Let it snow
Flying south for the winter, UNO editor Hayley Barnett attempts to turn her family into thrill-seeking adventure enthusiasts, with mixed results
Flying south for the winter, UNO editor Hayley Barnett attempts to turn her family into thrill-seeking adventure enthusiasts, with mixed results.
Words Hayley Barnett
As far as winter getaways go, you don’t get much better than Queenstown. It’s a hub for skiers, thrill seekers, partiers and foodies, and, although partying was off the agenda this time, it’s the perfect destination for a family’s first ski holiday.
Getting my kids on skis has long been a dream of mine, but with COVID-19 restrictions and the recent debacle that kept our local ski fields closed, my grand plans have never come to fruition. Until now.
This year was the year, I decided. It’d be the year the kids would finally fall in love with snow sports and we’d become one of those families who hit the slopes every winter, toasting marshmallows in front of the fire at the end of a long, enjoyable day skilfully flying down the mountain at top speed. Après ski, here we come.
If you have kids, you can probably guess it didn’t all go completely to plan. Five-year-olds don’t always comply in an environment where everyone is wearing ski masks and wielding large planks around. But I can officially say I have skiers now, and I can also recommend some amazing activities to do in the area on those days you don’t quite make it to the slopes.
OAKS QUEENSTOWN SHORES RESORT
Jumping on the Booking.com app, I came across Oaks Queenstown Shores Resort, serviced apartments on the outskirts of Queenstown with incredible views of Lake Wakatipu. A two-bedroom apartment was
the perfect size for the four of us. With an electric fireplace, fully self-contained kitchen and two bathrooms, it has everything you need when sharing with kids and a snorer. The apartment was huge and meant we didn’t have to venture out to get breakfast. We even stayed at home for dinner one night because it was too cosy to leave. There’s a gym for those who don’t get all their energy out on the mountain, and an inviting reception area with a fireplace, dining room and a bar, overlooking the lake.
CARDRONA SKI RESORT
With friends staying in Wanaka, we decided Cardrona would be a good place to meet up for a couple of days skiing. It was recommended I book lessons for the kids well in advance – and tickets, too, as they were limiting the number of people on the ski fields this year. The winding hour-long drive did make me question our decision not to just book at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables, the much closer options, but it ended up being the best decision of the trip. The smoother, flatter slopes proved to be much less intimidating to my three learner family members (who were expecting the steeper runs of neighbouring mountains), and Cardrona had the most centimetres of snow that week. Score!
Having booked our vacation a week before the school holidays, it meant there were hardly any chairlift lines to wait in. I managed to get a heap of runs in that first day, despite the visibility being somewhat dismal.
Luckily, for our second day at Cardrona, the weather had improved. The sun was peaking out and we’d had a large dump of snow overnight, replacing slush with powder. Having learned from the previous day, I dropped the kids off at their lessons, pockets stuffed with lollies (top tip to convince small – and big – kids to do anything) and took off up the mountain again.
By the end of day two, Poppy was flying down from the top, as I’d hoped, and Oscar had learned to avoid crashing into anyone who ventured into his eyeline. Jumping on the bus back down to our rental car, we were soon on our way to the Cardrona Hotel for some well-deserved pub grub and drinks.
TRANSPORT
If you want to get the most out of your Queenstown family holiday, a reliable vehicle is a non-negotiable. Enabling travellers to seamlessly plan their travel, Booking.com offers much more than just accommodation and is a one-stop solution offering a wide range of travel services such as car hire without ever having to leave the platform or app. We easily secured a mid-sized Toyota Corolla via the app. I added booster seats for the kids and chains for the wheels. Pick up was easy. We caught a ride with the Snap Rentals van from the airport and 15 minutes later we were in our car and heading off to our accommodation.
CARDRONA HOTEL RESTAURANT & BAR
A five-minute drive from the turn-off up to Cardrona Ski Resort is one of New Zealand’s oldest hotels and one of only two remaining buildings from the Cardrona Valley gold rush era. These days, it’s most well known for its après ski pub food and drinks and its warm and cosy atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to take the kids, with plenty of room to run around outside, featuring a playground and a giant outdoor fireplace. There are bags of marshmallows, which we purchased a few of, after discovering Oscar had devoured the first bag before we even made it over to the fireplace. We can highly recommend the loaded wedges and the seafood chowder, both washed down with some local gin from the Cardrona Distillery across the road.
PUZZLING WORLD, WANAKA
One of the highlights for all of us was Puzzling World. Yes, we had to travel for an hour from Queenstown, but boy, was it worth it. I had booked tickets through Booking.com when securing our accommodation
months ago, which forced us out of our cosy, warm beds on a non-ski day. By the time we got there we knew we’d made the right decision.
The family-run attraction started with a wooden maze in 1973 and evolved into a science museum that has become famous across the country – and internationally. Home to the world’s first multi-level “mega maze”, Puzzling World offers a challenging course that takes around an hour to complete (well, it did for us, anyway). Participants must reach all four towers located in four corners of the maze. The kids were the perfect age for it and no one noticed they’d been running around for an hour.
The Illusion Rooms inside the museum provided hours of entertainment. The slightly nauseating Tilting Room was a favourite for the kids, as was the Ames Room, where they suddenly outgrew us adults, becoming giants to our dwarfed bodies. Afterwards we headed out to the idyllic Lake Wanaka, just a five-minute drive from Puzzling World, to recover from all the excitement.
ARROWTOWN
On our way back home we decided to stop at the little historic village of Arrowtown for dinner. Proving to be just as pretty at nighttime as it is during the day, we took our time wandering up and down the town centre’s main drag, overwhelmed by the many dining choices on offer. We settled on Bendix Stables – a “watering hole and food emporium” built in 1873 as a stable to keep local politician Bendix Hallenstein’s horses. We had the top floor to ourselves where we devoured giant burgers and toasted marshmallows for s’mores.
KAWARAU RIVER JET BOAT TOUR
On our last day, we headed into Queenstown for one more adventure – the Kawarau River Jet Boat Tour. It popped up as a recommendation on Booking.com and was super easy to add as a last-minute addition
to our itinerary. There are two tours to choose from – a 20-minute joy ride around the lake or an hour-long tour up the river. We went for the hour, which was filled with thrills and not-too-many spills, thankfully. The kids loved the build-up of suspense when our driver raised his hand in warning each time he slammed on the brakes for a heart-stopping 360-degree spin. The scenery became more and more impressive the further down the river we spun. An exciting attraction for families with just
the right amount of thrill for the littlies.
To book your holiday to Queenstown, simply download the booking.com app and get planning!
Business meets bliss
A trip to Sydney gives the opportunity for some work-life balance.
A trip to Sydney gives the opportunity for some work-life balance.
Words Jenny Rudd
Why bother flying somewhere fun if you aren’t going to give yourself the time to enjoy it? This year I’ve been back and forth to Australia for work, and last time I went to Sydney, instead of cramming everything into a couple of days and whizzing back home, I extended the trip and turned it into a wee holiday for one. It was just the right blend of career and care.
A top-rated apartment in the CBD was found on booking.com, made all the more luxurious as they organised and paid for a taxi on arrival. I did nothing. A message popped up on my booking.com app as soon as I’d landed, telling me where to meet the driver. A great start to the week.
A CITY WALK
I’d been sitting in a plane for many hours, so fresh air and leg stretching were first on the list. An easy loop started at Hyde Park with giant fig trees and the Archibald Fountain, a tribute to the Franco-Australian relationship. You can walk straight over to the Botanical Gardens, and follow the water’s edge round to the money shot - the Sydney Opera House. The garden holds deep cultural significance as it’s situated on the traditional lands of the Cadigal people. You can learn about Aboriginal heritage with artwork, and interactive displays explain indigenous plant uses and the connection between Aboriginal communities and the land. Past the Opera House, I settled in for the French menu at Whalebridge. Warm evening light, a view of the bridge over the harbour and rippling water. I was ready for work the next day.
BONDI
It’s oh so easy to travel in Sydney. I just tapped my Visa card on and off trains, buses and ferries. Staying by Town Hall station made everywhere seem like a few minutes away. I had a meeting in Bondi, so we met at Blackwood Cafe. Bright pink tuna crudo eaten in the sunshine and talking to ambitious founders of a business bound for the States was followed by a walk round the iconic beach. I’d stuffed my bikini in my handbag so got happily smashed about in the waves before heading back to the CBD.
LIGHT UP
I’m not much of a party girl these days, but I do love to walk around cities at night. Each year Sydney’s buildings and skies light up with their Vivid Festival in May. Hundreds of drones take to the skies and videos of artworks cover landmark buildings. Follow the light walk from Circular Quay and grab snacks en route.
BARANGAROO
Everyone here likes to have early meetings, which has been perfect as I get the rest of the day to explore. The morning was spent with Startmate, one of Australia and New Zealand's best-known tech startup accelerators in the Stripe offices at the incredibly hip WeWork building. The whole area, Barangaroo, has been recently redeveloped. The land is named after an influential Aboriginal woman from the Eora Nation. Gleaming buildings line the water, it’s a pretty magnificent working environment. The development has turned an inaccessible industrial area into a waterfront for everyone to enjoy, and linked up some of the central Sydney points with the Wulugul (kingfish) Walk.
SHELLY BEACH
Take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Beach and walk the picturesque pathway cut into the cliffs round to Shelly Beach. A towel, snorkel, mask and a good book are all you’ll need to while away a good part of the day. There’s a lovely beachside restaurant called the Boat House which doesn’t take bookings. And a huge reef round the headland at the end of the beach, which is where your mask and snorkel comes in handy. If you’re hot on the walk back to Manly to catch the ferry, stop off at Cabbage Tree Bay and have a quick dip off the rocks.
INDOOR WATERFALL
Okay, I think this is my favourite thing in Sydney, and I found it by accident walking through Town Hall shopping centre to get to the train. An actual waterfall covering an entire wall in Eternity Café. I went there every day. It’s got a very kitsch vibe. I was a big fan of the smoothie bowls and salads.
Top tips for solo travel in Sydney
Use booking.com app for the best one-bedroom apartments in the CBD.
Eat outside peak restaurant hours to get the best seats in town.
Walk everywhere! You’re on your own schedule.
Colourful Katikati
Natural beauty meets artistic expression in this picturesque little town.
Natural beauty meets artistic expression in this picturesque little town.
Katikati might, arguably, be one of the most underrated towns in New Zealand. Probably due to the fact that it’s a stop and go kind of place – easy to pass by. But you might be surprised to discover this small town offers some big attractions. There’s an abundance of art, plenty of scenic walking and cycle trails, excellent fishing and – of course – the freshest avocados you’ll find.
The town’s artistic heritage is obvious to anyone who’s ever passed through. Instead of the usual boring white walls, many businesses are decorated with showstopping, brightly coloured murals that tell the story of Katikati’s Māori and Pakeha peoples coming together. It’s definitely worth grabbing a coffee and a bite and moseying up the main street to check them out in detail. This unique burst of colour along the main street earned the town the title of New Zealand’s Mural Town.
But that’s just one reason for art lovers to visit. Katikati also boasts Aotearoa’s biggest open-air art gallery, which aims to make the whole town a work of art!
Keen anglers will want to pack their best rod and head to Kauri Point jetty which is a favourite spot for local fishermen. If the fish aren’t biting, why not walk the length of the jetty out into the spectacular harbour?
If you prefer to view the water from land then Lindemann Lookout offers stunning selfie opportunities with a 180-degree view over the Tauranga Harbour.
Don’t forget your walking shoes, as there are many scenic walks to enjoy. The Haiku Pathway is a must, as you discover the many boulders engraved with the popular Japanese form of poetry. The Beach Road loop is a casual, easy stroll with splendid views and bird watchers will find an ample amount of avians on the bird walk.
If you can, timing your stay with one |of Katikati’s many events would be ideal. Fortunately, the town is buzzing with events year-round, meaning you won’t have to wait long. Just some of the popular events include the famed Avocado Food and Wine Festival, the Festival of Cultures, Sheds in Studios Ramble, Christmas in the Park, the Twilight Concert Series and the Katikati A&P Show.
With all this going for it, it’s no wonder Katikati won the Keep New Zealand Beautiful Society’s “Most Beautiful Small Town” award in 2005.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
UNO catches up with Peter Watson, Western Bay of Plenty District Council Reserves and Facilities manager, to find out all about the best cycle and walking trails Katikati has to offer.
Words Karl Puschmann
Cycle and walking trails have only grown in popularity over the years, and Katikati was quick to recognise the potential of the natural splendour of their backyard. The development of a network of various trails in the area has been underway for quite a few years now. While many are completed, the ambitious project is ongoing and promises to result in some of the most scenic and enjoyable walking and cycling trails around.
“We've done trails around the harbour so people can experience and interface with it,” Peter says. “We’re also currently in the middle of building a 1.2 kilometres shared pathway that goes from the Yeoman Bridge along the edge of the Uretara River to Park Road Reserve. That'll be really awesome when it's done. You’re going to get to see all the lovely birdlife and what have you that's associated with the use of the water.”
The Tauranga harbour (moana) is incredibly scenic, with inspiring views and a bustling wildlife population, something Peter is particularly passionate about.
“There's a lot of birdlife here. If you follow the Uretara River down into the harbour there’s freshwater and saltwater interface, which gives you a mixture of fish and things like that,” he explains. “The water goes up and flushes in so there’s a lot of kingfisher, ducks, pied stilts and even royal spoonbills as well. A lot of people like it there. It’s a very peaceful, quiet place.”
Walk the walk
Whether you’re after a casual stroll enjoying the views or prefer to power through and walk a sweat up Katikati has a trail to match your level. Meandering through Haiku Park is a real draw card for a meditative jaunt. For access to the Northern Kaimai Ranges, head out to the end of Wharawhara Road where you can access walking tracks in the Kaimai’s.
“There's a range of walks,” Peter says. “After COVID-19, people have been looking for an excuse to get out. They’ve started to appreciate the value of open spaces and the sense of well-being you get being in nature.”
The Tamawhariua Reserve trail is a 2.9km coastal walk that offers a casual loop for both walkers and cyclists and you’re welcome to take your dog as long as you keep it leashed. At a breezy 41 minutes, it’s a good way to stretch your legs.
Alternatively, the Aongatete 6.6km long loop track at the end of Wright Road offers a moderate challenge through native forest complete with stream crossings and fallen trees to amble over. Fido will have to stay home for this one, however, as dogs are not permitted due to the abundance of birdlife in the forest.
As for Peter, he can’t pick a favourite trail. He says he loves them all as they’ve worked hard to ensure the trails encapsulate the land, water and sky.
“You can really connect with nature, trees and native vegetation and bird life here,” he says. “What we're trying to do is give people an experience where you can take longer or shorter routes.”
ON YER BIKE
As with its walking tracks, Katikati also provides for cyclists of all skills.
“There’s a variation to the cycling experience,” he says, noting most trails are loops so riders can feel like they’re going somewhere rather than having to bike back along the same path. “We've got a big cycle network with a range of different grades to explore. ”
Along with the Katikati Trails Development Group, Council wants to get people on their bikes around the trails and have a great experience. "By offering a variety of cycle trail options, which includes Waitekohekohe Reserve up Thompson's Track Road, with dedicated purpose-built mountain bike trails and equestrian tracks that include a galloping track and jumping ally, we hope to get people visiting more often to use the trails."
LIVE, PLAY, EAT, KATIKATI
These must-visit stopovers showcase the best that Katikati has to offer
NURTURING NATURE
Discover this gift shop with a gorgeous range of homewares, gifts and our very own range of honey, which is crafted on site. Our charming retail store is adjacent to our manufacturing facility which is open for tours by appointment. BeeNZ is working with nature and the environment to bring its customers the highest quality New Zealand honey.
TASTE OF TRADITION
Step into a world of legacy and indulgence at this family-owned establishment, where history intertwines with exceptional dining experiences. Celebrating over 130 years in Katikati, The Talisman proudly embraces local growers and family-owned enterprises. Unveil the magic of the restaurant, sports bar, garden bar and boutique accommodation, where award-winning chefs craft bistro-style masterpieces. Savour the taste of tradition, with each bite taking you on a remarkable journey.
GET CRAFTY
Experience the vibrant Katikati Artisan Craft Market, an enchanting rendezvous on the third Sunday of each month from 9am to 1pm. Nestled at the A & P Showgrounds, immerse yourself in a treasure trove of locally handcrafted wonders. With great coffee and hot toasties, unleash your inner explorer and indulge in a shopping spree like no other. Join us amidst the breathtaking beauty of the BOP, where even furry friends on leads are embraced. Discover that extraordinary find for yourself or someone dear, and make every moment a masterpiece.
HEALTHY SIP
Discover the real taste of refreshment with Dr Bucha's Living Drinks! Crafted by the talented duo, Donna and Fin McDonald, our kombucha is
a healthy alternative to soft drinks and alcohol. We add real fruit flavourings directly to the bottles, ensuring an authentic experience. Locally made and hand-crafted, our kombucha supports the community and delights customers. Join us at the Katikati Produce Market or visit our website for free local delivery. Embrace a healthy choice with Dr Bucha's Living Drinks.
NATURAL PET CARE
HoneyVet was developed by two friends – one a veterinarian and the other with an extensive background in the New Zealand honey industry. Both saw a need to provide our animal friends with a much safer alternative to skin and coat care using nature's healing properties, from this, HoneyVet was born. HoneyVet is made locally in Katikati from locally sourced ingredients and is exclusively available to purchase at BeeNZ or online.
TRIP TO THE PAST
Step back in time at Western Bay Museum – New Zealand's premier small museum. Immerse yourself in the 1900s with our interactive group tours. A guided tour involves period costumes, fascinating exhibitions, freshly baked scones and tea served in antique bone china. Book now for an unforgettable experience. Open Monday to Friday 10am-4pm, weekends and public holidays 11am-3pm. Visit us at the historic Fire Station building on Main Road, Katikati. Don't miss out on this extraordinary journey loved by locals, groups and families.
WELCOME TO FAIRVIEW ESTATE
Only a couple of minutes from Katikati lies Fairview Estate, a lifestyle subdivision situated between the sheltering Kaimai Ranges and the beautiful Tauranga Harbour.
Take a breather
Café Nineteen operates seven days a week and is open to all. With both indoor and outdoor seating and bar areas, with views over the golf course, this relaxing setting provides the perfect environment to enjoy a meal and drink either after a round of golf or just catching up with family and friends. They’d be happy to host your next function too, no matter how big or small.
Play a round
Fairview Golf Course is an 18-hole course that offers one of the best golfing experiences in the area. There are also a number of facilities, including a fully stocked golf shop and practice areas, as well as a fleet of golf carts. It is the local club for Katikati and has a range of membership options available which come with many benefits. Green fee players are encouraged to come and play on the wonderful course.
Home sweet home
Why not enjoy the wonderful facilities and everything on offer at Fairview year-round by making it your new home? Fairview is one of the best lifestyle subdivisions in the area and has a limited amount of freehold, including golf course fronting, house and land packages still available. The purchase of a property at Fairview also comes with membership to the exclusive Country Club, which gives you use of the indoor pool and spa, health studio, tennis courts, barbeque and petanque areas, plus more along with all the community spirit that comes with it.
34 Sharp Road, Katikati
Gearing up for change
Awards, massive renovation and a new service centre and showroom in Pāpāmoa are pushing the dealership to greater heights.
Awards, massive renovation and a new service centre and showroom in Pāpāmoa are pushing the dealership to greater heights.
Photos | Amanda Aitken + Jahl Marshall
The dealership that occupies a whole block on Hewletts Road is set to build in Pāpāmoa, to keep up with the growth of its 16 vehicle brands. Offering everything from quality pre-owned cars, right up to new luxurious brands, the time seemed right to develop further. In 2024, Farmer Autovillage will zoom into Pāpāmoa with the opening of the new service centre and showroom. They're the first dealership to put down roots in the area.
UNO caught up with the Farmer Autovillage team to find out about the most recent changes and the exciting developments happening this year – and next – at Farmer Autovillage.
Image courtesy of Chow:Hill Architects Limited.
Feel at home in Farmer Autovillage
Expanding the scope of the Škoda showroom was the first priority for the dealership when it decided to upgrade part of the Hewletts Road
site one year ago. Modernisation of the downstairs area achieved an at-home feel and gave Farmer Autovillage the opportunity to improve their customer-focussed offering, including the café.
Customer feedback around the café has been overwhelmingly positive. Aiming to make it more comfortable and providing a relaxing environment for their customers was imperative in the planning.
Walking into the newly restyled café feels as if you're stepping into a sophisticated Melbournian-style eatery. With a dedicated space for kids, comfortable lounge area, business lounge upstairs and free wifi, customers can sit back, relax and enjoy the food and coffee on offer.
PĀpĀmoa Expansion
Building a brand new service centre has been a major project for the Farmer Autovillage team this year. With 30 percent of their customers based out towards Pāpāmoa and Te Puke, they knew it made sense to provide a more convenient location.
Construction will start on the 10-bay workshop in Pāpāmoa in July 2023, and will be complete with a five-car showroom by January 2024. The workshop will service their 16 brands, and all other makes and models are welcome.
Electric Mobility
Farmer Autovillage has the biggest range of electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid vehicles in the Bay. The dealership accommodates for all budgets when it comes to electric vehicles, from the gran turismo of the Audi RS e-tron GT to the value packed MG ZS EV, there's something for everyone.
Now the Autovillage has recently added Horwin electric mopeds and GoScoot electric scooters, to provide people with even more mobility options.
Ensuring customers always have a range of vehicles at hand is a top priority for the team, to make loan services as easy as possible. And now they’re driving sustainable practices by moving all of their service loan cars to electric and hybrid, while also offering GoScoot Electric Vehicle Scooters and E-Bikes, for customers to pick up and take.
Of course they still have the courtesy Volkswagen multivan running daily for people to jump aboard, but group after sales manager Bevan Sheppard says they’re now encouraging use of the new pedestrian laneway that runs along Hewletts Road into the city and to Bayfair.
In terms of servicing electric vehicles, Farmer Autovillage has been one of the most progressive dealerships in New Zealand. They were the first dealership in the Bay of Plenty to install a 175kW DC ultra-fast supercharger on site four years ago. For those new to the electric vehicle world, the dealership's Wallbox showroom offers an interactive space where customers can learn about electric/wall chargers and interact with them alongside the Farmer Autovillage parts specialists.
The dealership's Wallbox showroom offers an interactive space where customers can learn about electric/wall chargers and interact with them
Over the last five years, the team has worked hard to create total vehicle care solutions, aimed at customer and vehicle care. Now it includes services such as windscreen chip repairs, as well as wheel repair and alignment for all makes and models.
“The ultimate aim is for customers to know they can come to us,” says Bevan. “Anytime you think, ‘I need something for my car’, we want to be able to provide that. And we’re about 99 percent of the way there. We've invested in things that no other car dealership really does.”
And now with the online booking portal, customers can easily book in services like a warrant without spending time on the phone.
Awards aplenty
Adding to their already jam-packed shelves of awards is always a bonus for the Farmer Autovillage team. Farmer Nissan recently took home the Master Elite award for best Nissan dealer worldwide – a monumental achievement for the team. Prior to that the coveted Audi Dealer of the Year 2022 award was bestowed upon the dealership, with six team members also awarded as winners of six different categories.
Dealer principal Blair Woolford says the team was more than satisfied with the multiple awards, especially the overall Dealer of the Year win. "To win the award twice in three years speaks volumes of the hard work and dedication of our whole team,” he says.
And for Farmer Autovillage, that ongoing hard work and dedication is the best reward of all.
Follow the light
Head over to Whakatāne this season, where you’ll find colourful artworks and not one but two bright and shining celebrations this winter.
Head over to Whakatāne this season, where you’ll find colourful artworks and not one but two bright and shining celebrations this winter.
Words | Karl Puschmann
Whakatāne promises to light up the region this winter as the Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne Festival returns to bathe the town in warm hues and bright neon.
Following on from an incredibly successful debut last year, which saw attendance exceeding planners' estimates four times over, the organisers have gone all out to make this year’s 10-day event bigger – and most definitely brighter.
“The festival consists of about 16 artists and their work will be spread out over the Whakatāne CBD,” Sam Poots, the project co-ordinator for Arts Whakatāne, tells UNO. “It’s a mix of installations, projections and interactive standalone objects that will be lit up from 6pm to 9pm each night.”
The roster has been curated from local and regional artists like Jamie Boynton and Kereama Taepa, and includes Story Box in collaboration with artist Desna Whaanga-Schollum. Additionally, there’s some global flavour as, for the first time, a sprinkling of work from internationally acclaimed artists like Australia’s James Voller will be lighting up the town centre.
But the real highlight of the festival are the Friday and Saturday night celebrations. It was due to last year’s community night being such a hit that this year it was decided to add another one.
“We estimated having 300 to 500 people turn up at the community evening. We had over 2000,” Sam smiles. “It was hugely gratifying and heartwarming to know that the community really wanted this. We had such positive feedback. Around the artworks, around it being family friendly and something unique to Whakatāne. It brought the community together.”
While details are still being locked in, the first Friday will feature the expected festival-type experience including performers, food trucks and stalls, while the brand-new Saturday event will include a big Lantern parade down by the Whakatāne River.
Last year’s festival was about getting the community involved, but this year Sam is hoping its unique nature, and the impressiveness and fun of its electric art, will bring out-of-towners to the city to experience it for themselves.
“Whakatāne is very summer orientated with the beaches and sunshine so we really wanted to create an event in winter,” Sam says. “Because of the popularity of light festivals, we saw it as a really good opportunity to bring something here, provide opportunities for artists to display their works and say, ‘Hey, look, we've got this awesome event on, come see it and explore Whakatāne in wintertime.’”
With its focus on community and family, stunning and unique artworks and big Friday and Saturday nights, Whakatāne has become a real bright spot in an otherwise dark winter.
The Trust Horizon Light Up Whakatāne Festival runs from July 28 to August 6 in the CBD and is a completely free event.
Whakatane Travel Guide
Whakatāne is spoiled for choice when it comes to eateries and things to do. Here are some recommendations on where to spend your time when you’re in town.
Mata Brewery
The craft beer craze has hopped into Whakatāne, and beer lovers will be in heaven at the award-winning, family-owned Mata Brewery. Try their range of handcrafted brews, like West End Lager, Spellbound Hazy IPA and Manuka Golden Ale. The more adventurous will enjoy Mattachino Coffee Chocolate Milk Stout or Berry Sundae Beer. Accompany your tasting with a full range of stone-cooked pizzas, gourmet burgers and hard-to-resist loaded wedges.
The Comm
This gastropub on the ground floor of a beautiful heritage building offers an extensive menu of pub favourites, as well as gourmet delights like twice-cooked pork belly and coconut lime ceviche. Stylish inside and with a sizable garden bar, it’s a great place for an afternoon drink that can stretch into dinner.
Golfer’s Paradise
A short drive from town is the Whakatāne Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course that is renowned for being one of the finest in the Bay of Plenty. Over the hill you'll find the truly unique Ōhope Beach Golf Links, nestled on a strip of land that lies between the Pacific Ocean on one side and Ohiwa Harbour on the other – the views while playing are simply magnificent. Why not try to make a hole in one at both?
Footprints of Toi
Whakatāne has sensational walking and tramping trails. You'll either enjoy a brilliant walk along the coastline soaking in its stunning ocean vistas, or plunge into the natural beauty and greenery of its ancient native forests. At the Ngā Tapuwae o Toi Trail, translated as “Footprints of Toi”, you'll follow birdsong through native forest past pohutukawa while also enjoying sublime coastal views of the Whakatāne harbour. The 16km round trip takes five to seven hours, but it’s split into three sections so you can enjoy shorter jaunts.
Kiwi Wandering Trail
Whakatāne is recognised as the Kiwi Capital of the World, and our national icon thrives here thanks to the tireless work of the Whakatāne Kiwi Trust, who ensure a safe, predator-free place for them. If you have kids, they'll love exploring the Kiwi Wandering Trail, a self-guided scavenger hunt through town looking for the 10 hidden, life-sized bronze statues of our iconic bird.
An electric dream
With the futuristic RZ 450e Dynamic, Lexus has raced straight to the top of the electric car category.
With the futuristic RZ 450e Dynamic, Lexus has raced straight to the top
of the electric car category.
Words Karl Puschmann
Photos Karl Puschmann + supplied
Here’s the scene. I’ve just pulled into the Bethlehem shopping centre car park. It’s mid-morning and the place is heaving. I’m behind the wheel of the luxurious Lexus RZ 450e, a car so new that not even the good people at Lexus of Tauranga have had much of a chance to test drive it before I drive it out of the lot. I know this because when I go to charge it at the
end of the day, the packaging is still on the charging cable.
As I hunt down a space to park I notice people gawping at the car. It’s easy to see why. The space-age design and aggressive styling make the car a guaranteed head-turner. Especially as this is the flagship “Dynamic” model, which boasts a sophisticated grey and black two-tone
paint scheme and matching 20-inch alloy wheels.
Finally, I spot a park. Rather than being overjoyed at my good fortune on this busy day, I begin to feel very nervous indeed. And it’s not because the empty space is squeezed between an electrician’s van and an oversized ute.
You see, the one futuristic feature of the RZ 450e that I’ve been most excited by, but also the most hesitant to try, is what Lexus calls their Advanced Parking System. What this translates to is auto-park and it’s something that feels straight out of a sci-fi film. Simply push a button and the car parks itself. All you have to do is sit back, relax and let its vast array of cameras and sensors do their thing.
That’s the idea anyway. But actually letting go of the steering wheel and putting all of your faith and trust into the car to pull into a parking spot safely and without incident is easier said than done. At least the first time.
It was incredibly nerve-wracking to hand over complete control of the car to its computer. Especially with its $150,000+ price tag bouncing around in my head. As well as other drivers looking for a free spot, there were also pedestrians springing out from all directions that the car had to negotiate. There was a lot that could go wrong and I didn’t fancy returning it with a ding, dent or scratch.
Pushing the button to give the car autonomous control I silently cursed myself for deciding to try the feature in the middle of the day at a crowded car park instead of late at night in an empty one. Although there was some solace in the fact that this was indeed a ‘real world’ test and would certainly be challenging for the RZ 450e to pull off.
The car started beeping to indicate it was reversing and we started moving. It braked to a halt to let a shopper walk past behind it, then continued. We backed past the open space and stopped. Then the steering wheel began quickly spinning in front of me like the little girl’s head in The Exorcist – which was apt because it does feel like the car is possessed while it’s doing this manoeuvring. Once the wheel had spun further than I would have thought possible the car began moving forward with far more confidence than I, a human driver, would have dared.
I was literally on the edge of my seat watching the car’s vibrant and crystal-clear 14-inch iPad-style touch display. Usually, you use this to control the climate, maps, stereo and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but it also shows different camera views when needed. Right now it was showing two different angles; a general camera that focused on the front or rear depending on which way we were going and a top-down view showing the roof of the car and nearby obstacles. Both views presented the anticipated driving arc the car would take.
I was watching both like a hawk, my foot hovering over the brake ready to stamp it down if for even a second it looked like the RZ 450e had made a miscalculation and was in danger of getting even the merest of scratches. Or, you know, hitting someone.
But there really was no need. We’d gracefully pulled straight into the park in one sweet turn. But the car wasn’t finished. The steering wheel began spinning, the beeping started up and we slowly reversed out of the park, only stopping to let an oncoming car drive past us. Once out, the car lined itself up and drove forward into the park completing one of the most perfect parking manoeuvres I’ve ever seen. We were precisely in the middle of the space. I couldn’t help the big grin from spreading over my face.
In fact, that big goofy grin was pretty much permanently etched on my face for the entire four days I spent with the car. That’s because, even with all its many luxurious touches and commitment to comfort, the Lexus RZ 450e is just a stupendously fun car to drive.
The fully electric car has two engines, one each powering the front and rear wheels and pulling a combined 308 horsepower. When you put your foot down it shoots forward like a rocket with a satisfying thrust that pushes you back into the incredibly comfortable Ultrasuede seats. Capable of hitting 100kms in just under 5 seconds, not much will be getting away from you at the lights. And, being electric, you don’t have to feel guilty about burning recklessly through your petrol tank.
Of course, with electric vehicles, battery life is all important. Lexus says the battery in the RZ 450e is good for a whopping 470kms, which is enough juice to get you to Auckland and back on a single charge. I didn’t keep a record of distance but I can tell you I only charged it once during my time with the car which included everyday errands, school runs and day trips to Waihi Beach and Katikati.
The cabin has a sophisticated simplicity to it. It’s surprisingly roomy, even in the back, and the power-dimming panoramic glass roof ensures it’s bright and feels airy. Needless to say, it’s just lovely to sit in.
There are all the modern features that you expect of Lexus, like heated seats and heated steering wheel, phone charging pad and a driver HUD display projected in front of you, but also new ones like the car’s personal assistant which you operate by saying “Hey Lexus” to issue voice commands like changing radio stations or finding maps without needing to have your phone connected. Of course, the Bluetooth connectivity was flawless, instantly connecting as soon as I hopped in. A special mention also has to go to the car’s 13-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Audio stereo system, which was powerful yet clear and detailed. It sounded terrific.
Safety-wise there’s more than just the Advanced Parking system. The RZ 450e also boasts lane-keeping assist, which doesn’t let you stray out of your lane, and adaptive cruise control, which keeps the car moving at a speed you set as well as keeping you a safe distance from the car in front of you. If they start to slow down, so do you. A full auto drive feature cannot be far away.
With the release of the RZ 450e, Lexus have comfortably driven to the top of the electric car category. It delivers comfort, looks, speed and the all-important distance, and wraps all of these up in a layer of understated sophistication.
It kept me smiling the entire time I had it. In fact, the only time the smile left my face was when I handed the keys back.
lexus.co.nz/en/dealers/tauranga
Escape to Mother Nature
With headlines echoing rising concerns around climate change, 44 percent of Kiwi travellers say that recent news about climate change has influenced them to make more sustainable travel choices. With Mother’s Day fast approaching, what better way to show your appreciation for the mother figure in your life by planning an escape to Mother Nature this Mother’s Day?
Woodside Bay Chalets
Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel report for 2023 shows that 66% of Kiwi travellers want travel companies to offer more sustainable travel, having launched its Travel Sustainable Badge recognising accommodations for their sustainability efforts . Thankfully, you don’t have to travel far to spend a night or two at a sustainable stay. Here are five Travel Sustainable certified properties that tick all the boxes for you and Mum this Mother’s Day.
The Fairways Luxury Accommodation, Kaikoura
The Fairways Luxury Accommodation, Kaikōura
The picturesque coastal town of Kaikōura is the perfect place for marine life encounters, coastal walks, and tucking into a plate of sustainably sourced seafood. Kaikōura is an ecological playground for marine mammal encounters – whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in the coastal waters. Whale watching trips leave the town several times a day and the local seal colony is always entertaining.
Situated next to a golf course for our travellers who love to putt, Fairways Luxury Accommodation can be found along Kaikoura’s spectacular coastline. With luscious landscapes overlooking the countryside and enough rooms for the whole family. Fairways Luxury Accommodation also has numerous walking and bike trails to further immerse yourself in the great outdoors.
Woodside Bay Chalets
Woodside Bay Chalets, Waiheke Island
Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, beloved by all who step foot on the island. The island is the go-to destination for those wanting to escape the big city without having to travel too far as it is just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland.
If you’re planning a weekend away in Waiheke, the Woodside Bay Chalet has a variety of wellness activities for all to participate in. Get your yoga mats out for some sun salutations or unwind with a well deserved hot stone massage. There are several packages on offer that are catered perfectly for indulgence and self-care in the intimate atmospheres where you can focus on your wellbeing in this divine Travel Sustainable find.
Heaven’s Rest B&B
Heaven’s Rest B&B, Pukekohe
Equestrian and farm to plate garden fresh vegetables are just some of Pukekohe’s highlights. This large country town is always buzzing with activity and is just under an hour’s drive from Auckland’s bustling city centre.
Escape the city noise and surround yourself with farm land and animals at Heaven’s Rest B&B. Catch the sunset, or the sunrise while you take in the picturesque landscapes and fresh outdoor air. With available hot tubs for use, step in and unwind while you wait for your BBQ to grill on their outdoor deck.
Fable Terrace Downs Resort by MGallery
Fable Terrace Downs Resort by MGallery
Set against the majestic backdrops of both alps and ocean, Canterbury has lush vineyards and wild coastlines along with sky-piercing mountains and pristine glacial lakes that is out of a movie scene.
Overlooking some of the most stunning golf courses and mountain peaks you can find in Canterbury, Fable Terrace Downs Resort has delicious first class dining experiences available inhouse for you to savour. Fable Terrace has both golf courses and tennis courts for you to spend a day in the sun. There are other nearby unique ventures for you to participate in including jet boating, clay bird shooting, quad biking and fishing.
Cascade Creek Retreat, Milton
Tucked away in the heart of the South Island, the historic town of Milton has a number of stunning heritage buildings that will take you back in time.
Cascade Creek Retreat is located 45 minutes away from Dunedin and is near a variety of calming bushwalks. This eco-friendly stay gets you feeling more down to Earth than you ever have before. Its romantic and private atmosphere helps couples enjoy their quality time on Mother’s Day. Take a dip in their outdoor tubs and open a bottle of your favourite wine. If you’re looking to explore a bit more, Cascade Creek Retreat is only a day trip away from the Catlins, get your feet sandy while you spot native seals and penguins or simply stay in and enjoy being away from the bustles of life.
booking.com
Taming the Tora
Fifteen mums escape for a few days of vigorous exercise, a lot of wine, spectacular views and the best home-cooked meals a tired mum could ask for.
Fifteen mums escape for a few days of vigorous exercise, a lot of wine, spectacular views and the best home-cooked meals a tired mum could ask for.
Words Hayley Barnett
I’ve always considered myself a hiker, or a tramper as we’re more commonly known in New Zealand. Growing up, my family holidays consisted of walks through dense native bush, sleeping in tents and run-down cabins. The damp scent of Swanndris and merino socks, as well as the taste of Barley Sugars and trail mix, take me back there in an instant. It wasn’t until I became an adult that I learned not everyone has these same experiences, even Kiwis.
My partner was born and bred in central Auckland and spent his youth tramping the streets, trailing behind his dad who regularly frequented jazz bars. Not a terrible life, but I can’t imagine sitting here now without those fond outdoor memories.
These days, I rarely get out for a hike, given we have young kids and my partner refuses to go anywhere near mud, so I’m limited to a few walks here and there with friends.
When I was invited to hit the Tora Coastal Walk with some mates and their mates and their mates of mates it didn’t take much to convince me.
The Tora trail was the first private walk to be established in the North Island 25 years ago. It’s located in the Southern Wairarapa, a half-hour drive from what is known as the ‘wine town’ of Martinborough. It takes three days to walk across hilly farmland and bush, with stays at three different types of accommodation, located on the farm and along the stunning Tora coast.
The waitlist for groups to walk the Tora is a long one. We booked two years in advance, and just hoped we would all make it. Although a couple of people had to drop out in that time, replacements were easy to find. Our group was made up of 15 mums, all excited about the prospect of heading away, equipped with as much alcohol as we could fit in the hire van. A few of us had tagged on a shopping spree in Wellington the day before and were well acquainted before the one-hour drive to Poppies, our lunch stopover in Martinborough. Poppies makes beautifully hand-crafted wines, which you can sample in their impressive European-style tasting room and restaurant. It makes for a great taste of Martinborough when you’re passing through.
Another half hour’s drive away, we arrived at our accommodation, Whakapata Cottage. The quaint little farm house sleeps 15 people and sits at the entranceway to the Tora Coastal Walk.
We were greeted by owner Kiri Elworthy, a second generation Tora farmer, who has been inviting hikers on to her property for the past 28 years, and created many of the succulent dishes the walk has become well known for. These days she has a team of cooks, but is still actively involved in menu development. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree either. Kiri’s four children have been known to knock out a lemon tart for 14 people, too. That night we were treated to a mean pesto fish dish, and a delicious fruit crumble, all made with fresh, organic ingredients.
Kiri gave us a full rundown on the walk – what to expect each day, recommended leaving times and additional walks and activities to add to our itineraries. The following day is the hardest, she warned, with the steepest inclines and the longest distance. We all agreed to take it easy on the drinks that night.
The next day, we were up and raring to go. You couldn’t have asked for a better day weatherwise. We slapped on our sunscreen, laced up our embarrassingly clean boots and hit the track.
Nothing could have prepared us for the views.
As soon as we hit the top of our first hill, the mountainous landscape was immediately vast and somewhat foreboding. On our first day, grey clouds filled the skyline and threatened to rain at various points. But the sun eventually shone through and we tramped on. We were lucky as the previous week had seen a large rainfall and left behind sticky mud for the hikers to slog through. By the time we arrived it had dried up completely. I still recommend taking hiking sticks, however. I’d say it made the track a good 10 percent easier to tackle, and I can highly recommend them after giving up my stick for a fellow hiker who was five months pregnant. It’s hard to justify a walking stick when a pregnant woman is huffing and puffing and letting out the odd worrisome moan behind you all the way.
Six hours later we arrived at our destination, Stony Bay Lodge. Its luxurious ranch-like vibe is exactly what you need after a six-hour hilly tramp through farmland. A homemade peach shortcake awaited us and it wasn’t long before we were tucking into it on the deck, overlooking the rocky shoreline, our steaming socks lined up to dry in the sun. Thankfully, our boxes of Pals and Poppies vino had arrived before us (the transportation of baggage and alcohol is another luxury included in the package) and we made short work of those too.
We had been left with a leg of lamb to roast and a sizeable pottle each of white chocolate mousse with berry coulis.
An early night meant most of the group was up at the crack of dawn to hike up the hill behind us, then beyond to the end of the road to view the Opua Shipwreck. A handful of ladies stayed behind to natter and “keep the pregnant lady company”, and to make full use of the cosy living area with views of Manurewa Point and the Pacific Ocean.
By 11am we were all at the nearby rocks for some seal spotting, before heading over the hill and along the road to our next accommodation – Greentops Farmhouse. The historic home used to house Return Servicemen in the 1950s and features a cathedral ceiling and a stunning stained glass window.
After we had settled in and recovered from a small bout of rain on our walk over (my jacket proved to be less waterproof than I’d hoped), a bunch of us followed a trail out the back up to the highest point in our journey. This was my favourite part of the trip – the views were even better than the previous day. It’s an optional add-on and is the last thing you want to do if you’ve completed all the optional extras, but if you only add one, let this be it.
That last night was deemed to be “the big night”, where we let loose in all our fluoro glory and partied as long as our middle-aged livers would let us, which was quite far for some, too far for others, and meant the last walk was a lot harder than it should have been.
It was a three-and-a-half-hour journey up and down some gnarly hills, but we all survived back in one piece.
Looking back on our three days, it’s easy to see why there’s a two-year wait for this incredible experience. Despite the sore heads, the group was keen to book another walk somewhere in the next year. Our boots will be well worn by then, and no doubt we’ll all have some hiking sticks at the ready.
Cost vs conscience
Booking.com delves into the dilemma dividing sustainable travel in 2023.
Booking.com has revealed new sustainability research, with insights gathered from more than 33,000 travellers across 35 countries and territories, to highlight an unfolding dilemma - travellers worldwide are feeling pressured to choose between cutting costs and being more mindful about making more sustainable travel choices.
Efforts to be more sustainable are top of mind for nearly two thirds (68%) of Kiwi travellers who believe we need to act now to make more sustainable choices for future generations. Kiwis are more likely (60%) than global travellers (49%) to believe the environment will get worse in the next six months, demonstrating the high priority travellers from Aotearoa are putting on how their decisions impact the world around them as they explore it.
However, the current economic climate is hampering action being taken and a majority of New Zealanders (79%) believe the cost of living crisis is also set to worsen. Over half of New Zealanders (58%) think sustainable travel options are too expensive and a quarter (29%) are willing to pay more for travel options with a sustainable certification.
Sustainability vs spending
This leaves Kiwis with a challenge to choose between sustainability and spending, with over half (58%) believing more sustainable travel options are too expensive (up 12% from Booking.com’s 2022 data). For these respondents, sustainability and travel combined can seem non-urgent when they are worried about bill-shock.
An increasing number of travellers feeling the pinch are seeking more sustainable travel options rich in rewards, highlighting the perceived trade-off between making conscious choices, saving money and the need for incentivisation. Over half (56%) seek out discounts and economic incentives when choosing eco-friendly options while 39% would be encouraged to travel more sustainably with reward points for making more sustainable choices, such as free extra perks or discounts through online travel booking sites.
Breaking through barriers to drive change
It’s not just cost that is a hurdle to travelling more sustainably. Half of Kiwi travellers (49%) believe there are not enough sustainable travel options, while two thirds (66%) are expecting travel companies to offer more sustainable travel choices.
Despite good intentions, 41% don’t know where to find more sustainable options, highlighting that the barriers to more sustainable travel choices are based on a perceived lack of options.
For example, 70% seek authentic experiences that are representative of the local culture, yet in stark contrast 33% don’t know how or where to find these tours and activities that will ensure they give back to the local community.
A regenerative mindset for the entire trip
Travellers are becoming more responsible consumers amid the rising climate anxiety by increasingly adopting a regenerative mindset to travel while seeking credible assurance when booking across the entire travel experience. For example, nearly half (43%) want to filter their options for those with a sustainable certification or label next time they book.
In response, the travel industry is adapting to meet the changing expectations of more conscious consumers such as those who support brands that promote sustainability (24%), as well as the 63% who are interested to learn more about why specific options are recognised as more sustainable. Kiwi travellers can now easily filter their rental car search results to quickly find fully electric and hybrid cars across 110 countries for their next trip. Or choose one of over 500,000 more sustainable options for their next stay, no matter the accommodation type.
Making more sustainable travel solutions easier for everyone
“Booking.com’s 2023 Sustainable Travel research confirms an intersection between the current cost of living concerns and the extreme climate events witnessed in our region, which has led to a greater demand for both more budget and planet-friendly travel options,” said Todd Lacey, regional manager Oceania at Booking.com.
“We are listening and together with our partners across the industry, we are examining every part of the trip to not only support our travellers but to also benefit our local Kiwi communities and environments.
“We are committed to making it easier for everyone to experience travel in a more mindful and responsible way, no matter where they are on their sustainability journey. More than 500,000 properties globally are now being recognised for their sustainability efforts with a Travel Sustainable badge including over 3,000 in New Zealand.”
Rail rider
From the mountains to the tussock grasslands, through picturesque towns and over soaring bridges, taking the train will start your vacation on the right track.
From the mountains to the tussock grasslands, through picturesque towns and over soaring bridges, taking the train will start your vacation on the right track.
Words Rebecca Meyer
Whenever I told people we were embarking on a “grown-up family” long weekend to Wellington and were taking the train, I would often get an enthusiastic response: “Oh, that’s cool! I've always wanted to do that!”
This would be the third journey on the Northern Explorer for my folks, whom it’s safe to say were hooked on the whole rail experience. After coming home from their first trip a few years ago, they made us all promise that one day we’d all make the journey together. Bless Daughter Number One, whom we fondly call “Spreadsheet Sophie”. She coordinated, arranged, planned and booked everything, ensuring all our busy schedules aligned for the impending adventure ahead.
The Northern Explorer is an epic 648km journey which connects multicultural Auckland to our bustling capital Wellington. However, we began our adventure in Hamilton, boarding at 10.15am from the busy platform at Frankton Street Station.
Travelling by train is a sociable affair, and our “Spreadsheet Sophie” managed to book the perfect seating arrangement, ensuring all eight of us sat together. We had adjoining seats with a table in the centre, straight across the aisle from one another. This was well planned on our part considering all five carriages were full, including families with young children, lots of couples and larger groups of all ages. Travel by rail is obviously a popular mode of transport when visiting Wellington.
Straightaway it was obvious everything’s been done to ensure you feel comfortable and relaxed as you sink back in your seat and get ready to soak up the North Island scenery. With spacious seating, and generous amounts of legroom, our Scenic Class carriage delivered air-conditioned comfort for the clickity-clack journey ahead. With a fully-licensed bar on board, we were able to sit back and enjoy several world-famous New Zealand wines and local beers while someone else took care of the driving.
If it’s a large meal you’re after, the dining cart offers plenty of options, from braised beef cheeks and Moroccan spiced vegetable salad, or classics like roasted free range chicken and lamb shank, and for the smaller appetite, there's plenty of savoury snacks and sweet treats to satisfy everyone. Having cash with you is advisable, as the train often travels out of network range, but they do provide all credit and debit card payment facilities. The friendly staff even allowed us to run a tab.
The scenery was quite honestly breathtaking, weaving through the rolling hills of the King Country. The historic Raurimu Spiral at the southern tip of the Central Plateau was a real highlight and was designed in 1898 to make the 139-metre ascent into the plateau possible. Navigating our way around the foothills of Mount Ruapehu, a series of three steeping viaducts bridge the deep ravines carved by the rivers across Tongariro National Park.
What makes this all the more breathtaking is being able to stroll to the open air viewing carriage to breathe in and taste the atmosphere − you truly get to appreciate our beautiful country.
Reaching the Kapiti Coast, we cling to the cliffs high above the ocean, with spectacular views of the Tasman Sea and Kapiti Island.
As we near the end of our journey, reaching Porirua Harbour, it's close to 7pm on a warm, balmy summer evening. The short stretch between Porirua and Paremata is a scenic gem, and a stunning way to end our epic rail adventure. This truly is an unforgettable day-long adventure, and a unique experience well worth sharing with family or a group of friends. Because Wellington's city train service is so good, we don't need a car for the long weekend away. So to everyone who’s ever wondered if it’s worth the $214 one-way train ticket on the Northern Explorer to Wellington, I’d say yes, do it if it’s on your bucket list!
Northern Explorer Auckland to Wellington trains run Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
DESTINATIONS: Auckland • Hamilton
Otorohanga (Waitomo Caves) • Taumarunui
Tongariro National Park • Ohakune
Palmerston North • Wellington.
Driving talent
Tauranga-born kart-racing prodigy Jay Urwin has his sights set on a long motorsport career, helped along by a couple of parents who know all about the thrills and spills of professional sport.
Tauranga-born kart-racing prodigy Jay Urwin has his sights set on a long motorsport career, helped along by a couple of parents who know all about the thrills and spills of professional sport.
Words + Photos Jamie Troughton
There was only ever going to be one way with Jay Urwin, and that was fast. Pure, unadulterated pace, maximum thrust, acceleration torqued to the point of abandon.
It may be a stretch to say his first breath on this earth was tinged with 91-octane and adrenaline but it’s also unlikely he’ll ever contemplate a career in competitive cross-stitch.
Instead, the 14-year-old propels a 125cc racing kart around a track at speeds of up to 160km/h. Millimetres off the ground, locked in a steel embrace, on some corners he pulls more G-forces than a space shuttle taking off. Such are the physics at work, he needs a purpose-built chest protector to stop his ribs fracturing against his seat.
Lap after lap after lap, he burns around his home track in Tokoroa, often watched only by the cows in the neighbouring paddock and his dad and coach, Niki. He’s been doing this since he was five and has developed an intuitive feel for brake adjustments, body position and engine performance.
His motivation is simple: “It's fun,” he says. “I just like driving.” But he isn’t just any boy-racing petrol-head. Jay Urwin is a young man with a plan.
THE WHEEL DEAL
Since winning a heat at the SuperNationals in 2018 as a 10-year-old and taking out the 2019 Rotax Micro Max Grand Finals in Sarno, Italy, Jay has been on an incredible learning curve, in a sport where most don’t peak until they’re in their late 20s.
“From a driving standpoint, and in things like knowledge and data and video analysis, I'm quite a way behind but because I'm still at school, my brain can learn faster than someone who hasn't been to school for 10 to 20 years,” he says.
This year, Jay aims to race five rounds of the Australian Kart Championship, the SKUSA professional tour in the United States, and the SuperNationals in Las Vegas in November. The Matamata College teenager will be racing and chasing grown men – experienced world champions like Dutch star Marijn Kremers and 48-year-old Italian karting legend Davide Foré.
Kremers will be driving all the same American races, while also helping Jay’s team in Australia. The pair have met before and the experienced Dutchman looms as a large influence for the young Kiwi. “It's been really good working with him because he has so much knowledge and knows things about things that I didn't even know were things!” says Jay.
GREAT RACING GENES
By far the biggest influences on his competitive life have been Jay’s parents. Dad Niki was a six-time New Zealand motocross champion who broke his back racing in Australia in 2002, leaving him a paraplegic.
Within a year, however, he had his karting competition licence and before the decade was up, became the only paraplegic to have competed at the world championships, in Italy.
Jay’s mum Vanessa Quin became the first New Zealander to win a world elite championship in downhill mountain biking in 2004, and also raced BMX internationally.
There’s considerable irony in Jay’s choice of sport, given that both parents suffered horrific injuries during their motocross and mountain biking careers. “Karting isn't so prescribed and it's lucky that injuries are not such a big thing in this sport, so that's a massive headache out of the way for us,” Niki admits. “Jay races more than anyone in New Zealand and he'll do anything, from a club day with 30 kids to the biggest international race where there's 600 go-karters there. You can learn something every time you race.”
Along with 10-year-old Indi, the family has travelled the world chasing karting races, firstly with Niki, and later with Jay. “It's way easier because we've seen the blueprint across multiple sports and we've seen how it works.”
For his part, Jay knows exactly how fortunate he is, and not just for the sporting prowess and drive his parents have gifted him. “We're a lot closer than 99 percent of kids my age and their parents. I spend a huge amount of time with them and they also know what kind of work you have to put in,” he says.
WHERE TO FROM HERE?
The glitz and glamour of Formula One is seen by many as the pinnacle of motorsport and most of the big-name drivers – like Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton – have started off racing karts.
That’s not a career track Jay is prioritising, however. “It's extraordinary the places that karting has taken me. We've eaten pizza in the home of pizza, seen things like the Colosseum, and the Louvre in Paris, and driven through Louisiana trying to find a McDonald’s without a broken sign from Hurricane Katrina.
“The end goal is to hopefully be a fully paid kart driver in Italy and live in Lonato del Garda, where all the big teams have testing. I've been learning Italian on Duolingo and it's really fun. I still hope to be racing 14-year-old kids when I'm 50.”
Meet, shop, eat
Spend a pleasant day shopping in the quaint and colourful Bethlehem Town Centre.
Spend a pleasant day shopping in the quaint and colourful Bethlehem Town Centre.
Words Catherine Sylvester
A mainstay of the local community for 16 years, Bethlehem Town Centre is reminiscent of the way shopping was done in the days before malls and retail centres dominated the scene. With an open-air village feel to it, the centre is designed as a one-stop shop with everything on hand for a leisurely day out.
This February saw the addition of a vibrant weekly market to bring the community together during the summer months. Held on Sunday mornings in the centre’s Main Street, local creatives can be found showcasing their talents, with everything from art and jewellery to garden ornaments and microgreens on display.
“We even had a kindergarten selling cookbooks filled with recipes shared by local families,” says centre manager Lauren Todd.
There is ample entertainment for the young – and young at heart. “Have a Go” circus workshops, and free face painting and candy floss have proved popular attractions with grandparents bringing their grandkids out to play.
Lauren suggests cocktails and a bite to eat as an ideal way to round out the day.
A central feature of the complex is the native tree walk which features mature tītoki, kahikatea, kāpuka, pūriri and mikimiki. "The centre is pet-friendly too, with outdoor seating at the cafés, and an on-site groomer and DIY dog wash,” Lauren says.
The markets have generated such interest with those hoping to hold a stall that many new faces appear weekly. This in turn brings variety and flavour to those on the hunt for a great find and a fabulous day out.
Shopping guide
Here are just a few of the businesses you’ll find inside the Bethlehem Town Centre complex.
Immerse Nail & Beauty Therapy
Passion, excellence and professionalism are what the team at Immerse Beauty Therapy bring to every treatment they offer. Whether it’s the face, nails or body that need a little bit of extra care and attention there is something for everyone. A luxurious respite from the day-to-day is a welcome treat for all.
232 Cakery
For the sweet tooth on the lookout for the sweetest gifts, 232 Cakery is just the place you need. Tasty fresh cream cakes, macarons and pastries are just some of the offerings you will find whipped up by the team. For that special occasion, mouth-watering cakes and desserts can be ordered to savour at home.
Bin Inn
Care for the environment and quality of goods is what you’ll find at Bin Inn. They stock a large range of organics, plus keto and gluten-free food. Fresh bread is delivered daily from Mount Sourdough, and if you like your milk the old-fashioned way – in a glass bottle – then the creamy Raglan milk in stock will make you smile. You can even make your own peanut or almond butter, without any of the nasties.
Shoo
For the discerning footwear aficionado, Shoo is for you! Proudly carrying quality shoes from over 25 renowned New Zealand and international brands, the team are dedicated to ensuring the right shoe match is found to complement every shopper’s collection. Favourites such as Kathryn Wilson, EOS and Tamara London are just some of the beautiful offerings in store and online. For those a little further afield, Shoo offers an e-commerce site for convenience.
Patrick’s Pies
Proud to be award-winning pie makers, the team at Patrick’s Pies have whatever you need to fill the gap once your errands are all done for the day. Theirs was the winner of the Bakels Legendary Sausage Roll competition in 2020, and they’ve taken home the Supreme Pie Award seven times! Best to grab a few to pop in the fridge for an easy weekend lunch or dinner too.
The Orchard Restaurant and Bar
Whatever the weather or occasion, The Orchard Restaurant and Bar has something for everyone. Open seven days, with all-day dining available, you can cosy up by the fire on those cooler evenings or relax outside in the sunshine watching the world go by on those finer days. Whether it’s dinner for one, or a larger group of up to 60, your dining needs can be catered to. The best part? Your beloved pup is welcome outside too!
Island time
There’s no need for a long-haul flight to escape to paradise when, only a few hours away, the tropical haven that is Rarotonga awaits you.
There’s no need for a long-haul flight to escape to paradise when, only a few hours away, the tropical haven that is Rarotonga awaits you.
Words Cameron Scott
Just three-and-a-half hours’ flight time from New Zealand, the lush and mountainous tropical island of Rarotonga offers the perfect escape for jaded Kiwis. Whether you’re travelling with the family, wanting a romantic holiday for two, or even an idyllic wedding venue, Rarotonga has something for everyone. Relax on a white sand beach beside a stunning turquoise lagoon, enjoy the superb local food and choose from a huge range of activities for people of all ages. When it’s time to leave, you’re sure to be relaxed and rejuvenated.
STAY
MANUIA BEACH RESORT
If you’re looking for the perfect resort to relax, and escape children under the age of 16, Manuia Beach Resort, beside the beach in Arorangi on the sunset side of the island, is a private and idyllic retreat. Accommodation is island-style, featuring comfortable coconut thatched suites complete with air conditioning and beach or garden views. Enjoy the beautiful infinity pool area and relax under a sun umbrella on a poolside lounger with a delicious tropical cocktail served by friendly local staff. Or head for the glorious white sand beach just a few metres away, and take a cooling dip in the inviting, picture-perfect lagoon. The resort is also home to
On the Beach Bar and Restaurant.
EDGEWATER RESORT
Occupying 2.4ha of lush tropical beachside grounds on Rarotonga’s western coast, the family-friendly Edgewater Resort & Spa is five minutes’ drive from Rarotonga International Airport and 4.9km from Avarua township. A Rarotonga icon, the Edgewater has an outdoor swimming pool, two restaurants, a bar and free parking, and also features excellent cultural shows. Rooms have tropical-style décor and rattan furnishings and include balconies with beach or garden views. Accommodation options include three-bedroom garden or beach villas, perfect for families. Edgewater’s spa offers relaxing surrounds where guests can enjoy massages and a range of beauty treatments.
TE MANAVA LUXURY VILLAS & SPA
Marketed as “something a little more secluded and off the beaten track,” the 5-star Te Manava Luxury Villas and Spa’s luxury accommodation comes in the form of large, open-plan villas located on the beautiful and tranquil lagoon beachfront. Each villa has its own private plunge pool and tropical gardens. The premium-priced beachside villas enjoy magnificent views over picturesque Muri Lagoon. With one, two or three bedrooms, the villas are perfect for families or couples on a romantic escape. Services include access to babysitters, spas and beauty packages, as well as gourmet dining at the resort restaurant. Nearby Muri village has a range of shops and restaurants with a strong island vibe, all within walking distance. temanava.com
PLAY
SNORKEL WITH TURTLES
“The most amazing experience I’ve ever had.” That was the comment from former Cook Islands resident Karen Scott of Tauranga after she took part in a turtle swimming experience with Snorkel Cook Islands earlier
this year. The two-hour tours take place in Avaavaroa Passage at Vaimaanga Beach under the close supervision of highly-experienced and friendly locals, including former Mount Maunganui lifeguard Josh Utanga. The tour includes snorkelling equipment (snorkel, mask, reef shoes and fins), a locker to store personal belongings, parking, sunscreen, and a refreshing snack of delicious island fruits when you get back to shore.
SUNDAY CHURCH
On Sundays, most work on Rarotonga comes to a stop. Avarua’s shops are closed, and locals dress in their best clothing and head for church in the morning. Even if you’re not a believer, join them for an uplifting experience you won’t forget. The singing is beautiful and joyous and you’ll receive a genuine and friendly welcome. At some of the historic Cook Islands Christian Churches, you might even be invited to share morning tea in the church hall. Churches of almost every denomination are spread around the island, so take your pick. For a more intimate experience, the small St Mary’s Catholic Church beside the lagoon in Arorangi village is highly recommended.
EAT
PUNANGA NUI
The best place to observe local life and experience Cook Islands culture is at the Punanga Nui Market on the lagoon side of the main township of Avarua, opposite the Bond Store. Eagerly awaited each week by locals and tourists alike, the Punanga Nui bursts into life from 8am on Saturdays, with a huge array of shops and stalls selling everything from fresh island produce and meals, to arts and crafts, pearl jewellery and colourful
island style clothing. There’s something here for everyone, with the bonus of cultural performances on the market’s main stage. There’s plenty of parking on the lagoon side of the site, but it pays to be there early.
EXPLORE THE OUTER ISLANDS
Rarotonga International Airport is the base for Air Rarotonga, set to celebrateits 45th anniversary next year. “Air Raro” as it’s fondly known, flies to nine domestic Cook Islands in the Northern and Southern Groups. It also flies to Papeete in Tahiti on the airline’s first international scheduled service which started this year. If you want to visit the outer islands in style, Air Rarotonga also operates a fast Cessna executive jet that can get you there in short order. Many visitors opt to visit the laid-back and picturesque island of Aitutaki, to the north, and you can book all the way there on an Air New Zealand itinerary.
SOUL CAFÉ & BARBER SHOP
The funky Soul Café is located in Maraerenga on the Tupapa side of Avarua, not far from the Cook Islands News office. As well as serving excellent coffees, Soul Café offers the opportunity to build your own sandwiches with the freshest of ingredients, washed down with a selection of fresh fruit smoothies. There’s also a tempting brunch menu which makes the most of island produce such as rukao (taro leaves cooked in coconut cream) in innovative ways. The Eggs Benedict served with yellowfin tuna comes highly recommended. The café is owned by long-time friends Caleb Tatuava and Vou Williams who also operate the barbershop next door.
soulcafeck
THE MOORING
Enjoy the freshest of local fish and delicious sandwiches, salads and sauces at the Mooring Fish Café in Muri. This casual and friendly dining establishment has won numerous awards for its fish meals, salads and sandwiches starring local game fish such as wahoo, tuna, mahimahi and marlin, caught fresh daily by fishermen operating from nearby Avana Harbour. Lunch on a fish sandwich on fresh Turkish bread washed down with refreshing coconut juice. Mains include “Fresh off the Boat” (crumbed mahimahi with chips and salad), tuna tacos with spicy slaw and the freshest fish and chips you’ve ever tasted. Opposite the Muri Night Market.
themooringfishcaferaro.com
NAUTILUS RESORT RESTAURANT
Muri’s luxurious Nautilus Resort offers several dining options with views over
a beautiful infinity pool, white sand beaches or the turquoise waters of the lagoon.
In the main dining area, the award-winning beachfront Nautilus Restaurant offers
a Polynesian inspired dining experience.
You can also enjoy dining on the beachside patio – or resort staff will happily organise
a private dinner. The food is described as Pacific Rim- European fusion, using local seasonal ingredients freshly picked from
the resort’s vegetable garden, and there’s
an emphasis on fresh fish dishes featuring local game fish.
Eat, drink, beach, repeat
The foodie scene in Waihi Beach is just as impressive as the stunning sandy shores.
The foodie scene in Waihi Beach is just as impressive as the stunning sandy shores.
Words Hayley Barnett
Small New Zealand beach towns aren’t usually known for their kai. Seafood, maybe, but even then it’s typically deep-fried in batter and had every nutrient eliminated in the process.
Waihi Beach is a little different. There may only be a handful of eateries, but you can guarantee you won’t walk away disappointed.
Dine in style while overlooking the water at Flatwhite, enjoy the ambiance of the Mexican hideaway that is The Secret Garden, enjoy classic Kiwiana meals at Surf Shack Eatery, or head further out for an incredible meal and experience at The Falls in the Karangahake Gorge.
Read on to discover an eatery to suit your tastes and needs, and a top spot to rest your head, found on booking.com
FLATWHITE
In New Zealand, for some mind-boggling reason, it’s hard to find a restaurant on the beach with views, so it’s a nice surprise when one is situated right in the middle of stunning Waihi Beach. Serving up brunch, lunch and dinner seven days a week, it’s a perfect spot to drop by after a long beach walk. Dining at nighttime may mean you miss the views, but the food and dining experience means it’s often packed out on the weekends, even during the winter, so make sure to book.
THE FALLS
If you haven’t heard of The Falls, you must be living under a rock or off the grid, which is exactly how you’ll feel when you visit this near-self-sufficient space offering unique dining experiences, workshops and functions. Showcasing local and homegrown produce and set inside a barn-like room with open beams and a cosy fireplace, they offer incredible seasonal food, much of which is grown right there next to the kitchen. Diners can wander around the gardens, and then head into the shop – a cute little food store where you can buy some of the delectable delights that feature on the menu.
The garden-to-table ethos was the idea of couple Brad King and Emma Walters back when they opened in 2011. They both enjoyed cooking simple, seasonal soul food and wanted to share their passion in a piece of forested paradise just above Owharoa Falls.
Today they’re kept busy hosting numerous dining experiences focused on sustainability, as well as cooking classes, gardening courses and plenty of weddings.
SURF SHACK EATERY
On your way out of Waihi Beach, along Emerton Road, there sits an old cottage which is easy to miss. The house itself isn’t much to look at, but once inside, the smells emanating from the kitchen will immediately put you at ease. The food is unpretentious and the huge dishes will cure any sized hangover. This is simple Kiwi fare at its best. They claim to have the best burgers in New Zealand and, despite not ordering a burger, I’d believe them. The Streaky Bacon Butty is a diner favourite but if you’re looking to fill a bigger gap, the award-winning “Full Kiwi” breakfast will certainly do the trick. There’s a kids’ menu to keep the little ones happy and a bunch of delicious salad choices for the health freaks.
RABBIT MOON
If you’re after a good coffee in a sunny spot, look out for a cute cottage next to the Info Centre in the Waihi Beach shops. Rabbit Moon offers up homemade baking like pies and quiches, as well as bagels, toasties and crepes. It’s a great place to have breakfast before hitting the shops next door.
@rabbitmooncafe
THE SECRET GARDEN
Heading into The Secret Garden, I wasn't sure what to expect. We walked past a few times before realising this place was something special. In that respect, you could say this is Waihi Beach’s best-kept secret.
The restaurant and bar is nestled amongst the shops in the beachside township and offers a cosy hideaway with some of the best Mexican food you’ll find in the Bay. As you walk in through the Balinese-style garden, what looks like a little stone walkway transforms into a quirky, bustling bar, complete with retro lounge room, DJ corner and a huge plant-filled oasis out the back.
The cocktail menu alone will impress those who love a good tipple, and the Mexican fare feels authentic and tastes delicious.
We sank into the comfortable couch, sinking our feet into the pebble flooring, and people-watched for hours, which is not the experience you expect in Waihi Beach on a cold winter’s night. But that’s what's so great about this place. It’s a home away from home, but with the added bonus of some culture and a party vibe any time of year. This is also the local hangout for music fans and musicians, with events happening on the regular.
secretgardenwaihibeach
BEACH PACIFIC APARTMENTS
When searching for a place to stay in Waihi Beach we wanted somewhere near the water that was central to everything we needed. Cue Beach Pacific Apartments, which popped up on Booking.com immediately, with a coveted “superb” rating. In hindsight, the location didn’t matter all that much. We could have happily looked after ourselves in the huge self-contained apartment, but that would have meant missing out on the culinary awesomeness of Waihi Beach.
Located smack in the middle of town, its central location is perfect for strolling around the shops, to the beach and up into the hills for a great view of the coast.
Equipped with an outdoor private spa, we made use of the outside spaces, including a vast deck with views of the township. The apartment itself was incredibly spacious – three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, dining space and lounge area. There were a few apartments to choose from, varying in size, but this snap rooftop decision was definitely the right choice. It would suit families or a few couples looking to make the most of the eateries and shops.
It was a shame we only stayed for two nights. We easily could have stayed, well, forever.
Hayley stayed at Beach Pacific Apartments courtesy of BOOKING.COM
Take a fresh look
If you need to unplug, and reboot over summer, then head to Whakatāne, where some wild wonders and epic excursions await you.
If you need to unplug, and reboot over summer, then head to Whakatāne, where some wild wonders and epic excursions await you.
Words Shiree Schumacher
Summer feels like it’s been a long time coming and what better place to brighten the spirits than one of the country’s sunniest destinations, Whakatāne. The certified suntrap also boasts an 11km stretch of golden shoreline at Ōhope that’s been voted New Zealand’s most loved beach. But there’s plenty more to do other than feel all that sand between your toes. Whether it’s action and adventure or serenity for the soul you’re after, you can find it all around here. And for foodies, we’ve picked some of the best places to relax and reflect on your day’s activities as you dine alfresco.
PLAY
Port Ōhope Wharfside
Check out the pop-up activity hub across from Fisherman’s Wharf. Enjoy the vista of the Ohiwa harbour upon a stand-up paddle board or cruise around on an e-bike or e-scooter (ages 11+) – all for hire. Some wharf jumping will guarantee a cool down, and refreshments from one of the harbour-side food trucks are never far away.
Riverbugging
If adrenalin is your jam or you’re keen for a family-friendly adventure, take the kids (10 years+) for some riverbugging down the Rangitaiki awa. You’ll be kitted out to keep you safe as you all bob, wind and whitewater your way through pure nature, each upon your own cute “buggy”.
Moutohorā
A short boat trip from Whakatāne is the sanctuary that is Moutohorā (Whale Island). Vibrant birdsong greets you at this pest-free haven – home to some of our most endangered wildlife. Learn about the flora and fauna as you’re guided through the regenerated native bush, take in magical views across to White Island, visit a fur seal colony enroute, and finish with a dip in the waters of Onepū Bay, Moutohorā’s secluded beach where you can even dig your own geothermal spring pool.
West End
Ōhope beach’s West End has quite the reputation with surfers, yet it provides a safe, sheltered spot for swimming and kayaking, too. While you can count on catching waves here daily, they don’t break hard so surfie learners and experts alike will find their perfect possie along this stretch. Salt Spray Surf school offers lessons and surfboards for hire nearby.
Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park.
About an hour and a quarter drive from Whakatāne is one of the world's last prehistoric rainforests. Walk the track to the picturesque Waiatiu Falls and imagine the dinosaurs of Gondwana striding among the ancient towering kahikatea, tōtara, matai and rimu. The park is valued as a taonga (treasure) containing the living children of Tāne Mahuta, the Māori god of the forest. Local iwi (tribe) Ngāti Whare is the active kaitiaki (guardian) of the park working with the Department of Conservation (DOC) to protect the natural, historic and cultural resources for the benefit and well-being of future generations of Aotearoa and visitors.
EAT
Gibbo’s on the Wharf
Taste the freshness of their daily catch or grab one of the much-loved Gibbo burgers. If you just can’t decide, then try the seafood basket: fish and chips, a crabstick, mussels, squid rings and oysters – and take away to the beach or settle into their wharf-side table to eat while it’s piping hot.
Cadera Mexican Bar & Restaurant
Little says summer more than munching tapas by the sea under one of Cadera’s yellow umbrellas. This sunny eatery at Ōhope beach offers a wide menu including succulent tacos, smoky spare ribs and an array of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Happy hour is from 4 to 5pm daily so say salud to good times with a ruby raspberry margarita or raise a glass with friends over a bucket of chilled Corona.
Fisherman’s Wharf Café
From the restaurant’s open dining deck, watch the yachts gently bobbing under the golden sunset while you sip a fine wine. The menu is worth raving about – and the desserts won’t disappoint. For oyster lovers, the harvest fresh from the sea is a must, or try them tempura battered, nestled back into their shells. Sunday brunches are sometimes available, too.
Little Havana Bar & Restaurant
Spice things up with some Cuban vibes at Little Havana where they’ll happily accommodate large groups, for a fiesta. Join friends outside with a cool jug of sangria or try one of their international red vinos. The food is an ode to Cuba’s Spanish, South American, French, African, Portuguese and Caribbean influences with a touch of familiar Kiwi fusion. From the fresh tarakihi tacos to the paella, the flavours will have your taste buds dancing the mambo.
The Craic
If you’re feeling the call of some Celtic revelry, take a pew outside the historic Whakatāne Hotel at The Craic Irish pub. You can tap your toes to one of the live bands while enjoying the pub fare – from good ol’ bangers and mash, to creamy carbonara, there’s a pleasing selection – and many a cold brew to wash it down with.
Diamond in the rough
Looking for a destination golf course where the views are as beautiful as the quality of the course? The revitalised Summerhill Estate golf course is worth the drive.
Looking for a destination golf course where the views are as beautiful as the quality of the course? The revitalised Summerhill Estate golf course is worth the drive.
Words: Dan Collins
It only takes 15 minutes to drive up to Summerhill Estate from Pāpāmoa, but when you reach the edge of the vast golf course it feels as if you're a million miles from anywhere.
Driving through the gates, the wild grass transforms into long, rolling fairways, with a backdrop offering unobstructed views that stretch down along the coast as far as Whakatāne and Mount Maunganui.
Away from the traffic and sounds of the city, the only noise is birdsong and the occasional bit of chatter from fellow golfers.
With its breathtaking views, the quality of the course and its peaceful solitude, it’s hard to think of anywhere more ideal for a relaxing game of golf.
“Playing here is an opportunity to experience somewhere that is a little bit special,” Tonia Procter tells UNO. “The incredible views also make it a great place to bring visitors to show off the area.”
Owners Mark and Tonia Procter have owned the course since 2014. Back then it operated on an honesty box payment system, was a bit tired and was overdue for some attention. It was not unusual for a wayward sheep to be blocking the fairway. It was a far cry from what you see today.
Tonia admits that she and Mark were green when it came to golf. Even so, they could see the diamond glinting in the rough.
“We thought, 'Well, this has got potential, let's give it a go,'” Tonia says. “Even though it wasn’t exactly the plan to own a golf course!"
What they were looking for was a new home. They had sold their house on Tara Road before construction on the motorway began and wanted to build a home. They were after a bit of land and had been looking at lifestyle blocks. Although neither was interested in an orchard or spending their days fussing over kiwifruit. Tonia had her hairdressing salon, while Mark worked in the log export business, something he still does today.
“We stumbled across the property after it had been on the market for some time," she says. "It didn’t look anything like this then and it probably looked like too big a project to take on.
“We knew we had to learn a lot about golf and course management, and figure it out fairly quickly! Thankfully experience and advice was at hand with both Bay of Plenty and NZ Golf being very supportive, as well as other local courses, who were very helpful and patient with questions from a new owner. When you don't know the correct answers or solutions to something, you need to talk to someone who does know and not be afraid to ask for help."
The 9-hole course covers 26 hectares with three different course configurations. The New Zealand-affiliated course is not only situated in one of the most remarkable and scenic spots, but it also offers a challenge.
Its undulating fairways only provide two par threes to ease into. With the exception of two long par fives, the rest of the course is made up of par fours that will test your skills.
Despite not knowing much about golf, the pair had a very distinct vision for the course. “We realised that if we spent energy improving the course itself – the greens, the tees and the fairways (with guidance from their talented green keeper Steve Watson) – then that would start to interest golfers," explains Tonia. "We are very fortunate to have Steve as our green keeper, he does an amazing job."
The pair also had a strong idea of how they wanted to operate. Perhaps it was their newness to the game that allowed them to see things differently.
“Golf can traditionally have an intimidating feel about it,” Tonia says. “We wanted to create an environment that was a high-quality destination for a golfer without all of the other formalities. We wanted to keep it inclusive and welcoming and not make people feel that it’s an intimidating situation to come here and play.”
To that end, you’re welcome to come up with the dog and take stroll through the walkways.“You just need to be aware of golf balls,” she smiles.
This welcoming philosophy is also behind other decisions. They keep a limited membership to allow more green fee-paying golfers, to keep the course open for anyone who would like a round.
“We’re aware that people are time-poor and we want to be there for people who find they might suddenly have time one day. Then they can just pick up their clubs, give us a call to book and head to the hills.”
There's also a nice spot to enjoy a coffee, glass of wine or a cold beer after your game. There’s a bright and breezy outdoor pavilion beside the café that basks in the sunlight and those amazing views. It’s also right beside the first tee so you can wave out to your mates turning up for their round while you enjoy your post-round drink and a hot meal.
Word is spreading about this hidden treasure up in the hills. It could very well be golf’s best-kept secret. It may be a destination course but it’s the quality of its fairway, greens and challenge that keeps people coming back.
Tonia is also passionate about welcoming new players to both the game and the course. They are running a new event over the summer to encourage more women to come and have a go.
“On Tuesday evenings, we welcome ladies to play 5 at 5 – a format where the girls have the opportunity to play five holes with other like-minded ladies, then enjoy a glass of wine at the pavilion after. On Wednesday nights we hold our Twilight competition where everyone is welcome.
"They can come in around 5pm, play five holes and then come back for a glass of wine. The course is open just for the girls on that night. They can simply have a go.”
All of this sounds like it should cost the world. It should. But that would go against what Tonia and Mark are creating up on the hill. They want people to come and enjoy Summerhill, to enjoy playing on a quality golf course and not be constricted by the formalities of old or prohibitive cost.
“Our goal was to create a quality golf course with a welcoming feel without the traditional structure and formality that would usually be present,” Tonia says. “We never wanted to compromise on quality. Why shouldn’t all golfers get to play on a beautiful quality course and have it be relaxed at the same time?”
And now, after eight years of living and breathing golf, the big question is, does Tonia now play golf herself?
“I am trying to play,” she laughs. “I'm better now than when we started!”
Take a break in Tīrau
Tīrau may be better known for its quirky corrugated iron sculptures – but this tiny town is certainly worth your time.
Tīrau may be better known for its quirky corrugated iron sculptures – but this tiny town is certainly worth your time.
Less than one hour from Tauranga, you’ll find the quaint village of Tīrau. Often a stopover on a road trip, there’s so much more on offer than meets the eye. Spend the weekend shopping at one of the many boutiques, finding unique pieces from interior design stores, designer outlets and art galleries. If adventure is more your style, there are plenty of beautiful walks and bike tracks nearby to discover. Take a dip in a relaxing natural hot spring and wine and dine at some amazing eateries.
KILT Sale
KILTies rejoice. The much-loved New Zealand-made-and-designed brand KILT has a sale store in Tīrau. You can get your hands on elegant, sophisticated pieces at a discounted price. It’s a win-win. Their friendly team of stylists are on hand to make your experience in store amazing.
17 Main Road
Deciduus & Santie
Deciduus & Santie is a small lifestyle boutique, stocking a curated collection of art, ceramics, textiles and lush indoor plants. The owners pride themselves on being conscious consumers and passionately select
and support the work of independent New Zealand creatives, each with their own unique voice and style.
23 Main Road,
deciduusandsantie.co.nz
Interiors Barn
It will be hard not to be inspired after visiting The Interiors Barn showroom. Stocking a wide range of beautiful, handcrafted and unique furniture and homewares that are sourced from around the world. They are all about finding pieces that are conversation starters.
17E Main Road,
theinteriorsbarn.co.nz
Notting Hill
Notting Hill Interiors brings a curated collection of classic, sophisticated and European styling ranges of furniture, homewares, décor, lighting, jewellery, clothing and accessories. Stocking a range of New Zealand brands, they pride themselves on being a destination store with a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.
1 Hillcrest Street,
nottinghillinteriors.co.nz
Trelise Cooper Designer Outlet
Further up the hill, shoppers can continue on to one of the few Trelise Cooper Outlet stores in the country. With a reputation for beautiful garments made with heart and integrity, you can find luxurious pieces at outlet prices.
1/1 Main Road
Okoroire Hot Springs
Sheltered from the elements by a beautifully green forest – you’ll be able to draw a deep breath, take nature in, and let your mind wander as the naturally-heated mineral water of Okoroire Hot Springs works its magic. The Okoroire Hot Springs have been around for more than 130 years and are one of the best-kept secrets in South Waikato.
18 Somerville Road,
okohotel.co.nz
Waikato River trails
Located just 10 minutes from Tīrau, The Waikato River Trails winds along a path that encompasses the magic and beauty of New Zealand native bush, exotic forest, historic landmarks, suspension bridges and hydro dams. Be inspired as you walk, run or cycle through open reserves, boardwalks over wetlands and experience expansive lake and river views.
waikatorivertrails.co.nz
Te Waihou Walkway
Arguably the most beautiful water in the world, venture along Te Waihou Walkway to enjoy the tranquillity and picturesque crystal clear water. Taking around 90 minutes to cover the 4.7 kilometre track (or three hours return) this mainly easy walk will take you past waterfalls and abundant native birdlife.
Twilight Glow Worms Tour
On the banks of the Waikato River, you’ll find Riverside Adventures. This family business offers a glow worm tour that can only be accessed by kayak. Enjoy the twilight and silence of being on the water as the day draws to an end. As night arrives over the river, you will paddle slowly up the Pokaiwhenua Stream, being guided by titiwai (glow worms) on either side sparkling like Christmas lights.
396 Horahora Road,
riversideadventures.co.nz
Tucker Bar & Eatery
The husband and wife team at Tucker Bar & Eatery bring the heat to the kitchen with over 20 years of experience and having worked alongside some pretty big names in the industry, from Simon Gault to Gordon Ramsey. Growing their own organic seasonal vegetables and fruits on their family block and sourcing fresh local products, this proudly South Waikato restaurant serves up delicious dishes.
31 Main Road,
tuckerbarandeatery.co.nz
Poppy’s café
A family run café on the main street of Tīrau, it’s hard to miss them under the giant corrugated poppies. Serving great coffee, delicious smoothies, homemade cabinet food and a hearty brunch menu.
32 Main Road
The Baker
If you’re a pie lover, The Baker is the stop for you. Often described as the best pies in New Zealand, with their loyal base of customers coming from near and far to get their hands on them. This father and daughter baking team – Rachel and Shane Kearnes – have put their twist on the Kiwi classics and it’s been a big hit.
35 Main Road
Cabbage Tree Café
Cabbage Tree Café is a charming café that specialises in gourmet food and superb coffee that will leave you wanting more. Everything is cooked and baked fresh daily. Customer favourites include the Moroccan lamb, big beef burgers and the Cabbage Tree big works breakfast.
@ctcafe
Okoroire Hot Springs Hotel
The Okoroire Hot Springs Hotel is immersed in history, character and New Zealand charm with its unique location and experiences on offer. The hotel’s vast land occupies 70-plus acres of natural beauty, including a wonderful country-style nine-hole golf course, the Okoroire Hot Springs, a tennis court, restaurant and private bar. It’s the perfect place to stay for families, couples or groups of friends.
18 Somerville Road,
okohotel.co.nz
Te Waihou Riverside Retreat
Located on the banks of the Waihou River, this eco-friendly cabin brings the wow factor. Wake up to stunning river views that can be enjoyed from your bed, enjoy a cold one on the floating pontoon or laze around in one of the hammocks. In the evenings enjoy the ambience of the fire pit or relax in the wood fire hot tub. The entire place has been thoughtfully decorated with rustic and unique personal touches to bring you the ultimate weekend getaway. Airbnb (search: Te Waihou Riverside Retreat)
Go to town
If it’s been a while since you visited the Big Smoke, take time
to rediscover Auckland with the family.
words Hayley Barnett
photos Hayley Barnett + supplied
The past two to three years haven’t been kind to any of us, but our biggest city, Auckland, has really felt the pain. If you haven’t been trying to escape it, you’ve at least been trying to avoid it.
But now that we’re all emerging from our bubbles and travelling like never before, the city is finally back on people’s radars.
If you were a local who couldn’t escape during those dark days, life went on, and the vibrancy of the city never disappeared. When I visited with my family for a long weekend earlier this year I was excited to find that there were new places which had opened up since our last visit, as well as renovations galore, proving the city had used its dog days to reemerge better and brighter than before. Here are some of the coolest, most fun activities that we squeezed into three days in the city.
Auckland War Memorial Museum
If you get stuck with a rainy day in Auckland, one of the best things you can do is head to the Auckland War Memorial Museum. It’s a fun day out for the family and also educational for both adults and kids alike. On entering, we immediately got up close to a complete T-Rex skeleton, a rare opportunity anywhere in the world. Most examples in museums are replicas but this one is made up of real bones, black in colour due to mineral deposits on the bones.
Next, we headed to the War Memorial gallery to take in the old planes, a favourite exhibition for four-year-old Oscar. Then we experienced what felt like a real volcanic eruption. The frightening simulation is designed to show you what it would be like if a volcano erupts whilst you relax in your living room at home. We also managed to get to the Weird and Wonderful exhibit, as well as the kids’ discovery centre, before heading down to the café for lunch.
The Covent Hotel
Nestled next to a Catholic church and school in Grey Lynn sits an old nunnery recently converted into a rather suave boutique hotel. It’s not your usual roadside accommodation typical of the Great North Road strip, and that’s its charm.
The Spanish Mission-style building offers 22 eclectic rooms to choose from, all stripped back to their original brick walls, keeping the old steel windows, and filled with religious paraphernalia in every nook and cranny. It turns out this modern-yet-creepy vibe is very, very cool.
The kids were excited to arrive at “the haunted house”, nicknamed after only seeing a photo of the building’s exterior on Booking.com before we made the journey.
Once inside the room, it feels more like you’re living the highlife in a cool, stylish New York apartment than sleeping in an old convent. But the kids couldn’t quite shake the creepiness. It might have been the giant murals of blood-soaked ghouls in the hallways, but who knows? For me, it just added a wow factor which made our trip to the Big Smoke that much more exciting.
Our apartment, aptly named Mother Superior, came fully equipped with a kitchen and lounge room, and our bedroom was separated from the kids by the bathroom and a hallway. Hard to come by in a regular hotel.
Just below our room sits one of Auckland’s hippest places to dine, Ada. We left the kids with Grandma and headed downstairs for a long Sunday lunch. Avoiding food envy, we chose the set menu, and enjoyed the ambiance of the restaurant, with its super-high ceiling and bustling vibe.
Book The Convent Hotel on booking.com
Auckland Zoo
There’s always something new and exciting happening at Auckland Zoo. When we arrived, we were all blown away by how much had changed compared to our last visit two years ago. The new tiger enclosure is incredible, with the big striped cats wandering through tunnels overhead as you pass timidly underneath. Orangutans dangle high above in towers and it’s easy to spot them wherever they are. All the new enclosures are a vast improvement in size and quality for the animals and make the viewing experience that much more immersive. Even the main café has had a makeover.
Of course, all the classics remain – the concrete dragon in the playground, the huge elephant and lion enclosures, the penguin and seal pool, and the giant bird sanctuaries – but the changes make it seem like a whole new experience. Highly recommend a visit next time you’re up.
Sea Life Kelly Tarlton’s
Everyone’s favourite aquarium is still just as fun as it was when it opened 38 years ago. Despite this fun fact making me feel very old, our visit to see the sharks, turtles and stingrays (special requests for our weekend) was a surprisingly awe-inspiring activity which saw all of us have a very educational rainy afternoon.
From Shackleton to Gentoo penguins, we came away all the more wiser and even watched someone feed the sharks inside the tank. A 100-year-old crayfish viewing was an unexpected highlight for the kids and I was quite taken with the centre’s Turtle Rescue operation. Did you know it’s the only place in New Zealand that offers a turtle rehabilitation programme?
Hayley and family stayed at The Convent Hotel courtesy of Booking.com
LEXUS family drive
family drive
Future of family motoring
How does an EV handle a weekend away with the kids in tow? Surprisingly – and delightfully – well, as we discovered.
Future of family motoring
How does an EV handle a weekend away with the kids in tow? Surprisingly – and delightfully – well, as we discovered.
Words + photos Hayley Barnett
With petrol prices skyrocketing and showing no signs of returning to Earth, the case for EVs (electric vehicles) or hybrid cars has only become stronger. And that’s before we get to the environmental benefits. While some naysayers doubt the very real science behind climate change, I think we can all agree that the pain at the petrol pump is very real.
But when we think about selling our petrol engine car and upgrading to an EV, there’s always the nagging thought that, while great for zipping around town running our everyday life errands, they wouldn’t work when it came to embarking on family holidays or road trips.
This is where people turn to hybrids, which have both petrol and electric engines, with the traditional combustion engine kicking in when you run out of kilowatts.
But, let’s face it – the petrol engine is old technology and on the way out. Is the future of pure EVs ready to be embraced today? And do they fit in with the Kiwi way of life?
We already know that they’re absolutely fine for the school run, the office commute, and trips to the supermarket. So my partner and I decided to put our holiday on the line, load up an EV with suitcases and our two children and drive from Papamoa to Auckland for a long weekend.
For this ambitious road trip, we borrowed the Lexus UX300e in a glistening cobalt blue. This luxurious front-wheel drive, fully electric vehicle boasts a 150kw engine, five seats, a pumping sound system with Bluetooth connectivity, a two-tone leather interior and, most importantly, a five-star ANCAP safety rating.
Coming from our larger Nissan Murano, there were initial concerns about the four of us squeezing into the Lexus. But those were quickly dismissed. The generous boot space easily had enough room for the family luggage, and neither Mr Four nor Miss Seven moaned once as their car seats clicked into place. We were closer than we were used to, but everyone had more than enough room.
Instead of roaring into life after pressing the start button, the UX300e is relatively silent. After double-checking that yes, I’d started it up correctly, I shifted into reverse and carefully backed out of the drive. As you’d expect, there was a great reversing camera; it has a lovely big and bright colour screen, as well as an overhead view of the car.
At first, my unleaded petrol foot was a bit heavy on the brakes, giving us a fairly stuttery start to our journey. But after a few kilometers, I’d acclimated and my driving started to match the smoothness of the ride. Sinking into the extremely comfortable seats, we left Tauranga and hit the motorway.
Out on the open road, there were no signs of struggle from the car’s electric engine. It soared up hills, cruised along straights, and whizzed effortlessly past any slow coaches in the passing lanes.
We’d been told the car had a 300km range, although I couldn’t help but keep one watchful eye on the battery meter, which is conveniently styled as a traditional fuel gauge. With tunes streaming to the stereo and the aircon on, I felt a bit nervy that we’d run out of juice.
The worry was needless. We had just under 100kms “in the tank” when we hit the Bombays. But as we’d stopped for lunch and a session at Waihi’s terrific kids’ playground, we were coming into rush-hour traffic. I didn’t want to risk a breakdown, so pulled into the charging station at the Bombay Hills EV charging station. While the family went off to get a snack, I plugged the car in and refilled. About half an hour, and $26 later, we were charged up and good to go.
Driving past the petrol stations, with their dirty fumes and outrageously high prices, I couldn’t help but feel a little smug that the trip to Auckland had cost less than Friday night fish ‘n’ chips.
We spent the next three days buzzing around the city, the Lexus capably getting us around Auckland -- and through its traffic – without breaking a sweat and with fantastic power economy. We couldn’t believe our luck when we spotted an EV park right outside the Auckland Museum entrance, especially as it was pouring with rain. We weren’t on empty, but decided to charge up during our visit anyway and were surprised to find it was free. Yes, free! That’s even better than Friday night fish ‘n’ chips.
We didn’t need to charge up again until right before heading home on Sunday.
It was hard to hand the keys back on Monday morning. The trip away in the UX300e absolutely cemented the idea that EVs are the future of motoring, and that we can’t wait to be rid of the environmentally and financially disastrous petrol engine for good.
Smooth ride
Smooth ride
Fancy a road trip? Douglas and Heather Stewart took in the South Island’s stunning autumn foliage in their brand-new EV.
Fancy a road trip? Douglas and Heather Stewart took in the South Island’s stunning autumn foliage in their brand-new EV.
Words Jo Ferris / Photos Jahl Marshall
Douglas and Heather Stewart’s transition from their petrol Toyota RAV to a Lexus EV might have begun knowing Lexus is the luxury brand within Toyota’s stable. Their decision to buy a Lexus, however, involved learning about EVs – then driving one around the South Island soon after.
After 45 years overseas, the couple came home for their final retirement phase. Settling in Katikati in March 2019, and aware of the move towards clean cars, Heather says they “wanted to do their bit”. She was quite happy, however, that Douglas did the research.
While the technology, terminology, and types of low-emission vehicles can be confusing, Douglas learned quickly. Having looked at hybrids, it was full EV or nothing. Then it simply boiled down to brand.
Looking across the board, nothing else but Lexus stood out. It wasn’t until a Tauranga dealership opened in June 2021 that the Stewarts took the next step.
”We saw the first demo in November, went for a test drive, and ordered one straightaway.”
Although an “EV virgin”, Douglas was smitten. The Lexus doesn’t top the price range, but the UX300e Limited SUV still had all the bells and whistles. It was the capacity, comfort, and safety the Stewarts really liked.
So much so that, within weeks of getting their car in March, they were off to explore the South Island’s autumnal glory. Comfortable with the car’s mileage capacity, Douglas planned their trip around charging stations – an aspect he cannot stress enough. That even includes booking accommodation that offers charging.
New Zealand’s growing range of charging stations made the trip easy. It was a major journey – some 4300 kms; leaving Katitkati for a night at their favourite Creel Lodge in Turangi, then to Wellington and the ferry. In three weeks, the Stewarts travelled from Picton to Te Anau, Wanaka and Geraldine; up to Hanmer Springs, Murchison, Nelson; back to Picton and the ferry for a final night at Turangi.
A huge effort by anyone’s standards – let alone in an EV, bought just weeks prior. The only hiccup occurred on the way to Murchison. With no charging facilities in Hanmer, the plan was to top up in Murchison to make Nelson. Douglas hadn’t allowed for rain, wipers, and lights – and the subsequent power reduction. AA membership is handy at times.
As to cost, Douglas estimates the journey was under a third of his petrol car. Charging at home is also minimal compared with the alternative petrol outlay. Otherwise, it’s a trip to a rapid charger nearby, when out shopping. While his Lexus battery is guaranteed for eight years, Douglas believes ongoing research will reduce degradation, lighten their weight, and improve disposal.
EVs may still be cost-prohibitive to many right now, but Douglas believes they are the future, and he cannot praise Lexus Tauranga enough.
“Would I buy an EV again? Most certainly,” he says. “Would it be a Lexus? Absolutely. And would I buy in Tauranga? No doubt about it.”
Good to know
Douglas says the Lexus UX300e Limited SUV has a number of features that made their road trip a (mostly) smooth success.
360km (approx), 300km (average) capacity
7.5s acceleration (0-100km/hr)
Road stability and road handling
Weight distribution of battery pack and sectional componentry
360-degree camera in the console
Cruise control
Triple-brake configuration
Pre-collision system with visual and audio alerts
Brake assist system with automatic application in an emergency
Douglas’ top tips
Top up to 80 percent. The final 20 percent takes longer to charge than the 80 percent.
A full three-point plug charge takes 16 to 18 hours. Rapid is about one hour and 10 minutes.
Join ChargeNet for access to more than 250 fast-charge stations in New Zealand.
PlugShare app maps all free-to-use stations around the country.
Join AA.