The Magic of Hobbiton – Exploring Middle Earth
Nestled in New Zealand's North Island’s rolling hills, lies the magic of Hobbiton. It has captured the hearts of J.R.R Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" film and book fans all...
All’s fair in love and war on King Tutt’s Putt Putt mini-golf courses
“Mine’s the orange one” Cerys demands with a mischievous cheeky smile.“I’ll have the lilac one” adds Cerys’ friend Laura. The remaining choice hangs in the balance and my wife Karen saves me some embarrassment...
Huka Prawn Park: Giant Malayasian River Prawns Evade Capture
Our mission was simple. I would lead a small task force of seafood lovers and infiltrate Huka Prawn Park to snatch as many prawns as we could in 3 hours and return to base.
Codenamed...
72 Hours in Taupō, New Zealand
There’s so much to see and do in and around Taupō. Where do you begin? How much time do you need to visit Taupō?
To really experience Taupō you should plan for a minimum of...
Dunedin – Chocolate, Hops and Albatrosses
Update: Cadbury World closed permanently in May 2018
We only had two days and chose to focus on Cadbury World’s Tasting Tour, Speights’ Brewery Tour and a guided tour at the Royal Albatross Centre.
Yet, Dunedin...
Making a Splash on The Gold Coast
Ah, my shipmates, gather 'round! I’m about to unravel the salty secrets of Australia’s Gold Coast – that sun-kissed slice of paradise where surfers ride waves like caffeinated dolphins.
But hold your seahorses! It’s not...
Insider’s Guide to Things to See and Do In Wellington
Rough Guides recently named Wellington one of its must visit cities in 2023. There are so many things to see and do in Wellington and is ideal for a mini break.
My wife and I...
Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays – Tropical Paradise
Sail on the warm winds through 74 islands in the very heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Drop anchor and discover white secluded beaches. And, of course, dive the heart of the enormous Great...
Taieri Gorge Railway – Combining History and Charm
Updated November 2018
I braced myself against the safety rail at the end of the carriage and squinted as the wind and splashes of rain caught my face.
Nevertheless, I was determined to take a photo....
Australia’s Sunshine Coast – Sun, sea and koalas
It’s easy to understand why Australia’s “Sunshine Coast” is awarded its name. It has great weather all year round. Daily average temperature between 21 to 29 degrees. Swimming in the ocean is an all...
