TRADITIONAL SOUVENIRS TO BUY IN NEW ZEALAND

There’s no better way to take the New Zealand experience back home than a traditional souvenir. No matter where in the country you end up, you’re going to find a special artefact to hold onto. From beautiful art to iconic cultural relics, we’re going to showcase six of the most memorable pieces you can buy.

1. A Buzzy Bee Toy

This cultural icon has been around since the 1930s. Its exact origins are a bit of a mystery, but everyone loves it all the same. The Buzzy Bee is a wooden toy that’s popular with local kids, Kiwi adults, and tourists alike. You’ll find it in most standard souvenir shops, as well as any nearby toy store.

2. Traditional Pounamu (Greenstone) Jewellery

Pounamu, or New Zealand greenstone, is an important part of Māori custom. Not only is it viewed as a sacred treasure, there are also many stories based around its origins. The stone’s beauty is what led to its artistic use: nowadays you can find sculptures, ornaments, and jewellery carved out of it. The stone itself is only found in the South Island, but Pounamu souvenirs can be purchased in most New Zealand towns.

3. A Woven Flax Kete

Usually about the size of a tote bag, a kete (basket) is made primarily with New Zealand flax leaves. These leaves are strong enough to be used for making mats as well – and Māori weaving is still a tradition that holds true to this day. Patterns woven into the basket include natural motifs and special symbols, passed down within local iwi (tribes) from generation to generation.

4. A Carved Sculpture

Wood carving is another long-held Māori tradition. Travellers will see this when they visit a Marae, or any other indigenous sight that they go to. Souvenir buyers wanting to splurge on something special should definitely keep their eye out for wooden sculptures. Once again, they’re not hard to come by, but their artistry may come with a larger price tag than our previous suggestions.

5. Paua Shell Ornaments

Paua is a blue-coloured shell that has been used in native New Zealand art for centuries. Similar to Pounamu, they’re found in the deepest South Island waters – and not too far from the Antarctic. The cold oceans give the shell its special, light-changing tones, and many ornaments and jewellery are made with this natural stunner.

6. Merino Wool Clothing

Let’s face it: no New Zealand souvenir list would ever be complete without mentioning woollen apparel. Merino sheep are renowned for having some of the softest fleece around – with some of their fibres comparable to luxury materials like cashmere. You’re likely come across a large collection of merino clothing during your travels, including cozy jumpers, gloves and beanies. If you’re feeling a bit crafty, you can even stock up on some yarn and knit something yourself.

10 Romantic Things Auckland

New Zealand is a natural island country in the Pacific Ocean. Explore New Zealand's beautiful landscapes, relax in a hot pool and take in the sights. New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most romantic landscapes and can certainly create a spark in your life. There’s plenty of romantic things to do in Auckland to set the mood. But first check the travel things list.

Catch a flick at Silo Park Cinema

Silo Park is one of the best nights out in Auckland, and really sets the mood on a warm summer’s night. With an open-air cinema on the waterfront held every Friday night from December to March, Silo Cinema hosts a packed program of films from recent blockbusters, childhood classics, thought-provoking documentaries and local New Zealand productions

Auckland Botanic Gardens

Home to over 10,000 species of plants from around the world, there’s always something in bloom in Auckland Regional Botanic Gardens. A walk around the gardens will take you less than an hour but it’s easy to get lost in the sparkling colors and breathtaking manicured gardens on display

Skywalk at Auckland 

If you’re looking for an activity that is one part romantic and three parts adventurous, take on the Auckland Sky Tower and see the city from what is undoubtedly its most breathtaking view point. While this may not be the intimate outing you had on the books, it’s perfect for a couple of thrill seekers.

Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki

With such an extensive collection of modern art, this is one attraction where even if you have different tastes in art, there’s sure to be something you can both enjoy.

Compelling visual arts experience, indulge your sights, sounds and senses in this truly remarkable collection of international and New Zealand art. Entry is free as well, so you can impress without blowing any serious cash.

Waiheke Wine Tour

   Couples can hire a private tour and have the vehicle to themselves, and visit the vineyards of Waiheke Island on your own personalised itinerary. If you’re celebrating a special anniversary or have a great reason to celebrate, there’s nothing more romantic tha spending your day in the Waiheke vineyards with a glass of red.

Afternoon at Mission Bay

Most accessible urban beach from downtown Auckland – combining a sheltered white sand beach with plentiful grassy spots ideal for a picnic. The beach is only a stones throw from a strip of popular haunts including many charming cafes, restaurants and bars.

For a spectacular vantage point to share with a loved one, Michael Savage Memorial’s hilltop spot is home to a lovely garden and unparalleled views across the Waitemata Harbour through to Rangitoto Island.

Waitomo Caves and Rotorua

If you’re looking to head out of Auckland, there are daily departing sightseeing tours to Waitomo and Rotorua.
The Waitomo Caves are world renowned and boat tours gently carve through 120 years of cultural and natural history. There’s something truly enchanting about floating through a small cave canal under thousands of glowworms which light up the cave ceiling.

Dine by the waterside at Viaduct Harbour

With over 30 bars and restaurants to choose from, Viaduct Harbour is undoubtedly one of Auckland’s most popular dining and entertainment hubs. There’s nothing quite like having a drink by the marina during the day or dropping in for dinner and a nightcap at one of the many fantastic bars around the waterfront.

NEW ZEALAND'S MOST ICONIC LANDMARKS

New Zealand is a land filled with wonders, both natural and manmade. There is so much on this tiny island that sets it apart from the world and makes it a unique place – one that continues to draw hundreds of thousands of tourists to its shores every year. Here are our top 10 most iconic NZ landmarks.

1. Moeraki Boulders

The Moeraki Boulders are some of the most fascinating things to see in New Zealand and this is definitely one of the most popular attractions in the country. These perfectly spherical rock formations are technically not boulders but concretions exposed by erosion, and are found down on the Otago coast in the South Island. Maori myth says that these boulders are in fact the debris of a massive waka (canoe).

2. Craters of the Moon

If you feel like taking a stroll into another world then just north of Taupo on the North Island you’ll find the Craters of the Moon Geothermal Walk. The name gives it away. The land, with its huge craters, lack of plant life and seething gouts of steam, looks more like another planet than anything terrestrial. Geothermal activity is responsible for the steam, of course, as well as the pervasive, sulphurous smell. Visitors pay a nominal fee for admission and follow a carefully mapped hike through the dramatic terrain. The walk takes about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on the route selected.

3. The Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is the tallest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Its construction began in 1994 and was completed in 1997 – a solid six months ahead of schedule. Architect Gordon Moller was in charge of its design, partnering with Fletcher Building to conceive what is now Auckland’s most distinguished man-made landmarks. The tower is a popular attraction for thrill-seekers and fine diners and also serves as an aerial transmission centre for TV channels, radio stations, weather forecasting and telecommunications providers.

4. Huka Falls

When the Maori in the area named the falls after their word for “foam”, they surely hit the old nail on the head. This is one of the most visited natural attractions in the country and is a site you do not want to miss. Approximately 220,000 litres of water per second pour from the waterfall. These falls are fed by the Waikato River, one of the country’s longest rivers, which drains into Lake Taupo. Those wanting a different perspective can enjoy a boat ride to the base of the falls. Other activities near Huka Falls include mountain biking, swimming, birdwatching and canoeing.

5. Tane Mahuta

Tane Mahuta is estimated to be about 2,300 years old, 51 metres tall and has a girth of 13 metres. And is a tree. In fact, it’s an ancient Kauri tree – a New Zealand native – and can be found after a short hike through the Waipoua Kauri Forest Sanctuary on the northernmost tip of North Island, about 100 miles out of Auckland. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous you can also camp out here. FYI, Tane Mahuta is Maori for “King of the Forest”, and after you’ve met the tree you’ll see why.

6. The Beehive and Parliament House

Out of the main Parliament buildings, the Beehive is probably the most famous. Known for its distinctive layered structure, this modern fixture is home to the parliamentary Executive Wing where Cabinet meetings are held and also, where you’ll find the offices of the Prime Minister and Cabinet members. Parliament House next door was first occupied in 1918 after a fire wiped out its predecessor in 1907. The Beehive was designed in 1964 by Sir Basil Spence, while Parliament House was devised by architects John Campbell and Claude Patton.

7. One Tree Hill

Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill is a volcanic peak that’s as historically significant as it is scenic: it serves as an important memorial site for both Maori and European New Zealanders alike. The picturesque domain combines with the neighbouring Cornwall Park to form the largest parkland in Auckland City – if you’re travelling with family, definitely drop by the latter after descending from One Tree Hill summit so you can see the grazing sheep and cattle that make the area so unique.

8. Queenstown

Dubbed the ‘adventure capital of New Zealand’, Queenstown is nestled on the edges of the crystal clear Lake Wakatipu on South Island. Its lakeside location offers everything from high-energy jet boating to relaxing river cruises and fly fishing, while the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding mountains are suited to walkers, hikers and photographers hoping to capture the South Island’s iconic, rugged landscape. Small and laid-back, but simultaneously cosmopolitan and lively, Queenstown boasts fine-dining restaurants, a bustling bar scene, and a packed cultural calendar with events such as the Queenstown Winter Festival, New Zealand’s biggest celebration of winter featuring street parties, fireworks, and winter sports.

9. Tongariro Crossing

Made famous in Peter Jackson’s trilogy of The Lord of the Rings as Mordor, the Tongariro Crossing is one of the most beautiful day hikes you can do in NZ. This is the country’s oldest national park and offers an awe-inspiring view. While hiking to the center, you will see unique landforms all over the 19.4-kilometer adventure, along with hot springs, old lava flows, water-filled craters and spectacular views. This really is like walking through a fantasy land, or perhaps across the surface of Mars.

10. Mount Cook

Mount Cook, also known as Aoraki, is the tallest mountain in New Zealand, reaching over 12,000 feet. Sir Edmund Hillary of Mount Everest fame trained on Aoraki in preparation for his most famous trek. In fact, this mountain is almost exactly half the size of Mount Everest, which meant that Hillary would climb it twice as his training method! If you’re not a mountaineer, you can still take a self-guided hike or a guided ski tour, or try your hand at kayaking or fishing at the nearby glacier lakes.

Amazing Reasons to Visit Christchurch

Christchurch is a resilient city that continues to show that creativity will get you through the hard times. Since the devastating 2011 earthquake, ongoing reconstruction efforts have solidified the city’s place as one of New Zealand’s best travel destinations. To prove this point, here are 12 attractions that should give you enough reason to visit Christchurch at least once.

World-famous Street Art

Lonely Planet’s 2017 Street Art Book ranks Christchurch among the crème de la crème of street art around the world. It rightly recognises the impact tragedy had on transforming the city into an artistic powerhouse – the RISE festival in 2013, which was the first street art festival and exhibition to be hosted in Christchurch, is among the notable examples of how the city used creativity to cope with the damage they were faced with. Suffice to say, a walk around the city is worth it just to admire these revitalising post-quake pieces and the sense of hope they emit.

Quake City

The Canterbury Museum’s most recent permanent fixture, Quake City, will give you true insight into how disaster can shape a city’s – and a region’s – sense of identity. The exhibition covers all facets of the seismic forces that have shaken the area in 2010 and 2011, from the scientific to the personal narratives of those who are living with the aftermath. A truly humbling experience and a must-visit for those wanting to understand the impact of disaster in any given community.

Garden City (aka Christchurch Botanic Gardens)

There’s so much beauty to be cherished in Christchurch, and its botanic gardens prove this point to a tee. Located right at the heart of the city by the Avon River, the free-to-enter gardens are lined with roses, water plants, native New Zealand plants, and tropical plant conservatories. Lawn areas make this a great place to unwind, and the surrounding gravel paths ensure anyone can relish a naturally peaceful stroll too.

Traditional Icons

Christchurch brings its European settler past into the present with a handful of classic experiences. The Edwardian-themed punt down the Avon River is a pleasant way to see the city and its lovely parkland. A tram ride around the city and double-decker bus tours are also good options for those who prefer to venture along the roads. All of these will allow you to explore key sights and attractions, taking in the surroundings while you gain an special appreciation for the area’s iconic traditions.

The Contemporary Cardboard Cathedral

The Christ Church Cathedral was considered the physical and symbolic heart of the city since its construction in the 19th Century. Alas, the February 2011 earthquake rendered it damaged beyond repair – only a few hymn books were able to be salvaged in the aftermath, and the remains of the cathedral are now locked behind some forlorn fencing. Enter the Cardboard Cathedral, a fixture that was intended to be a temporary replacement to this old-time classic, but has now evolved into something much greater. Designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, the new cathedral relies on 98 cardboard tubes, measuring 28 metres (91.9 feet) in length, covered in polycarbonate sheeting. The Cardboard Cathedral is believed to have a lifespan of 50 years, and is very much a symbol of the city’s resounding faith and endurance.

A Gateway to Arthur's Pass

Anyone who knows a bit about the South Island will able to tell you one thing: It is incredibly scenic. A drive from Christchurch, along the Canterbury Plains, will lead you into the area’s most exquisite natural sights, from the Southern Alps right into Arthur’s Pass National Park. Composed of vast swathes of beech forests on the east and deep river gorges to the west, this alpine reserve is a great spot for soaking up the natural landscapes. Along with being a prime hiking and mountaineering destination, Arthur’s Pass is also renowned for as one of the best places to catch sight of the inquisitive kea.

And a Gateway to Antarctica

Interestingly enough, Christchurch International Airport has been host to the United States, New Zealand and Italian Antarctic Programmes for several years. Because of that, the idea of a visitor attraction, showcasing exactly why scientific researchers consider Christchurch ‘the gateway to Antarctica’, naturally came to fruition in the early 1990s. The International Antarctic Centre was subsequently opened in 1992, and is now one of city’s top tourist attractions. The centre’s iconic experiences include penguin encounters, historic displays, and a Hagglund snow-vehicle ride.

The Enduring Christchurch Art Gallery

The Christchurch Art Gallery needs to be commended for its longstanding role both as an artistic New Zealand institution and an integral part of the wider community. The gallery is home to some of the country’s most distinguished art collections, and had its largest exhibition just under a month after the first earthquake hit. Within the first five years of the Christchurch earthquakes, the gallery became the emergency headquarters for Civil Defence, as well as providing temporary accommodation for Christchurch City Council staff during the rebuild. It has since reopened its doors, bringing back its securely safeguarded collections back into public view.

The Breathtaking Banks Peninsula

A trip to Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region will bring you up close and personal to an array of interesting marine life, including the world’s rarest and smallest dolphin. Just head immediately north of the city into Banks Peninsula to marvel at the coastal vistas and playful critters you’ll encounter along the way, from the endemic white-flippered penguins to the endangered Hector’s dolphin. You can either drive by the bays and beaches, or peruse the vast network of walking trails in the vicinity. If you want to continue exploring your horizons, the towns of Akaroa and Lyttelton are right on your doorstep too.

The Classic New Regent Street

Widely regarded as a forerunner to the modern shopping mall, Christchurch’s New Regent Street has become a major attraction and nationally significant heritage site since its construction in the 1930s. A Spanish Mission architectural style is sustained throughout this iconic shopping precinct, which became a fully pedestrianised area (Christchurch Tram notwithstanding) in the 1990s. While earthquake repairs meant parts of the street had to be cordoned off temporarily, this is still a must-visit for those who are interested in learning more about New Zealand’s historic landmarks.

Markets and Public Spaces Galore

Before the quake, Christchurch city centre was the only place you’d find a decent lineup of bars, cafés and entertainment venues. But because downtown was one of the hardest hit earthquake areas, the business of leisure had to take a different life form. Re:Start Mall, which is unfortunately reaching the end of a short-lived era, was a good example of this, creatively transforming shipping containers into colourful foodie and shopping venues for the central-city Cashel Street. Sumner, a beachside suburb which was also strongly affected by the quakes, is now host to a seasonal Sunday market that was especially devised to lift up the community spirit. A good walk around town will expose you to various other creative spaces and new buildings that are livening up city.

And the Remarkable Isaac Theatre Royal

If you love the performing arts, a visit to Christchurch’s historic Isaac Theatre Royal is a must. Christchurch is widely believed to have New Zealand’s highest theatre attendances, so it’s no wonder that this 100-year-old building has stood the test of times, and the forces of nature, to continue wowing and inspiring the masses. Architecture aficionados will be amazed at how this elaborate building has preserved its classic interior and exterior aesthetics, despite undergoing considerate restoration in the aftermath of the city’s major earthquakes. The theatre reopened on November 2014, and has continued to play its role in Christchurch’s dynamic performing arts scene ever since.

9 Reasons Everyone Should Visit Wellington, New Zealand!!!

Wellington At Night

Most people will know Wellington as New Zealand’s capital city. Some might recognise it as the home turf of Peter Jackson and his production company, Weta Workshop. But there’s a ton of reasons why everyone should visit this cool destination. In fact, here are 9 of them to get the ball rolling.

Kiwi friendliness prevails

Interestingly, one of the most common comparisons people make between Wellington and Auckland is that the capital is much more friendly. That being said, Kiwis are generally renowned for being chilled-out and hospitable. The fact that friendliness still holds true in one of the country’s biggest cities (approximately 10.6% of New Zealand’s population lives in the Wellington region) is a testament to New Zealanders’ all-round good nature.

Wellington's foodie scene is ace

Every winter, the city hosts the Wellington On A Plate festival – an event which aptly showcases the very best of the local gastronomy. And there’s plenty more where that came from: Cuba Street is one of the quirky places that attracts the budding foodies, and the capital is also home to some of New Zealand’s best coffee roasters, brunch spots, and al fresco dining establishments.

Museum and galleries are plenty

From traditional faves like Te Papa and the City Gallery Wellington, to more obscure treasures like the National Tattoo Museum of New Zealand, Wellington punches well above its weight when it comes to all things historic and cultural. They’re all reasonably close to one another too: a short walk along the waterfront, not too far away from Te Papa, will take you to the Wellington Museum, while the Botanic Gardens can be your gateway to Space Place at the Carter Observatory.

There's a myriad of historic landmarks to discover

The Beehive, New Zealand’s iconic parliamentary building, is situated right at the heart of the city. Government House, where the Governor-General (the Queen’s representative) resides, can be spotted in the southern suburb of Newton. Other notable landmarks and monuments include the National War Memorial, the Wrights Hill Fortress, Katherine Mansfield House, and the National Library of New Zealand.

Nature is always a few steps away

Truth be told, Wellington doesn’t feel like a big city. Everything, including its parks and gardens, is always so accessible – and often within walking distance. The Botanic Garden is always a standout feature – not only for its magnificence, but also because of its convenient, centralised location. If you want to venture a little further afield, Otari-Wilton’s Bush and Kaitoke Regional Park are great places for a picnic.

Getting a glimpse of the vocal wildlife is quite easy too

Zealandia and the Wellington Zoo are the local go-tos for discovering New Zealand’s native species. Visitors to Zealandia can hop on a free shuttle at the Wellington city i-Site, which departs every hour from 9:30am, or they can easily walk there from the Cable Car station. If you’re headed to Wellington Zoo, it’s a 10-minute commute by car or a very quick bus trip to Newton.

The coastal views are wonderful on a bright, sunny day

The locals always say that Wellington can’t be beaten on a good day. And it’s true. In winter, Wellington weather can be quite volatile and dreary – so when the summer sun comes out in full force, it makes a lasting impression. Whether you’re having a fish and chip lunch by Oriental Bay, you’re soaking up the coastal vistas at Island Bay, or you’re surfing up a storm in Lyall Bay, there’s no excuse not to get out and about when the climate is temperate and settled.

Picture-perfect panoramas are always a given

Wellingtonians and Wellington visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to panoramic places. Mount Victoria is one of the best spots to get the best 360-degree views of the entire city. Other picturesque places that provide an elevated glimpse of the capital include Te Ahumarangi Hill Lookout, Mount Kauakau, and the Massey Memorial.

Wellington is the gateway to some of New Zealand's top attractions

Geographically-speaking, Wellington is literally in the centre of all the action. A ferry ride is all it takes to reach the South Island – Picton and the Queen Charlotte Sound are a few of the great places to stop over for a day trip. The Rimutaka Ranges, which is a popular spot for hiking and cycling, is within easy access too. A little further up, Martinborough, which is part of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, is a mere hour’s driving distance from Wellington. How’s that for versatility?!