#maunganui beach

[lappophotography]

Beautiful Tauranga, NZ

[vienna-juliet]

[mountbeach]

Gabrielle is on her way but not quite here yet.

[sunmontuewrites]

Sunday! Still not 100% but back to Tuesday/Wednesday levels of wellness and will be taking it very easy so I don't backslide. 😅

List of things to do today below, and it includes house chores, but mainly going and doing touristy stuff. 👌

Morning routine

Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Do drawing

Clean toilet

Farmer's market?

Drive to Mount Maunganui

Go to Moturiki

Walk?

Hot pools?

Beach

Sculpture Garden?

Lookout?

McLaren Falls?

Mitre10 Mega - kindling + sante sticks

Supermarket - chocolate fish

Write 1k / 2k / 3k

Roast marshmallows

Yesterday I did 10 loads of washing, changed the sheets on my bed, folded all the washing, made scones and cleaned the shower (as well the regular human stuff of showering, getting dressed and eating etc. which were all on my list because yesterday was a push through it day).

Max has some chores to do, his own washing and bedsheets to changes, cat bowls to clean and bathroom mirrors and basins to clean.

I'm also planning on expanding @daughterofscotland's palate further and making her try more New Zealand foods today...

Marmite and cheese on toast

Pavlova

Chocolate fish

Saving L&P for when we're in Paeroa tomorrow and Jaffas for when we're in Auckland.

[rhysdarbinizedarby]

Spy: David Hasselhoff and Rhys Darby in new show, Hoff the Beaten Track

David Hasselhoff and the show's Land Rover Defender.

Spy can reveal the Kiwi roadie between David Hasselhoff and Rhys Darby is an unscripted reality road trip that has been produced by Stripe Studios and is called Hoff the Beaten Track.

The former Baywatch megastar and the Kiwi comedian have finished filming the journey that took them from Stewart Island in the South Island to Auckland. News organisations worldwide have reported the many selfies for which Hasselhoff has dutifully posed along the journey. He loves New Zealand as much as we love him.

The remoteness of Stewart Island, Milford Sound - which The Hoff calls the eighth wonder of the world - and hanging off the Sky Tower have all been highlights.

TV star David Hasselhoff and Kiwi comedian Rhys Darby pictured with sole charge constable Stuart Newton in Stewart Island in September.

Filming has captured The Hoff obliging the many selfies as well as the hilarious chemistry between Hasselhoff and Darby.

Insiders tell Spy the weather gods and a sense of serendipity followed the pair as they travelled from south to north in a Land Rover Defender. In Rotorua a falcon even landed on The Hoff’s arm – and then Darby’s, such is their magnetism as a duo.

Hasselhoff, who is also a successful recording artist, worked on an album in Auckland in the 1980s just after the success of his TV series Knight Rider. He was wearing his famous red Baywatch shorts when he hit Main Beach in Mt Maunganui to promote ice cream. It is understood he was last in New Zealand in 2011.

The ageless 71-year-old and wife Hayley, whom he wed in 2018 (the pair have been together since 2011), have been enjoying the sights and sounds of Godzone.

So how on earth did Hasselhoff and Darby come to be making a comedy road trip Downunder?

Source: NZ Herald

[livebeforeyoulearn]

Hi Grace, you don't have to answer but I have nobody else to ask because nobody else (that I know of) is from nzzzzz

But I'm from the South Island, and I assume you're from the north, if you're not then just ignore, but I am coming up for Christmas and I was wondering if you had any beach recommendations, we're staying in Auckland and we don't mind travelling

i can’t give you the best recommendations bc i am very loyal to my beach BUT

whitianga, papamoa, pukehina, and really anywhere in the coromandel peninsula are sooo beautiful and worth seeing imo (heavy on whitianga)

and personally, i’d avoid places like waihi, mount maunganui, raglan, any auckland beaches, and whangamata because they’re either overcrowded or overrated and don’t have much to offer, unless you like the crowds!!

hope this helps a little xx

[jarredspec]

Some slow shutter action at Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. More on the blog :)

[loveydovey-leviathan]

Below is a list of events happening in New Zealand in support of Palestine. All events can be found on the official PSNA website (Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa).

North Island Opononi – Gathering for Palestine Sunday 28 April 1:30 pm Outside the Four Square, Opononi Kerikeri, Bay of Islands - Rally Rally on the First Saturday of the month from now on Next Rally Saturday May 4 Whangarei – Rally Saturday 27 April 11:00 am Whangārei Town Basin in front of Hundertwasser Building  Auckland – TVNZ Picket – TVNZ’s Jack Tame Platforming Genocide Friday 26 April 12:00 mid-day TVNZ - 100 Victoria Street West Auckland  Auckland – Banners around Tamaki Makaurau Saturday 27 April (Delayed from last week due to high winds) 10:00 am Gather at the Market Road Overbridge. Plans to go to (dependant on numbers):

Pedestrian motorway overbridge at Mauranui Ave – Dilworth Road

Omahu Road overbridge

Text Steve on 021 256 511 For further details Auckland – Rally Sunday 28 April 2:00 pm Te Komititanga – Britomart Square Tauranga – Rally Every second Sunday. Next Rally Saturday May 4 10:30 am Watch this space Tauranga – Flag waving Sunday 28 April 11:00 am Coronation Park, Mount Maunganui Hamilton - Rally Saturday 27 April 1:00 pm Flynn Park, Hamilton Rotorua – Flags for Todd McClay Thursday 25 April 4:00 pm National MP Todd McClays Office - 1301 Amohau St, Rotorua Napier - Rally Saturday 27 April 11:30 am Marine Parade Soundshell Roundabout Hastings - Rally Sunday 28 April 2:00 pm Hastings Town Clock – Hastings CBD Palmerston North - Rally Sunday 28 April 2:00 pm The Square, Palmerston North New Plymouth – Flags on the Bridge Friday 26 April 4:30 pm Paynters Ave Bridge, New Plymouth New Plymouth – Rally Saturday 27 April 1:00 pm The Landing, 1 Ariki Street, New Plymouth Whanganui - Rally Saturday 27 April 11:00 am Riverside Market, Whanganui Whanganui – (Kite) Flying Prayers for Palestine Sunday 28 April 1:00 – 2:00 pm Castlecliff Beach Carterton Every Tuesday 12:00 midday Memorial Square. Martinborough – Gathering for Palestine Every Wednesday 11:00 am The square at the top of Kitchener St, Martinborough Featherston Every Saturday 11:00 am The Squircle (opposite the op shop). Wellington No Rally this weekend South Island Nelson – Rally Check out the Te Tau Ihu Palestine Solidarity Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/TeTIPalestine/ Takaka – Information and Networking Gathering Saturday 27 April 10:30 am Village Green, Takaka Blenheim Saturday 27 April 11:00 am Blenheim Railway Station Christchurch – Rally Saturday 27 April 1:00 pm Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street Dunedin - Rally Saturday 27 April 2:00 pm Otago Museum Reserve to the Octagon, Dunedin Queenstown - Rally NOTE – Next Sunday May 5 1:00 pm Earnslaw Park, Queenstown Invercargill - Rally Friday 26 April 5:30 pm Wachner place Invercargill

.

There will also be a PSNA National Meeting 18/19 May 2024 in Auckland.

[rad-babe]

Hi there!! Hope it's ok to ask this! I'm doing a semester abroad in NZ soon on the north island. I wondered if you had any places you think would be a good place to visit? I want to explore while I'm there, so really any recommendations would be incredibly helpful. Also any general NZ tips (dressing for the weather, culture, etc) would be so sooo appreciated. Thanks for reading, hope it's not too big an ask xx

Hi!

There is loads to do here! If you're studying at Massey hit me up again cause I am too haha.

If you're coming for a semester you'll probably see the end of winter and the start of summer or other way round so you should be able to get the best of both worlds in. A lot of it depends on prices, going to the south island will be more expensive than the north island.

Depending on what city you're staying in will change what you can do around there by broadly I'd suggest Rotorua any time of the year and the Coromandel or Mount Maunganui in summer for the beaches. In central North Ireland is Ohakune/Mount Ruapehu, in winter it's snowy and you can go up for the day even if you don't ski/snowboard and in summer there are loads of hiking paths if that's your thing. Wherever you are studying you can get here pretty easily and there are motels around.

If you're studying in Wellington I'd suggest going to Auckland and vice-versa.

The south island is beautiful, and I'd suggest following the touristy things because it really is stunning. Queenstown/Wanaka + Milford sound is always a hit in any weather. And Stewart Island is something different you can try (i think there are tours from Queenstown even).

For general tips, always have a raincoat or umbrella even in summer as the weather can change so quickly. Wellington is windy and colder, and Auckland gets really humid. Wear sunscreen! You can burn even when it's cloudy.

We don't tip here and don't be concerned if you see people without shoes on! Everyone is pretty casual, especially in the touristy towns/out of the cities. If you're lost or need help people will be willing to help if you ask.

I hope you have a great time here! Feel free to message me with any other questions, I'm happy to answer them!

[thealphabetter]

1/28/23

Flight TN (Air Tahiti) 101 has stopped in Papeete for a layover on the way to Auckland. 

Last night, I departed from SFO, and transferred planes at LAX.

I will spend a moment in Papeete before boarding a flight again, toward New Zealand, and the date line.

Once in Auckland, I will make my way to the harbor, to board the Majestic Princess. 

The scheduled departure of the boat was delayed by three hours, to 10 P.M., due to weather conditions. 

There is a fair chance of rain on most of the days that I could check the forecast for in New Zealand and Australia. 

On the way here, I watched Elvis, read some of Doctor Zhivago, and listened to downloads. 

1/29/23

Arrival in Auckland is met with transportation to the Auckland harbor. 

It takes very little delay to gather myself after the flight and the change in time. 

Many of the arriving flights had been delayed or rescheduled, according to signage at the airport, due to the flooding of the runway.

I board the Majestic Princess, unpack, shower, and tour the ship’s amenities. This includes a trip to the bar, and the consumption of four Long Island Iced Teas. Shortly after, I am able to sleep, after I last woke in California, on the 27th.

1/30/23

It was past midnight when I woke up and noticed that the ship was in motion. I laid awake for a moment before deciding upon staying conscious. I ordered a veggie burger and an Americano, walked to the deck to see the ship’s wake, and then to the other side of the boat, to stop by the casino. It was closed.

The ship would broadcast the NFC Championship at 9 A.M. in the morning, after my breakfast. As the game went through the first quarter, I watched the ship turn into its port in Tauranga. I watched the game from a hot tub until half-time, at which point I changed clothes and ate on the deck, until the third quarter of the game. 

It was about a half-mile walk to the trails, the name of the mountain (a.k.a. Mount Maunganui or “The Mount”) that overlooks the peninsula and harbor of Tauranga. I hiked up one side, and saw some sheep along the way. I walked down another trail that led me to the other side of the Tauranga peninsula. 

I walked alongside the beach, into a mini-peninsula off the main beach. I did some window-shopping through the mid-peninsula before finding myself near the boat. It was simpler to board again, eat again, and fall asleep for a while. When I woke up, in the evening I ordered five plates of food to the room, and finished the meal while watching Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. 

It was early enough, when the movie was over, to get drinks at the bar, and check out the Freddie Mercury tribute concert at the Princess Theater. 

1/31/23

The day was highlighted by a scheduled trip to the Hobbiton movie set, the filming location for the setting of the Shire in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. 

Before I left the ship for the drive to the set, I watched the beginning of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, until the moment right before Bilbo decides to embark on the journey with the dwarves. 

The set is located on a farm, past a range of mountains when traveling from Tauranga. 

The tour began highlighting areas where specific scenes from the movies were shot, and the discussion of camera techniques used in the movie. Different areas on the set were sized proportionally, to make any character appear larger or smaller in respect to it. 

I could recognize these settings, and took many photos. The tour went around the set, and ended near the Green Dragon Inn, where I was served, by our tour guide, Calen, a cup of ale.

The drive to and from the set took about an hour and 15 minutes each way. The driver discussed major exports of the area, including timber, kiwi fruit, and dairy products. I recognized the Zespri brand name as we passed by the office building for the kiwi fruit company. 

Return to the ship was followed by a meal and the next hour of the first Hobbit movie. I then went to the indoor pool for what was around two hours. Patrick McCullough performed in the Princess Theater in the evening. 

2/1/23

The journey’s first full day at sea would consist of traveling from Tauranga to Wellington. It started early, with breakfast, but with little other activity until my visit to the casino. My initial $20 AUD transfer was gone in just a few spins. I waited to eat at Alfredo’s, where I would eat three times throughout the day. I resumed gambling, maintaining a bank for the slots while losing at the tables. I eventually hit a slots bonus that brought me to $280 AUD, after I had put in $140 AUD in total. 

I watched the Maori ambassador’s presentation on traditions and mythology in the Princess Theater. This was followed by my next visit to Alfredo;’s, in the ship’s atrium. It was in the atrium that I then participated in a Haka dance with the ambassadors. Crew members began to set up a champagne waterfall, which I watched through, nearly to its completion. At 6:30 P.M., the officers of the ship were introduced at the waterfall ceremony. I took a glass of champagne from a nearby server and sat at Alfredo’s again. I began watching Alien: Covenant, but not to its conclusion, before the night ended. 

There was a musical performance in the Princess Theater. I found it happening after participating in the guessing contest for the weight of a pig-sculpture in the art studio. 

2/2/23

I have found myself waking up early, as was the case today. Upon arrival  in Wellington, I am ready to explore the city. The bus takes me near the cable car, which runs up a hill to the botanical gardens. These gardens run towards the side and down the hill, and included native NZ species of flora, and more - a herb garden, rose garden, and greenhouse with a pond full of guppies. The downhill trail ends back near the parliament building, which I detoured around. I walked closer to the harbor-coastline area to the Maritime Museum. There were a few objects of interest there. A walk along the coastline took me to the Te Papa Museum, which exhibited nature-science, a NZ WWI display, abstract art, traditional Maori pieces and more. The bus to the ship gathered passengers right behind the museum. Back on the boat, I took a moment to decide whether to watch the movie being shown on the deck, Dakota, before changing, and watching it from a hot tub. I met two, from Korea, in the tub.

I went to the atrium, alternated alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks three times, for six drinks total, before getting two Americanos saturated with brown sugar. The live music was okay. I watched the rest of Alien: Covenant and slept. 

2/3/23

Another early day started at 5:30 A.M., until the hills around our destination port appeared around us at breakfast. The timing would allow for a load of laundry to be completed while the ship docked. In Port Shakespeare, shuttle buses took cruise-ship passengers to the town of Picton. A primary glimpse into the ocean water, from the Picton harbor beach, was very red - what I understood to be red algae. I kept walking for what was at least 2.5 hours round-trip. 

It began to rain, most heavily when I decided to turn around, at the viewpoint on the trail labeled as the viewpoint for Queen Charlotte’s Sound. My shoes were a little moist, as was my passport, when I ended up back at the harbor. The couple I had met the day prior offered a pint of beer, which I drank rather quickly, before asking where I could get some soda. There was a nearby sandwich and soda shop. I stopped by, and walked through the street full of souvenir shops and restaurants, before ending up at a store, where I bought a bottle of Lawson’s Dry Hills Reserve Pinot Noir. Ideally, I would have gone on some sort of wine tour, but I did not. I was allowed to bring the wine back on board the boat. 

The ship leaves Queen Charlotte Sound and turns right, to navigate southward on the southern island. It is picturesque, and I combine sightseeing from the lido deck with drinks from Alex and Whinn at the atrium’s Vines bar. 

2/4/23

The ship docked in Lyttleton harbor, and I was in the initial queue to go ashore. Shuttles awaited for the journey into Lyttelton or Christchurch. Notes from my booked tour instructed me to board for Lyttelton and transfer in the port-city. 

The tour bus went north around Governor’s Bay before taking the road over the mountain range that divides Christchurch from Lyttelton. Descent into Christchurch gave way to a view of the mountain-park for mountain bikers and zip-liners, and a more distant picture of Christchurch and New Zealand’s Alps. A stop was made for this moment, to observe. 

Scottie, the tour guide, drove onto the streets of Christchurch while beginning to explain the effect of the hundreds of earthquakes that struck the city between 2010 and 2012. 70% of the city was rebuilt since that time, into the present day, in which the city has been reopened to cruise-ship passengers for its first year since. A wall of names downtown commemorates those lost. 

Free time in the city would consist of walking by that memorial and along the river. This was followed by a few moments at the botanical gardens. There is much evidence of the effect that the earthquakes had still. In the more suburban areas, less so, as the “red zone” now delineates the area in which construction cannot take place due to risks, in the event of another earthquake. This zone was quite large, and took up most of the trip on our way to the beach in Brighton. 

A few more winding roads through the jagged peninsulas wold lead to the port-city where we landed. I had a moment to stop at Eruption Brewing to down a lager on the deck. 

There was a moment in the evening, at the Vines bar, as I read the next pages of Zhivago. This was followed by another moment, as I looked out the window to see three animals, apparently, jumping through the ship’s wake. I could identify the animal in the third instance as a penguin. 

I kept drinking and eating, watched Morbius on the pool deck, and checked out the late-night dance in the atrium before calling it a night. 

2/5/23

The ship docked at Port Chalmers in the early morning.

Upon entering the port-city, I walked through the main city street, up through a path by the Presbyterian Church, and to a garden that house a lookout over the harbor, the dock, and city hall. Buses were ready to take passengers to the city of Dunedin. The city center is an octagon-shaped block with a road for buses going horizontally through. It was pretty early in the morning, on a Sunday, and I would need to walk the same path twice t be there for various sites’ hours of operation. These sites included the rail station, the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, and the Chinese Garden. I visited three churches, the First Church of Otago, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the St. Joseph Cathedral. I attended mass at St. Paul’s until the communal prayers, then walked to the St. Joseph Cathedral, just before communal prayers. 

I walked back to the octagon, and had fish and chips at a place called Social Club. This was followed by a visit to the Dunedin Public Art Gallery. This would conclude my visit to the city, as buses to the ship departed from the octagon. 

I stayed wake into the early hours of the next morning, as the DJ took over the atrium/dance floor per usual. Midnight marked the arrival of my birthday.

2/6/23 - 2/8/23

It was a rather late night, the previous night. 

Three days were spent to cross the Tasman Sea, into Australia. 

I dined at the Crown Grill for my birthday festivities. The next day’s dinner would be in the Symphony Dining Room. On the next, dinner was at the Harmony Restaurant. The food at all three locations on the ship was delectable. 

My stateroom is located near the front of the ship, which can apparently rock with the waves, as the ship presses forward. The movement could have been worse, but it did not go unnoticed. We were quite close to Tasmania on the night before we got there, and the going was pretty easy, much of the early morning consisting of cruising through the bay and into the Hobart port. 

2/9/23

Dawn arrives as the ship arrives in the port of Hobart. I watched the ship dock in the morning light. The groups for excursions into Tasmania are assembled in the Princess Theater. Several groups prepare to board buses to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. I had looked into this excursion for an opportunity to see Tasmanian Devils. This was the first instance in which I had done so. There were several species native to Australia there as well, an abundance of kangaroos, some emus, birds, etc. We were bussed back towards the ship, stopping by the bridge for a photo-op across the bay from Hobart. 

The bus dropped us off at the port, there was still about six hours to walk through the city. I started west, towards the other side of the port, and out into the respective peninsula. The University of Tasmania is located there, and a little further is a residential area in which I found a hotel bar that poured me a Cascade, a native Tasmanian beer. The path would lead back towards but past the ship, through downtown Hobart past various athletics facilities, through a fallen soldiers’ memorial, to a track meet in progress. This path continued through to the botanical gardens. I would check the time to be back on the boat, stopping by the war memorial, the ANZAC eye. 

The Hobart Brewing Co. is located right next to the port, and I stop for a flavored beer. 

2/10/23

The last day of the cruise is a day at sea, between Tasmania and Sydney. It is a fairly good moment. I found myself on the deck at times, in the atrium as the choir sang Oklahoma!, and dining in the Allegro Dining Room that evening. I had barramundi. The Noordam cruises alongside us, I observed, as the evening continued. 

2/11/23

We arrived in the port of Sydney at around 5 A.M. I am ready to leave with my disembarkation group at 8 A.M. It’s a pretty good feeling, sunrise over the Sydney Opera House. I am not feeling any fatigue. The deal I booked online was a bus pass/hostel package, with plenty of distance to cover up the east coast of Australia. Accommodations are about a mile inland, near Town Hall. I dropped off my bags at the Nomads Hostel location and begin my first day of two in Sydney. Proceeding east past Town Hall is the ANZAC War Memorial and the botanical gardens. Along the path northward is the Art Gallery of New South Wales, made up of two separate buildings. There are a few nice pieces there, I’m not sure I recognized any in particular, maybe some artists here and there. I continued north through the gardens and past the Opera House again, towards the Sydney Harbor Bridge. At this moment in the day, I do not have any time constraints, but the walk over the bridge and back to the hostel took about 2 hours. It’s at this moment that I get ready to attend the performance of La Boheme at the opera house. This preparation includes the consumption of Somersby cider and jalapeño poppers at the hostel bar. 

2/12/23

I made the route out to take for the second and last planned day in Sydney. It was through to the west via train to to the Olympic park, and then after a walk through it, a ferry ride back to the quay. It was a pretty lengthy trek. The bus left at 7 P.M., which left me some time to visit Bondi Beach, walk around there, and take the bus and subway back to the city center where I had left my bags, and where the Greyhound bus would depart from. 

2/13/23

The bus ride has taken about 19 hours to Brisbane. This area of Australia is made up of national parks and Eucalyptus forests. I looked out the window for a good while until it was overwhelmingly dark outside, at which point I watched the last two episodes of the National Treasure series on my phone. Traffic increased as we approached the city of Brisbane. The Super Bowl was occurring, and I listened in. When I arrived, I walked to the Nomads hostel, and left my bags there before check-in at 3 P.M. The central business district is pretty nice, and it is fairly hot outside - I stopped by Starbucks for a refresher and an ice-water. The city is built alongside a river, and there’s a smaller arts part of the city as well on the other side of the river from the business district. This evening walk included three museums, a cozy park, and a ferris-wheel ride. I got a ticket for an evening concert - classical music, a chamber orchestra led by violinist Ilya Gringolts. I walked back to the hostel, checked in, showered, and got sushi. Then, I went to the concert. 

2/14/23

The Brisbane train station is one block from the hostel. I got a vending machine espresso drink from the station before departing towards the Australia Zoo. I had seen a few episodes of Crikey! It’s the Irwins before my trip started. It was a good stop to make. I went around the zoo and ended up in the middle of it, where the crocodiles were. The crocodiles were from Australia, some with backstories on display. I liked the alligators as well, and they were from the U.S.A. I got an Icee by the African savannah exhibit, where there were zebras, giraffes, and rhinos. There was a tiger feeding. I got a salad before the Crocoseum show - trained birds flying from trainer to trainer, and crocodile feeding. There was a moment to stop by the animal hospital before going back to Brisbane. I had potato gnocchi for dinner. 

2/15/23

It was a pretty nice, early morning. I got some fruit buns at Woolworth’s grocery store before my bus to Airlie Beach. This bus ride would take the rest of the day and the morning of the next. I got a long black from the station cafe. The Dallas Stars played, and I listened to that. I revisited some of my Youtube Music listening history from two or three years ago. This included “Moonshadow” by Cat Stevens., and “Let Me Go” by Alesso, Hailee Steinfeld, and Florida-Georgia Line. 

2/16/23

Once in Airlie Beach, I decided to go on a boat ride to a nearby island. This is the southern part of the Great Barrier Reef. The boat, the Camira, sailed out to Whitsunday Island. We anchored by one side of the island to snorkel, and I made use of my underwater camera in pursuit of some colorful marine life. Once anchored by another part of the island, we hiked up to a lookout over the beach, and walked down to it as well. Lunch for me was a veggie burger. I tried the Strongbow and the Great Northern Brewing Co. “Super Crisp.” In the evening would be a moment to walk through Airlie Beach - the pools, the beach, and the harbor, where I got a pizza. The hostel pool area was closed, but I sat down and almost fell asleep there.

2/17/23

The bus to Townsville departed at 9:50 A.M., by which time I had walked through the town again, to McDonalds, Woolworth’s and a pharmacy, where I got a pin with turtles on it, for my backpack. The bus ride there took about five hours. The bus station is linked to the ferry system between the town and Magnetic Island, where I planned to stay for two nights. I stopped by the hostel, but I had forgotten to make a reservation. The other hostel on the map was in Picnic Bay, about a mile away. I walked with a resident on the trail there. The island is pretty nice, not too populated, and I had a squash salad and a beer flight at Maggie Island Brewery - a fresh cucumber beer stood out - the last one on the flight. After that, I did the laundry, considering the hike to West Point, as it began to rain. 

2/18/23

Early morning, I had the cup ramen noodles I had, and waded in the pool with Louie, an Australian Shepherd. He swam across a few times, but I was preparing for my trip to Horseshoe Bay, on the other side of the island. This hike would start at the bay and go around the outer side to the north-east, down south, and towards the lookout, located closer to the center of the island, up a long flight of stairs. Adam, from the hostel, told me that I should bring carrots for the rock wallabies, if I intended on feeding them. I got these from the store at Horseshoe Bay. I walked on the trail as it presented itself, and although it was raining, I enjoyed looking at the beachfronts and flora. The informational guidepost mentioned that this island was a precautionary WWII lookout, used both by Australian and U.S.A. soldiers in that time. The lookout at the top was just two buildings. The Magnetic Island National Park entrance was nearby, where I waited for the bus. I rode to the south-eastern part of the island where the rock wallabies lived. I fed one a carrot immediately, gave one to some tourists who had scootered there, and with no other wallabies around, ate the last one. I missed the next bus back to Picnic Bay. There was a store nearby, where I got pasta, sauce, sour skittles, cheese, chips, and pineapple juice. I waited by the bus stop as the rain stopped and started again, before the next bus. I shared the pasta with some tourists from Germany. 

2/19/23

I woke up in time to swim at the Picnic Bay beach, and then again at the hostel pool with Louie. I took the 10 A.M. ferry back to Townsville, and walked through a memorial park. I got a pizza by the Townsville beach, and some ice cream after that. The bus to Cairns would be at 2:40 P.M., and I walked the beach for a bit, got some beers as UFC played on T.V., and wandered back to the station. It was nighttime in Cairns when I got there.

2/20/23

The early morning consisted of breakfast at McDonalds, by the harbor, where I boarded the Evolution to scuba-dive. The bus stopped at two different locations for diving and snorkeling. We were given some instruction on how to dive, on the way there.I opted to dive twice. The first time I dove, a fellow diver, Josephine, and I linked arms with an instructor. We descended, and some things that stood out to me were the shark, and a fish that followed me about the size of my upper body. After the dive, I snorkeled. The ship, the Evolution, moved to its next location, the North Hastings Reef. This location had more coral, and we dove in a group of five, including the instructor. We saw a few more colorful fish, a few giant clams, sea cucumbers, and two more sharks. Both dives were about 15-20 minutes. I snorkeled again, after removing the self-contained underwater breathing apparatus. I saw a turtle, a lone jellyfish, and a few fish by the boat that looked like Dory from Finding Nemo. The ship made its way back to Cairns, where I received my PADI certificate for my dive. I stopped by a restaurant for some fried seafood and a XXXX beer, then got some gelato, proceeding to walk the length of the beach and turn around towards the hostel.

2/21/23

I opted not to go to the rainforest/gondola-trip nearby, where I was aware of a koala sanctuary. I got a falafel wrap, and proceeded to the Cairns Aquarium. It was a good way to wind down the trip, looking at the fish and turtles. I looked into the Carins Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where we saw two turtles. Carlotta was missing a left flipper, and was adjusting to swim without it. There was another turtle that had a balance issue due to one of the pressure systems in the head. I went back to Gilligan’s for the afternoon, and went to the pool. I drank a lot that evening, and got drinks for some of my roommates. 

2/22/23

My flight home would be at 6:10 P.M., and I walked all the way to the airport from the hostel, through the inner city instead of the beach, and through the Cairns Botanic Gardens and rainforest. I got there at around 2 P.M. I got some food and beer, a few mementos from the airport shop, and boarded the flight to Singapore. I would arrive there at around 11:00 P.M. 

2/23/23

Early morning, and I have gotten on a train to the city, but I mistook which stop to transfer, and was stranded, as that was the last train. I exited the station and waved down a cab. I explained what I wanted to do in Singapore, and he took me where I wanted to go. We stopped first by the Gardens by the Bay, where the park structures were unlit. I ran around the park for a bit, then we proceeded to a lookout, where the Sands, the harbor, and the dam between the river and the sea were visible. We drove through the inner city, and stopped at Little India to eat. I had seafood noodles, the driver had an egg dish. We had some coffee, and I was not allowed to pay for the meal. The driver stopped by to get gas, as we went back to the airport. My flight would leave from Terminal 3. Most of the airport was closed, but I went to the Jewel and fell asleep in there for a few hours, where the waterfall would run, but was not for the night hours. A few more hours would conclude the trip. 

[nzbusinessconnection]

Discovering the Best Beaches in New Zealand

When you think of New Zealand, you likely think of rolling hills, snow-capped mountains, and lush green forests. But what you may not realize is that New Zealand is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From golden sand beaches to black sand beaches, New Zealand has something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a beach holiday that’s both beautiful and unique, New Zealand is the place to go.

Beaches in New Zealand

New Zealand is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. From the golden sand beaches of the North Island to the black sand beaches of the South Island, New Zealand has something for everyone. Here are some of the best beaches in New Zealand for every type of traveler: 

For the Adventurer: 

If you're looking for an adventurous beach holiday, then the South Island of New Zealand is your ideal destination. From world-famous surf spots to secluded coves, the South Island has something for everyone. Kaikoura Beach is a popular spot for experienced surfers, while the Abel Tasman National Park offers stunning views and plenty of activities for those looking for a more relaxed beach experience. For something truly unique, check out Farewell Spit, a long stretch of wild beach backed by dramatic sand dunes. Whether you're looking for action-packed fun or peaceful relaxation, the South Island has something for everyone.

For the Relaxer: 

If you’re looking for a beach holiday that’s all about relaxation, then the North Island is the place to go. The North Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, from the golden sands of Coromandel to the stunning black sand beaches of the East Coast. Some of the best beaches for relaxation include the tranquil Waihi Beach, the stunning Cathedral Cove, and the tranquil Karioitahi Beach. 

For the Wildlife Lover:

New Zealand is home to a wide variety of wildlife and is a great destination for the nature lover. The beaches of New Zealand are teeming with wildlife, from dolphins and seals to penguins and sea lions. Some of the best beaches for wildlife spotting include the stunning Napier Beach, the picturesque Piha Beach, and the beautiful Kaiteriteri Beach. 

For the Beach Lover: 

If you’re looking for the ultimate beach holiday, then New Zealand has something for you. From stunning golden sand beaches to remote black sand beaches, New Zealand has something for every beach lover. Some of the best beaches for beach lovers include the popular Hot Water Beach, the beautiful Ninety Mile Beach, and the stunning Lighthouse Beach. 

For the Party-Goer: 

New Zealand is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a wild night out, there’s a beach for everyone. Here are some of the best beaches in New Zealand for the partygoer.

For a night out with friends, head to Piha Beach. Located on the west coast of Auckland, this beach is known for its black sand and big waves. The beach is home to numerous bars and restaurants, making it the perfect spot for a night of partying.

If you’re looking for a more low-key atmosphere, head to Hot Water Beach. Located on the Coromandel Peninsula, this beach is known for its natural hot springs. During low tide, you can dig your own hot tub and spend the night soaking up the atmosphere.

For a wild night out, head to Mount Maunganui. This beach town is home to some of New Zealand’s most popular nightclubs, including the world-famous Disco Bay. There’s also a range of bars and restaurants that stay open late, so you can keep the party going all night long.

No matter what type of beach holiday you’re looking for, New Zealand has something for everyone. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife, New Zealand is the perfect destination for your next beach holiday. So if you’re looking for a beach holiday that’s both beautiful and unique, then New Zealand is the perfect place to go.

Business Profile

Fortis Caravans NZ

10 Downing Street, Takaro, 

Palmerston North 4412, 

New Zealand

+61 492 930 668

www.fortiscaravans.co.nz 

Experience the ultimate Australian-made caravan with Fortis Caravans NZ. With our range of luxurious and affordable caravans, you can enjoy the great outdoors while still being comfortable. Visit us today to explore our selection and find the perfect caravan for you.

About us:

Fortis Caravans NZ is the only retailer of Australian-made Urban Caravans in New Zealand. We have been providing New Zealanders with premium caravans for over 10 years. Our wide range of caravans is perfect for all types of travelers, from budget-minded adventurers to five-star luxury seekers. We pride ourselves on the quality of our products, and all of our Urban Caravans are built to the highest standards and come with a 2-year manufacturer's warranty. Whether you're looking for a caravan for a weekend getaway or a long-term journey, our team at Fortis Caravans NZ can help you find the perfect caravan for your needs.

[cat-connor]

Welcome home!

I’m back from Tauranga and family time with my oldest daughter. It was my first time in Tauranga and suffice to say I was underwhelmed by the hill they call Mount Maunganui. Seriously, The Mount? Yes, there are pretty beaches though.Anywho, was good to be with Bex and her family. Now I’m home and it’s business as usual �� except the first thing I did this morning was knock my French press over and…

[venuefindernz]

Your Dream Wedding in Tauranga: A Guide to the Best Venues

Tauranga, with its scenic coastline, lush gardens, and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for couples looking to tie the knot. Whether you're after a beachside ceremony, a charming garden venue, or something a bit more unique, Tauranga offers an array of picturesque spots for your dream wedding. In this guide, we’ll explore the best venues Tauranga has to offer, providing tips and insights to help you plan the perfect day.

1. The Allure of a Beach Wedding in Tauranga

One of the most popular choices for a Dream Wedding in Tauranga is a beachside ceremony. With Tauranga’s breathtaking coastline and golden sands, it’s easy to see why so many couples gravitate towards the beach. Imagine saying “I do” with the sound of waves crashing behind you and the sun setting over the horizon. It’s a romantic setting like no other.

Choosing a beach venue for your wedding offers many advantages. For one, the natural beauty of the surroundings often means you can keep your decor minimal. Nature itself becomes your backdrop, from the bright blue skies to the shimmering waters. Additionally, Tauranga’s beaches offer plenty of space, making them ideal for larger wedding parties.

However, there are some considerations when planning a beach wedding. Always have a backup plan in case of unpredictable weather. Consider the time of year, the tides, and even the wind direction. But with a little planning and flexibility, a beach wedding in Tauranga can be as magical as you’ve always imagined.

2. Garden Venues: Embrace Nature’s Beauty

For couples who prefer a more enclosed natural setting, Tauranga is home to some stunning garden venues. These venues provide the perfect balance of nature and structure, with manicured lawns, blooming flowers, and intimate pathways that offer the ultimate romantic atmosphere.

Garden weddings allow for more privacy compared to public beaches. They often come with built-in amenities such as seating areas, restrooms, and reception spaces. Venues like Te Puna Quarry Park and Mount Maunganui’s Botanical Gardens offer stunning settings for ceremonies, with vibrant flowers and gorgeous views.

When considering a garden wedding in Tauranga, be sure to visit the venue at the time of year you’re planning to get married. You’ll want to see what flowers are in bloom and get a sense of the lighting and layout. Additionally, many garden venues offer wedding packages, which can include everything from floral arrangements to catering services, making the planning process easier.

3. Historic Venues: Add a Touch of Elegance

If you want your Dream Wedding in Tauranga to have an air of sophistication and history, look no further than the region’s historic venues. These locations, rich in architectural detail and charm, offer a sense of timelessness that many couples find appealing.

A standout option is the Elms Mission House, one of the oldest historic buildings in New Zealand. Its lush gardens, beautiful interiors, and intimate atmosphere make it a wonderful choice for couples looking for something classic yet unique. The Historic Village Tauranga is another popular spot, offering a rustic setting with its heritage buildings and charming streets.

Historic venues often come with their own set of rules, especially regarding decor and capacity. However, the payoff is a wedding steeped in character and grace. When choosing a historic venue, be sure to ask about any restrictions and take time to appreciate the historical significance of your chosen location.

4. Unique Venues for a One-of-a-Kind Wedding

For couples who want their Dream Wedding in Tauranga to stand out from the rest, Tauranga offers some truly unique venues that go beyond the typical beach or garden ceremony. From wineries to art galleries, these spaces provide a distinctive setting that reflects your personality as a couple.

Consider hosting your wedding at Mills Reef Winery. With its sprawling vineyards, this venue offers a romantic, yet modern atmosphere, perfect for couples who love wine and beautiful surroundings. Another unique option is the Tauranga Art Gallery, where contemporary art becomes the backdrop for your wedding photos.

When selecting a unique venue, think about what reflects your personal style. Do you want something modern, quirky, or vintage? Unique venues may offer more flexibility with your theme and decor, allowing you to craft a wedding experience that’s entirely your own.

5. Destination Weddings: Make Tauranga a Wedding Holiday

For couples looking to combine their wedding and honeymoon, a destination wedding in Tauranga is the perfect solution. With its warm climate, scenic views, and ample accommodations, Tauranga offers a holiday atmosphere that both you and your guests will love.

Planning a destination wedding requires attention to detail. Consider the logistics of getting your guests to Tauranga and booking accommodation early, as Tauranga can be a popular tourist destination, especially during peak wedding season. Venues like Trinity Wharf Tauranga provide not only a beautiful setting for your ceremony but also top-notch accommodation for you and your guests.

If you’re planning a smaller, more intimate wedding, Tauranga’s boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts offer charming options that can be tailored to your needs. Whether you're dreaming of a beachfront villa or a cozy lodge surrounded by nature, Tauranga has it all for your destination wedding.

6. The Importance of Wedding Packages in Tauranga

Finally, as you plan your Dream Wedding in Tauranga, consider the benefits of wedding packages offered by many venues in the region. Wedding packages simplify the planning process by bundling services such as catering, photography, and decor into one convenient deal.

Venues like Trinity Wharf and Classic Flyers Aviation Museum offer all-inclusive wedding packages that can help relieve some of the stress associated with wedding planning. These packages often come with customizable options, so you can ensure that your wedding reflects your vision while staying within your budget.

When comparing packages, always consider what’s included and how it aligns with your priorities. Is the catering provided by the venue up to your standards? Do they offer flexibility with decor or a choice of spaces for both the ceremony and reception? By asking the right questions and working closely with venue coordinators, you can create a seamless wedding experience that fulfills your dreams.

Conclusion

Planning your Dream Wedding in Tauranga is an exciting journey. Whether you envision a serene beach ceremony, a garden celebration surrounded by nature, or something completely unique, Tauranga offers a wealth of options for every couple. By exploring venues, considering logistics, and taking advantage of wedding packages, you can make your wedding day truly magical.

Remember to visit your shortlisted venues in person, ask the right questions, and ensure that the space aligns with your vision for the perfect wedding. With careful planning and the right venue, your dream wedding in Tauranga will be an unforgettable event for you, your partner, and your guests.

Source BY: Planning your Dream Wedding in Tauranga

[onlinevisauk]

Top 5 Best Beaches in New Zealand

1. Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula

Cathedral Cove is famous for its natural rock arch and stunning scenery. Accessible by boat, kayak, or a short hike, the beach features white sand, clear turquoise water, and dramatic cliffs. It's a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring sea caves. https://www.onlinevisa.uk/new-zealand-eta

2. Piha Beach, Auckland

Located on the west coast near Auckland, Piha Beach is known for its rugged beauty and powerful surf. The black sand beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and Lion Rock, a prominent volcanic monolith. It's a favorite spot for surfers and those who enjoy dramatic coastal landscapes. https://www.onlinevisa.uk/new-zealand-eta

3. Hot Water Beach, Coromandel Peninsula

Hot Water Beach is unique due to its geothermal activity. During low tide, visitors can dig their own hot pools in the sand, as hot water bubbles up from beneath the surface. It's a popular destination for a relaxing soak, as well as for swimming and surfing. https://www.onlinevisa.uk/new-zealand-eta

4. Ninety Mile Beach, Northland

Despite its name, Ninety Mile Beach is actually around 55 miles (88 kilometers) long. This expansive stretch of golden sand is a designated highway, where you can drive along the beach. It's famous for its beautiful sunsets, excellent fishing, and sandboarding on the dunes. https://www.onlinevisa.uk/new-zealand-eta

5. Mount Maunganui Main Beach, Bay of Plenty

Mount Maunganui, or "The Mount," is a popular holiday destination with a beautiful main beach that's perfect for swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball. The beach is backed by a vibrant town with cafes, restaurants, and shops. A hike up the Mount offers panoramic views of the coastline. https://www.onlinevisa.uk/new-zealand-eta

[noahaboud]

When researching for content for my upcoming final posters, for a while I was stuck on what I should use. Since my poster include ocean based visual aspects, I tried to find facts or anything unique to Mount Maunganui's' ocean, however I could not find anything substantial. So I researched the next best thing, boats. Growing up every year going to our beach house at the Mount, there was a constant influx of tankers and cruise ships, especially in the summer. Whether your walking along the beach or around the mount, there's always at least 3 tankers in sight on the horizon approaching the port. The view from our house you can see the cruise ships docked up as well which I though was always really interesting. So for my final posters, I'm going to use the two facts in the image above as they both relate to the Mount which is my theme, and also my ocean visual aspects.

[ardn716brookethomson]

Best Images

The top images are the best from Papamoa beach, focusing on the waves and forms.

These images are of a learning surf school at Maunganui Beach, where I experimented with different angles, views and perspectives to catch the surfers. Most of the surfers in this group were women which further relates to the content of the Betty Zines.