new zealand, New Zealand Beaches, New Zealand North Island, New Zealand Property, New Zealand South Island, New Zealand Tourism, Queenstown Things to do in New Zealand

26 October 2010

It must be noted that New Zealand is an island nation, completely surrounded by ocean and home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the world.  In this edition we will be focusing on some of these beach lovers’ playgrounds as well as other aspects of our stunning country.

#80    Cape Palliser, Wairarapa

Situated on the southernmost tip of the North Island, remote and romantic Palliser Bay is a seaside village not to be missed.   With a historic lighthouse, breath-taking views to the South Island on a clear day and accommodation choices from luxury to campsites; this is a place to relax and enjoy.  With plethora of wildlife, excellent fishing and a friendly local atmosphere, there is something for everyone.  See www.wairarapanz.com

#79    Taranaki Gardens, Taranaki

Taranaki is a district of New Zealand which is home to over half of our nationally acclaimed gardens.  The Pukeiti rhododendron garden (set in lush rainforest) is spectacular between July and December and is home to over 10,000 different varieties!  From native to English garden, tours are available for these public gardens.  Pukekura Park in New Plymouth (which is the largest city in Taranaki) has meandering walk, native bush and beautiful gardens. Visit www.rhodo.co.nz for more info.

#78    Buller Gorge – Westland

The Buller River is an impressive and fast flowing body of water that has cut its way through what is known as Buller Gorge, on the West Coast of the South Island.   On the border of the Kahurangi National Park and the gateway to the visually stunning Punakaiki Pancake Rocks – there are also many other tourist activities to partake in while driving through this 169 kilometre track; including jet boating, caving, rafting, quad biking and horse treks.  Visit www.bullergorge.co.nz

#77     Ahipara and Shipwreck Bay - Northland

At the southern end of New Zealand’s iconic Ninety Mile Beach at the northern tip of the North Island, the township of Ahipara and Shipwreck Bay is a beach lover’s paradise. With excellent surf, unforgettable views and sites of historical significance with regard to our colonial heritage, this area is a sight to behold.  Quad biking on huge sand dunes is an exciting activity to partake in along with visiting the remnants of ancient kauri forest and shipwrecks on the pristine sands of the bay.  Visit www.ahipara.co.nz for more information.

#76    Wainui Beach – Gisborne, Eastland

Gisborne is the first place in the world to see the sunrise each day and the unspoiled white sands of Wainui Beach is the best vantage point to experience this!  While in Gisborne the opportunity to taste the regions award winning chardonnay wine should not be missed.  The area has numerous vineyards devoted to this grape and wine tours are available.  See www.wainuibeach.co.nz or www.wtn.co.nz/winetours/gisborne.asp

#75    Castlepoint – Wairarapa

If you are looking for an old fashioned seaside adventure, Castlepoint in the Wairarapa is the place!  The beautiful bay has a warm lagoon, a reef with whirling seabirds, hidden caves and rock pools.  With plenty of wild life and a windy walk to the magnificent lighthouse there is plenty to explore in the quaint seaside town.  Proximity to the Castlepoint Scenic reserve offers other opportunities to explore along with superb views.  Visit www.castlepoint.co.nz

#74    Seafood Mecca - Nelson 

Nelson is home to the largest fishing port in Australasia (Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands).  With an abundance of the ocean’s bounty available in the picturesque South Island town, those with a taste for seafood should defiantly visit Nelson!  Of some historical significance – New Zealander Ernest Rutherford (1st man to split the atom) was born near the settlement in 1871; Nelson has many delights for the casual visitor or longer term tourist.  Visit www.nelson.co.nz  for more information.

#73    Coastal Walkway - New Plymouth

The city of New Plymouth has many delights some of which we have already discussed in the article.  However, the paved promenade stretching for over 7 kilometres along the scenic coastline offering unsurpassed views of the Tasman Sea is a definite high point while visiting the Taranaki town.  Interesting public art, sculptures, piers, parks and parades line the walk offering something for everyone.  See www.newplymouthnz.com  for more info.

#72    Moeraki Boulders – Dunedin

These have long been an exciting discovery for tourists – are they ancient dinosaur eggs, or perhaps alien deposits of some kind?  The unique geology of the area along with erosion patterns on the sea have given these boulders their inimitable shape – but they certainly give a sense of magic to the otherwise serene beachside at Moeraki in Otago, 70 minutes north of Dunedin in the South Island of New Zealand.  Moeraki also has other delights including yellow-eyed penguin sanctuary, seal colony and historic church with Roman glass flashings.  www.moerakiboulders.co.nz

#71    The Forgotten World Highway  (Taranaki)

The Forgotten World Highway, one of New Zealand’s most secluded roads, explores the ever-changing landscape between Taumarunui and Stratford.  It is New Zealand’s first heritage trail, this scenic route winds over four mountain saddles, alongside the spectacular Tangarakau Gorge and passes through the 180-metre-long, single lane, Moki tunnel.  The Forgotten World Highway is a legendary one-day road trip—in more ways that one—but be sure to fill up your tank before you begin the journey as the next petrol pump is some 150 kilometres away. Visit www.windwand.co.nz/heritagetrail.htm 

Thanks for reading this edition of New Zealand’s must visit destinations.  We hope you get a chance to experience some of this country’s beach lifestyle, along with the scenic beauty that is “Godzone”.

With thanks to the AA Travel website

new zealand, New Zealand Beaches, New Zealand North Island, New Zealand Property, New Zealand South Island, New Zealand Tourism, Queenstown Things to do in New Zealand

Auckland, new zealand, New Zealand Property, New Zealand Tourism, Queenstown, Things to do in New Zealand Wellington

24 August 2010

Here in New Zealand we are proud of our nation.  Throughout a series of articles we will be showcasing this wonderful country of ours.

New Zealand has so much to offer for its own residents, tourists and those of you looking to emigrate.   If you are looking at investing in New Zealand property it would be wise to familiarise yourself with the area and anyone considering a visit should take note of the following.

Let’s begin!

#100    Beehive and Parliament Buildings - Wellington 
For those of you unfamiliar with the New Zealand Government building; the Beehive is an interesting piece of architecture to say the least!  As you would think the building is shaped like a beehive and was constructed in the 1970’s.  A controversial design at the time; it is now a New Zealand icon.  Parliament has an ‘open house’ policy and free tours of the buildings are available, including the debating chamber while is session.  For more information please visit www.parliament.nz

#99     New Zealand Rugby Museum – Palmerston North, Manawatu
New Zealand’s national game is rugby union.  The national team (the All Blacks) are the most successful team in the history of the sport and New Zealanders are very proud of their “men in black” so much so the nation goes into mourning if they lose!  The rugby museum in Palmerston North showcases New Zealand as a rugby powerhouse and has a range of interesting and informative displays for the fan and non-fan alike.  To make a booking please visit www.rugbymuseum.co.nz

#98    Stonehenge Aotearoa – Carterton, Wairarapa
Aotearoa is the Maori (indigenous people of this land) name for New Zealand.   It means “Land of the Long White Cloud.”  The structure completed near Carterton in 2005 is a full scale working model of the original Stonehenge situated in Salisbury Plains, England.  Aotearoa Stonehenge is perfectly placed to record seasons; celebrate winter solstice and Matariki (Maori New Year).  Situated on private property, bookings are essential so please visit www.astronomynz.org.nz/stonehenge for more information.

#97    Cross Country Skiing – Queenstown/Southern Lakes
New Zealand has world renowned ski fields and breath-taking scenery.   Lake Wanaka has New Zealand’s only dedicated cross-country skiing area, with over 50 kilometres of tracks way up in the Pisa Range.  Cross country skiing can take some mastering but it is an experience like no other on the ski field and the views along the mountains and over the lake are well worth the hard work.  For more information please see www.snowfarmnz.com

#96    Writers Walk – Wellington
This self-tour of the capital city is for those with an avid interest in the arts.  The tour encapsulates musings cast in stone by writers who, at some point in their lives, have called Wellington home.  These include Katherine Mansfield, Robin Hyde, Denis Glover, Bruce Mason and Vincent O’Sullivan.  Look out for James K Baxter’s sculpture, which appears to float on the surface of the Te Papa pool.  For more info see www.wellingtonnz.com/sights_activities/wellington_writers_walk

#95    Hundertwasser Toilets – Kawakawa, Northland
These need to be seen to be believed!  Situated in the picturesque town of Kawakawa; these public conveniences were designed by world renowned artist, ecologist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser – the only structure he completed in the southern hemisphere.   Made of recycled coloured glass bottles and old bricks, featuring brightly coloured archways and sculptured columns with a tree growing in the building itself – this is not to be missed if you are visiting Northland! www.eventfinder.co.nz/venue/hundertwasser-public-toilets-kawakawa

#94    Golf in Alpine Splendour – Queenstown/Southern Lakes
Queenstown Golf Club’s 5th hole is said to be one of the most photographed in the world.  Framed by Lake Wakatipu and the majesty of the Southern Alps it can be difficult to concentrate on your drive!  The world class Millbrook Resort and golf club is a short drive from Queenstown and offers similar awe-inspiring views along with luxurious accommodation.  Please visit www.queenstowngolf.co.nz or www.millbrook.co.nz

#93    Port Waikato – Auckland
Situated on Auckland’s West Coast, this is where New Zealand’s longest river meets the sea.  A classic Kiwi beachside town, the beauty and serenity of this area is second to none.  Parts of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy were filmed here and the nearby Nikau Glow Worm caves offer something different.   Peaceful coastal walks on black sand dunes and prime fishing round out this quintessential Kiwi experience. Visit www.portwaikato.com

#92    Central Otago Curling – Alexandra/Maniototo
Parts of Central Otago are seen as thoroughfares to the Queenstown/Southern Lakes District.  However some of these towns and settlements offer a unique beauty and culture all of their own.   The Scottish sport of curling is a big hit in Central Otago and well worth a go!  It involves hurling 20 kilo stones fitted with a handle down a 35 metre strip of groomed ice.  Similar to lawn bowls the aim is to get closest to the markers. www.curling.co.nz

#91    Volcano Treks – Auckland
A little known fact about our biggest city is that much of the urban area sits on dormant volcanoes!  Two of the most popular cones to visit are Mt Eden and One Tree Hill.  Mt Eden is the highest and offer stunning views over the harbour and city.  One Tree Hill was one of the largest Maori settlement complexes in the country at one point and is claimed to be the largest pre0histroic earth fort in the world.  These are both easily accessible by foot or car. See www.tourism.net.nz/region/auckland

Please keep a look out for the next article in our series.  With thanks to AA Travel.

Ref: www.aatravel.co.nz

Auckland, new zealand, New Zealand Property, New Zealand Tourism, Queenstown, Things to do in New Zealand Wellington

Affluent, North Shore City, Queenstown Wellington

Source: NZ Herald

Dec 04, 2008

Queenstown and the Lakes District, the South Island’s internationally renowned tourist area, has been rated as New Zealand’s most affluent place to live.

The Lakes District and tourist town just scraped home over the North Shore City, in Auckland, said Stephen Hart, the author of a report which examined a range of factors from more than 70 territorial authorities throughout New Zealand.

He said, after producing a list of 20 cities and districts based on house prices, they also looked at several other factors, including households earning more than $100,000 a year, homes least likely to be in deprived areas, the percentage of residents with a degree, lowest unemployment rates, and residents who were chief executives, general managers or legislators.

In his report, commissioned by the ASB Bank, Mr Hart said Queenstown, where “more and more of our most successful city folk are choosing to call home”, only just scraped home in first place ahead of North Shore City.

He said they were not searching for the domains of the super-rich or the hideaways of celebrities.

“What we want to discover is which of New Zealand’s towns and cities could be best described as being the most ’sought after’ and their residents’ the most ‘comfortable’.”

He said, like it or not, the most fundamental indicator of a place’s desirability was its house prices and if a lot of people wanted to live somewhere house prices rose as a result of that demand, and analysing house prices was a good place to start.

House prices and the other factors were allocated points to put the list of 20 places in order, starting with the most affluent.

Mr Hart said Queenstown Lakes was undoubtedly a highly desirable place to live. The population of 23,000 grew by 35 per cent between 2001 and 2006 - more than anywhere else in the country and more than four times the national average.

The average home in Queenstown Lakes was more than $570,000. Only North Shore City had a higher price at $573,000.

Queenstown Lakes also scored well against all other criteria, especially jobs. Its unemployment rate of 1.7 per cent was lower than any of the other contenders.

Queenstown people were also “a well qualified bunch with 19 per cent possessing a bachelor’s degree or higher, the fourth highest in the country”.

Mr Hart said Queenstown was also fourth in its percentage of population in the top occupation category of chief executive, general managers and legislators, behind Rodney District, Auckland and North Shore cities.

North Shore City was unlucky not to come out first overall. It was in the top three for every measure, except for its unemployment rate which at 4.3 per cent was lower than the national average of 5.1 per cent but only ninth-best of the places surveyed.

Wellington City was the best qualified and highest paid place in New Zealand but, surprisingly, rated only ninth for the number of chief executive officers, general managers and legislators. More lived in the nearby Kapiti Coast District.

Porirua and Manukau Cities scored higher than many expected. They ranked fourth and fifth respectively for households earning more than $100,000 a year - higher than Queenstown Lakes District.

Auckland City was second for high earners, graduates and senior managers, and third for house prices. Its unemployment rate of 5.7 per cent and ordinary low deprivation decile scores meant it would never be in the very top tier.

The top 20 most affluent places to live were:

1. Queenstown Lakes District

2. North Shore City

3. Wellington City

3. Auckland City

5. Rodney District

6. Selwyn District

7. Franklin District

8. Porirua District

9. Manukau District

10. Tauranga District

11. Tasman District

12. Central Otago District

13. Waitakere City

14. Kapiti Coast District

15. Thames Coromandel District

16. South Wairarapa District

17. Lower Hutt City

18. Taupo City

19. Christchurch City

20. Nelson City

Other snapshots from the report included:

House prices
Highest: North Shore City $573,430.
Lowest: Tararua District $145,742

Percentage of households earning over $100,000 a year
Highest: Wellington City 35.2 per cent.
Lowest: Buller District 6.3 per cent.

Percentage of households in deprivation deciles 1 to 3
Best: Selwyn District 69.9 per cent.
Worst: Wairoa District 1.4 per cent.

Percentage of people with a bachelor’s degree or higher
Highest: Wellington City 35.3 per cent.
Lowest: Kawerau District 3.7 per cent.

Unemployment rate
Best: Queenstown Lakes District 1.7 per cent.
Worst: Kawerau District 13.7 per cent.

Percentage of population of chief executives, general managers and legislators
Highest: Rodney District 5.3 per cent.
Lowest: South Taranaki 1.6 per cent.

Affluent, North Shore City, Queenstown Wellington