Archive for the 'TRENZ' Category
So Long For Now, New Zealand
Posted by Ruth Atherley on May 14, 2012 at 1:42 pm
This is always a sad post to write. Each year, we have the absolute privilege to meet and spend time with some of the most amazing people in New Zealand… and many of those people have become good friends.
It is always hard to say good-bye – to a country that is so open and welcoming to visitors, and that offers so much to see, do, eat and drink. We have had the opportunity to visit New Zealand several times now thanks to Tourism New Zealand, Trade Industry Association NZ and TRENZblog and each time, we realize how much there is to do there. We’re still not anywhere near done experiencing what this great place has to offer visitors.
As this year’s TRENZBLOG comes to a close (although it will remain up as a resource) – we want to say thank you to all the great tour operators who took the time to host us, to share your vision and what you want visitors to your area to experience. New Zealand is one of those magical places that makes you feel completely at home and yet is so different, there is magic around every corner. We’ll miss our friends (both new and old) and we’ll miss the fun and cheeky approach to life that is distinctly Kiwi.
Good-bye for now, New Zealand. We’ll be thinking of you often.
Click here to see some fun candid shots. It wasn’t all work…
Here is a funny video from our time with Eco Wanaka Adventures.
Here is an amusing video from our time on The Rock Bay of Islands Overnight Cruise.
No Trip to NZ is Complete Without Hawke’s Bay
Posted by Ruth Atherley on May 14, 2012 at 1:04 pm
While we didn’t visit Hawke’s Bay on this trip to New Zealand, we did have a chance to catch up with the Hawke’s Bay team at TRENZ. Full of fun, adventure and a cheeky Kiwi approach to life – it’s always a highlight to hear what is happening in Hawke’s Bay.
Hawke’s Bay has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. And it is home to Napier, one of the most fabulous Art Deco cities in the world. It also has a wide-range of fabulous wineries and restaurants, the country’s oldest farmers’ market, great cycling trails (you can do a wine tour on bicycle!) and world-class golf courses like Cape Kidnappers – which along with an exceptional golf course also has the largest mainland gannet colony.
Hawke’s Bay is an exceptional place filled with amazing things to do, see, eat and drink, and it is home to some of the most amazing people in the whole world. It’s a “must do” when in New Zealand.
Even New Zealand Prime Minister John Key thinks so. Not only did he sample a Hawke’s Bay apple while he toured TRENZ, he confided in our Hawke’s Bay Tourism pal Vicky Roebuck that he was heading to Hawke’s Bay that very weekend. “Sweet as,” I say.
Christchurch and Canterbury Want You To Visit!
Posted by Ruth Atherley on May 14, 2012 at 12:47 pm
The Christchurch and Canterbury region is spectacular. And, true to the resilient and creative Kiwi character, Christchurch has taken their earthquake challenges and turned them around into some great opportunities for visitors.
They have exciting redevelopment plans for the quake-damaged Central Business District (CBD), which has been given the green-light by the New Zealand Government – and there is a commitment to have them blue-print ready for the rebuild by July. Under the blueprint, the CBD will be transformed into a green, mostly low-rise, resilient, safe and sustainable place with distinct precincts, each with its own character and feel.
Christchurch is taking a creative approach to rebuilding – the pop-up malls have been a big hit. For those who haven’t seen it yet, the pop-up malls are bars, restaurants and boutique shops that are housed in funky, colourful shipping containers that are grouped to create a small retail community. In fact, The Re:Start development showcases almost 30 retailers in a colourful labyrinth that is very popular with locals and visitors. So cool.
Also very cool – Christchurch is getting a “cardboard” cathedral. Yep, that’s right – a cathedral made of cardboard. Designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, the cardboard cathedral is a new symbol of hope for Christchurch. It’s intended to last well over 20 years and will be made of cardboard tubes, timber beams, structural steel and a concrete pad. It will have a seating capacity for 700 people.
For Canterbury, there is some exciting news that is expected to happen soon. The people of the region are waiting to hear whether its bid to have part of the Mackenzie basin turned into the Southern Hemisphere’s first internationally recognized starlight reserve will succeed.
The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) is considering establishing the Aoraki Mackenzie Starlight Reserve, centred on Canterbury University’s Mt. John Observatory, at Tekapo, where you can observe 50 million stars on a clear night. We have our fingers crossed for our friends in the Christchurch Canterbury region.
Christchurch is a vibrant, picturesque city surrounded by natural wonders – the sparkling Pacific Ocean, majestic Southern Alps and an ancient volcanic peninsula. Discover Canterbury’s lush vineyards, pristine glacial lakes, world-class natural wildlife experiences and Mount Cook National Park – all part of this region of remarkable contrasts.
From penguins to paua, from encounters with dolphins and albatross to whale watching cruises, Christchurch and the Canterbury region are well-known for their special marine environment and opportunities to view and interact with wildlife.
Experience an amazing up-close encounter with New Zealand’s largest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. Explore the fascinating glacial landscape and the ever-changing ice face of the glacier. The lake is dotted with icebergs and the boat passes by so close you can almost touch them.
There are endless things to see and do in Christchurch, from city attractions to national parks. Your challenge is in choosing how to make the most of your time in the heart of the South Island.
Click here to see additional images.
Serene, Stylish, Sexy, Posh…And, Oh So Comfy
Posted by Ruth Atherley on May 14, 2012 at 11:40 am
The Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel offers sophisticated, luxury lodge-style accommodation right on the edge of Lake Rotorua, with a backdrop of mature gardens. The Black Swan fuses classic sophistication and contemporary chic, with personalized lodge-style service.
We have had the privilege of getting to know the proprietors of this lovely property – and last year stayed at their urban hotel – the Regent of Rotoura (which is more than fabulous). While we haven’t had a chance to stay at the Black Swan (yet) – we have heard amazing things about it from a few friends and colleagues who have. Here are some of the words we heard to describe the property: “exceptional,” “glorious,” “incredible,” “amazing” and “best place ever.” All I can say is that knowing Brent and Darryn and their unwavering commitment to excellence combined with comfort – the Black Swan is the choice to make when it comes to boutique accommodation in Rotorua. (Although we do have to say that a stay at the Regent of Rotorua is in order too!)
The Black Swan has expansive grounds that include a rose garden, sweeping lawns, a swimming pool, sauna, secret grotto, sandy beach, private jetty, heli-pad and eight guest rooms. The eight luxurious rooms are beautifully appointed with stunning views over the lake or gardens. Focusing on contemporary Pacific fusion food, the Black Swan offers its guests the opportunity to dine overlooking the lake or to request private dining in the conservatory, grotto or gardens.
Although situated in an oasis of calm, the Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel is only a five-minute drive from the Rotorua city centre and a 20-minute drive from Rotorua International Airport. The Black Swan is the perfect place to stay in, relax and savour the sumptuous facilities; although if you wish to venture out, there are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy including lake cruises, fishing trips and float plane scenic flights from the private jetty or a helicopter sightseeing trip from the heli-pad.
Whether for business or pleasure, experience exceptional lakefront living, luxury accommodations, exquisite dining and the finest amenities… and just disappear for awhile.
Click here to see additional images.
Perhaps the Most Beautiful Hotel View – Eichardt’s
Posted by Ruth Atherley on May 14, 2012 at 11:26 am
Paul enjoyed a hotel site visit to Eichardt’s in Queenstown during a TRENZ familiarization afternoon. The group was treated to a wonderful wine tasting, with the best wine being the Eichardt’s Pinot Noir.
Below is Paul’s report.
There are few luxury hotels in the world that could rival the spectacular setting of Eichardt’s. The hotel opens up to reveal the breathtaking panorama of the surrounding mountain ranges. Stepping onto a balcony of their top suite, all I could say was “Wow!”
Eichardt’s Bar, a Queenstown icon and a local favourite since 1867, has atmosphere, history and ambience. With its comfortable sofas, fireplace and gracious service, the bar provides a welcoming and stylish environment for sampling mouth-watering creations and timeless cocktails. And Eichardt’s signature lunch dishes, tapas, and breakfast menus feature fresh and organic produce sourced from the very best local growers. Eichardt’s chefs have built a loyal following for consistently delicious and ever-inspiring dishes. And I can attest to that. We had many wonderful canapés with our wine selection.
Please click here to see additional images.
