New Zealand - December 2004
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New Zealand - December 2004 |
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This was a trip we had been planning for quite a few months and in general it went well, with only a couple of problems and disappointments. the following is a list of things we did, photos we took and thought and comments we'd like to make. Hopefully you'll find them of use or interest. If you have any questions or comments please let us know, thanks. Sharon and Rob
New Zealand is a
beautiful country, some 12 (13 whilst we were there) hours time difference to
the UK and approximately 24 hours travelling time, but it's worth it.
In general we found the North Island was warmer and more set up for tourists,
the south island more tranquil, though it is a great place if you want to go
walking, hiking or do any kind of activity break.
On arrival we discovered that New Zealand customs are very careful on what they allow in. Custom officials will check your walking boots and tents and clean them if they have any, and we mean any, trace of mud or plant growth. They have had a real problem in their past with non-indigenous animal and plant life being introduced into the country and are doing their best to ensure the problem is controlled.
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Sun block - we were really surprised at how intense the sun was in New Zealand, especially when walking on the glacier and around Mount Cook. If you are thinking of going to New Zealand make sure you have a good factor sun block if walking. Credit cards and cash - most places take credit cards and we found we didn't need to carry that much cash. Though we did find our chip and pin numbers only worked for the first time. Wines and spirits - New Zealand produce some great wines, most of which we never get to see in the UK and it is well worth visiting a vineyard or at least trying some of the local wines when you get the chance - (White Pinot Gris were very nice. Try to go for the small vineyards when possible,we visited one just outside Queenstown) NZ wines aren't difficult to find because they are very strong on promoting their own produce. One thing we discovered is that most bars serve spirits in doubles, great you think, until you realise that there doubles are equivalent to our singles. Food - Fish & Chips are generally really good, even if the fish is not the norm for British fish and chips. Whilst we have not said much about Napier there is a steak house that is in most of the guide books (Deanos Bar & Grill, 255 Marine Parade), which is defintely worth a visit. The place looks really small from outside but the food is great and the service is very friendly. Napier is generally renowned for it's Art Deco architecture but we enjoyed the walk down the beach as much. Follow this link to our traveling adventures including almost running out of petrol (twice!!) and some advice on hire cars and train trips. More info to follow, we hope this proves interesting to all of you. Sharon and Rob
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