Z

Maori Tattoo: "Maori Tattoo Art Maori Tattoo Designs Maori Tattoos"

Maori Symbols

2007-12-22T12:18:00.000Z

Maori Symbols: "Designer Clothes New Zealand Designer Jewellery New Zealand Designer Shoes New Zealand"

Maori People

2007-12-21T08:13:00.000Z

Maori People: "Haka Haka Maori Video Haka Mp3"

Maori Patterns

2007-12-20T12:59:00.000Z

Maori Patterns: "Maori Art Maori Culture Maori Designs"

Maori Music

2007-12-19T14:34:00.000Z

Maori Music: "Kapa Haka Kawau Island New Zealand Kiri Te Kanawa"

History Of New Zealand

2007-12-15T13:49:00.000Z

History Of New Zealand

The Oldest Stone Building in New Zealand

The oldest existing stone building in New Zealand is the Stone Store, at Kerikeri. This building was erected to provide fireproof storage for the goods needed to barter with the Maoris and for the missionaries' own use.

The keystone over the door bears the date 1833, possibly the year it was set in place by the stonemason, William Parrot, but the building was actually started in 1832, and completed in 1835.

Although the building was subsequently used as a library by Bishop Selwyn, and an ammunition magazine during the war with Hone Heke it is still a store in the sense of a retail shop - with a small museum above...

Maori Language

2007-12-15T00:29:00.000Z

Maori Language: "Kiri Te Kanawa Kiwi Kiwiana"

Maori Haka

2007-12-12T12:36:00.000Z

Maori Haka: " Haka Haka Maori Video Haka Mp3"

New Zealand Car Rental

2007-12-10T12:07:00.000Z

New Zealand Car Rental: " Tourism New Zealand Wanaka Real Estate Nz Wandering Albatross"

Maori Dictionary

2007-12-08T12:30:00.000Z

Maori Dictionary: "Maori People Maoris Maori Symbols"

Maori Designs

2007-12-04T21:02:00.000Z

Maori Designs: "New Zealand People New Zealand Photos New Zealand Pictures"