Archive for the 'Nelson' Category

Nelson, New Zealand

Posted by Ruth Atherley on May 16, 2010 at 5:53 pm

I am really excited to be in Nelson. I have been to New Zealand twice before and haven’t had the opportunity, until now, to visit this small city.

The funny thing about this country, on a map, it looks like you can see the whole country in a long weekend. Ok, I am kidding, but one of the things I always hear from people is that they feel that they didn’t give themselves enough time in New Zealand. They add it on as a part of an Australia trip or they really do think they can see most of it in a week. There is so much to do here, it amazes me. If all you have is a week, it’s worth it, but once this country grabs you, you’ll be back. Back to Nelson…

I have listed some key points about this area below. To learn more and see some great images check out www.nelsonnz.com.

• Nelson is New Zealand’s second oldest city, settled in 1841.
• Nelson city rates consistently as New Zealand’s sunniest spot with over 2,500 sunshine hours per year.
• Nelson is home to 22 wineries, which benefit from the mild climate.
• Nelson city is the 10th most populous city and geographical centre of New Zealand.
• Nelson Tasman Region has a resident population of 87,000 (2001) – Nelson city has 43,500, and Tasman district also has 43,500.
• Six Iwi (Māori tribal groups) claim ancestral occupation rights, or rights of conquest over areas in the Nelson Region. These Iwi are Ngati Rarua, Ngati Tama, Te Atiawa, Ngati Koata, Ngati Kuia and Ngati Toa.
• Nelson is unique with three spectacular national parks all within a 90-minute drive of each other.
• Nelson is where you will find two of New Zealand’s Great Walks – Abel Tasman Coastal Track and Heaphy Track.

I will be back later with my experience in Nelson – keep in mind, it’s got 22 wineries. I might be a little late with my post.

Arriving in Auckland

Posted by Ruth Atherley on May 16, 2010 at 2:39 pm

I just landed in Auckland, which is on the North Island of New Zealand. Auckland is the largest and most populated city in New Zealand with a population approaching 1.4 million residents (31 percent of the country’s population).

I love Auckland. Perhaps it is because, coming from Vancouver, British Columbia I feel some similarities here. I think that’s the thing about New Zealand for those of us from North America, especially those of us from the Pacific Northwest – there are some similarities that make it feel comfortable and safe…and yet, it is different, exotic and like nothing we have at home.

I am not even leaving the Auckland airport today (no matter how much this amazing city beckons!) as I am on my way to Nelson and what I expect will be an excellent lunch at Waimea Estates. Then I am visiting Brian Flintoff, a carver of bone and traditional Maori musical instruments at his home/studio. Next I am touring the World of WearableArt Museum and the Classic Cars Gallery. Not bad for right off the plane!

I have found the best way to deal with jet lag is to jump into the day the moment you arrive in New Zealand. (On top of that just being good travel advice, the fact is, when I get here I have usually had a good sleep on the plane and really, I’m just too excited to be tired!)

…Although, considering we are staying at Warwick House known locally as “The Castle,” I am looking forward to tonight.  The Warwick House is one of New Zealand’s great architectural and historical gems, built in 1854. A truly grand and luxurious residence, it offers three newly refurbished large suites with private lounges, Victorian décor and period restored bathrooms. Breakfasts are served in the sunny Grand Ballroom or on the veranda overlooking Nelson City and Tasman Bay.

We have a couple of amazing choices for dinner. I know that my travel companion, Adriena Daunt (PR Manger for Tourism New Zealand in the U.S. and Canada) is concerned I might be too tired to go out, but I know I will be up for it. I only have 12 days in New Zealand and I am going to make the most of them. I can sleep when I get home!

I will let you know how the day goes. And tomorrow, I have a full day of kayaking and hiking adventures with Abel Tasman Kayaks.

I mean really, how great is my job?