Free Travel Newsletter : November 2011
Written by Steph Kendall
Brought to you by New Zealand Tourism Guide www.tourism.net.nz.
Lucky Subscriber
Congratulations to Marieta Cronje of South Africa, this month's lucky Free Travel Newsletter subscriber, winning "The Ultimate New Zealand DVD".
If you're already here or arriving in December, you can enjoy Christmas Kiwi-style. The festive season is usually hot and sunny with loads of fun, free events for the whole family to enjoy. You may be away from home, but hopefully you'll be too busy to miss your folks. In this month's newsletter, check out some of 2011's great Christmas events, be inspired to taste some of New Zealand's trophy-winning wines and if you're on the road, remember to stop for a break....a toilet break!
- Christmas Events
- New Zealand Wine, Wineries & Vineyards
- Off the Beaten Track to... Kawakawa
- Family Travel in New Zealand
- New Zealand Fast Facts
Christmas Events
During December, there is a host of events throughout New Zealand celebrating Christmas including Santa Parades, carol concerts, crafts festivals and parties. Many of these events are free including the huge annual Christmas in the Park festivals (held in Auckland and Christchurch) and most, if not all, are suitable for the whole family. A great way to join in Christmas celebrations when you're away from home...(more)
New Zealand Wine, Wineries & Vineyards
The wine produced in New Zealand has a reputation for excellence with its Sauvignon Blanc considered by many to be the best in the world. There is no better time to visit the country's many wineries and vineyards in both the North and South Island than the summer. At the cellar door, you can sample and buy the country's best Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Many wineries also have first-class restaurants and in some areas, wineries are located close to each other making wine tours (either with a guide or self-guided) a perfect option...(more)
Off the Beaten Track to... Kawakawa
As you drive northwards on the State Highway 1 to the Bay of Islands on New Zealand's North Island, you'll find the small, rural and one-time sleepy township of Kawakawa. This off the beaten track destination is one of our most unusual suggestions, as we want you to visit the public toilets located in the centre of the main street...(more)
Family Travel in New Zealand
Travelling with children can seem a little daunting in an unknown country, but families can really relax and enjoy themselves in New Zealand. Not only is it regarded as a safe country, but you'll find that everywhere is well set up for you and your children (of all ages) in terms of transport, accommodation, dining and of course, activities.
- Transport: Renting a large family-sized people carrier type car, minivan or campervan are all great options for moving parents, children and baggage around the country.
- Accommodation: Hotels, motels and hostels cater extremely well for children often with safe outdoor areas, child-safe furniture, highchairs, cots, booster seats and child-minding services. However, you could also buy a (cheap) tent and head to a campground to enjoy camplife. Great for the kids with fresh air, playgrounds and sometimes swimming pools onsite. Many campgrounds also rent out cabins which contain everything you need for self-catering.
- Dining: Self-catering is a good option for families who want flexible meal times and to have food that is a big hit with everyone. However, most New Zealand restaurants are happy to entertain the little ones and often have colouring pencils, paper and toys for children to enjoy whilst the grown-ups eat.
- Activities: Keep an eye on what's happening locally when you get to where you're going, as many civic-run events are free and family orientated. Most townships have a domain containing playground equipment – so it's easy to stop and stretch legs on longer journeys. Aside from free fun, you'll find something for kids of all ages including zorbing, donkey rides, bungy jumping, water parks, giant puzzles and mazes.
New Zealand Fast Facts
New Zealand was the first country to give women the right to vote in 1893 and in the same year, Elizabeth Yates became Mayor of Onehunga (the first time a woman had held such a post anywhere in the British Empire). In 1989 Helen Clark became the first female Deputy Prime Minister becoming the first woman to be elected as Prime Minister in 1999 (the first female Prime Minister of New Zealand was Jenny Shipley in 1997).