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.

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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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Found only in New Zealand, the blue duck is a treat to see and hear. A torrent duck, it requires clear fast-flowing water like that which can be found in the Kaiwhakauka and Retaruke Rivers on Blue Duck Station – and approximately 20 of the 600 pairs can be found here.

Situated in a clearing above the banks of the Retaruke River, the fabulous Blue Duck Lodge looks out onto breathtaking views of native bush. This self-catering lodge offers a comfortable base for relaxing and enjoying the many outdoor activities on offer nearby, such as horse trekking, kayaking, jet boating, bush safaris, helicopter trips, hunting and so much more.

There is a great deal going on at Blue Duck Station. Those who visit tend to become connected to the lodge, the land and the wildlife for life. Their Facebook page is testament to that – check out the community they have going on there!

Your quest might be a fine bottle of wine, brunch in a café or an original piece of art. It may be enjoying the Matakana Farmers Market, exploring the shops along the river in Warkworth or Matakana Village, snorkelling among the fish in the crystal clear waters at Goat Island, horseback riding along white sandy beaches, or a round of golf at one of the area’s 18-hole golf courses.

Once the “fruitbowl of Auckland,” the Matakana Coast is now home to a flourishing wine industry. These are innovative, quality-focused wineries, small and mostly family-owned, some with cafes/platters. Each provides the visitor with an intimate opportunity to share the passion and products of the winemaker.

The region abounds with a startling array of fresh produce, often available from roadside stalls. From limes, avocados, herbs and persimmons to chestnuts, olives, venison and oysters, the area’s chefs are spoiled for choice. You can choose anything from a romantic candlelit dinner for two, to a country-pub meal with friends in front of a crackling fire.

At the end of a memorable day, return home to your choice of country accommodation. From luxury lodges, to boutique B&B’s, family motels and peaceful campsites, you will be treated like a long-lost friend rather than a visitor.

Whether you want to experience the thrilling activities of Auckland’s city of sails, relax with the calm views of Lake Taupo and the Tongariro National Park beyond or seek out adventure in the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Queenstown, Hilton Hotels & Resorts offer an easy solution in the best landscapes of New Zealand. And now with four properties between the North and South Islands, Hilton Hotels & Resorts lets your family tour around New Zealand in super comfort.

In Queenstown, Kawarau Village offers a range of dining and entertainment options, is only an eight-minute water taxi ride to the centre of Queenstown, and provides the closest accommodation to The Remarkables ski field.

Hilton Queenstown and Kawarau Hotel, managed by Hilton, are located in the heart of Kawarau Village, Queenstown’s newest must-visit destination for visitors and locals alike. This is a beautiful property that blends in with the natural environment. The rooms are comfortable and well-designed and the fact that you can dine at the Wakatipui Grill is a pretty good reason to go.

On the lakefront, signature restaurant the Wakatipu Grill reflects the best of New Zealand’s culinary heritage. Expertly helmed by renowned Chef Peter Thornley. The cuisine is inspiring, with provocative takes on New Zealand flavours. Vast windows, an open kitchen and rotisserie, along with two circular slate fireplaces, lend even more drama to this magnificent space. In the bar, be tempted by yet another captivating perspective of the lake, or an exceptional vintage – the 1000-strong wine cellar has a keen focus on Otago’s best winemakers.

A small group of us sat with Chef Thornley and went through several dishes, paired with some great New Zealand wines. And, we even got the recipes to take home with us. I am bound and determined to recreate these great dishes. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a foodie like me.

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Oceania is perhaps the least populated, least visited and least understood region in the world. Comprising much of the globe south of the equator, it can be loosely defined as the South Pacific Ocean.

Man first made his way from Asia to the Pacific Islands many thousands of years ago, island- hopping across the great expanse of the Pacific in a makeshift craft of hollowed-out trees supporting sails of the palm, flax or skins.

Mankind now populates the many island nations of this vast region – from the Aborigines of Australia, the largest island in the world, to the famous warrior Maori of New Zealand’s stunning North and South Islands; and further east, the Polynesians, who call the many Pacific nations home – amongst them Fiji, with some 300 islands under its flag and French Polynesia’s 118 islands spanning an area of ocean the size of Europe.

Navigate Oceania is a collection of inspired destinations and unique experiences from New Zealand and the South Pacific’s best boutique hotels and luxury lodges, and exclusive private islands, villas and spa destinations.

Travellers should check out Navigate Confidential Magazine. Savour Oceania is the second of their themed issues, highlighting special features of the Navigate Oceania Collection. This time they’ve put the focus on food and wine in their lodges, resorts and boutique hotels. Then they’ve added a taste of what real enthusiasts can also do – such as wine tours, farmers markets and recommended local produce. Everybody eats and drinks, and they know their Oceania Collection provides some of the best cuisine in New Zealand and the South Pacific, whether in a city, in their gorgeous countryside – or on an exotic island.

Oceania is being re-discovered by a new era of adventurous travellers, in a new generation of experiences.

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All the garments on display have performed on stage in the annual Brancott Estate World of WearableArt Awards. The magical experience of the annual Brancott Estate WOW Awards show is brilliantly translated to the gallery setting by the use of superb music, specially sequenced lighting and a cleverly introduced element of movement. Here you will truly appreciate the intricate detailing of these incredible creations up-close.

The images are very good, but having visited this fabulous attraction, I can tell you that you need to see them in person. The attention to detail in the creations is almost beyond belief, the imagination and creativity is exceptional, and the focus on blending art with wearability results in some outstanding and awe-inspiring creations.

The car collection represents years of passionate sourcing from around the world and New Zealand. This is one of Australasia’s largest private collections.

These cars are some of the most sought-after models in classic motoring, presented to the highest standard, with some having undergone extensive restoration. As well as being classic examples of automotive technology, these cars tell an important story about the twentieth century. They represent the spectrum of automotive history, design and craftsmanship.

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