Pre-06 Photo Shootout

Capture the in Four Days

Kia ora and welcome to the youngest country on earth.

New Zealand’s diverse and dramatic landscape draws many visitors to our shores. From fiords to rainforests, ocean beaches to volcanic cones, the relatively untouched landscape is breathtaking, but what makes the visit so special for many is the people they meet.

Māori people believe in the concept of ‘Manaakitanga’ this loosely translates as ‘hospitality’ – a concept that Kiwi people have embraced as part of the New Zealand experience. Kiwis are a friendly bunch and the care, engagement and hospitality we show our guests is based on pride and a genuine belief that this country offers something of everything.

New Zealand is regularly rated as one of the world’s preferred destinations not just because of its dramatic scenery, wide open spaces, extreme adventure, clean air, enticing food and wine, creativity and flair but also because of the ‘can do’ attitude.

Haere Mai. Welcome and enjoy your stay.

Customs and MAF requirements On arrival you will need to complete both customs and Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) requirements before you can officially enter New Zealand. MAF is responsible for agriculture, horticulture and forestry, safe food, a protected environment, the wise use of the land and the creation of clean, green product. MAF protect farms and wildlife from imported pests and diseases by minimising the number of foreign pests and diseases entering New Zealand.

You will be required by law to declare any food or organic material you are carrying. It is important not to ignore this as significant fines can be given to those who do.

IMPORTANT: Please use the final itinerary provided in your media pack on arrival in New Zealand. This will include any adjustments and additional contact details crucial to your itinerary

The arrangements shown in this itinerary have been made especially for you with the generous support and co-operation of Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs), Air New Zealand, accommodation and product suppliers as detailed.

Tourism New Zealand will cover the costs of your accommodation, transport and sightseeing activities and meals as outlined in the itinerary. Please pay all minibar, telephone expenses and laundry yourselves, prior to check out from your accommodation.

NOTE: check in for a domestic flight is 40 minutes before departure and requires photo identification. Baggage allowance is 20 kilograms. Excess baggage for film equipment only, will be charged back to Tourism New Zealand with prior arrangements.

Regional Tourism Operators Contact Details

Tourism New Zealand Contact: Wendy Boyce Address: Unit 2, Tussock Lane, Ferrymead Christchurch Phone: 03 379 0390 Email: [email protected] Website: www.conference.co.nz

PRE – 3 nights/4 days: Friday 4 Nov to Monday 7 Nov, 2011 Auckland to

Photo Shootout: Capture the North Island in 72 Hours A compact country boasting incredibly diverse landscapes, New Zealand is an ideal destination for photographers. The relatively low population means it’s easy to get off the beaten track, and driving conditions—on the left, please—are generally of a high standard. With miles of coastline, active geothermal areas, lakes, forests, volcanoes and verdant pasture the country offers astonishing landscapes at every turn. The physical evidence of a strong Maori culture and its integration with the land also creates strong imagery. The one danger for photographers is probably scenery overload.

Itinerary SATW’s Photo Shootouts are a one-of-a-kind tradition—a competition, a discovery, and a valuable professional development experience all rolled into one. Designed for photographers of all levels, participants will have their own rental car for four days to explore the 650 kms (400 miles) from Auckland to Wellington on a route of their own choosing. For the three nights we’ll receive vouchers for lodging en route to Wellington, home of the core convention. Whether you favor the dramatic coastlines and seaside communities, or the unique geothermal inland areas of the Central North Island, chart your own path, stopping at will to capture your dynamic portfolio of the youngest country on earth. In Wellington, we’ll skim the dross to create our portfolios and a team of judges will select the best in a range of categories.

Exact format for the competition will be sent to participants ahead of arrival in New Zealand by Shootout Chair Eric Lindberg, SATW’s 2011 Photographer of the Year.

Note that pre-tour pricing will include your vehicle and accommodations; the price will not cover your fuel charges, meals and incidentals. In exchange for generous subsidies by our host, each participant will be expected to donate one of their portfolio photos to Tourism New Zealand’s stock library. Although non-pros are welcome to join, the tour and competition are designed for dedicated photographers.

Difficulty Rating: EASY

Story angles: • Writer-photographers can make time to gather story material as they experience the North Island’s back roads and small towns.

Unique photography opportunities: • Too many to list.

Components requiring some exertion: • By the most direct route (which participants will likely veer from), the drive from Auckland to Wellington is about 650 kms (400 miles). Participants need to judge their routing and time carefully to ensure arriving in Wellington on time and without undo fatigue. • Be aware that driving is on the left.

Special clothing or gear participants must bring: • Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothes for warmth, rain jacket, hat, sunblock. • This is an all-digital shootout; participants will be delivering their portfolios as jpgs 36 hours after arrival in Wellington. • Valid drivers license required.

Friday 4 November to Monday 7 Nov Auckland to Wellington

Whether you're an amateur or a professional, New Zealand is a photographer's paradise. Mountains and fiords, wild beaches and lush forests, farmland and wilderness, wildlife and nightlife - you'll find an incredibly diverse range of targets for your lens.

Fri 4 Nov 0900 – Briefing Meeting Point: SATW tour desk located in the arrival hall in the Auckland international airport; from here you will be directed to the Waeta Room on level 2 for your briefing.

A pre briefing to obtain maps, driving rules and Shootout structure will be hosted by a representative from Tourism New Zealand and Eric Lindberg, New Zealand Shootout Chair.

Fri 4 Nov 1100 Pickup Rental Vehicle Budget Rental Cars Auckland International Airport Tel: 09 256 8451 Fax: 09 275 7096

Mon 7 Nov 1730 Drop-off Rental Vehicle Budget Rental Cars Wellington City Centre Address: 81 Ghuznee Street Tel: 04 802 4548

Fax: 04 384 6470

A briefing will take place at 9.00am, prior to start of the Shootout.

Explore New Zealand

Tourism New Zealand is pleased to offer travel media undertaking this itinerary access to the Explore New Zealand discount programme. More than 600 national and local offers are available for accommodation, attractions and activities, tours and transport. Many offers are open to a cardholder's partner as well.

You can preview the offers from the Explore New Zealand e book. Either scroll through the e book or search for a region or product that interests you top right.

Your business card will be laminated to the back of your Explore accreditation card and will be made available to you on arrival here in New Zealand

Conference Innovators Contact: Wendy Boyce Address: Unit 2, 11 Tussock Land, Ferrymead Christchurch Phone: 03 379 0390 Email: [email protected] Website: www.conference.co.nz

Golden Chain Central Reservations Tel: 0800 804 653 Tel: 03 358 0821 Email: [email protected] Web: http://epublishbyus.com/go_kiwi_directory/10012326

Go Kiwi Hotel Pass The Go Kiwi Hotel Pass is a convenient, flexible, cost effective way to see the best of New Zealand.

Established 20 years ago, it is this country’s most extensive and successful programme for independent travellers, incorporating 119 Hotels (from 3 to 5

stars) in 51 city and resort locations throughout the North & South Islands.

Go Kiwi Hotel Pass properties have been carefully selected for their locations, quality facilities and high standards of service.

Research you anticipated driving route through New Zealand’s Automobile Association website: Web: http://www.aatravel.co.nz/main/td-calculator.php

Suggested driving routes Thermal Explorer Highway

This 453 kilometers (282-mile) popular touring route guarantees plenty to talk about over dinner, as well as plenty of delicious dining opportunities.

It's an enticing combination of unusual, captivating landscapes; indulgent food and wine experiences; and authentic encounters with Maori culture. You'll journey from the caves of Waitomo to the vineyards of Hastings, with amazing volcanic action in between.

Beginning in Auckland, New Zealand's largest population centre, the Thermal Explorer Highway takes you through the region then on to the geothermal city of Rotorua. After Lake Taupo you have the option of detouring to , and then it's over the hills to the wine country of Napier and Hastings.

The Pacific Coast Highway takes you on a 1026-kilometre (637-mile), ocean- Pacific Coast Highway flavored journey to spectacular coastal scenery and beaches, forest wilderness, photogenic seaside villages and grape growing districts.

The cities of Auckland, Tauranga, Gisborne, Napier and Hastings will satisfy your urge to wine, dine and shop. Amazing natural landscapes such as White Island - an active offshore volcano - will colour your travel memories forever.

Most people begin this driving route in Auckland, New Zealand's main international gateway. The Coromandel Peninsula follows, with its beaches and native forests. After the gold mining town of Waihi, the road sweeps along the Bay of Plenty, passing Tauranga and Whakatane, then around East Cape to Hawke's Bay, finishing at Napier.

Taranaki's hemispherical coast collects 180 degrees of ocean swells, so Surf Highway 45 you can be almost certain that the surf will be pumping somewhere between the 69km (43 miles) drive of New Plymouth and Hawera.

But waves aren't the only reason to follow this touring route - the Egmont National Park is always within reach, with tracks to take you up and around magnificent Mount Taranaki. You'll be in the perfect position to study the botanical changes from surf to summit.

It would be hard to get lost on Surf Highway 45 - the route simply follows the coast. Side roads take you down to the sea or up to the mountain. If you begin in New Plymouth, you'll pass the settlements of Oakura, Okato, Pungarehu and Oanui before you reach Opunake, the largest population centre before Hawera.

While it's only 150 kilometres (93 miles) long, the Forgotten World Highway The Forgotten World Highway is a highly memorable driving journey.

Built on colonial bridle paths formed in the late 19th century, the highway is remote and mysterious to the extreme. "A bit upsy downsy" is how one local resident puts it - a classic New Zealand understatement to describe a road that hugs the rugged contours of the land to provide a natural roller coaster experience.

The Forgotten World Highway can be approached from Stratford or Taumarunui. It wriggles its way over four mountain saddles, through an eerie one-way tunnel and along a sinuous river gorge. The only significant settlement on the way is Whangamomona, where the historic hotel is known for its hospitality.

Photo Locations Ruapehu The Tongariro National Park encircles the volcanoes of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu. It was gifted to the nation by Maori chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV in 1887. Just over a hundred years later, the park was awarded World Heritage Site status.

The fact that the volcanoes are active doesn't deter people from skiing down their slopes and hiking to their craters. A monitoring system provides early warning of eruptions.

The park's most celebrated activity is the 'Tongariro Alpine Crossing', a day trek that traverses the otherworldly landscape between Ngauruhoe and Tongariro. Steaming craters, old lava flows and thermal lakes make the walk an unforgettable experience.

What: The Emerald Lakes are a must on a clear day, as well as the view from Mt. Ngaruhoe. Also the red crater is spectacular on a sunny day.

When: During dusk and dawn the mountains shimmer in a magical light which can be best seen from near Mangatepopo hut.

Tip: If you want to beat the crowds don't stay in the surrounding towns but in the huts on the trail and set out at first light to get a good head start and the best light for your shots.

Auckland Imagine an urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanted holiday islands. Add a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping - you’re beginning to get the picture of Auckland.

In the Maori language, Auckland is known as Tamaki-Makau-Rau - ‘the maiden with a hundred suitors’. It earned this name because it was a region coveted by many tribes

What: The city skyline as an excellent backdrop from locations along the eastern coast. Views of the city from Mt. Eden and Rangitoto. For people photos stroll along Karangahape Road. The west coast beaches are great to shoot a rugged coastline.

When: The city skyline looks best at twilight, especially when there are some cumulus clouds at the horizon. Alternatively choose a calm night to get a good night shot with smooth reflections in the water.

Tip: The best view of the city is from underneath the Harbour Bridge on the Devonport side of the harbour. It's not easy to find but well worth it.

Eastland Maori life is evident in every settlement you see. There are carved meeting houses, beautifully painted Maori churches, children riding horses bareback on the beach and conversations in Te Reo. Deep in the misty Te Urewera Ranges, descendents of the ‘Children of the Mist’, the ancient Tuhoe tribe, still live in harmony with the forest around the village of Ruatahuna.

The landscape - coastal and inland - is untamed and wild. You can lose yourself in the hills and valleys, and renew your inner peace on the beautifully natural beaches.

The largest population centre in the region is Gisborne, a city that manages to combine the science of fine wine making with the laid back, down-to-earth attitude of life in the sun.

East Coast: Pacific Coast Highway East Coast section SH35 Historic Church at Ruakokore Tolaga Bay Wharf Cooks Cove East Cape Lighthouse Dive Tatapouri – handfeeding wild stingrays/shark cave diving

Gisborne: Eastwoodhill Arboretum Rere Waterfall and Rere Natural Rockslide Te Poho o Rawiri Marae (amazing meeting house) Wainui Beach at sunrise Waikanae Beach at sunset

Captain Cook statue Please ask for permission before photographing on Marae

Wellington

Wellington is the political capital of New Zealand. The city is compact, cultured and full of character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot - shopping, cafes, transport, accommodation and the city’s major attractions are compressed into an area that’s conveniently walkable.

Wellington’s visitors come to browse museums, historic places and galleries, including the highly acclaimed national museum Te Papa. From a food and wine point of view, the city is truly delectable. Night time entertainment includes professional theatre, live concerts, comedy shows and dance performances.

What: Sculptures along the Wellington Writers Walk http://www.wellingtonnz.com/sights_activities/wellington_writers_walk

Oriental Bay beach and fountain Summit of Mount Victoria Bucket Fountain on Cuba Street Parliament buildings The Cable Car South Coast over looking

Taranaki

According to Maori legend, Mount Taranaki once resided in the middle of the North Island alongside Ruapehu, Ngaurahoe and Tongariro, but lost a battle for the heart of pretty Mount Pihanga and was banished to the coast.

Today, the Taranaki region offers a huge range of outdoor activities, from strolls through native forests and multi-day hikes, to river rafting, ocean surfing and winter snow sports. When it’s time for something a little less energetic, you’ll discover fascinating art trails and festivals, award-winning museums and galleries, a thriving café culture and some great local shopping.

What: 1. Mt Taranaki from the Te Rewarewa bridge on the coastal walkway. 2. The Taranaki coastline form the Whitecliffs walkway

3. Any of the gardens of International/National Significance

When:

1. Early Morning or early evening 2. Mid Afternoon 3. Anytime

Lake Taupo

Visitors come for the scenery and action-packed adventure, which are accompanied by a genuinely friendly local culture. The lakeside community is alive with great places to eat, drink and party.

Trout fishing should be on your menu of things to do, because this region is one of the last true wild trout fisheries in the world. Local guides will soon get you hooked, and there are plenty of restaurants happy to cook your catch.

Lake Taupo's geothermal attractions include geysers, steaming craters, boiling mud pools and some of the largest silica terraces in the world. Other special experiences include the walk to Huka Falls, a game of golf at Wairakei and kayaking to the Maori carvings at Mine Bay.

What: 1. view across Lake Taupō over to the hills and mountains of the Tongariro National Park 2. Huka Falls 3. Maori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō 4. fly fishing on the Tongariro River 5. mountain biking around the Craters of the Moon 6. Wairakei Terraces – silica terraces similar to the Pink and White Terraces lost in Rotorua when Mt Tarawera erupted

When: 1. across Lake Taupo – sunsets can be quite sublime 2. Huka Falls – either from one of the many vantage points around the falls, or from the Huka Falls River Cruise boat, middle of the day is best 3. Rock Carvings – has to be from the water, off a boat or kayak, mid afternoon is best 4. fly fishing – anytime depending on location 5. mountain biking – anytime depending on location 6. Terraces – mid morning onwards

Hamilton & Waikato

Situated in the heart of the North Island, the diverse Hamilton & Waikato region is well-known for its nature-based tourism, underground adventure and iconic Waikato River. The region offers something for every visitor, from Hamilton’s urban attractions to the stunning black sand surf beaches of Raglan and countless walking trails through the rolling hills and ancient bush clad mountains that shape the landscape.

The subterranean world of black water rafting, glow worms and cave exploration at Waitomo Caves are a must, while the finer things in life, including boutique golf courses, gourmet eateries and rejuvenating natural spring spas are also found throughout the region.

What: • Raglan - The rugged, windswept black-sand coastline surrounding Raglan is ideal for dramatic photographs, while the laid-back surfers and local artists who live in the township provide a quirky bohemian human element. The impressive 55 metre waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls, just inland from Raglan is also worth a stop. • Maungatautari Ecological Reserve – provides the perfect opportunity to photograph rare native birds in their natural environment including

Kaka and Takahe, Kereru. The mountain sanctuary is enclosed by a state of the art 47km predator proof fence which has allowed the forest and wildlife to be regenerated to as it was hundreds of years ago. • Waitomo Caves – Subterranean waterfalls, spectacular glow-worm light displays, swirling lost rivers and awe-inspiring rock formations created millions of years ago make Waitomo a destination like no other. Specialist equipment might be needed for underground photo shoots however the spectacular Mangapohue Natural Bridge, a 17 m high limestone arch which is all that remains of an ancient cave system, is situated above ground and surrounded by native. • The Blue Spring, Te Waihou Walkway, Putaruru - Te Blue Spring, which is fed by crystal clear bright blue spring water (hence the name) that has been underground for up to 100 years. Water flows from the Blue Spring at a rate of 42 cubic metres per minute (9240 gallons per minute) and is one of the main sources for New Zealand’s bottled water industry. • Cambridge – home to some of the world’s greatest thoroughbred champions the charming and quintessential rural town of Cambridge is

surrounded by horse studs and lush rolling farmland. • Waikato River/ Lake Karapiro – the longest River in New Zealand Waikato River – the largest Kayak safari - waterfalls, rolling farmland, bushclad canyons

When: • Raglan – the coastline is beautiful as the sun is setting • Maungatautari – dawn is when you’ll get the best bird sightings. Can be arranged for mountain conservationist and avid photographer Phil Brown to act as a guide. • Waitomo – great light effects in the early morning through the ‘tomos’ (the holes into the caves) • Cambridge - many trainers and horses are out in the early morning around the racetrack. • Lake Karapiro – beautiful mists often appear early morning across the Lake

Tips: • Bridal Veil Falls - take the steep set of steps down to the bottom viewing platform to look back up at the Falls. • Waitomo Caves - Specialist equipment might be needed for underground photo shoots however the spectacular Mangapohue Natural Bridge, a 17 m high limestone arch which is all that remains of an ancient cave system, is situated above ground and surrounded by native.

Whanganui

The region is rich in Maori and European history, and the past is proudly remembered and respected by the people of today. This is physically apparent in the beautifully preserved heritage buildings, riverboats and marae (traditional Maori community meeting places).

Travel along the Whanganui River Valley and absorb the tranquil beauty of the landscapes. The spiritual feel of this special place is almost tangible. Time loses importance here, swept from its throne by deep levels of relaxation and close connections with the natural world. This rejuvenating atmosphere is created by a wonderful combination of a mystical presence, stunning scenery and very limited human intervention.

What: Jerusalem is an incredibly historic settlement on the banks of the Whanganui River, accessible via the Whanganui River Road. Once home to Mother Aubert, founder of the Sisters Of Compassion, and later New Zealand’s greatest poet James K Baxter, Jerusalem presents many brilliant photo opportunities.

When: As you arrive in Jerusalem, pull over about 200-300 metres south of the village and enjoy the incredible reflection of the Church steeple on the emerald Whanganui River. This shot best taken in the early morning. Lucky photographers will arrive on a misty morning for that added ambience.

What: The Chronicle Glass Studio, in the heart of Wanganui’s ‘Old Town’ precinct, produce glass art pieces that are widely considered to be of World Standard. Their works have recently been sold to a number of the world’s glitterati, further elevating their profile and that of the entire Wanganui glass art scene. Extremely vibrant imagery can be captured as owners Katie Brown and Lindsay Patterson work their art alongside a number other equally talented local artists.

When: Telephone the studio in advance to gain an insight as to when the best shots can be found, but attempt to be there when the ‘Glory Hole’ is fired up and glass blowing is in full swing.

The Bay of Plenty

Spectacular beaches attract surfers year round, with Mount Maunganui providing a focus for wave culture. For diving and angling enthusiasts, there are offshore islands, reefs and fishing grounds to visit.

In terms of adventure, local specialties include tours of the marine volcano White Island, blokarting (land sailing), sky diving and dolphin encounters. Or if you're looking for pampering and relaxation, hot pools and spas can be found in many locations.

The name Bay of Plenty pays tribute to the region's ability to produce great food. Around the city of Tauranga are swathes of orchards and gardens growing everything from kiwifruit and citrus fruit to avocados and culinary herbs. Add to this a thriving local wine industry and plentiful fresh seafood and you'll see why the region's restaurant culture is so well developed.

What: The view of Mount Maunganui Main Beach from the top of Mount Maunganui. With some of the best ocean and city views you’ll see anywhere in the world, it’s easy to see why over a million people do this walk each year.

When: Sunrise and sunset

The walk to the summit takes approximately 30 minutes.

What: Minden lookout for extensive views. At 286 metres above sea level, this viewing point delivers unobstructed views along the Bay of Plenty coast and out to sea, over orchards, farmland, hill country and the suburbs of Tauranga.

When: Mid morning to mid day.

The lookout is a 20 minute drive from Tauranga.

Wairarapa

If you arrive from Wellington, you’ll wind your way over the Rimutaka hills and along the route trodden by early European settlers 150 years ago. The vast Wairarapa valley will open up before you, fringed by mountains to the west and rugged coast to the east.

European settlement dates back to the 1840s, but Maori history is much older. Archaeological research has shown that parts of the Wairarapa coast have been occupied for at least 800 years.

Essentially rural with off-the beaten-track charm, Wairarapa promises a diverse experience for those who appreciate great wine, gourmet food, astonishing wildlife and natural beauty. Rolling vineyards, acres of apple orchards, fields of lavender, olive groves, heritage museums and quaint historic towns combine to make Wairarapa an appealing destination.

Greytown Historical Greytown is New Zealand's first inland town. It has retained its delightful colonial village character with careful preservation of the many wooden Victorian buildings. Large trees are also a feature of the town which, with its up market stores, restaurants, cafes, even a gourmet chocolate studio, has become a favourite weekend getaway for those living in neighbouring Wellington. Distinctly NZ, very beautiful presented. Greytown is one hour from Wellington on State Highway 2.

The Cape Palliser Lighthouse Installed in 1897, the famous 18 metre high candy-striped lighthouse is situated on the tip of Cape Palliser on a hill, 80 metres above sea level. There are 250 steps up to the lighthouse, so it pays to have reasonably good fitness. When you reach the top you are rewarded with panoramic views so spectacular that you can even see the South Island on a clear day. Allow 1 hour 45 mins from Wellington or 40 mins from Martinborough.

The Putangirua Pinnacles The Putangirua Pinnacles are dramatic rock formations that have been carved into huge organ-pipe shaped pillars. They are made of old alluvial gravels and were formed as heavy rain washed away softer rock, leaving more resistant rock behind. In time, individual earth pillars, also known as 'hoodoos' developed - some are even thought to be over 1,000 years old. The Putangirua Pinnacles were used as a backdrop for scenes in trilogy, which makes them a fascinating.

The Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve is an hour's drive from Martinborough, on the very southern tip of the North Island.

Rotorua

Rotorua sits squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire, so volcanic activity is part of the city’s past and present. The city is also the tribal home of the Te Arawa people, who settled in lakeside geothermal areas more than 600 years ago. Entertaining in any weather, and at any time of the year, Rotorua promises to keep you captivated with geothermal phenomena and special cultural experiences. Geysers, boiling mud pools, marae stays, hangi feasts, an authentic pre- European Maori village and indulgent spa therapies will provide plenty of content for your emails home. Rotorua also has a well-developed adventure culture – everything from sky diving to zorbing.

Manawatu

Expect to spend a lot of time outside, because the geography has inspired an exciting choice of mild, medium and wild adventures. Rafting, kayaking, horse trekking, mountain biking and rock climbing are just some of the things you can do.

For those who want a taste of country life, it's everywhere you look. Experience the excitement and atmosphere of a real stock auction - one of New Zealand's oldest traditions dating back to the 1880s. Or find a farm stay and meet third and fourth generation farmers with a passion for the land.

Real Kiwi culture comes in many forms here. Garden lovers will enjoy visiting some fabulous private and public gardens, including one of the top five rose gardens in the world. In Palmerston North, you can explore the world's first museum devoted to the rugby or see a local drama production. Around Horowhenua you'll find quirky attractions such as an owl park, a farm devoted to Clydesdale horses, and an operational Dutch windmill.

The Square

All roads lead to The Square in Palmerston North City, which is an inner city park also known as Te Marae-O-Hine, translated into English means “the Courtyard of the Daughter of Peace”. Highlights include:

• The statue of Te Peeti Te Awe Awe that commemorates a chief of the Rangitane tribe and a significant figure in early Manawatu history. http://citylibrary.pncc.govt.nz/historic-places-in-palmerston-north.html • Numbers sculpture, by Anthony Parsons located in the Coleman Mall corner of The Square, surrounded by heritage buildings in the boutique shopping area of the City. http://www.publicsculpture.org.nz • Returning Column sculpture, by Greg Johns – a rusty, paper clip like sculpture on the southern edge of The Square. http://www.publicsculpture.org.nz • United-Divided kinetic sculpture by Phil Price located at the green space outside Palmerston North Convention Centre, opposite George Street. http://www.publicsculpture.org.nz • All Creatures Great – One Whale = Ten Elephants sculpture by Paul Dibble in the alley way next to Palmerston North City Library. http://citylibrary.pncc.govt.nz/paul-dibble.html • Palmerston North City Library building on the south western corner of The Square. This building was formerly a department store. The façade still remains, but the interior in an innovatively designed three- storey space by architect, Ian Athfield – a prominent Wellington architect who was noted for his innovative solutions to reburbishment of heritage buildings. http://citylibrary.pncc.govt.nz/historic-places-in- palmerston-north.html

Manawatu Gorge The setting for the jet boat ride and a spectacular natural feature in its own right, Manawatu Gorge is unique because the river flows from one side to the other, rather than from a divide. The river is actually cutting through two mountain ranges – Ruahine and Tararua. At certain points as you drive through you can see some of the towering Te Apiti windfarm turbines on the top of the Ruahine Range, and if you’re lucky you’ll glimpse a train travelling through the opposite side.

Stormy Point Lookout On the way to Rathmoy on the Cheltenham-Hunterville Road, Stormy Point Lookout provides expansive views of one of the best preserved sequences of river terraces in the world, with each major terrace having been formed during a period of cooler climate than what we have at present. Panoramic views of the Rangitikei Valley and beyond Mt Taranaki and Mt Ruapehu are possible on a clear day.

Rewa Just past Stormy Point is the historic settlement of Rewa. Blink or you’ll miss this stop. This was an important timber milling centre and now what remains are characterful buildings. What was the store is now Clayart Gallery – a pottery shop. The church and the school still remain – beautifully preserved and quaint reminders of New Zealand’s past. http://www.ourregion.co.nz/rewa/

Coromandel

The rugged volcanic hills are cloaked in native rainforest, and more than 400 kilometres of spectacular coastline promises you can find the beach of your dreams. The Coromandel is a place where bush and beach are both easily accessible. In the same day, you can experience the blue dazzle of the Pacific Ocean and calming greenness of the kauri forest.

Inspired by the region’s idyllic setting, many artists and crafts people have made the Coromandel their home - visitors to the area are welcome in their studios. The area’s fascinating history is evident in gold mining relics, logging dams and ancient Maori pa sites. The past can also be found in the charming colonial architecture and historical buildings preserved in several towns around the region.

Hawkes Bay

The landscapes of Hawke’s Bay begin with the high, forested Ruahine and Kaweka Ranges. From the mountains, the land steps down towards the coast, flattening out to become the Heretaunga Plains. A number of wide rivers run swiftly to meet the blue Pacific Ocean. The twin cities of Napier and Hastings are the main population centres.

Blessed with a sunny, Mediterranean-style climate, Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s warmest, driest regions.

Tourism New Zealand Travel page www.newzealand.com

New Zealand Transport Agency www.nzta.govt.nz

The New Zealand Road Code http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/roadcode/road-code-index.html

Further Driving routes: http://www.newzealand.com/travel/getting-to-around-nz/driving- routes/driving-routes-home.cfm

We hope you enjoyed your stay in Aotearoa New Zealand

Ka kite ano! See you again!

Saturday, October 26