Best Spots for Family-friendly Skiing Holidays in New Zealand

Planning a holiday with kids can be a bit of a head scratcher, as finding activities for all parties to enjoy is a difficult balancing act, as there’s a limited supply of destinations offering fun for the whole family. Thankfully, winter provides us with an easy solution, and when it comes to skiing in New Zealand we’ve got you covered. And while you’re planning your winter holidays, keep in mind that you can always find a free campervan that will allow your family to travel in style even if you are on a tight budget.

Cardrona Alpine Resort

Even though its outside face is primarily aimed at experienced skiers, Cardrona offers plenty for the entire family. The resort provides a ski school for the younglings and the less experienced, and there’s a number of beginner runs to hone your skiing skills. Of course, if the parents or the children are already well-versed in the arts of snow, Cardrona has some of the finest skiing facilities in this part of the world. As an added bonus, families can actually sleep on the mountain, unlike many other skiing resorts in NZ, which makes it far easier for the family to reach skiing tracks.

The Remarkables

With the majority of its facilities consisting of relatively easy tracks intended for beginners and intermediate skiers, The Remarkables are an ideal winter destination for the whole family, regardless of its collective skiing level. And if, by chance, you have a daredevil or two among your ranks, they’ll be happy to explore the three terrain parks dedicated to ski and board acrobatics. It is a bit further from Queenstown than some other options, but certainly worthy of extra mileage.

Snow Farm New Zealand

If you are looking to introduce your young’uns to the magic of snow, circle Snow Farm on your map! The resort caters to winter casuals, as it is completely free of any nasty slopes and tracks that require a high skill level. Snow Farm New Zealand is there for the simple winter pleasures, like building a snowman or enjoying a good old snow fight. And if you’d still like a bit of physical activity on your holiday, the resort also offers a number of groomed trails for cross country skiing.

Treble Cone

Blessed with the longest vertical runs in all of the South Island, Treble Cone is a dream come true for experienced skiers and winter adventurists. Fortunately for families, it offers a diverse set of trails suitable for all skill levels. The less versed can also use a free chair lift, while the maestros can enjoy some of the numerous steep slopes on offer, and even go off map and explore the less beaten paths without the hassle of a crowded track.

Coronet Peak

Finally, we’re topping the list off with a skiing resort capable of meeting the needs of the whole family with Coronet Peak . About a quarter of its facilities is reserved for beginner trails, making it a perfect starting point for an education in skiing or snowboarding, particularly if you factor in the early learning centre for children of six and under. This comes handy if you’d like some alone time while being sure that your kids are safe and cared for.

At the same time, the resort provides a number of testing runs for skilled skiers, while on weekends you can also enjoy a bit of night skiing. And even if your children (or any other family members) care not a thing for skiing, they can still enjoy some winter magic in the form of a tubing park for sliding downhill on large inflatables.

New Zealand provides a number of phenomenal winter facilities to suit all types of enthusiasts and travellers. Make sure you take everyone’s interests and abilities into account before you make your decision, and don’t forget – that free transfer campervan is still waiting!

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Having a Blast in Dunedin: A Wallet-Friendly Guide

Calmly staring at what seems to be the edge of the world, nestled in the southeast region of New Zeeland’s South Island, lies the city of Dunedin. Praised for its diverse cultural heritage and magnificent architectural and natural scenery, the city and its surrounding landscape present an idyllic couple’s getaway, or even a perfect adventure destination for young travellers. With so much to see and plenty to do in this thriving town, the only thing left is to grab a free transfer car and kick-start your budget-friendly exploration of Dunedin.

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Experience the wildlife

Going to a zoo can be expensive, but witnessing the vibrant wildlife in all its glory along the walking paths around town is one activity that’s completely free of charge. Walking the beautiful beaches, and especially visiting the Otago Peninsula will grant you access to some of the most breathtaking sceneries, conveniently accommodating rich and diverse wildlife. Here you will get the chance to see exotic bird species, sea lions frolicking on the beach, penguins, and seals. Do remember to keep your distance though, and admire from afar.

 

Ride the waves at St Clair Beach

St Clair Beach is a true surfer’s paradise located just a few minutes from the city centre. The honey-hued beach provides the perfect backdrop for the expansive sea ahead and its roaring waves that readily welcome a diverse community of surf aficionados. Naturally, surfing here is completely free if you bring your own gear. If not, don’t worry, you can rent out a wetsuit and a surfboard for a reasonable price of $40.

Hunt for street art

Time to delve into the heart of the city and walk the Dunedin Street Art Trail that gives this beautiful city its unique charm and splendor. So pick up a map and head out on a street art treasure hunt around town, discovering the international works of art that grace over 28 facades and tackle numerous artistic, social, and political questions of the modern world. This wonderful little excursion should take more than 90 minutes out of your day.

Cycle the Numerous Bike Trails

Among numerous outdoor adventures the town has to offer, mountain biking has got to be one of the most adrenaline-fueled activities you can enjoy for free. Provided that you don’t forget to bring your own bike. There are plenty of exhilarating tracks to challenge your coordination and cycling skills, like the Signal Hill reserve, the Swampy summit circuit, and the Chain Hills road track. If you’re in need of a trusty set of wheels, though, you can hire a bike for the day for about $30.

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Visit the Botanic Gardens

An absolute must-see attraction for all nature lovers among you is the Dunedin Botanic Garden, home to more than 6,000 plant species, all beautifully and meticulously arranged for your viewing pleasure along various walking paths each more breathtaking than the last. Enjoy a rejuvenating cup of coffee at the local café and revel in the beauty of exotic birds chirping from the neighbouring aviaries.

And the Otago Museum

Dunedin is known for its Scottish and Maori cultural heritage, with the town proudly and devotedly preserving the legacy of these native peoples in the Otago Museum. The best part? Not only is the exhibition rich and diverse enough to be enjoyed for hours on end, but the museum is also free. However, you have the option of supporting the workings of the museum with a small contribution of $10.

Revel in the Beauty of the Southern Lights

Few natural wonders can compare with the awe-inspiring beauty of Aurora Australis, more popularly known as the Southern Lights, sometimes visible from the shores of the southern hemisphere. Among the few places where this natural phenomenon is visible in New Zealand, the Dunedin region offers a spectacularly colourful view of the never—ending cosmos above. Visit the Otago Peninsula and Tunnel Beach when solar activity is expected to be highest.

Dunedin is a thriving city rich with numerous sightseeing spots and breathtaking natural wonders looking to steal your heart away and give you an adventure of a lifetime. If you want to experience the region in its entirety, be sure to find a free car or campervan to make the most out of your Dunedin escapade.

 

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The Ultimate Penguin-spotting Guide to New Zealand

Teeming with exotic animal species and wonderful opportunities for wildlife sightseeing across the map, New Zealand is a true save haven for nature enthusiasts and mindful travellers of the world. Among the country’s rich and diverse wildlife scene, the “impeccably dressed” penguins can be found in abundance, frolicking on the sun-laden beaches and swimming the crystal-clear waters beyond. However, New Zealand is a vast country, so if you want to reach all of the following destinations with ease, it’s best you find a free transfer car or campervan to ensure an adventure to remember.

The Marlborough Sounds

Located in at the north end of the South Island, Marlborough Sounds is comprised of an extensive network of sea-drowned valleys too beautiful not to be visited at least once in a lifetime. But what this magnificent region has to offer is not solely confined to riveting vistas, as it’s also the home of little blue penguins, as well as dolphins, seals, and even whales. Taking a boat cruise through the natural maze is the best way to experience it all.

Dunedin

The city of Dunedin is not only the home of a thriving community of student’s, nomads, and global backpackers, but it is also the place you want to visit on your penguin sightseeing tour around the country. Located in the southeast end of the South Island, the town offers numerous wildlife exploration tours where you are bound to see yellow-eyed penguins enjoying a warm afternoon.

The Banks Peninsula

image3 (1)Located just outside of Christchurch in the Southern Island, the Banks Peninsula is home to the largest colony of little blue penguins. The region of Canterbury is also the only place you can find the white-flippered penguins as well, so this destination is a double must! The Banks Peninsula has plenty of sightseeing spots from which you will be to admire the little blue penguins in their natural habitat.

Munro Beach

Munro Beach is situated some 30 kilometres from Haast in the South Island, and is by far the best place to find the world’s second rarest penguin species, the Fiordland-crested penguin also known as Tawaki. Although the chances of actually spotting one are not that great, the sheer beauty of the region and the possibility of witnessing this remarkable species makes the trip worthwhile.

Oamaru

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Popularly named “Penguintown”, Oamaru is the largest town in the North Otago region, and is a great place to see blue and yellow-eyed penguins nestling along the coastline just before sunset. Be sure to keep your distance though, so as not to disturb their peace.

 

The Catlins

Travelling further south and we find ourselves at the shores of the Catlins Coast, home to the yellow-eyed penguin as well as numerous other marine species. The best spot to see the beautiful creatures in their natural habitat is at Curio Bay at dawn or dusk when the parents are feeding their younglings. No matter how inspiring the scenery might feel, be sure to adhere to the distance rules pointed out at Curio Bay in order to avoid disturbing the penguins.

Stewart Island

Rakiura, or Stewart Island, is the third-largest island in New Zealand, located 30 kilometres south of the South Island. It’s also home to numerous exotic bird species and is the place you should absolutely visit on your exploration tour in hopes of seeing the yellow-eyed penguins as well as the little blue penguins on its shores. If you want to improve your chances of spotting these beautiful creatures, head over to Oban located in Halfmoon Bay on the eastern fringe of the island.

 

New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to revel in the beauty of thousands of exotic animal species and penguins are just the cherry on the cake. In order to reach every destination safely and quickly, you can get a free transfer car that will help you experience an adventure of a lifetime.

 

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Best Ways for Students to Travel around New Zealand Cheaper

New Zealand is a popular tourist destination for international tourists. It is a country with untouched nature, fascinating culture, and gorgeous beaches. Even though New Zealand is relatively far away and a plane ticket might cost you a lot, it doesn’t mean that traveling around should be expensive as well. You can explore this destination without spending too much money.

So if you are a student who is working with a limited travel budget, there is no need to worry because you can get around without breaking a bank. There are many affordable options out there that will allow you to experience this beautiful country to the fullest.

Public transport

Every major city in New Zealand has public bus routes which will take you almost anywhere in a matter of minutes (or hours). The ticket prices are not so high either, and you can save up some money by purchasing daily passes that will allow you to ride the bus throughout the day. Not to forget that some places offer free bus shuttles in the downtown area. These are excellent options for students who are not keen on guided tours but want to visit popular sights during their visit.

Intercity coach buses

While train travel is not very popular in New Zealand, especially among the younger crowd, busses are definitely the best way to move around the country. The bus companies operating in New Zealand really did their best to expand the available bus lines, and you can get almost anywhere on the islands. Yes, the bus rides might be a bit lengthy, especially if you are traveling to another side of New Zealand, but the tickets are very budget friendly which is suitable for students.

Since there are many backpackers visiting New Zealand, a couple of bus companies offer special passes for them as well. They are even more affordable, so consider getting one if you are trying to stay within your budget. You will get more than one ride with the pass, and it will also cover the cost of the ferry between the islands. It is good to remember that the prices of bus tickets are cheaper during the offseason. So if you don’t mind traveling to New Zealand in slightly colder months, you can get a great deal when it comes to the bus tickets.

Hop-on-hop-off buses

Created especially for the younger travelers, these buses are very convenient and affordable. The buses have planned routes and several stops along the way. You can hop off at any location you find interesting, spend a couple of days there, and then hop back on to another bus that is traveling on the schedule. You are supposed to take care of the food and accommodation yourself, so it is not a guided tour through the country. What makes hop-on-hop-off buses ideal for students? The tickets are cheap, and you will be in charge of your entire trip. So if you feel like exploring a place, simply get off the bus, and continue the ride later. Plus, you will meet a lot of new people who are traveling around New Zealand.

Train

As previously mentioned, trains are not commonly used by tourists in New Zealand. They only connect the major cities, which is a deal breaker for many travelers who want to experience nature. On the other hand, train rides are quite exciting in New Zealand due to the gorgeous nature and breathtaking views you can experience while traveling. The tickets are more expensive when compared to the buses, and you have a limited number of destinations you can visit, but you will experience New Zealand from a whole new perspective.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is not a popular way of transportation in a lot of countries around the globe, but it is legal in New Zealand, and many people use it to get around. According to a travel writer David Jones from ProWriting, it is an excellent way to meet new people and get to your destination without spending any money. The locals are very friendly and willing to pick up hitchhikers as well. However, keep in mind that you might end up waiting a bit while trying to get a ride. So if you are on a tight schedule, consider using another means of travel … like using a FREE RENTAL CAR booked on www.transfercar.co.nz.
And always be on a lookout because hitchhiking can also be risky.

>Free rental cars

Yes… that’s probably the best solution you could ever dream of… and it is a reality!

Conclusion

New Zealand is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places you can visit. It is a blend of magical landscapes, welcoming locals, and interesting cultures. Tourists of all ages come here throughout the year, regardless of the season. If you want to visit New Zealand, but you don’t have unlimited resources, you need to be knowledgeable about the different means of traveling on the islands. There are many ways to explore New Zealand without blowing your budget, so use them to your advantage, and enjoy your time in this enchanting place.

Lucy Benton is a writing coach, an editor who finds her passion in expressing own thoughts as a blogger, and currently works at www.assignmenthelper.com.au. She is constantly looking for the ways to improve her skills and expertise. If you’re interested in working with Lucy, you can find her on Twitter.

The Freedom Camping Guide to New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the most camper-friendly countries in the world, and there’s no better place to take your campervan or motorhome than out and about exploring the natural wonders of NZ. Freedom camping is becoming increasingly popular as the years go by, and today we’re going to share with you some common dos and don’ts of freedom camping, as well as some amazing spots you can call your home for a couple of days.

What is freedom camping?

In essence, freedom camping means you can set up camp somewhere outside the official camping grounds. Now, this doesn’t make it illegal, but you could end up paying substantial fines if you set up camp where freedom camping is not allowed.

When you do find a free camping site, you want to make sure you have all the necessities at hand and that you follow the rules and act responsibly, or you’ll have to deal with a disgruntled parks officer. While there are hundreds of free holiday camping sites scattered across the two islands, you can also make use of the affordable powered camping sites if you find yourself unable to find a place to freedom camp for any reason whatsoever.

It’s all about a responsible behaviour and common sense   

Your motorhome needs to be self-contained to meet the freedom camping criteria. You should also act in accordance with the following rules:

  • Do not leave traces of your visit. Unfortunately, some people have treated different public spots quite poorly in the past, forcing local communities to make those places ‘No Camping’ zones. So simply clean up after yourself as you don’t want to spoil it for others.
  • Never use waterways or the bush as a toilet. This is pretty self-explanatory, so make use of either your campervan toilet or public toilets.
  • Obey the ‘No Camping’ sign (unless you’re OK with being handed an on-the-spot fine).
  • Keep soap, toothpaste, detergents and other chemicals out of the waterways (having a bath in a lake is out of question, then).
  • Use approved dump stations to dispose of waste.

Now that you understand that freedom camping does require certain equipment and adequate provisions and a conscious behaviour, here are my top five spots.

Puketapu

Image2Located just outside Napier in Hawkes Bay is Puketapu Park, a freedom camping zone perfect for families and group activities. You can stay for up to two nights, but you will have to keep the place clean. The place has a great playground for children, it’s riddled with trees and greenery, and you can make frequent visits to the village itself, Napier and its beaches.

Koha

Unlike the previous camping site, Koha campgrounds do not have toilets on site, so your motorhome really needs to be self-contained. Otherwise, the camping ground is a beautiful riverbank natural oasis where you can stay for a single night. The gates open at 3pm and close at 8pm.

The only thing you need to do it to rate them on social media and give your feedback, and you’ve welcome to camp!

Lake Pukaki

image3The breathtakingly beautiful scenery of Lake Pukaki, largely influenced by the unreal blue colour of the water created by glacial flour, is the perfect place to freedom camp with the family of your significant other. You’ll have the chance to wake up each morning with some magnificent views, and all of you Lord of the Rings fans will be happy to know that The Hobbit trilogy was filmed here.

Upper Waitohi

Waitohi is a great place for those of you looking to find a peaceful camping site, and stay there for the entire holiday. With up to fourteen days at your disposal, the only thing you need to do is refrain from lighting any fires, and leave the grounds as you found them.

Oh, and no pets allowed for some reason, so that’s a bummer, but a wonderful experience for nature lovers and backpacking enthusiasts as you will be going on long excursions into the great outdoors.

Port Ohope Reserve

Image4Finally, Port Ohope, situated in the Whakatane region of the North Island, is a lovely quiet place on the shore, perfect for a couple’s getaway. You can stay for up to two nights, and there’s even a toilet block just a brisk walk from the site, but unfortunately there is no playground for children. Be sure to bring your snorkelling gear though.

There’s nothing quite like soaking in the charm and beauty of NZ’s countryside in the summer, so grab your free campervan, act responsibly, don’t forget you camera, and let the good times roll!

 

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6 Coastal Towns You Need to Visit in New Zealand

New Zealand is lucky enough to boast an impressive 15,000 kilometers of coastline. That makes it the 9th longest coastline in the world! This means there is no shortage of coastal towns just waiting to be explored.  

New Zealand’s small coastal towns are some of the most inviting, laid-back and surprising places in the world. Every little town boasts its own special little something that the locals are proud of.

I could create an endless list of towns that you need to visit in New Zealand, however, this list is of my favorite 6 coastal towns in New Zealand. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!  

1: Raglan

Raglan is one of my personal favorite coastal towns in New Zealand. There are a couple of main reasons why.

The first is the Raglan Fish fish and chip shop. Anyone will (or should) tell you that New Zealand is home to the world’s best fish and chips. In my opinion, Raglan Fish is New Zealand’s best fish n chip shop.

Grab a crumbed Snapper, a serving of fresh hand cut chips, a bottle of L&P, Watties sauce, crumbed mussels, scallops & oysters and you are in for one perfect classic kiwi dinner! Now all that’s left is to head down to Manu Bay to eat, check out the surf & watch the sun go down.

The second reason Raglan is so loved,  is due to  all the amazing cafes, boutiques & galleries that litter this little town. If you are lucky enough to be here on a weekday you will be constantly amazed by all the empty galleries.   

2: Kaikoura

Kaikoura

A list of the best coastal towns in New Zealand would not be complete without Kaikoura. Kaikoura is a laid back, trendy, and inviting town with lots of cool little surprises. Not to mention home to some of the warmest and welcoming people you will ever meet!

For those of you who like your sealife, you will be pleasantly surprised when arriving in Kaikoura. You will be welcomed by the local seals, penguins, dolphins and if you are lucky enough, maybe even a pod of whales passing by. Kaikoura is New Zealand’s home of whale watching. The season generally runs from November to March.

Kaikoura is also home to Point Kean, one of the awe inspiring lookouts. On a sunny day in winter or fall, you get the stunning view of the snow-capped mountains, the lush green farmland, Kaikoura town and the South Pacific Ocean, it’s really is magical.

3: New Plymouth

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New Plymouth is a playground for those who love a healthy and active lifestyle. Situated on the North Island’s wild West Coast, New Plymouth is set right at the foot of the glorious Mt Taranaki and wedged up next to the Tasman Sea. w Plymouth is famous for several things; the incredible 12.7km coastal walkway, the abundance of cafes, coffee shops & restaurants and the 105km state or ‘Surf’ Highway 45 coastal road. Surf Highway 45 heads south and boasts over 100 surf spots and endless options of beaches, coves and sand dunes.

If camping is your thing, New Plymouth has some amazing campgrounds and free camping options. Most of which with a stunning beach and mountain view. Sitting back with a glass of wine at your beachside campsite watching the sun go down is very hard to beat!   

4: Bluff

BluffBluff is pretty much as far south as you can get on the mainland of New Zealand. Bluff is mainly famous for one thing. Oysters. The oysters from Bluff are world famous and are a must for anyone that visits New Zealand.

The best spot to get some fresh Bluff oysters is Fowler Oysters. This little shop is amazing. The friendliest service you will ever receive, swiftly followed by the freshest & tastiest oysters you have ever set your eyes on, and at only $24 NZD a dozen for A grade you really can’t go wrong.

Bluff is also home to Stirling Point, the southernmost point in New Zealand. Here you will find a great lookout and the classic signpost depicting distances to major cities all over the world. There is also 2 awesome scenic walks, the Foveaux Walk & the Glory Track. Both worth checking out if you have the time.

5: Coromandel

coromandelCoromandel is one of the most beautiful coastal towns on the North Island. Situated on the eastern tip of the North Island, Coromandel is surrounded by lots of beautiful beaches, coves and remote destinations.

My favorite spot is Ruffins Bay. Ruffins Bay is a beautiful private bay only accessible by boat or if you have a key to the private road. There are several small holiday rentals that are perfect for a little getaway. Make sure you bring your fishing rod, the fishing is always on at Ruffins!

The other cool attraction of Coromandel is the Driving Creek Railway. A narrow gauge train ride through the mountains and forests that surround the area. The railway 3 short tunnels, 2 spirals, and several viaducts. After winding up the hill you end up at the top with awesome views of the Island packed Hauraki Gulf.A really cool experience for any nature lover.

6: Ahipara

AhiparaRight at the southern end of the world famous 90 mile beach in New Zealand’s Northland Lays the sleepy little town of Ahipara.

Ahipara is a town full of rich history also home to one of the best sunsets anywhere in the world. You will be pleasantly surprised at the suns beautiful glow glistening over 90 mile beach.

Shipwreck Bay is a situated to the left of the township and at low tide, you will see the various shipwrecks. A beautiful bay to get some alone time and soak up some of that beautiful New Zealand sun.

This is a small snippet of beautiful coastal towns you could explore. Hopefully this list inspires you to get out there and check out the beautiful coastline of New Zealand and discover your own favourite ‘must visit’ spots.  

About the Author

Jay is a New Zealander who discovered the joys of food, travel and exploring in 2010, after deciding a traditional office job just wasn’t quite working out. Fast forward 7 years and 28 odd countries later, Jay finds himself living a nomadic lifestyle with his partner Brittnay. Currently living in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Together they travel around the world house & Pet sitting. They love to document their house sitting adventures, travels and favourite cheese & wine discoveries on their website The Travelling House Sitters and Instagram account.