jovialbliss
New Member
Hi CP,
Err.. which town is Nelson located at?? NZ$140 don't seems so worth it for an ordinary ring... I think my hubby will change his mind to get it after hearing the price to get this ring.. hehehe...
Hi sun96,
It's ok.. My NZ pkg is for 13 days covering both north & south island which is inclusive of airfare, accomodation and most of the meals.. They dun provide the meals throughout the trip.. So u gotta settle some of the meals yourself..
For 13 days tours, I wun be able to cover majority of the places and the time staying at Queenstown is insufficient as I will only be staying for a day there. Just the Milford tour alone will take one whole day if I were to join their tour coz the travelling time from Queenstown is approx. 4-5hrs.. stopping at some places during the journey.. I guess it's more advisable to go for F&E if you have time to plan your itinerary...
Err.. which town is Nelson located at?? NZ$140 don't seems so worth it for an ordinary ring... I think my hubby will change his mind to get it after hearing the price to get this ring.. hehehe...
Hi sun96,
It's ok.. My NZ pkg is for 13 days covering both north & south island which is inclusive of airfare, accomodation and most of the meals.. They dun provide the meals throughout the trip.. So u gotta settle some of the meals yourself..
For 13 days tours, I wun be able to cover majority of the places and the time staying at Queenstown is insufficient as I will only be staying for a day there. Just the Milford tour alone will take one whole day if I were to join their tour coz the travelling time from Queenstown is approx. 4-5hrs.. stopping at some places during the journey.. I guess it's more advisable to go for F&E if you have time to plan your itinerary...
jovialbliss
New Member
Hi seesee,
I also thought that there's a 40% discount for the 2nd pax when I read the papers.. I only understand that the 40% discount is meant for their instant lucky draw... I guess they must have published this to attract more people to their fair...
According to the person whom I sign up the pkg with, $2888 is applicable for the first 10 pax who sign up and subsequent pax will be @ $2988. So how much did u pay for ur pkg? Is there an increase in price since u booked for June tour?
My dep date is on the 17th April...
I also thought that there's a 40% discount for the 2nd pax when I read the papers.. I only understand that the 40% discount is meant for their instant lucky draw... I guess they must have published this to attract more people to their fair...
According to the person whom I sign up the pkg with, $2888 is applicable for the first 10 pax who sign up and subsequent pax will be @ $2988. So how much did u pay for ur pkg? Is there an increase in price since u booked for June tour?
My dep date is on the 17th April...
hi jovialbliss,
i'm not very sure lah. there is a 40% disc. but that only applicable for 11 days pkg not the 13 days. they got it mixed up. that's y i very angry wif the staff. they called me on my mobile n told me tat the staff make a mistake so i hav to choose to top up the balance or choose the 11 days. then they didnt even apologise. wen i ask how could they make such a mistake, she just say i dont know.
i'm not very sure lah. there is a 40% disc. but that only applicable for 11 days pkg not the 13 days. they got it mixed up. that's y i very angry wif the staff. they called me on my mobile n told me tat the staff make a mistake so i hav to choose to top up the balance or choose the 11 days. then they didnt even apologise. wen i ask how could they make such a mistake, she just say i dont know.
Hi Jovialbliss,
Thanks
I love Lake Tekapo too.
There are a few operators which cater for the milford sound cruise. The most famous one is by Real Journeys.
I took the Small Boat Cruises (10.00am-12.15pm) by Real Journeys, costs NZ$48 per person as we self drove from Te Anau. From Te anua to milford sound, it took 2hrs journey. We departed from Te Anau at 8am and reached there just nice 10am!!! Everyone on the cruise was waiting for us LOL. Before reaching, u wil have to drive through a tunnel called "Homer Tunnel" where its all pitched dark, no lights at all, thus remember to turn on your headlight. After homer tunnel, do drive carefully as the road are very windings n slow down on bends. During my trip to milford sound, it was raining all day, quite disappointed....But this place has the most heaviest rainfall in NZ as its down south...
My suggestion for u is to join the tour. Cos the journey from queenstown to milford sound is way too long. about says 3hrs? From Queenstown,
Coach / Scenic Cruises starts from 6.55am-7.30pm n costs NZ$190. U may refer to the link for more info.
http://www.realjourneys.co.nz/Main/DaytimeCruises/
Its fun to go deer park height. U can just buy a tin of NZ$1 food to feed the animals n the animals are free to roam by themselves, quite cute. The view on top of the heights is so breathtaking!
Not sure where to buy LOTR ring but then i remembered passby alot of LOTR shops at queenstowns. U can try ur luck there.
==================================================
Btw, actually after i came back from NZ, i actually wrote a NZ trip report for memories. Hope my report did not make u fall asleep
<font color="ff0000">Day 1</font>Day 1 – Depart from SIN-AKL-CHC
<font color="ff0000">Day 2</font> – CHC
Begin our trip with 12hrs flight on Air New Zealand. At AKL airport, we took a shuttle bus (5mins) from international to domestic airport. From there, board a domestic plane to CHC.
Reached CHC at 3pm. Teddy from Anzed car rental picked us up from CHC airport. Reached Achillies Motel within 5mins by car. Nice, spacious, decent motel. As Pam & Cam knew that we were there for honeymoon, they welcomed us with a complimentary small bottle of champagne & a wedding card. So sweet of them.
From our motel, it is a 10mins walk to the Cathedral square. Weather was very cold. Tour around Botanic Gardens, Avon River, Arts Centre n did some shopping. We went to a food court there, reasonable price. Also went to a Japanese takeaway to grab some teriyaki sushi, yummy! It’s just opposite the food court.
*Accommodation: Achillies Motel – NZ$75 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 3</font> – CHC via Scenic Route 72 – Lake Tekapo
Drove up from CHC to Cashmere Hill & Lyttelton Port. It was breathtaking. Lots of steep uphill roads therefore we need to drive slowly around the bends. We went back to CHC via a tunnel called Tunnel Road.
Back to CHC again. We have a quick lunch at the food court again. Yummy. Haha I went for a hair trim at 1 of the hair salons, cheap cheap only NZ$10. Cos I simply cant stand my messy hair being blew by strong winds. Hehe
Begin our Scenic Route 72. On our way, saw lots of sheeps crossing the roads with a sheep dog chasing behind them. Passby Rakaia Gore n Mt. Hutt along the way. Stop by Rakaia Gore, it was beautiful with crystal clear waters. Went to Lily farm at Mt. Somers too. We stopped at Farlie for dinner, had nice fish and chips at the restaurant before proceeding to Lake Tekapo.
Lake Tekapo is beautiful….Blue turquoise lake….It was very cold that evening though I had an ice cream after dinner. Managed to catch the sunset with golden mountains, awesome!
We stayed at Tailor-made backpackers. Our ensuite room is so new and modern. Cool. Quiet and nice environment with lovely garden. At about 11pm, we drove to the lake and went star gazing. It was beautiful.
*Accommodation: Tailor-Made Backpackers – NZ$60 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 4</font> – Lake Tekapo – Mt Cook – Twizel
Saw a Japanese couple holding their wedding ceremony at Church of the Good Shepherd. It was so sweet and memorable to get married just besides the beautiful lake tekapo.
Start Mt John tracking via the forest instead of the lake. Took us 1hr + to reach the top. However we didn’t continue up to the observation point
Drove via Salmon Farm route to Mt. Cook. Canal Pukaki to Tekapo is pretty! NZ seems to have lots of beautiful lakes.
Despite it was drizzing in Mt. Cook, we went for the Hooker Valley Track. You must not miss it. Catch the ice blocks and glaciers. It was an experience. Strong wind was howling which nearly blew us off and we were walking on sharp edging rocks and stone. After we crossed the 2nd swinging bridge, we u-turn back. It was scary as the 2nd bridge was swinging left and right vigorously, as if going to fall apart and we had to hold tight to the railing. We were glad to reach the starting point after our 2 hours track. Complete track required 4hrs.
Feel shagged after the Mt john & Mt cook tracks. We have dinner at Twizel, yummy fish & chips with strawberry milkshake. High Country Holiday Lodge was so-so. The layout was so odd and room was small.
*Accommodation: High Country Holiday Lodge – NZ$66 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 5</font> – Twizel via Omarama – Oamaru – Dunedin
Drove pass Lake Benmore, Lake Aviemore, Waitaki Dam, Maori Rock Drawing and Shag Point.
Stop by Moeraki Boulders. Wondering how the rocks are formed by the beach. Saw a wedding couple taking their outdoor photoshoot in their lovely wedding suit n gown.
Began our Penguin and wild animal tour (NZ$55 per person) at 3pm. Pickup location at our Ramsay Lodge, Dunedin. We could see overview of Dunedin, beautiful blue seas before reaching at Tairoa Head on Otago Peninsula. One of the attractions here is the Albatross, one of the largest seabirds.
We were divided into 2 groups led by the guide at Penguin Reserve. Watch out for the endangered Yellow Eyed Penguin (Hoiho meaning Noise shouter), Hooker Sea Lions
and Fur seals. Saw 2 cute yellow eyed penguins blocking our path. Hehe. Not forgetting the climbing up and down the steep hills. Really pay $ to torture my legs. Urgh but worth it. Haha
By the time the tour ended n it was 10.30pm when we reached Ramsay. Went to a 24-hr supermarket to grab some cup noodles n food as restaurants were closed. We have a good night stay at Ramsay. A really beautiful, clean and spacious house.
*Accommodation: Ramsay Lodge – NZ$60 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 6</font>– Dunedin via Southern Scenic Route – Invercargill via Lumsden – Te Anau
Have you seen the steepest street in the world? Yes it is at Baldwin Street in Dunedin. It is really steep, like 90 degree angle. Tour around Dunedin city, very historical. Have yummy pasta for lunch at The Courtyard Café before proceeding to Dunedin railway station.
Began our Southern Scenic route. It was a long long journey, lots of driving on gravel roads. In fact, Inland scenic route 72 is better in my own opinion. Nugget point (take note have to drive uphill gravel roads), Purakaunui falls, porpoise bay, curio bay, Florence hill and slope point (most southernly point in South island) are along the catlins coasts. Feel that the coasts are of quite similar to Australia.
Have a sumptuous chinese dinner at Invercargill. It was a 5 to 6 course menu.
Finally reached Te Anau at almost 9pm. The sky was still bright. Have a walk around the peaceful and calm lake.
Te Anau frontlake is spacious and quiet with own kitchen facilities.
*Accommodation: Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers – NZ$64 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 7</font> – Te Anau – Milford Sound – Te Anau – Queenstown
Remember to pump full petrol before to Milford sound. Since journey from Te Anau to Milford takes 1hr 45mins, we departed at 8am sharp to board our Friendship cruise at 10am. Weather was bad, it was raining quite heavy along our drive. The drive to milford sound is not that dangerous. Just that after the Hommer Tunnel, pls. slow down along the winding bends.
Board our Friendship cruise by Real Journey (NZ$48). It was misty and fogging around Milford sound. It was fun to see big giant waterfalls which made us drenched, have to run inside the cruise n hide. The waterfall is heavily than the rain. Haha
It was a pity that the rain only stop after the cruise ended. Passed by Mirror lakes but not as peaceful as in the morning.
Had spaghettic for lunch at Te Anau. Buy all your chocolates there. Its so cheap at Te Anau supermarket! Cheapest I could find in south island.
It was so sunny in Queenstown, the UV rays was very strong. Remember to apply sunblock lotion. There was a rugby tournament going on. Queenstown is very happening and lively, favourite spot for tourists n you can go jet-boating, rafting take a bungi jump or a helicopter ride, dine on the old ferry as it cruises the lake or at the top of the chairlift over- looking the Remarkable mountains and Lake Wakatipu.
Had Ramen for dinner at a Japanese restaurant. Yummy. Highly recommended.
Shopping closed til late. Went back after 10.30pm. Bought souvenirs, manuka body wash & lotion.
Aspen Lodge is new n clean, just renovated. It was still under renovation outside our lodge. Overall, quiet lodge.
*Accommodation: Aspen Lodge – NZ$75 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 8</font>– Queenstown
Suppose to go for Shotover combo (shotover jet, helicopter ride, luge, movie, gondola ride), but it was cancelled due to raining. What a disappointment. We longed for a helicopter ride but too bad.
Still, we went for Shotover Jet by Kjet. Wow it was fun and shiok man especially when the boat spinned 360 degrees and we were all drenched. It was a 60mins ride which costs NZ$84 per person. From our jetboat, we managed to spot Rainbow over The Remarkables!
Entry to Deer Park Heights costs NZ$20 per car. We were able to self feed animal up there, just paid NZ$1 for 1 big tin of food. We were surrounded by goats and horses, looking at us with their hungry eyes. Haha! Great 360 degree panaroma views of Queenstown!!!
Ride the Gondola skyline at NZ$18 per person. Saw those daring guys screaming haha Bungy Jump! It was beautiful up at the Gondola with great views over the remarkables and lake wakatipu.
Hungry and went back for dinner at the same Japanese restaurant before turning for the night.
*Accommodation: Aspen Lodge – NZ$75 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 9</font> – Queenstown via Crown Range – Wanaka via Hasst Pass – Fox Glacier
Left Queenstown. Drove to Wanaka via Crown Range. Crown Range is not difficult just that bit winding n we drove slowly around the bends (no barriers).
Had delicious Bacon and egg breakfast at lake Wanaka before proceed to Puzzling world and its maze (NZ$10 per person). We did the difficult maze challenge. Haha though the maze was frustrating initially, we ran here n there sweating like mad but was fun. Haha.
Don’t miss out the beautiful Lake Hawea as well. Drove pass through gateway of Hasst. A lot of ppl mentioned Hasst roads are difficult but its not as winding as crown range and milford sound, quite an alrite drive (depends on individual experience drivers).
Drop by Salmon farm café (near Lake Paringa) but too bad all their salmon sold out despite they opened til 7pm. Also, have a glimpse at Knight’s Point view.
Overall, find west coast is not as great as southern lakes and central south island (queenstown, lake tekapo, mt cook). So my advise is to have a longer stay at central south island.
Fox glacier is really a very small n tiny town. Most restaurants are mainly bars, nothing much to eat. Therefore went supermarket to buy some cup noodles n food.
Ivory towers lodge is quiet n nice but one thing you can to walk pass the lounge n a few rooms to reach our ensuite room. Abit inconvenience as we have to drag our luggage in.
*Accommodation: Ivory Towers $70 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 10</font> – Fox Glacier – Franz Josef - Hokitika
We did the Lake Matheson 1hr 30mins circuit walk around the lake. We treated ourselves to a sumptuous breakfast at Lake Matheson café after the walk.
Took a glimpse of Fox Glacier n snowcapped mountain at Peak Viewpoint before beginning our 1hr Fox glacier walk to its ice terminal. Beware and keep your eyes and ears open! Along the way, we heard n saw falling rocks. U can see lots of ice blocks along the glacier river. We even carried those huge ice blocks. Haha
Also, did a 20mins Sentinel Rock walk to have an overview of Franz Josef. Both fox and franz glacier are very similar.
Hokitika is a very quiet town. We had a great dinner at Priya Indian Restaurant before having a stroll at Hokitika beach. The curry is really great and spicy. Bought souvenirs n maori beef bone pendant there.
Blue Spur is the best lodge I have ever stayed throughout. Very quiet and peaceful, u can hear bird’s singing…. It is situated up on a hill if I m not wrong.
*Accommodation: Blue Spur Lodge – NZ$70 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 11</font> – Hokitika – Greymouth – Punhakaiki – Hanmer Springs
Nothing much at Greymouth, considering it is a big and busy town. Passby the scenic train which departed for Christchurch.
Next stop – Punakaiki Pancakes. Its strangely how these are formed…hmmm..
Drove to Hanmer springs via Lewis pass.
YHA is clean n decent. Quiet.
*Accommodation: YHA Hanmer Springs – NZ$66 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 12</font> – Hanmer Springs - CHC
Hanmer springs thermal reserve was great after so many days of walking n driving, its time to soak in the water n relax. We booked a private thermal pool just for both of us for ½ hrs (NZ$17 per person). After ½ hr, we went to the sulphur, thermal and cold pool to enjoy further.
Finally, our last stop at CHC. For dinner, we went to Riverview buffet restaurant for buffet. NZ$22 per person. Serving international food. Did some last min shopping n strolled back to motel.
*Accommodation: Achillies Motel – NZ$75 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 13</font> – CHC – AKL - SIN
Thanks
There are a few operators which cater for the milford sound cruise. The most famous one is by Real Journeys.
I took the Small Boat Cruises (10.00am-12.15pm) by Real Journeys, costs NZ$48 per person as we self drove from Te Anau. From Te anua to milford sound, it took 2hrs journey. We departed from Te Anau at 8am and reached there just nice 10am!!! Everyone on the cruise was waiting for us LOL. Before reaching, u wil have to drive through a tunnel called "Homer Tunnel" where its all pitched dark, no lights at all, thus remember to turn on your headlight. After homer tunnel, do drive carefully as the road are very windings n slow down on bends. During my trip to milford sound, it was raining all day, quite disappointed....But this place has the most heaviest rainfall in NZ as its down south...
My suggestion for u is to join the tour. Cos the journey from queenstown to milford sound is way too long. about says 3hrs? From Queenstown,
Coach / Scenic Cruises starts from 6.55am-7.30pm n costs NZ$190. U may refer to the link for more info.
http://www.realjourneys.co.nz/Main/DaytimeCruises/
Its fun to go deer park height. U can just buy a tin of NZ$1 food to feed the animals n the animals are free to roam by themselves, quite cute. The view on top of the heights is so breathtaking!
Not sure where to buy LOTR ring but then i remembered passby alot of LOTR shops at queenstowns. U can try ur luck there.
==================================================
Btw, actually after i came back from NZ, i actually wrote a NZ trip report for memories. Hope my report did not make u fall asleep
<font color="ff0000">Day 1</font>Day 1 – Depart from SIN-AKL-CHC
<font color="ff0000">Day 2</font> – CHC
Begin our trip with 12hrs flight on Air New Zealand. At AKL airport, we took a shuttle bus (5mins) from international to domestic airport. From there, board a domestic plane to CHC.
Reached CHC at 3pm. Teddy from Anzed car rental picked us up from CHC airport. Reached Achillies Motel within 5mins by car. Nice, spacious, decent motel. As Pam & Cam knew that we were there for honeymoon, they welcomed us with a complimentary small bottle of champagne & a wedding card. So sweet of them.
From our motel, it is a 10mins walk to the Cathedral square. Weather was very cold. Tour around Botanic Gardens, Avon River, Arts Centre n did some shopping. We went to a food court there, reasonable price. Also went to a Japanese takeaway to grab some teriyaki sushi, yummy! It’s just opposite the food court.
*Accommodation: Achillies Motel – NZ$75 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 3</font> – CHC via Scenic Route 72 – Lake Tekapo
Drove up from CHC to Cashmere Hill & Lyttelton Port. It was breathtaking. Lots of steep uphill roads therefore we need to drive slowly around the bends. We went back to CHC via a tunnel called Tunnel Road.
Back to CHC again. We have a quick lunch at the food court again. Yummy. Haha I went for a hair trim at 1 of the hair salons, cheap cheap only NZ$10. Cos I simply cant stand my messy hair being blew by strong winds. Hehe
Begin our Scenic Route 72. On our way, saw lots of sheeps crossing the roads with a sheep dog chasing behind them. Passby Rakaia Gore n Mt. Hutt along the way. Stop by Rakaia Gore, it was beautiful with crystal clear waters. Went to Lily farm at Mt. Somers too. We stopped at Farlie for dinner, had nice fish and chips at the restaurant before proceeding to Lake Tekapo.
Lake Tekapo is beautiful….Blue turquoise lake….It was very cold that evening though I had an ice cream after dinner. Managed to catch the sunset with golden mountains, awesome!
We stayed at Tailor-made backpackers. Our ensuite room is so new and modern. Cool. Quiet and nice environment with lovely garden. At about 11pm, we drove to the lake and went star gazing. It was beautiful.
*Accommodation: Tailor-Made Backpackers – NZ$60 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 4</font> – Lake Tekapo – Mt Cook – Twizel
Saw a Japanese couple holding their wedding ceremony at Church of the Good Shepherd. It was so sweet and memorable to get married just besides the beautiful lake tekapo.
Start Mt John tracking via the forest instead of the lake. Took us 1hr + to reach the top. However we didn’t continue up to the observation point
Drove via Salmon Farm route to Mt. Cook. Canal Pukaki to Tekapo is pretty! NZ seems to have lots of beautiful lakes.
Despite it was drizzing in Mt. Cook, we went for the Hooker Valley Track. You must not miss it. Catch the ice blocks and glaciers. It was an experience. Strong wind was howling which nearly blew us off and we were walking on sharp edging rocks and stone. After we crossed the 2nd swinging bridge, we u-turn back. It was scary as the 2nd bridge was swinging left and right vigorously, as if going to fall apart and we had to hold tight to the railing. We were glad to reach the starting point after our 2 hours track. Complete track required 4hrs.
Feel shagged after the Mt john & Mt cook tracks. We have dinner at Twizel, yummy fish & chips with strawberry milkshake. High Country Holiday Lodge was so-so. The layout was so odd and room was small.
*Accommodation: High Country Holiday Lodge – NZ$66 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 5</font> – Twizel via Omarama – Oamaru – Dunedin
Drove pass Lake Benmore, Lake Aviemore, Waitaki Dam, Maori Rock Drawing and Shag Point.
Stop by Moeraki Boulders. Wondering how the rocks are formed by the beach. Saw a wedding couple taking their outdoor photoshoot in their lovely wedding suit n gown.
Began our Penguin and wild animal tour (NZ$55 per person) at 3pm. Pickup location at our Ramsay Lodge, Dunedin. We could see overview of Dunedin, beautiful blue seas before reaching at Tairoa Head on Otago Peninsula. One of the attractions here is the Albatross, one of the largest seabirds.
We were divided into 2 groups led by the guide at Penguin Reserve. Watch out for the endangered Yellow Eyed Penguin (Hoiho meaning Noise shouter), Hooker Sea Lions
and Fur seals. Saw 2 cute yellow eyed penguins blocking our path. Hehe. Not forgetting the climbing up and down the steep hills. Really pay $ to torture my legs. Urgh but worth it. Haha
By the time the tour ended n it was 10.30pm when we reached Ramsay. Went to a 24-hr supermarket to grab some cup noodles n food as restaurants were closed. We have a good night stay at Ramsay. A really beautiful, clean and spacious house.
*Accommodation: Ramsay Lodge – NZ$60 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 6</font>– Dunedin via Southern Scenic Route – Invercargill via Lumsden – Te Anau
Have you seen the steepest street in the world? Yes it is at Baldwin Street in Dunedin. It is really steep, like 90 degree angle. Tour around Dunedin city, very historical. Have yummy pasta for lunch at The Courtyard Café before proceeding to Dunedin railway station.
Began our Southern Scenic route. It was a long long journey, lots of driving on gravel roads. In fact, Inland scenic route 72 is better in my own opinion. Nugget point (take note have to drive uphill gravel roads), Purakaunui falls, porpoise bay, curio bay, Florence hill and slope point (most southernly point in South island) are along the catlins coasts. Feel that the coasts are of quite similar to Australia.
Have a sumptuous chinese dinner at Invercargill. It was a 5 to 6 course menu.
Finally reached Te Anau at almost 9pm. The sky was still bright. Have a walk around the peaceful and calm lake.
Te Anau frontlake is spacious and quiet with own kitchen facilities.
*Accommodation: Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers – NZ$64 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 7</font> – Te Anau – Milford Sound – Te Anau – Queenstown
Remember to pump full petrol before to Milford sound. Since journey from Te Anau to Milford takes 1hr 45mins, we departed at 8am sharp to board our Friendship cruise at 10am. Weather was bad, it was raining quite heavy along our drive. The drive to milford sound is not that dangerous. Just that after the Hommer Tunnel, pls. slow down along the winding bends.
Board our Friendship cruise by Real Journey (NZ$48). It was misty and fogging around Milford sound. It was fun to see big giant waterfalls which made us drenched, have to run inside the cruise n hide. The waterfall is heavily than the rain. Haha
It was a pity that the rain only stop after the cruise ended. Passed by Mirror lakes but not as peaceful as in the morning.
Had spaghettic for lunch at Te Anau. Buy all your chocolates there. Its so cheap at Te Anau supermarket! Cheapest I could find in south island.
It was so sunny in Queenstown, the UV rays was very strong. Remember to apply sunblock lotion. There was a rugby tournament going on. Queenstown is very happening and lively, favourite spot for tourists n you can go jet-boating, rafting take a bungi jump or a helicopter ride, dine on the old ferry as it cruises the lake or at the top of the chairlift over- looking the Remarkable mountains and Lake Wakatipu.
Had Ramen for dinner at a Japanese restaurant. Yummy. Highly recommended.
Shopping closed til late. Went back after 10.30pm. Bought souvenirs, manuka body wash & lotion.
Aspen Lodge is new n clean, just renovated. It was still under renovation outside our lodge. Overall, quiet lodge.
*Accommodation: Aspen Lodge – NZ$75 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 8</font>– Queenstown
Suppose to go for Shotover combo (shotover jet, helicopter ride, luge, movie, gondola ride), but it was cancelled due to raining. What a disappointment. We longed for a helicopter ride but too bad.
Still, we went for Shotover Jet by Kjet. Wow it was fun and shiok man especially when the boat spinned 360 degrees and we were all drenched. It was a 60mins ride which costs NZ$84 per person. From our jetboat, we managed to spot Rainbow over The Remarkables!
Entry to Deer Park Heights costs NZ$20 per car. We were able to self feed animal up there, just paid NZ$1 for 1 big tin of food. We were surrounded by goats and horses, looking at us with their hungry eyes. Haha! Great 360 degree panaroma views of Queenstown!!!
Ride the Gondola skyline at NZ$18 per person. Saw those daring guys screaming haha Bungy Jump! It was beautiful up at the Gondola with great views over the remarkables and lake wakatipu.
Hungry and went back for dinner at the same Japanese restaurant before turning for the night.
*Accommodation: Aspen Lodge – NZ$75 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 9</font> – Queenstown via Crown Range – Wanaka via Hasst Pass – Fox Glacier
Left Queenstown. Drove to Wanaka via Crown Range. Crown Range is not difficult just that bit winding n we drove slowly around the bends (no barriers).
Had delicious Bacon and egg breakfast at lake Wanaka before proceed to Puzzling world and its maze (NZ$10 per person). We did the difficult maze challenge. Haha though the maze was frustrating initially, we ran here n there sweating like mad but was fun. Haha.
Don’t miss out the beautiful Lake Hawea as well. Drove pass through gateway of Hasst. A lot of ppl mentioned Hasst roads are difficult but its not as winding as crown range and milford sound, quite an alrite drive (depends on individual experience drivers).
Drop by Salmon farm café (near Lake Paringa) but too bad all their salmon sold out despite they opened til 7pm. Also, have a glimpse at Knight’s Point view.
Overall, find west coast is not as great as southern lakes and central south island (queenstown, lake tekapo, mt cook). So my advise is to have a longer stay at central south island.
Fox glacier is really a very small n tiny town. Most restaurants are mainly bars, nothing much to eat. Therefore went supermarket to buy some cup noodles n food.
Ivory towers lodge is quiet n nice but one thing you can to walk pass the lounge n a few rooms to reach our ensuite room. Abit inconvenience as we have to drag our luggage in.
*Accommodation: Ivory Towers $70 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 10</font> – Fox Glacier – Franz Josef - Hokitika
We did the Lake Matheson 1hr 30mins circuit walk around the lake. We treated ourselves to a sumptuous breakfast at Lake Matheson café after the walk.
Took a glimpse of Fox Glacier n snowcapped mountain at Peak Viewpoint before beginning our 1hr Fox glacier walk to its ice terminal. Beware and keep your eyes and ears open! Along the way, we heard n saw falling rocks. U can see lots of ice blocks along the glacier river. We even carried those huge ice blocks. Haha
Also, did a 20mins Sentinel Rock walk to have an overview of Franz Josef. Both fox and franz glacier are very similar.
Hokitika is a very quiet town. We had a great dinner at Priya Indian Restaurant before having a stroll at Hokitika beach. The curry is really great and spicy. Bought souvenirs n maori beef bone pendant there.
Blue Spur is the best lodge I have ever stayed throughout. Very quiet and peaceful, u can hear bird’s singing…. It is situated up on a hill if I m not wrong.
*Accommodation: Blue Spur Lodge – NZ$70 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 11</font> – Hokitika – Greymouth – Punhakaiki – Hanmer Springs
Nothing much at Greymouth, considering it is a big and busy town. Passby the scenic train which departed for Christchurch.
Next stop – Punakaiki Pancakes. Its strangely how these are formed…hmmm..
Drove to Hanmer springs via Lewis pass.
YHA is clean n decent. Quiet.
*Accommodation: YHA Hanmer Springs – NZ$66 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 12</font> – Hanmer Springs - CHC
Hanmer springs thermal reserve was great after so many days of walking n driving, its time to soak in the water n relax. We booked a private thermal pool just for both of us for ½ hrs (NZ$17 per person). After ½ hr, we went to the sulphur, thermal and cold pool to enjoy further.
Finally, our last stop at CHC. For dinner, we went to Riverview buffet restaurant for buffet. NZ$22 per person. Serving international food. Did some last min shopping n strolled back to motel.
*Accommodation: Achillies Motel – NZ$75 ensuite
<font color="ff0000">Day 13</font> – CHC – AKL - SIN
Hi sun96,
Hmm yes northern part is more on maori culture n does hv its own places of interest too. southern part is more scenic n beautiful esp if u are nature lover.
yup perhaps i wil go to North island in future but wil definitely going bk to South island if i m gg bk again
Hmm yes northern part is more on maori culture n does hv its own places of interest too. southern part is more scenic n beautiful esp if u are nature lover.
yup perhaps i wil go to North island in future but wil definitely going bk to South island if i m gg bk again
jovialbliss
New Member
Hi seesee,
They shouldn't have made such a mistake and I think that's a lame excuse for just saying I don't know and without any apologies... The staffs should have know the promos that is on-going during the travel fair in their hands.. Anyway, don't let such matters spoil your holiday mood...
They shouldn't have made such a mistake and I think that's a lame excuse for just saying I don't know and without any apologies... The staffs should have know the promos that is on-going during the travel fair in their hands.. Anyway, don't let such matters spoil your holiday mood...
jovialbliss
New Member
Thanks for the trip report, kite! It's pretty informative already...
Wow.. From your words in the report, it makes me feel that if u can to get a spectacular view of Queenstown at Deer Park Height..
Luckily that u made it in time... Else wonder if they'll wait for u..
I think the Milford Sound tour was the one that my tour agent was mentioning.. By Real Journeys for NZ$190...
Something to ask u... You mentioned Scenic Route 72 in ur trip report.. What does it mean?? Do u know any websites that I can get the NZ maps???
Wow.. From your words in the report, it makes me feel that if u can to get a spectacular view of Queenstown at Deer Park Height..
Luckily that u made it in time... Else wonder if they'll wait for u..
I think the Milford Sound tour was the one that my tour agent was mentioning.. By Real Journeys for NZ$190... Something to ask u... You mentioned Scenic Route 72 in ur trip report.. What does it mean?? Do u know any websites that I can get the NZ maps???
Hi JovialBliss,
u're welcome
Hope its of abit useful to u. hehe
Scenic route 72 is actually a road number. Usually people from Christchurch, if driving down to Lake tekapo, they will use scenic route 72 as this road is very breathtaking n scenic! From route 72, then use route 79 to reach lake tekapo
Well, i did not buy any NZ maps. Before i go, i actually printed all the Detailed maps from this website n marked our all my routes in advance. http://www.wises.co.nz/
u're welcome
Scenic route 72 is actually a road number. Usually people from Christchurch, if driving down to Lake tekapo, they will use scenic route 72 as this road is very breathtaking n scenic! From route 72, then use route 79 to reach lake tekapo
Well, i did not buy any NZ maps. Before i go, i actually printed all the Detailed maps from this website n marked our all my routes in advance. http://www.wises.co.nz/
twinky_starz
New Member
Hi all
Me and hubby is planning to go NZ for honeymoon but not sure how to plan our trip .
Can someone advise which part of NZ shld we visit ? and it will be a free and easy trip, pls advise on car rental , booking of motels or B&B (budget contstraint)etc...
Me and hubby is planning to go NZ for honeymoon but not sure how to plan our trip .
Can someone advise which part of NZ shld we visit ? and it will be a free and easy trip, pls advise on car rental , booking of motels or B&B (budget contstraint)etc...
hi twinky,
how many days do you intend to stay in nz? so far, i find south island much nicer in scenery and more activities. But of cos north island is just as ok, just that scenic wise... may not be as great.
for car rental, u can try a few companies like ezy car rental, hertz or avis. if you go durin non peak season, u wont really need to book motels.
kite is good at nz, think kite can really advise you much more
how many days do you intend to stay in nz? so far, i find south island much nicer in scenery and more activities. But of cos north island is just as ok, just that scenic wise... may not be as great.
for car rental, u can try a few companies like ezy car rental, hertz or avis. if you go durin non peak season, u wont really need to book motels.
kite is good at nz, think kite can really advise you much more
Hi Twinky,
Yup like what mngo mentioned, how many days u plan to stay and do u hv any budget? Strongly advise to go for south island as scenaries is real beautiful.
anyway, u can refer to my trip report for accommodation (price is stated) and car rental (posted earlier in this page) for reference and as a guide. Its quite a very detailed itinerary. Let me know if you have any doubts.
When are u going?
Yup like what mngo mentioned, how many days u plan to stay and do u hv any budget? Strongly advise to go for south island as scenaries is real beautiful.
anyway, u can refer to my trip report for accommodation (price is stated) and car rental (posted earlier in this page) for reference and as a guide. Its quite a very detailed itinerary. Let me know if you have any doubts.
When are u going?
twinky_starz
New Member
Hi Kite & Mngo,
14days , budget about 6 k , enough ??
gng in Nov 05
Will take a look at the itinerary posted earlier
thanks alot
14days , budget about 6 k , enough ??
gng in Nov 05
Will take a look at the itinerary posted earlier
thanks alot
jovialbliss
New Member
Hi kite,
Hee... That's useful to me.. At least I know what other activities are available..
Are u saying that I will be able to find the road map if I were to look for Scenic Route 72?
Hee... That's useful to me.. At least I know what other activities are available..
Are u saying that I will be able to find the road map if I were to look for Scenic Route 72?
Hi Twinky,
I went for 13 days to south island, f&e self drive, spent abt $6k too. U can refer to this link for my accommodation pictures (which i have booked online) posted in Feb 05 in this thread as a guide. http://www.singaporebrides.com/forumboard/messages/4/258152.html?1109911817
Nov is a very good time to go to NZ
Hi JovialBliss,
Yes, u will be able to find Scenic Route 72 from the road map cos its a popular route. But then if u join tour group, i m not so sure whether will they be travelling using that route to Mt Cook according to your itinerary.
I went for 13 days to south island, f&e self drive, spent abt $6k too. U can refer to this link for my accommodation pictures (which i have booked online) posted in Feb 05 in this thread as a guide. http://www.singaporebrides.com/forumboard/messages/4/258152.html?1109911817
Nov is a very good time to go to NZ
Hi JovialBliss,
Yes, u will be able to find Scenic Route 72 from the road map cos its a popular route. But then if u join tour group, i m not so sure whether will they be travelling using that route to Mt Cook according to your itinerary.
twinky_starz
New Member
Hi ,
Can recomend car rental company ? roughly how much is the rental & their petrol price ?
Can recomend car rental company ? roughly how much is the rental & their petrol price ?
Hi,
Highly recommend Teddy from Anzed car rental. His website is: www.anzed.co.nz
We rented a 1.6litre Nissan sunny and throughout our self drive, everything went smooth n well n not forgetting he gave us some discount for the rental.
Also, his service provides free rental of mobile phone. He is very kind to lend us his personal CHC detailed map.
Actually, should thanks to XYZ. Its him who recommended us to Teddy through this forum.
Petrol wise. Different towns got different pricing. Those big towns are actually cheaper than those ulu towns (initially thought ulu town wil be cheaper but we r wrong). If i remember, total expenses for petrol costs abt NZ$250.
HTH
Highly recommend Teddy from Anzed car rental. His website is: www.anzed.co.nz
We rented a 1.6litre Nissan sunny and throughout our self drive, everything went smooth n well n not forgetting he gave us some discount for the rental.
Actually, should thanks to XYZ. Its him who recommended us to Teddy through this forum.
Petrol wise. Different towns got different pricing. Those big towns are actually cheaper than those ulu towns (initially thought ulu town wil be cheaper but we r wrong). If i remember, total expenses for petrol costs abt NZ$250.
HTH
twinky_starz
New Member
Hi Kite,
Thanks alot for all the info .
Now we have a clearer picture =)
Will let u gals know when i confirm my Itinerary
Thanks alot for all the info .
Now we have a clearer picture =)
Will let u gals know when i confirm my Itinerary
twinky_starz
New Member
hi kite,
someore questions ....
Do you book accomdation and car rental online ?
someore questions ....
Do you book accomdation and car rental online ?
Thx Kite. Teddy is a great guy! Unbelieveable pro-consumer service I have every seen. (rented many cars before). I have a photo with him...post it one of these days.
Yup...in terms of petrol, big town always cheaper. Up to 10% differentiate from big to ulu place.
Tip : The most petrol demanding road trip is the one along the west coast from Haaz to Greymouth......there isn't a single petrol station, so make sure u have full tank before u start this stretch.
Tip :When returning car to Teddy, tons of petrol stations along the way, so easily top up a full tank to return to him. Of course, he sends u to the airport after u drop off your car.
Yup...in terms of petrol, big town always cheaper. Up to 10% differentiate from big to ulu place.
Tip : The most petrol demanding road trip is the one along the west coast from Haaz to Greymouth......there isn't a single petrol station, so make sure u have full tank before u start this stretch.
Tip :When returning car to Teddy, tons of petrol stations along the way, so easily top up a full tank to return to him. Of course, he sends u to the airport after u drop off your car.
jovialbliss
New Member
Hi kite..
Thanks... At least I get a better info of what it means....
Thanks... At least I get a better info of what it means....
jovialbliss,
sorry for this super late reply... we did not try the canyon swing. My hubby still regretting not doing it until today... hehe! But we did watch someone do the canyon swing. And just before the person jumped, we were below shouting for him to jump and did a countdown for him...haha!
twinky,
6k is enough if you dun spend on extreme sports or other expensive major attractions.
sorry for this super late reply... we did not try the canyon swing. My hubby still regretting not doing it until today... hehe! But we did watch someone do the canyon swing. And just before the person jumped, we were below shouting for him to jump and did a countdown for him...haha!
twinky,
6k is enough if you dun spend on extreme sports or other expensive major attractions.
jovialbliss
New Member
Hi kite,
Sorry for the late reply...
Definitely! I'm so looking forward to my trip..
I'm doing a countdown on the no of days to my trip now... I'll be leaving for NZ on the 17th Apr.. Two weeks to go....
Hi mint,
It's okay... Wow... That's sounds happening huh! hehehe...
Sorry for the late reply...
Definitely! I'm so looking forward to my trip..
Hi mint,
It's okay... Wow... That's sounds happening huh! hehehe...
jovialbliss
New Member
Hi kite,
My preparations almost done for info gathering already.. I'm finding out what are the other places that I can go when I have the free time and the prices of certain activities...
I managed to find out from a website stating the temperature of the various towns and find that Queenstown's temperature goes down to as low as 4 degrees during midnite for certain days... So will monitor the weather for this two weeks and will probably standby some winter wear just in case the weather is really cold...
My preparations almost done for info gathering already.. I'm finding out what are the other places that I can go when I have the free time and the prices of certain activities...
I managed to find out from a website stating the temperature of the various towns and find that Queenstown's temperature goes down to as low as 4 degrees during midnite for certain days... So will monitor the weather for this two weeks and will probably standby some winter wear just in case the weather is really cold...
Hi JovialBliss,
Yup its better to bring along a winter wear if u are going at nite. I know the Night view at Queenstown is real beautiful though i didnt manage to catch a glimpse of it.
However, when i was at Lake Tekapo. We drove out at nite at abt 11pm from motel to the lake to enjoy the stars viewing. there are alot of beautiful stars up the sky at lake tekapo. It was extremely cold and that was the only time i wore my winter wear. really freezing.
Yup its better to bring along a winter wear if u are going at nite. I know the Night view at Queenstown is real beautiful though i didnt manage to catch a glimpse of it.
However, when i was at Lake Tekapo. We drove out at nite at abt 11pm from motel to the lake to enjoy the stars viewing. there are alot of beautiful stars up the sky at lake tekapo. It was extremely cold and that was the only time i wore my winter wear. really freezing.
yours2lynn
New Member
Hello everyone!
I’m back….HOME SWEET HOME! Really miss Singapore food. We were naming/counting the dishes we want to eat as soon as we are back home during the last few days of our travel – chicken rice, chomp chomp grill stingray, prawn noodles, fishball noodles, nasi lemak, cha kuay teow, etc….We actually went for supper at chomp chomp last night right after we dump our luggage and took a shower.
I love my sugar cane juice!!!
Ok, my travel report. It’s a 18 days travel throughout the South Island. Stay: in BBH hostels always except at Dunedin, where we splurged on a really nice family-run inn. I’ll come to that later. Food: we cook some, takeaway / fast food some and eat at restaurants some.
Day 1: Arrive in CHC in the afternoon. Picked up our car from EZY Rentals (a white 1.6L Nissan Sunny) and checked into hostel near city centre. Walked to Cathedral Sq., Botanic Gardens and around city. Go to New World Supermarket for some food basics.
Day 2: CHC – Arthur’s Pass – F.J Glacier
The day’s quite pleasant, but very cloudy and we couldn’t see the castle hill rocks. We stopped at various points along the drive up Arthur’s Pass, including a track to the Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfalls.
Day 3: F.J. Glacier – Fox Glacier
Raining at FJ Glacier when we woke up, we drove to Fox and book ourselves on the 1.45pm half-day hike. Before the hike, we took the loop around Lake Matheson . (nice walk but couldn’t see the peak of Mt Cook as it was raining in the mountains and very cloudy / misty) and drove to Gillespies Beach. The hike IS strenuous. We were the only Singaporeans and I realized that we are the most unfit among the group. We had on us a pullover, a fleece and a windbreaker jacket, gloves (which we did not use) and hat (useful to keep the ears out of the wind), whereas some just wore a long sleeve shirt over a cotton T. I did not have a good fit for my right feet and I ended with a huge blister at the heel and a blue-black 2nd toe.
It’s really exhausting but no muscle aches (someone did say she had muscle aches after the hike).
Day 4: F.J. Glacier – Haast – Wanaka
A scenic drive through Haast Pass with stops. Visited the Haast Salmon Farm, it’s really small and not much to see. Did purchase a cold smoked salmon for dinner.
Day 5: Wanaka – Arrowtown – Queenstown
Took the Crown Range route. Gorgeous view at the summit. In my opinion, Arrowtown is tourist town. If I’m not a Chinese myself, it would be interesting to see the Chinese miners cottages. But we have read and seen the living conditions of the Chinese immigrants to Singapore, so it’s not that surprising. Queenstown is an adventure stop. We did not like Queenstown as it’s really congested and messy (especially with the public works that’s going on in town). We booked ourselves on the Shotover jet & rafting combo. As we missed the last departure for the combo for the afternoon, we split the activities and had rafting that afternoon and the jetboating will be the next morning. The rafting requires transfer to the top of the river, into the Skipper’s Canyon. The road is extremely narrow and edge challenging gives us an awesome experience of the bus driver’s skills. The waters were moderate and trip’s very successful, with none of the rafts capsizing.
Day 6: Queenstown – Te Anau
Morning jetboat. Lucky we had rafting yesterday, ‘cos the morning is very cold and the sun is behind the clouds. After rafting, we initially wanted to drive up Glenorchy, but discarded this idea and decide to take a more leisure pace to see Kelvin Heights before driving to Te Anau. We spent quite some time feeding the animals, especially the goats and giant bufflo-like creatures. wonder what's they're called....? With extra time from not doing a return trip to Glenorchy, we had the opportunity to arrive at Kingston to see the Kingston Flyer pulling into the station. Later, we drove to Te Anau and walked along the lakefront.
Day 7: Te Anau – Milford Sound
The Milford Road was not as breathtaking as anticipated. Sort of a disappointment. We took the Red Boat cruise at 10.30am (which includes the observatory). Slow cruise and not much to see. Weather’s fair….no sun no rain. The only part interesting is when the captain steer the boat close under a waterfall and we can feel the power of the plunging waters and seals on the rocks near the waterfalls. Later, we took the 6.45pm departure to Te Anau Glowworm Caves. As we were in complete darkness other than the specks of blue lights from the glowworms and we were tilting our heads up to see them, we get dizzy very easily. The fact that we have to enter the caves in the evening when it’s dark makes it seems like an exciting adventure, although you can opt for an earlier departure so that you can admire Te Anau on the cruise to the glowworm caves. But frankly, after the Milford cruise, cruise is plain slow and boring.... and the lake just seem like a boundaryless pool of water. Sunset over the lakes may be beautiful but you can see them from the lakefront anyway. We were tired out by the long journey out to Milford and back that we practically slept on the cruies to and from the caves.
Day 8: Te Anau – Curio Bay
Horrible horrible day. It’s raining since the night before through our sleep tonight, and will continue to rain for the next day. We took the southern route from Te Anau – Tuatapere - Invercargill and targeted to see Bluff, Slope Point and Porpoise Bay for penguins. As it was raining, we did not stop at Lake Manpouri, but we did manage to get to the International signpost and visit the Paua Shell House and even brave storm to get to Slope Point. We couldn’t see any wildlife as it’s really hell of a storm. The wind’s so strong that we can get lifted up. Expectedly, the pictures did not turn out well as the lenses are fogged and we can’t help our hands shaking as the strong gusts of wind sweep over us and we were really cold. We wore exactly what we wore up the glacier. Our windbreakers were not really waterproof but they have served us real well as we tracked in the rain and storms like this.
Day 9: Curio Bay – Dunedin
Still raining…..the night was freezing cold and we did not sleep well so we were out early to visit the Curio Bay for the fortified forest. A easy walk and it’s interesting when you take the time to inspect the details. Note that the fortified forest is only accessible during low tide. We had planned for the Cathedral Caves (which is also accessible only during low tides) and told that the gates will be open that morning, but as we arrive, the gates were closed.
We suspect that they had denied access due to unsafe wind conditions although it was low tide. A disappointment but we continued to see some other waterfalls along the southern route. The waterfalls were not as beautiful as seen from postcards as the waters were now all muddy from the rain and soil erosion. We also took a track to Jack’s Blowhole, see NZ sea lions (real close) at Roaring Bay, see seals on the nuggets at Nugget Point.
Day 10: Dunedin – Otago Peninsular – Oamaru
Bright and sunny….At the Peninsular, we visited Larnach Castle. It’s a beautiful building but the admission fees are (we feel) a bit expensive for the visit. We went to Albatross Centre but did not take any tour. We went down beside the beach where we see fur seals real close. We noticed that there’s a rope off area where visitors can get to observe blue penguins at dusk. Presuming it’s free. The Peninsular’s a great place – it’s relaxing and the scenary’s beautiful. We drove back to Dunedin, took a look at the Railway Station, went to the Botanic Gardens for a picnic and walked up Baldwin Street. Overall, Dunedin is our favourite city. Continue driving towards Moeraki Boulders – it was high tide but the rocks are still visible and we see a lot of broken ones as well, and viewed blue penguins at Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony. We enjoyed the viewing and recommend this.
Day 11: Oamaru – Omarama
Today is a geography trip. Fiirst, we partake the self- guided Vanished World Trail (you can purchase the brochure $6 at the Vanished World Centre in Duntroon or from Otago Museum in Dunedin) from Duntroon to see Elephant Rocks, Anatini and the Earthquakes. These are fossil sites or landscapes of limestone rock. Along the way, we also saw Takiroa Cave and Maerewihenua for the Maori cave rock drawings. Passing by the lakes of Waitaki, Aviemore and Benmore and their dams, we reach Omarama and visited the Clay Cliffs for more rock formations.
Day 12: Omarama – Mt Cook – Lake Tekapo
We bid goodbye to the sunny weather we had yesterday and embarked on the Hooker Valley Track amidst the drizzle. It’s very cold up in Mt Cook so be prepared with gloves and hat and warm layers. It took us about 3.5 hours for the return trip from the Whitehorse Hill campground to Hooker Lake. We also took the 1 hr Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier View Track. Driving towards Lake Tekapo, we turn towards the Salmon Farm and purchased another fillet of salmon (250g for $8). The produce of this farm is fresher than that at Haast and slightly cheaper.
Day 13: Lake Tekapo – Hanmer Springs
Started out bright and sunny at Lake Tekapo but the weather turns gloomy as we pass Christchurch and into the mountain range. It was raining in the Hanmer Springs area but we still went for our thermal springs soak in the evening. In our opinion, the admission fees are expensive. Not all pools are mineral pools, most (including the private pools) are just thermal (heated) still pools. There’s only 3 sulphur pooks which can accommodate about 10 people in each pool otherwise it will be too crowded for comfort.
Definitely not a must-do, but it’s nice to soak an hour or two when it’s chilling (and raining).
Day 14: Hanmer Springs – Lewis Pass – Murchison
Long drive. We did not feel like walking the tracks in Lewis Pass for the following reasons: 1) we have done quite a bit of walking to date, 2) it was raining, 3) the scenary wasn’t spectacular – we have seen it before somewhere or similar. But, we did take the 10mins return track to see a waterfall ‘cos it’s a very short walk and it’s very worthwhile. The waterfall is the most beautiful waterfall we have seen in NZ. The falls in the Southern Coastal Route may be bigger and prettier but as we saw them, they were muddy. This one has clean clear waters and was complemented by green algae on the rocks besides the falls and the sun was smiling on it with a clear blue sky. The flow of the waterfall is also very elegant. Highly recommended!
Punakaiki Rocks are interesting but the holes ain’t blowing ‘cos the wind god is sleeping eventhough the tide is high. We made for the Cape Foulwind and see more seals at the Seal Colony near the Taranga Bay carpark.
Day 15: Murchison – Puponga – Motueka
Long driving day. At this point of travel, our minds start to wander back to our local food and we start to count down to the day when we will fly home. Visited the Farewell Spit Visitor Centre, didn’t see much of the spit as it was 1pm and high tide and the spit looks small in the distance. If you want to join the tour for the Farewell Spit, enquire for time and book ahead as they depart before the low tide and for that day of our visit, they have had departed at 6.30am from Collingwood. At the Cape Farewell lookout, we attempted to walk over the hills to see the Wharariki Beach but we only managed to set our footprints on top of the Cape Farewell. It was afterall not a short walk. We would probably have needed another 30 mins to cross over some more hills to see the beach and we had already walked for about 20mins. We were lazy to walk further so we turned back. Pupu Springs in Takaka is a serene springs lake which my hubby thoroughly enjoyed.
His regret (or disappointment) throughout the journey is that he couldn’t see any fish in the lakes or rivers. Ngarua Caves looks appealing but we had missed out on the tour times which departed by the hour from 10am to 4pm.
Day 16: Motueka – Nelson - Blenheim
It’s a Saturday, so Nelson is having the market. It’s an enjoyable hour in the marketplace before we visit the cathedral and Jens Hansen Jeweller. As someone has mentioned earlier about the cost of The Ring, we saw a couple custom making theirs for wedding. $140 is for a silver ring. They have it in gold and platinum as well. Can’t tell you the prices as we did not pay attention. We took the Queen Charlotte Drive from Havelock to Picton and further to Blenheim. No activity in town on Saturday afternoon.
Day 17: Blenheim – Kaikoura
Morning, we went to the Farmers’ Market near the edge of the town. It’s very much smaller than Nelson’s Saturday market and it’s soley devoted to farmer’s produces and sales whereas at Nelson, the market’s got clothing, arts and crafts, farm produces, food and ice-cream stalls and even a game stall not unlike a funfair. We visited Le Brun Cellier, Cloudy Bay and Mud House wineries for tasting and purchases. We also purchased the Prenzel butterscotch and mocha topping. It’s a drive down to Kaikoura where we purchased 2 crayfishes for $25 each on the highway just before hitting the town for our dinner. We took a walk around South Bay and the Seal Colony. As the tide’s low, we see these rock beach continental shelf. Very interesting!
Day 18: Kaikoura – Akaroa – Chrictchurch
This is our last day in NZ as we will depart the next morning. We had booked ourselves on the whalewatch and are we lucky! The morning’s conditions were suitable although some strong winds may be expected. We are not the sea sick type, but we soon realize that the waves are very rocky and it does help if you close your eyes, rub your pulse point on your right / left hand, or pinch the tip of your index finger (as these are acupuncture points) when you do feel dizzy. For the trip, we saw 3 whales. It could jolly well be 2 because the last whale might be the first one we saw. The captain also stop for us to see dusky dolphins. Highly recommended!
We later drove down to Lyttelton Harbour and round to the Governors’ Bay and Diamond Harbour before taking the Port Levy Road down to Little River which joins up to Akaroa. My god! The Port Levy Road was a challenge!
It’s very winding and narrow and all gravel, so we took about an hour to traverse the 25km. You can get some good views but if you are hard up for time, forget about this route and hit for the highway ASAP. Akaroa is quiet and not as French as I had anticipated. We did not linger as there’s nothing much to do.
That’s the gist. For accommodation, these are where we stayed:
Christchurch: Vagabond Backpackers (BBH double $45)
FJ Glacier: Glowworm Cottages (BBH double $52)
Wanaka: Wanaka Bakpackers (BBH double ensuite $52)
Queenstown: Alpine Lodge (BBH double $52)
Te Anau: Barnyard Backpackers (BBH double ensuite $52)
Curio Bay: Curio Bay Backpackers (BBH dorm bed $20/pax) – double room was fully booked so we had to settle for dorm beds.
Dunedin: Albatross Inn (ensuite room with queen bed and 2 single beds sleeps 4 @ $140 comes with breakfast)
Oamaru: Empire Hotel Backpackers (BBH double $40)
Omarama: Buscot Station (BBH double $45)
Lake Tekapo: Tailor Made Backpackers (BBH double ensuite $54)
Hanmer Springs: Hanmer Backpackers (BBH double $40)
Murchison: The Lazy Cow (BBH double $52)
Motueka: The Laughing Kiwi (BBH double $48)
Renwick: Watson’s Way Backpackers (BBH double ensuite $48)
For restaurants, those that we can remember the names:
KFC: Christchurch city, Dunedin city (Dunedin’s KFC is more tender than Christchurch’s)
McDonald’s: Ashburton (McDonald’s maintained its standards)
The Moose: Te Anau – big hearty meal, steak is more tasty than chicken
The Smokehouse: Mapua – highly acclaimed, mainly smoked fish dishes, moderately expensive and small serving
Mussel Boys: Havelock – fresh mussel meals, nice big serving of chowder
BTW, they have such cute emoticons now, I'm so tempted to abuse them!
kekeke, forgive me.
I’m back….HOME SWEET HOME! Really miss Singapore food. We were naming/counting the dishes we want to eat as soon as we are back home during the last few days of our travel – chicken rice, chomp chomp grill stingray, prawn noodles, fishball noodles, nasi lemak, cha kuay teow, etc….We actually went for supper at chomp chomp last night right after we dump our luggage and took a shower.
Ok, my travel report. It’s a 18 days travel throughout the South Island. Stay: in BBH hostels always except at Dunedin, where we splurged on a really nice family-run inn. I’ll come to that later. Food: we cook some, takeaway / fast food some and eat at restaurants some.
Day 1: Arrive in CHC in the afternoon. Picked up our car from EZY Rentals (a white 1.6L Nissan Sunny) and checked into hostel near city centre. Walked to Cathedral Sq., Botanic Gardens and around city. Go to New World Supermarket for some food basics.
Day 2: CHC – Arthur’s Pass – F.J Glacier
The day’s quite pleasant, but very cloudy and we couldn’t see the castle hill rocks. We stopped at various points along the drive up Arthur’s Pass, including a track to the Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfalls.
Day 3: F.J. Glacier – Fox Glacier
Raining at FJ Glacier when we woke up, we drove to Fox and book ourselves on the 1.45pm half-day hike. Before the hike, we took the loop around Lake Matheson . (nice walk but couldn’t see the peak of Mt Cook as it was raining in the mountains and very cloudy / misty) and drove to Gillespies Beach. The hike IS strenuous. We were the only Singaporeans and I realized that we are the most unfit among the group. We had on us a pullover, a fleece and a windbreaker jacket, gloves (which we did not use) and hat (useful to keep the ears out of the wind), whereas some just wore a long sleeve shirt over a cotton T. I did not have a good fit for my right feet and I ended with a huge blister at the heel and a blue-black 2nd toe.
Day 4: F.J. Glacier – Haast – Wanaka
A scenic drive through Haast Pass with stops. Visited the Haast Salmon Farm, it’s really small and not much to see. Did purchase a cold smoked salmon for dinner.
Day 5: Wanaka – Arrowtown – Queenstown
Took the Crown Range route. Gorgeous view at the summit. In my opinion, Arrowtown is tourist town. If I’m not a Chinese myself, it would be interesting to see the Chinese miners cottages. But we have read and seen the living conditions of the Chinese immigrants to Singapore, so it’s not that surprising. Queenstown is an adventure stop. We did not like Queenstown as it’s really congested and messy (especially with the public works that’s going on in town). We booked ourselves on the Shotover jet & rafting combo. As we missed the last departure for the combo for the afternoon, we split the activities and had rafting that afternoon and the jetboating will be the next morning. The rafting requires transfer to the top of the river, into the Skipper’s Canyon. The road is extremely narrow and edge challenging gives us an awesome experience of the bus driver’s skills. The waters were moderate and trip’s very successful, with none of the rafts capsizing.
Day 6: Queenstown – Te Anau
Morning jetboat. Lucky we had rafting yesterday, ‘cos the morning is very cold and the sun is behind the clouds. After rafting, we initially wanted to drive up Glenorchy, but discarded this idea and decide to take a more leisure pace to see Kelvin Heights before driving to Te Anau. We spent quite some time feeding the animals, especially the goats and giant bufflo-like creatures. wonder what's they're called....? With extra time from not doing a return trip to Glenorchy, we had the opportunity to arrive at Kingston to see the Kingston Flyer pulling into the station. Later, we drove to Te Anau and walked along the lakefront.
Day 7: Te Anau – Milford Sound
The Milford Road was not as breathtaking as anticipated. Sort of a disappointment. We took the Red Boat cruise at 10.30am (which includes the observatory). Slow cruise and not much to see. Weather’s fair….no sun no rain. The only part interesting is when the captain steer the boat close under a waterfall and we can feel the power of the plunging waters and seals on the rocks near the waterfalls. Later, we took the 6.45pm departure to Te Anau Glowworm Caves. As we were in complete darkness other than the specks of blue lights from the glowworms and we were tilting our heads up to see them, we get dizzy very easily. The fact that we have to enter the caves in the evening when it’s dark makes it seems like an exciting adventure, although you can opt for an earlier departure so that you can admire Te Anau on the cruise to the glowworm caves. But frankly, after the Milford cruise, cruise is plain slow and boring.... and the lake just seem like a boundaryless pool of water. Sunset over the lakes may be beautiful but you can see them from the lakefront anyway. We were tired out by the long journey out to Milford and back that we practically slept on the cruies to and from the caves.
Day 8: Te Anau – Curio Bay
Horrible horrible day. It’s raining since the night before through our sleep tonight, and will continue to rain for the next day. We took the southern route from Te Anau – Tuatapere - Invercargill and targeted to see Bluff, Slope Point and Porpoise Bay for penguins. As it was raining, we did not stop at Lake Manpouri, but we did manage to get to the International signpost and visit the Paua Shell House and even brave storm to get to Slope Point. We couldn’t see any wildlife as it’s really hell of a storm. The wind’s so strong that we can get lifted up. Expectedly, the pictures did not turn out well as the lenses are fogged and we can’t help our hands shaking as the strong gusts of wind sweep over us and we were really cold. We wore exactly what we wore up the glacier. Our windbreakers were not really waterproof but they have served us real well as we tracked in the rain and storms like this.
Day 9: Curio Bay – Dunedin
Still raining…..the night was freezing cold and we did not sleep well so we were out early to visit the Curio Bay for the fortified forest. A easy walk and it’s interesting when you take the time to inspect the details. Note that the fortified forest is only accessible during low tide. We had planned for the Cathedral Caves (which is also accessible only during low tides) and told that the gates will be open that morning, but as we arrive, the gates were closed.
Day 10: Dunedin – Otago Peninsular – Oamaru
Bright and sunny….At the Peninsular, we visited Larnach Castle. It’s a beautiful building but the admission fees are (we feel) a bit expensive for the visit. We went to Albatross Centre but did not take any tour. We went down beside the beach where we see fur seals real close. We noticed that there’s a rope off area where visitors can get to observe blue penguins at dusk. Presuming it’s free. The Peninsular’s a great place – it’s relaxing and the scenary’s beautiful. We drove back to Dunedin, took a look at the Railway Station, went to the Botanic Gardens for a picnic and walked up Baldwin Street. Overall, Dunedin is our favourite city. Continue driving towards Moeraki Boulders – it was high tide but the rocks are still visible and we see a lot of broken ones as well, and viewed blue penguins at Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony. We enjoyed the viewing and recommend this.
Day 11: Oamaru – Omarama
Today is a geography trip. Fiirst, we partake the self- guided Vanished World Trail (you can purchase the brochure $6 at the Vanished World Centre in Duntroon or from Otago Museum in Dunedin) from Duntroon to see Elephant Rocks, Anatini and the Earthquakes. These are fossil sites or landscapes of limestone rock. Along the way, we also saw Takiroa Cave and Maerewihenua for the Maori cave rock drawings. Passing by the lakes of Waitaki, Aviemore and Benmore and their dams, we reach Omarama and visited the Clay Cliffs for more rock formations.
Day 12: Omarama – Mt Cook – Lake Tekapo
We bid goodbye to the sunny weather we had yesterday and embarked on the Hooker Valley Track amidst the drizzle. It’s very cold up in Mt Cook so be prepared with gloves and hat and warm layers. It took us about 3.5 hours for the return trip from the Whitehorse Hill campground to Hooker Lake. We also took the 1 hr Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier View Track. Driving towards Lake Tekapo, we turn towards the Salmon Farm and purchased another fillet of salmon (250g for $8). The produce of this farm is fresher than that at Haast and slightly cheaper.
Day 13: Lake Tekapo – Hanmer Springs
Started out bright and sunny at Lake Tekapo but the weather turns gloomy as we pass Christchurch and into the mountain range. It was raining in the Hanmer Springs area but we still went for our thermal springs soak in the evening. In our opinion, the admission fees are expensive. Not all pools are mineral pools, most (including the private pools) are just thermal (heated) still pools. There’s only 3 sulphur pooks which can accommodate about 10 people in each pool otherwise it will be too crowded for comfort.
Day 14: Hanmer Springs – Lewis Pass – Murchison
Long drive. We did not feel like walking the tracks in Lewis Pass for the following reasons: 1) we have done quite a bit of walking to date, 2) it was raining, 3) the scenary wasn’t spectacular – we have seen it before somewhere or similar. But, we did take the 10mins return track to see a waterfall ‘cos it’s a very short walk and it’s very worthwhile. The waterfall is the most beautiful waterfall we have seen in NZ. The falls in the Southern Coastal Route may be bigger and prettier but as we saw them, they were muddy. This one has clean clear waters and was complemented by green algae on the rocks besides the falls and the sun was smiling on it with a clear blue sky. The flow of the waterfall is also very elegant. Highly recommended!
Day 15: Murchison – Puponga – Motueka
Long driving day. At this point of travel, our minds start to wander back to our local food and we start to count down to the day when we will fly home. Visited the Farewell Spit Visitor Centre, didn’t see much of the spit as it was 1pm and high tide and the spit looks small in the distance. If you want to join the tour for the Farewell Spit, enquire for time and book ahead as they depart before the low tide and for that day of our visit, they have had departed at 6.30am from Collingwood. At the Cape Farewell lookout, we attempted to walk over the hills to see the Wharariki Beach but we only managed to set our footprints on top of the Cape Farewell. It was afterall not a short walk. We would probably have needed another 30 mins to cross over some more hills to see the beach and we had already walked for about 20mins. We were lazy to walk further so we turned back. Pupu Springs in Takaka is a serene springs lake which my hubby thoroughly enjoyed.
Day 16: Motueka – Nelson - Blenheim
It’s a Saturday, so Nelson is having the market. It’s an enjoyable hour in the marketplace before we visit the cathedral and Jens Hansen Jeweller. As someone has mentioned earlier about the cost of The Ring, we saw a couple custom making theirs for wedding. $140 is for a silver ring. They have it in gold and platinum as well. Can’t tell you the prices as we did not pay attention. We took the Queen Charlotte Drive from Havelock to Picton and further to Blenheim. No activity in town on Saturday afternoon.
Day 17: Blenheim – Kaikoura
Morning, we went to the Farmers’ Market near the edge of the town. It’s very much smaller than Nelson’s Saturday market and it’s soley devoted to farmer’s produces and sales whereas at Nelson, the market’s got clothing, arts and crafts, farm produces, food and ice-cream stalls and even a game stall not unlike a funfair. We visited Le Brun Cellier, Cloudy Bay and Mud House wineries for tasting and purchases. We also purchased the Prenzel butterscotch and mocha topping. It’s a drive down to Kaikoura where we purchased 2 crayfishes for $25 each on the highway just before hitting the town for our dinner. We took a walk around South Bay and the Seal Colony. As the tide’s low, we see these rock beach continental shelf. Very interesting!
Day 18: Kaikoura – Akaroa – Chrictchurch
This is our last day in NZ as we will depart the next morning. We had booked ourselves on the whalewatch and are we lucky! The morning’s conditions were suitable although some strong winds may be expected. We are not the sea sick type, but we soon realize that the waves are very rocky and it does help if you close your eyes, rub your pulse point on your right / left hand, or pinch the tip of your index finger (as these are acupuncture points) when you do feel dizzy. For the trip, we saw 3 whales. It could jolly well be 2 because the last whale might be the first one we saw. The captain also stop for us to see dusky dolphins. Highly recommended!
We later drove down to Lyttelton Harbour and round to the Governors’ Bay and Diamond Harbour before taking the Port Levy Road down to Little River which joins up to Akaroa. My god! The Port Levy Road was a challenge!
That’s the gist. For accommodation, these are where we stayed:
Christchurch: Vagabond Backpackers (BBH double $45)
FJ Glacier: Glowworm Cottages (BBH double $52)
Wanaka: Wanaka Bakpackers (BBH double ensuite $52)
Queenstown: Alpine Lodge (BBH double $52)
Te Anau: Barnyard Backpackers (BBH double ensuite $52)
Curio Bay: Curio Bay Backpackers (BBH dorm bed $20/pax) – double room was fully booked so we had to settle for dorm beds.
Dunedin: Albatross Inn (ensuite room with queen bed and 2 single beds sleeps 4 @ $140 comes with breakfast)
Oamaru: Empire Hotel Backpackers (BBH double $40)
Omarama: Buscot Station (BBH double $45)
Lake Tekapo: Tailor Made Backpackers (BBH double ensuite $54)
Hanmer Springs: Hanmer Backpackers (BBH double $40)
Murchison: The Lazy Cow (BBH double $52)
Motueka: The Laughing Kiwi (BBH double $48)
Renwick: Watson’s Way Backpackers (BBH double ensuite $48)
For restaurants, those that we can remember the names:
KFC: Christchurch city, Dunedin city (Dunedin’s KFC is more tender than Christchurch’s)
McDonald’s: Ashburton (McDonald’s maintained its standards)
The Moose: Te Anau – big hearty meal, steak is more tasty than chicken
The Smokehouse: Mapua – highly acclaimed, mainly smoked fish dishes, moderately expensive and small serving
Mussel Boys: Havelock – fresh mussel meals, nice big serving of chowder
BTW, they have such cute emoticons now, I'm so tempted to abuse them!
yours2lynn
New Member
It's a trip with its ups and downs. Haven't tidy the photos yet. We concluded after our travel that NZ is nice to getaway for a while but it's def. not a place for us to live 'cos we don't like the inconvenience of things and missing Asian & Chinese food ingredients. How are we going to enjoy our Hainanese chicken rice without pandan leaves, Nasi Lemak and laksa without coconut milk, grilled fish without balacan and most importantly the lack of fish varieties? Chicken and eggs there are very expensive you know. In Singapore, can buy a whole chicken for S$5, there NZ$4 can only get you a piece of chicken breast meat. Eggs cost like NZ 40-50 cents each. Difficult to be a vegetarian there also. There's no cai xin, no xiao bai cai, no da bai cai, no kang kong.....only brocolli, carrots, luttuce, celery. Singapore! Food Haven!
kite,
can PM me the link to your NZ photos? Thanks.
[email protected]
yours2lynn,
can PM me the link to your NZ photos? Thanks.
[email protected]
can PM me the link to your NZ photos? Thanks.
[email protected]
yours2lynn,
can PM me the link to your NZ photos? Thanks.
[email protected]
yours2lynn
New Member
Hi Deremi,
I've not put my photos on line yet.
We did self-drive. Actually, only my hubby drove.
We spent NZD 5k on food, car rental and petrol, activities and other expenses. Total including air tickets works out to be about SGD $8k.
I've not put my photos on line yet.
We did self-drive. Actually, only my hubby drove.
We spent NZD 5k on food, car rental and petrol, activities and other expenses. Total including air tickets works out to be about SGD $8k.
yours2lynn
New Member
I'll just like to share with you some jokes about the bra fence at Crown Range and the shoe fence in Surat Bay.
You probably noticed that New Zealand is a very rocky country. Well, the farmers got sick of taking their sheep to the veterinary surgeons with cut and bleeding hooves, and they asked the government for a subsidy to cover these costs. Then the RSPCA got into the act about animal cruelty, and before you could say "lamb chop" the government had worked out a way to save themselves the subsidy and placate the animal cruelty people: they passed a law saying that farmers had to equip all their sheep with shoes!
Well, it was a disaster. The sheep flatly refused to wear them, and every night they's discard them and the farmers would be spending all the next day recovering the shoes and putting them back on the sheep. There are a lot of lazy New Zealanders, so there were a lot of sheep around wearing odd shoes... sometimes for different types on one sheep, which looked appalling!There were murmurings that the fashion-conscious sheep were going to revolt "en masse", which is a bit of a worry, because the IQ of a sheep and of your average New Zealander is about the same, and there was no guarantee that the sheep wouldn't take over!
Anyway, the NZ government stepped in at the last moment to ward off the trouble, and repealed the shoes-for-sheep law. So, now, all over New Zealand, there are fences full of discarded shoes. They make quite a good wind break, so everyone is happy.
But I have to say the farmers weren't being very fair to the sheep. How could the sheep possibly be expected to wear mismatched pairs of shoes. Would you? They probably felt very silly . After all, most of us like to be in style. I don't blame them in the least for throwing the shoes over the fence. Had the farmer been thinking at all, he would have made sure the sheep had beautiful matching shoes.
The bra fence is quite a different story. That was an initiative of the New Zealand Country Women's Association, who decided that it was indecent to have their milking cows running around with their private parts exposed, so the dairy farmers had to equip all cows over ten moths old with suitable udder-coverers. That law, actually, is working quite well, and the cows are perfectly content (the bulls are a bit put-out, however!) Problem is, there's been a drought north of Queenstown, so many of the farmers have had to kill and eat their milking cows, which means there are quite a few left-over bras just hanging around... literally.
Nonetheless, it could have been the bulls , yelling at the cows... "Take it off, take it all off" and they did, so much, want to please the bulls. So they all got together and started to swing the bras over their heads in a cirlular motion , ending with the bras being flung to the fence. The cheering of the bulls could be heard for many kilometres.
You probably noticed that New Zealand is a very rocky country. Well, the farmers got sick of taking their sheep to the veterinary surgeons with cut and bleeding hooves, and they asked the government for a subsidy to cover these costs. Then the RSPCA got into the act about animal cruelty, and before you could say "lamb chop" the government had worked out a way to save themselves the subsidy and placate the animal cruelty people: they passed a law saying that farmers had to equip all their sheep with shoes!
Well, it was a disaster. The sheep flatly refused to wear them, and every night they's discard them and the farmers would be spending all the next day recovering the shoes and putting them back on the sheep. There are a lot of lazy New Zealanders, so there were a lot of sheep around wearing odd shoes... sometimes for different types on one sheep, which looked appalling!There were murmurings that the fashion-conscious sheep were going to revolt "en masse", which is a bit of a worry, because the IQ of a sheep and of your average New Zealander is about the same, and there was no guarantee that the sheep wouldn't take over!
Anyway, the NZ government stepped in at the last moment to ward off the trouble, and repealed the shoes-for-sheep law. So, now, all over New Zealand, there are fences full of discarded shoes. They make quite a good wind break, so everyone is happy.
But I have to say the farmers weren't being very fair to the sheep. How could the sheep possibly be expected to wear mismatched pairs of shoes. Would you? They probably felt very silly . After all, most of us like to be in style. I don't blame them in the least for throwing the shoes over the fence. Had the farmer been thinking at all, he would have made sure the sheep had beautiful matching shoes.
The bra fence is quite a different story. That was an initiative of the New Zealand Country Women's Association, who decided that it was indecent to have their milking cows running around with their private parts exposed, so the dairy farmers had to equip all cows over ten moths old with suitable udder-coverers. That law, actually, is working quite well, and the cows are perfectly content (the bulls are a bit put-out, however!) Problem is, there's been a drought north of Queenstown, so many of the farmers have had to kill and eat their milking cows, which means there are quite a few left-over bras just hanging around... literally.
Nonetheless, it could have been the bulls , yelling at the cows... "Take it off, take it all off" and they did, so much, want to please the bulls. So they all got together and started to swing the bras over their heads in a cirlular motion , ending with the bras being flung to the fence. The cheering of the bulls could be heard for many kilometres.
yours2lynn
New Member
Hi Jovial Bliss,
The weather in NZ is almost going winter. Over the island, people I speak to say that they seem to have missed out on summer - which lasted barely a month and the weather sudddenly turns chilly as if winter is here without the autumn. You will not regret bringing your winter clothing. Forget about the bermudas and spag.straps. Bring light weight waterproof trousers as the tracks' muddy in/after the rain and when stained, are easy to wash / wipe off.
The weather in NZ is almost going winter. Over the island, people I speak to say that they seem to have missed out on summer - which lasted barely a month and the weather sudddenly turns chilly as if winter is here without the autumn. You will not regret bringing your winter clothing. Forget about the bermudas and spag.straps. Bring light weight waterproof trousers as the tracks' muddy in/after the rain and when stained, are easy to wash / wipe off.
hey kite,
im planing to go NZ as for my honeymoon.
probably mid 2006 or 2007.
now must start to save $$$ loh...
hey yours2lynn,
u mention total u spent abt $8k so is for 2persons or 1person?
actually i oso thinking to selfdrive, but im poor at reading on map quite road blur leh.
so afraid that i cant go there free & easy.
im planing to go NZ as for my honeymoon.
probably mid 2006 or 2007.
now must start to save $$$ loh...
hey yours2lynn,
u mention total u spent abt $8k so is for 2persons or 1person?
actually i oso thinking to selfdrive, but im poor at reading on map quite road blur leh.
so afraid that i cant go there free & easy.
Hi yours,
Welcome back!! Seems to me you had an excellent trip.
Found your two stories about the bra and shoes hilarious!
The giant buffalo like animal is the bison. Check this pic out:
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/pamgordon/detail?.dir=1f00&.dnm=e292.jpg&.src=ph
Yeah, I heard from my farmstay hosts that it was a bad summer for them. Their standard of living is actually quite high which kind of surprised me. Certain stuff comparable to Singapore.
Deremi,
All three of us (kite, yours and me) went to South island of NZ. It's quite safe to drive there. Just keep to speed limits and use common sense when driving. kite went in summer. It's really beautiful there and I really miss the place.
Welcome back!! Seems to me you had an excellent trip.
Found your two stories about the bra and shoes hilarious!
The giant buffalo like animal is the bison. Check this pic out:
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/pamgordon/detail?.dir=1f00&.dnm=e292.jpg&.src=ph
Yeah, I heard from my farmstay hosts that it was a bad summer for them. Their standard of living is actually quite high which kind of surprised me. Certain stuff comparable to Singapore.
Deremi,
All three of us (kite, yours and me) went to South island of NZ. It's quite safe to drive there. Just keep to speed limits and use common sense when driving. kite went in summer. It's really beautiful there and I really miss the place.
yours2lynn
New Member
Hi Deremi,
S$8K is total for both of us. Everything in (including souvenirs and gifts and the wines we purchased). How much you will need depends on what you want to do and buy there.
For car rental, depending on season can vary from NZ$40 -NZ$56/day for a Class C vehicle (i.e. 1.5-1.6L touring sedan), petrol about NZ$1.3/L, accomodation also depends on what type - motels, B&B or backpacker hostels. I went with hostels which is the cheapest option, but request for double room which range from NZ$45 - 65 for a standard double (i.e. no ensuite). B&B are more expensive than motels, usually about NZ$120 and above, motels can start from NZ$80 average. Kite did not cook throughout her travel, so if you intend be like her, allow NZ$20-30 for a main course in a restaurant. For us, I cooked most evenings. Simple dishes lah, but big hearty portions......like spagetti, pan-fry salmon (when we purchased them at the salmon farms) / chicken / lamb with boiled potatoes, veges and baked beans, or even instant noodles.
If you don't mind cooking like us, allow average NZ$15 for a meal for two. Hope this helps in your budgeting.
S$8K is total for both of us. Everything in (including souvenirs and gifts and the wines we purchased). How much you will need depends on what you want to do and buy there.
For car rental, depending on season can vary from NZ$40 -NZ$56/day for a Class C vehicle (i.e. 1.5-1.6L touring sedan), petrol about NZ$1.3/L, accomodation also depends on what type - motels, B&B or backpacker hostels. I went with hostels which is the cheapest option, but request for double room which range from NZ$45 - 65 for a standard double (i.e. no ensuite). B&B are more expensive than motels, usually about NZ$120 and above, motels can start from NZ$80 average. Kite did not cook throughout her travel, so if you intend be like her, allow NZ$20-30 for a main course in a restaurant. For us, I cooked most evenings. Simple dishes lah, but big hearty portions......like spagetti, pan-fry salmon (when we purchased them at the salmon farms) / chicken / lamb with boiled potatoes, veges and baked beans, or even instant noodles.
Hi Jenny,
Welcome to NZ thread
I went to South Island in Jan 05 during summer for honeymoon too and the weather was cool though some days can be real hot. Best thing in summer is the sun sets only at 9pm+ and 10pm then completely darkness.
Thus u have lots of time to do activities and exploring around.
So how many days are u looking at? F&E self drive? I would suggest South Island bcos its so breathtaking. Let me know if u are interested to view my NZ photos. I can email u.
Welcome to NZ thread
So how many days are u looking at? F&E self drive? I would suggest South Island bcos its so breathtaking. Let me know if u are interested to view my NZ photos. I can email u.