Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Wharariki
No car park, no ice-cream van, no swimsuits… This isolated stretch near sweeping Farewell Spit is for wan-
derers and ponderers. (
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)
Abel Tasman Coast Track
No need to Photoshop this postcard paradise. These golden beaches, blue bays and verdant
hills are for real. (
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)
Kaiteriteri
Wildly popular, and for good reason, Kaiteriteri's gorgeous, golden stretch of sand is the gateway to the
beautiful Abel Tasman National Park. That's where you can kayak or tramp to more isolated beachy spots such as Onet-
ahuti. (
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)
History
Dunedin Railway Station
One hundred or so years old, trimmed with mosaic tiles and stained-glass windows. One of
NZ's most-photographed buildings, and the starting point for the spectacular Taieri Gorge Railway. (
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)
Oamaru Historic Precinct
Beautifully restored whitestone buildings and warehouses, now house galleries, restaurants
and artisan workshops. Pack your sense of balance to ride a penny-farthing bicycle. (
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)
Christchurch
The earthquakes damaged much of the southern capital's architectural heritage, but some essential histor-
ic experiences remain. Punt slowly down the Avon River and explore the excellent Canterbury Museum. (
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)
Denniston Plateau
Explore this ghostly former coal-mining town near Westport, once home to 1500 sooty locals.
(
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)
Akaroa
Discover the French colonial history of the pretty seaside village of Akaroa. The French Fest held in late Octo-
ber every two years is a great time to visit. (
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)
Maori Culture
Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre
Learn about traditional Maori rock art in Timaru before exploring remote sites around
South Canterbury. (
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)
Okains Maori & Colonial Museum
Tucked away in sleepy Okains Bay on the Banks Peninsula, this community-run
museum is a surprising storehouse of heritage treasures including a
waka taua
(war canoe). (
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)
Hokitika
The primary source of NZ
pounamu
(greenstone) and home to numerous master carvers of stone, bone and
paua in traditional designs. (
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)
Ko Tane
Visit the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch for a replica Maori village and an excellent cultural
show. (
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)
Museums & Galleries
Otago Museum
Harnessing Dunedin's academic firepower, the Otago Museum presents an overview of the region's
history, flora and fauna - an excellent primer before wildlife-watching on the Otago Peninsula. (
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)
Canterbury Museum
One of the few heritage buildings to survive the Christchurch earthquakes unscathed: a fascinat-
ing showcase of Maori culture and natural history. (
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)
