Help with Planning South Island, NZ

Old Nov 6th, 2022, 05:19 AM
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The scenic but winding drive from Christchurch to Akaroa takes about an hour and a half. If you anticipate still being highly fatigued and jetlagged--too much so to drive, it'd be best to take the shuttle. This way you can both look out at the views instead of one of you having to keep your hands on the steering wheel and eyes fixed on the unfamiliar road ahead. I see the Akaroa French Connection shuttle departs from in front of the Canterbury Museum at 9 a.m. and leaves Akaroa for the return at 4 p.m. This should give you time for the cruise, to look around the village and/or have lunch.

Yes, this area you'll be in, central Christchurch, is very walkable. But I agree the tram for sightseeing would be a good idea, because after you walk around the vast gardens, your energy might wane a bit, especially if it's warm or hot (bring a hat with a brim). I'm guessing you'll be jetlagged but also somewhat energized by arriving during bright daylight hours and motivated to explore this new destination. When I land in a new time zone, I try to adjust to the new time zone as soon as possible. If I arrive in the morning, I'll struggle to stay up until it's the normal time locals go to bed. The Botanic Garden is lovely--roses, dahlias, hydrangeas and many other flowers will be in bloom. The Avon River flows through/around the gardens. The Botanic Garden also has a visitor centre and cafe.

I didn't know the Canterbury Museum was under renovation, but I'm not surprised. Since the earthquake, Christchurch has been upgrading, rebuilding, and working on lots of new, ambitious projects. Since admission is free and as it's next to the Botanic Garden, I'd go in and have quick look at what is open. I like their Antarctic collection. By the way, near the Christchurch Airport, you can visit the International Antarctic Centre, if this topic appeals to you. This link will tell you why Christchurch is the main information hub for Antarctica in NZ.

Sorry, I don't know about the Hill walk. My guess is you'd probably have to drive or take a bus to the start of this walk as central Christchurch is flat. Maybe you're thinking of the Port Hills? If you're interested in panoramic views, Christchurch also has a gondola. I've not been on it, but their web page has more information about their shuttle as well as information about the public bus. The views look great.

Will you be renting a car from APEX? I see The George is about a 12 minute walk or 4 minute taxi ride to APEX in downtown Christchurch, that is, if you don't want to pick up your car from APEX at the airport. If you pick up from APEX at the airport, you'll already be near SH1, the motorway that will start you in the direction of Tekapo. SH1 will take you to SH79, which will take you to SH8, which runs through the center of Tekapo. GPS would be useful for getting around or in and out of towns and cities, but you'll rarely need it outside of cities as we have few roads, (and most have just one lane for each direction), and everything will be well-signed along your route. Here's a link to a South Island touring map that you can zoom in on. https://www.newzealand.com/assets/To.../p23573_23.pdf

The only cities you'll be in are Christchurch and Nelson, with the latter two being more of a large town. To me, the tourist resort town of Queenstown also feels like a city because despite being small, it's busy and has lots of businesses and hotels. I'm sure your GPS will work there. The South Island has only a few cities or large towns; in-between you'll go through rural areas and by wildernesses/national parks, lakeshores, coastlines, and a few small towns/villages (Manapouri, for example, only has around 220 residents). Christchurch is the South Island's largest city in population, with 389,300 residents. There are only 1.2 million residents on all of the South Island. Whereas, the population of Auckland is 1,652,000.

Even though you'll have GPS and the roads will be well sign-posted, I suggest you review the routes between your destinations before leaving on your trip (you were probably planning on doing this). I always do this before a trip. Once in Alicante, Spain, GPS directed my husband to drive down a stairway. On another couple of occasions, in Figueres and Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, it had us driving around in circles, and directed us to the wrong exit and entrance ramps. Even here in Dunedin, GPS has guided us on some crazy, not very direct routes. I'm sure you've had similar experiences.

Please watch this driving safety video from the NZ Transport Agency:
In many US states you can turn a right turn at a red light providing it's safe to do so and isn't strictly prohibited. You can't do that here, no left turns at a red light ever. Also, pedestrians do not have the right of way except at zebra crossings or when they have the green light to cross.
The NZ Transport Agency has also prepared this info booklet about driving in NZ. https://www.nzta.govt.nz/assets/reso...nz-english.pdf
This link will tell you of any road closures and roadworks that you can check on the morning of your drives: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic

For Doubtful Sound and, for our climate in general, bring a wind and waterproof or water-resistant jacket because NZ's weather is unpredictable and changeable. It'll also come in handy on any other boat rides you might take. The weather in Aoraki Mt. Cook is highly changeable, and you don't want lack of proper clothing limiting what you can do. If you want to go out at night to stargaze or walk to a restaurant, you'll need a jacket. Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mt. Cook are part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. I don't think you'd need a down vest, but I can't speak for how easily you feel cold. I easily feel chilled and have never felt the need for a down vest or jacket. A middle layer, like a thin long-sleeved fleece or merino wool top with a hood and zipper that fits over my tee-shirt and under my lined wind and waterproof jacket gets me through our coldest days, something that can be rolled up small and fit into a daypack or that can be worn instead of my outer jacket on warmer days. Even a non-bulky sweatshirt would do. It can be very windy in summer, making a sunny day feel cold. Hopefully, you'll mostly enjoy windless days or only light breezes. Kiwis often wear shorts, even in winter. When hiking, I prefer zip off cargo pants of a quick-dry material, long pants that can convert into shorts. I have some made of a material that also repels insects. They're like these.

On each morning of your trip, you might want to check the Metservice website. It won't just tell you the weather prediction, but also how many layers to wear, and if you'll need windproof layer. It'll give you the tide times, pollen forecast and UV level.
https://www.metservice.com/national

I think you'll have probably many of these items I mentioned in your wardrobe already, but, if need be, you can buy them here. Local brands that have their own retail outlets include Kathmandu and Macpac (I only buy when their things go on sale). Here, merino wool, fashioned into thin but warm and breathable tops, are popular. I always bring a cap and gloves when on trips around NZ on which I plan to hike. I often bring waterproof pants, too.

Just my personal opinion (which might just be wishful thinking), but I think this coming summer will be on the warm side as we are already enjoying many warmer-than-average days. We are currently experiencing La Nina weather patterns, which bring warmer and drier weather to the South Island's East Coast. Inland Otago (Queenstown, Wanaka) is generally warm in summer. In rare instances, NZ can also experience summer ex-tropical cyclones, which start as tropical cyclones in the South Pacific. This coming summer, there is a slight chance of an ex-cyclone, but it's expected to potentially occur between November and January. In February 2018, ex-cyclones Fehi and Gita caused extensive damage throughout NZ, especially along the South Island's West Coast and in the Tasman-Nelson district. So it's always good to be prepared.

With respect to seafood. I'd suggest you have Green Lipped mussels. I like them simply prepared, steamed in white wine, garlic and butter. NZ farmed salmon is King Salmon (also known as Chinook), which is native to the North Pacific but farmed on the South Island. You'll be able to visit a salmon farm after you leave Aoraki Mt. Cook, High Country Salmon. There's also a shop for Mount Cook Alpine Salmon overlooking Lake Pukaki, near the turn-off for SH80/Aoraki Mount Cook Road. The most popular NZ white fish is Blue Cod, but I've noticed it's been selling for quite high prices. I've been told this is because fuel is so expensive right now, the boats aren't going out as much. Bluff oysters, which are native to NZ, are popular, but their season starts in March. You might be able to find Pacific oysters, which were introduced to NZ from their native Japan.

In terms of meat, well, lamb will certainly come into your mind as you drive around the South Island. There are plenty of sheep! There are also a lot of cows. The names of certain cuts of beef are different in NZ. Scotch filet is ribeye with the bone removed. Eye filet is filet mignon. NZ is the world's leading exporter of venison. It's lean and tender. The medallions are the best cuts. Most of that served in restaurants will be farmed, pasture-raised, free-range venison, but some will be wild venison. The venison comes from a European red deer species.

In terms of fast food, fish and chips and meat pies are popular. Have a look at these links for starters:
https://www.tasteatlas.com/new-zeala...ips/wheretoeat
https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/exper...ps-whats-yours
https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/exper...in-new-zealand

You'll find farmers markets in most towns and cities. These are most often held on Saturday or Sunday mornings, some are only open in summer. They're fantastic. This is a link to Farmers Markets New Zealand (but there could be something wrong with the link). https://www.farmersmarkets.org.nz/
Here's a link to a produce seasonality chart:
https://www.produce.co.nz/seasonality-chart/
You'll be here during strawberry and stone fruit season. Sadly, you'll just miss cherry season. The cherries of Central Otago are fabulous. There are a couple of large produce stands in Cromwell, which you'll pass through on your way from Aoraki Mt. Cook to Queenstown.

Some of the best Central Otago wines (especially Pinot Noir, Riesling and Sparkling wines) can be found in Cromwell as well as in nearby Bannockburn, Lowburn, Pisa, and Bendigo. Between Cromwell and Queenstown, you'll pass through the Gibbston Valley, where you'll also find more wonderful wineries. Quite a few of these wineries have restaurants that take full advantage of the local produce.

In terms of desserts, Kiwis love their pavlova. There is an ongoing rivalry between NZ and Australia as to where pavlova orginated.

Not a dessert, but definitely sweet, NZ honey is of a very high quality. You've probably heard of NZ manuka honey, but there are many other varieties worth trying. My friends in the US tell me they love the rata honey I bring them, but maybe they're just being gracious..

One of the top dining spots in Queenstown is Amisfield Bistro in Amisfield Winery, near Lake Hayes. It's a set menu and you must reserve ahead. Burger fans in Queenstown line up at Fergburger.

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Old Nov 6th, 2022, 12:44 PM
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When mentioning seafood, I left out NZ crayfish. I was thinking as you are from the US East Coast, you've probably had access to lobster and mght not be impressed with NZ crayfish--nor the prices. But you might you might be curious about it all the same.

One of my favorite seasonal fruits is feijoa, which was introduced to NZ from South America. Feijoa season begins in March, but there's always a chance the season could start earlier.

Here's a webpage about traditional Maori foods: https://www.newzealand.com/nz/featur...l-maori-foods/

This is a link to NZ's Cuisine Magazine: https://www.cuisine.co.nz/



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Old Nov 10th, 2022, 07:11 AM
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Hi, good catch on our car rental from Apex being close to The George Hotel, I am going to change our pickup from the airport to town location. Which brings up the question, I see there are two routes to Tekapo, one being a bit longer. What are your thoughts about taking State Highway #77 towards West Melton, Passing Rakaia Gorge, past Mount Somers, and having a stop in Geraldine?
Thoughts on star watching from Lake Alexandrina instead of the pricey Observatory? We would go up to the Observatory during the day because it’s worth the time.
The web page metservice.com is awesome! I have it installed on both my phone and iPad. Wish we had something here in the states. We also have crazy GPS stories…going around the same block many times🥺
We love checking out Farmers markets , regular grocery stores and trying new foods, such as your pavlova, feijoa, and crayfish. I know crayfish are popular in US Southern cooking, gumbo is a big dish in the South. I need to Google how to eat one! Lobsters are pricey depending on the time of year and when they are soft or hard shell. My daughter and I like a splurge of lobster every so often.
It’s a shame we won’t get to your area, from what I’ve read Dunedin is very picturesque, many things to do but maybe next time!! We did book a glacier boat tour from the Hermitage Hotel and going to book the Akaroa boat tour, either with Viatour or French Connection bus tour. Your advice is well heeded, again, thank you for your time.

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Old Nov 10th, 2022, 02:46 PM
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3Gnhgirl, just a quick clarification. The crayfish that is commercially harvested, sold in supermarkets and seafood shops, and served in restaurants is actually a saltwater, or marine, red rock lobster, though is it referred to in NZ as crayfish or its Maori/Te Reo name kōura.. To make matters more confusing, NZ also has freshwater crayfish also referred to as kōura. I don't believe freshwater kōura is commercially harvested.
I will write more soon.

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Old Nov 11th, 2022, 05:07 PM
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Hi, I looked into the crayfish and it wasn’t what I was thinking, but now know more about it. Apparently, the meat comes from the tail, it is worth trying for sure. I love mussels and prefer them to clams, and look forward to eating them when I’m in NZ. The pavlova looks delish. I understand the ice cream at the Patagonia Cafe is worth trying.

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Old Nov 12th, 2022, 12:07 PM
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There is no lack of great ice cream in NZ. I also recommend Whittaker's if you are or know chocoholics.
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Old Nov 13th, 2022, 12:30 PM
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I understand the ice cream at the Patagonia Cafe is worth trying.

It certainly is. As is the hot chocolate. And this chocoholic wholeheartedly seconds the mention of Whittaker's.

We can't pass a milk store (convenience store) in NZ without stopping for ice cream. And if you're near Cromwell, don't miss the fruit ice cream sold at the fruit stands. They mix your choice of fruit into vanilla ice cream. Another of our many NZ visit traditions.
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Old Nov 15th, 2022, 02:45 PM
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Gnhgirl, regarding your route to Tekapo, you should take the route that most appeals to you, depending on your sightseeing priorities. I'm not familiar with SH#77. If I've been on it, it would have been too long ago. But I'm sure Melnq8 can advise you on this as she's more extensively explored Canterbury and the South Island in general. I'm sure I've read her comments and recommendations on walking Rakaia Gorge as, one point, I stopped into the Ashburton Tourist Info office to ask about it and pick up a brochure for this region--though I never followed through by actually visiting. I think I must have picked up on the idea from one of her trip reports.
In the meantime, you can look at this You Tube that someone has kindly posted:

You don't need to take a tour to view the night stars. All you need is to be a in a place with little light pollution on a clear night with preferably with not much moonlight. There are stargazing apps out there that will assist. https://www.nzta.govt.nz/assets/reso...oundabouts.pdf
However, if you'd like to see the night stars through a telescope, then a guided night sky tour is necessary, and I agree it doesn't have to be from the pricier observatory on Mt. John. My husband and I took their less pricey Cowan observatory tour. We loved it as we were part of a smaller group and as we're easily impressed, but I'm sure there are others who would opt for the pricier tour from the larger observatory. You also have the option of a guided night sky tour from at Aoraki Mt. Cook. I would have a look at reviews. We all approach such experiences with different expectations.

You listed Lake Tekapo among the places you wanted to visit in your original posting. What more had you planned on doing there? Some travelers just briefly stop by to view the lake, snap photos of the Church of the Good Shepherd and the bronze sheepdog statue, and/or drive up to Mt. John to admire the 360° panorama or have a snack or drink in Astro Cafe; it's also possible to walk to the top, though it takes a lot more time. Other travelers stay longer to view the night stars from the observatory or from Tekapo Springs, or to just spend more time by this lake. The Mackenzie Region Lakes Tekapo, Ohau and Pukaki are known for their turquoise waters caused by glacial "flour" (fine silt particles caused by glacial erosion), with the color of Pukaki being most intensely cyan. I'd say Lake Pukaki also spectacularly reveals itself, as the highly scenic Aoraki Mt. Cook Road/SH80 runs parallel to Lake Pukaki's banks (there's a scenic must-stop along this road at "Peter's Lookout"). Eventually, as you get closer to Aoraki Mt. Cook village, Lake Pukaki becomes the Tasman River and then Tasman Lake, which I believe is the same lake you'll be on for your Glacier Explorers boat ride.

You noted that you will spend two nights in this region (known as the Mackenzie region). Do you plan on spending one night in Tekapo and the next in Aoraki Mt. Cook? Or do you plan on just a short visit to Tekapo and then continuing on to spend two nights in Aoraki Mt. Cook? I'd opt for two nights in Aoraki Mt. Cook because, as I mentioned in my earlier post, its weather is highly changeable. It could sunny in the morning and grey and rainy in the afternoon. More time there increases your chances of fine weather. But, then again, I don't know your exact plans for what you would like to see and do--and maybe you are still trying to decide!

I hope you'll give yourself enough time in Aoraki Mt. Cook to also walk all or part of the Hooker Valley Track, one of the South Island's most spectacular day-walks. Considered an "easy" track, with only a mild vertical gain, it meanders through a dramatic valley flanked by high mountains and takes you on swing bridges (which, I remember, you very much enjoy), wooden boardwalks, and views of a murkier glacier lake at its terminus. It's said to take 3 to 4 hours return, but I think this time must be take into account many scenic stops.

My experiences of traveling around the South Island are limited but I've developed a fondness for a few favorite places I'd gladly return to. Despite its popularity and fickle weather, I really enjoy Aoraki Mt. Cook. (It's also not that far from Dunedin.).

Before you change your APEX booking, keep in mind it's only open from 8 a.m. to 4:29 p.m. You'll save on having to get to the airport, but you'll also have to drive through the city center to get to the state highway, which might not be so bad. I'm not familiar with Christchurch's current morning traffic patterns. This will also be your first time driving in a New Zealand city, but I'm sure GPS will get you through it. Please review NZ's basic road rules before your trip and have a look at this link: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/assets/reso...oundabouts.pdf

Will write more very soon.


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Old Nov 15th, 2022, 05:05 PM
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I've done the routing through Geraldine, Methven and Windwhistle when I was playing the golf courses including the ridiculously difficult Terrace Downs. The restaurant that I liked in Geraldine is no more but Barker's food hall is still there. It's a little more interesting than the main road Hwy 1 which is pretty boring, but just about the only place on the South Island that you can actually drive the speed limit.
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Old Nov 16th, 2022, 12:34 PM
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Thank you migb and Diamantina for your input. I bet those golf courses were challenging! I think we will take the more scenic drive rather than the main road, Hwy 1. I have changed our overnight reservations from two nights in Tekapo to one and one in Mt. Cook at the Heritage Hotel. The suggestion of bad weather gives thoughts about 2 nights in Mt. Cook...need to really consider what we are going to do in Tekapo, the must see areas as you suggested are on our list and just being there might be enough. Our little Mountain, (compared to your mountain heights), Mt. Washington, 6,288' is often cloudy 300 days of the year! So, I do understand how the weather impacts viewing..
.I like the idea of Cowan's Observatory for night sky viewing and might take a chance of not booking until the last minute with the hope of either of the two nights for some clear weather...
what some thoughts on underwater rafting in the Charleston area on the Nile River/rain forest area?
I am looking at the Able Tasman NP area, Wilson's brochure and what are some thoughts on the different kayak/hike tours? I am thinking either the Walk Tonga Quarry to Medlands Beach, including full Vista Cruise from Kaiteriteri to Totaranui before a walk or Split Apple Beaches, Kayak and Walk, both look fabulous! And, I fully intend to try the ice cream/fruit across the various areas we are in!

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Old Nov 17th, 2022, 02:53 PM
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The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is not confined to Mt. John Observatory, so I think any of the other stargazing tours with telescope access are likely to provide a similar experience. When I did the Cowan Observatory tour many years ago, there weren't many other options, now there are several more. I had a look at this link: https://www.mackenzienz.com/explore/...rophotography/
And, after looking at some of the current options, I think if I were to do it again, I would opt for a stargazing tour that would provide a full refund if the weather was less than optimal. Again, a clear night on or around the time of the new moon is best. When the sky is darker, you'll get better contrast and see more stars. In addition to cost, I might also consider the size of the telescope used, though, unless I looked through each of them side-by-side, I probably wouldn't notice the difference between a 14-inch and 9.25-inch telescope. So, I agree, unless you're really into astronomy, I don't see why you should pay more for a stargazing experience on Mt. John. https://nzpocketguide.com/the-best-t...n-new-zealand/

I googled Mt. Washington and had a look at its Wikipedia page. What a gorgeous area! I also caught that part about "erratic weather"--yes, similar to Aoraki Mt. Cook, which soars to 12,220 ft. Aoraki Mt. Cook NP has 19 peaks over 9,842 feet. Kiwi Sir Edmund Hillary, who was one of the two men (the other being sherpa Tenzing Norgay) to first climb Mt. Everest practiced here on these mountains.

While both of your Abel Tasman choices look fine, I'd opt for "Walk Tonga Quarry to Medlands Beach, including full Vista Cruise from Kaiteriteri to Totaranui" because this way you'd get to see more of the coastline With the second option your're looking at, "Split Apple Beaches, Kayak and Walk", it seems they'll only take you as far as Anchorage, so you wouldn't see the Abel Tasman NP coastline north of this. I know it's subjective, but I found the prettiest area on the cruise between Kaiteriteri and Totaranui to be Awaroa Bay, and we were lucky to be able to cruise into the inlet because it was high tide (this isn't possible at low tide). Awaroa Beach in Awaroa Bay used to be privately owned but was put up for sale in 2016, at which point, donations secured through crowdfunding purchased Awaroa Beach so that it could be added to Abel Tasman National Park. You can read about it here:
https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/exper...t-kiwis-bought

You have two full days in Kaiteriteri. So maybe consider doing a kayak trip on a separate day to your cruise and walk. You don't have to use Wilson's, there are numerous kayak operators that offer both guided kayaking plus walk trips and unguided trips out of Kaiteriteri and nearby Marahau. For instance (just to name two, there are many more):
https://www.rrkayaks.co.nz/guided-to...tours-full-day
https://www.abeltasmankayaks.co.nz/guided-kayak-tours/
There are also a lot of water taxi companies that offer an alternative to Wilson's. In December 2019, I spent three days doing day walks on the Abel Tasman track and based myself in Kaiteriteri. I found if it most practical to buy a 3-day Explorer Pass with Wilson's. Because I walked the track solo, I used my walking poles on the first day, but after seeing how easy track was, left them behind on the second and third days. Besides, the poles aggravated my carpal tunnel.

I've lived in NZ for 11 years, though my husband and I began traveling from CA to NZ in 1996, making numerous trips over the years. I believe we first visited Abel Tasman NP in 1997 or 1998, as part of longer South Island trip-it was our second or third trip to NZ. I'd so looked forward to kayaking in Abel Tasman NP and had clipped numerous articles from magazines and newspapers, which I'd kept in a manila folder, about this experience. All the photos in these articles showed bright blue skies and placid turquoise waters. But when we finally did it for ourselves, as part of a small-group guided kayaking trip, we did so in a rainstorm, which seemed to appear out of nowhere (as the morning had started off dry and sunny). We got soaked and had to put up our sails as it became hard to paddle. Our group sailed up to a beach, where we were offered snacks and warm drinks. The guide asked us if we wanted to walk into the park but most of us were wet and chilled so opted to just end the trip, and got picked up by water taxi, which returned us to our starting point. The only exception was a Kiwi couple who had the proper clothing to continue. This was my introduction to NZ's quickly changeable weather. For future trips, I learned to better prepare.

NZ is known for being at the forefront of extreme sports, but I was perplexed by your question about underwater rafting. I looked it up and discovered you meant Underworld Rafting. I looked at the video on their website and it looks fun and fascinating. Do it! I wouldn't do it as the idea of getting all kitted up in a wetsuit and carrying an innertube uphill doesn't appeal to me--but I'm in my late 60s.I took the easier option of visiting the subterranean glow worm caves in Te Anau. But the experience you've chosen looks infinitely less busy and more adventurous and exciting.

Just remember, each time you add a new adventure to your trip, you'll be taking away time from other potential activities. Maybe you can cut down your time in Hokitika to one day and night. I think it'll be enough.

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Old Jan 1st, 2023, 11:32 AM
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Happy New Year Everyone!!
Wow, a bit more than one month to our trip and I am soooo excited. I have 2 friends who are traveling in the South Island almost at the same time as my husband and I, and it is so fun to compare notes about each others trips. All trips are very different, one is on a hike/kayak adventure trip, the other is cruising around the North and South Island. But, my thanks to all of you, who have contributed so much to my itinerary for the trip.
We are currently having very strange, so warm, no snow weather it is weird.
So, my questions to all of you is how is your weather? I'm planning on mostly short sleeve shirts and layers for warmth, raincoat for sure and going to use the washing machines for sure as we travel with carryon's. What might be blooming for trees, shrubs and annuals? Will there be birds migrating to the North? We are bringing binoculars and look forward to our Merlin app to help us identify your birds for us.
Thank you in advance.
PS I am skipping the "underwater" rafting...Lol on me.
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Old Jan 2nd, 2023, 01:29 PM
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If you are interested in birds, I recommend the "Albatross Encounter" excursion in Kaikoura.

https://albatrossencounter.co.nz/

If you are driving through the Homer Tunnel there will probably be a Kea waiting there. The more reliable spot is around the Arthur's Pass Cafe.

If you click my name you can see the trip report I submitted. As noted, restaurants are VERY busy and understaffed but don't overlook the option of cooking at your lodging assuming you are booked into motels, they nearly all have outfitted kitchens and bbq grills. (Always with a small bottle of milk or milk capsules to go with tea and coffee, and sometimes also a few biscuits aka cookies). Might be a good idea to buy a cooler or bring a collapsible one so you can carry other perisables. Cafes or bakeries are good places to stop in the morning to grab some sandwiches or pies. Also some of the gas stations have a good range of grab n go.

If you decide to take the inland route, detour through Sheffield for the famous pie shop.

Mint, Folk & Co was a very good restaurant in Twizel (not Tekapo).

Always expect rain. It should not be very cold next month but it can be very windy so it might feel colder than the temps. But if you are from Boston you will think it's summer. Oh yes, don't leave the rain jacket/umbrella in the car, no matter how nice it looks when you stop. A small but sturdy collapsible umbrella is a wise thing to carry. Unless you have VERY top end and tested under a shower raingear, it may not keep you dry.

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Old Jan 4th, 2023, 05:32 PM
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Hi, migb, thanks for sending me to your trip report, I made a reply there.
So, as I get closer to our visit, I will add a cooler and collapsible umbrella to buy when we are in Christchurch ( a bit concerned about our baggage weights....good idea since we will have many nights to figure out dinner. We are booked into both motels, and Airbnb so will have access to cooking facilities.
Now, truth or myth: Air New Zealand is VERY strict about weight and size of carryons...
Customs has been known to take tourists shoes/boots to clean them upon entering NZ to keep out foreign diseases/plants, etc. , you have to wait about 30 minutes to get them back then can go on....
Air New Zealand is really bad about losing luggage. I am thinking of checking our carry on luggage in New York to Auckland, because of weight but.... I know we will have to check our carryons for the Domestic flights in NZ....
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Old Jan 5th, 2023, 09:19 AM
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I flew Hawaiian Airlines international and most recently just one domestic flight on AirNZ, where I checked my main bag. My cabin bag is a dufflel, no wheels so always comes in underweight. No one weighed or measured it, that is more likely with wheelie cabin luggage. One option if you are concerned about them losing bags might be to get one of those Air Tags. I clean my (waterproof) hiking boots well and wear them on the plane to cut down on weight and pack a pair of slippers and flipflops, (on the plane the boots stay under my seat) . The attendants come through the cabin when you arrive and spray.

PS since all motels have laundries, there is no need to pack a lot of changes of clothing, three pairs of pants, quick dry, a warm jacket, fleece vest and a rainjacket, thermal underwear, a few merino and quick dry long sleeve tops and t-shirts, lots of socks, which will often get wet. No need for dressy clothing or shoes. Note that NZ is also a good place to buy fine merino clothing, although it is expensive. My one souvenir was this top bought on Stewart Island at the Glowing Sky store (half off due to buttons being placed not to spec) https://glowingsky.co.nz/products/merino-shaped-henley

Last edited by mlgb; Jan 5th, 2023 at 10:10 AM.
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Old Jan 5th, 2023, 11:11 AM
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"PS since all motels have laundries, there is no need to pack a lot of changes of clothing, three pairs of pants, quick dry, a warm jacket, fleece vest and a rainjacket, thermal underwear, a few merino and quick dry long sleeve tops and t-shirts, lots of socks, which will often get wet. No need for dressy clothing or shoes. Note that NZ is also a good place to buy fine merino clothing, although it is expensive. My one souvenir was this top bought on Stewart Island at the Glowing Sky store (half off due to buttons being placed not to spec) https://glowingsky.co.nz/products/merino-shaped-henley[/QUOTE]"

Fabulous souvenir. .so, call me naive but your packing tips are for February? New Zealand summer?
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Old Jan 5th, 2023, 01:43 PM
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The prices listed in restaurants include GST (tax). Also, we don't tip in restaurants. Finally, when you get set to pay, you don't ask for the check but just go up to the cashier and pay.

Yes, be prepared for rain or sun--so rain jackets as well as tee-shirts and sunscreen. The weather can change from day to day, even hourly. So, it's important that you check Metservice. NZ's weather is highly variable. A few days before Christmas, a tornado ripped off a house's roof and damaged other homes in Alexandra in Central Otago, which is a little more than an hour's drive from Wanaka or Queenstown. Earlier, in mid-December, there were floods in parts of the North and South Island. On Christmas, much of the country enjoyed sunny, bright blue skies. On the Wednesday after Christmas, temperatures reached 30C (86F) in Wanaka. Now there's flooding in the Coromandel, a top summer holiday destination; travelers have had to cancel their Coromandel vacations. There are also warnings for heavy rain at the top and West Coast of the South Island. You're more likely to encounter fine weather while you're here, but there are no guarantees. And sometimes holiday makers will have to change their plans at the last minute. Again be prepared for out-of-the ordinary weather, but please don't worry or expect the worst that can happen.

If you have the great misfortune of unexpected stormy weather along your route, check the NZ Transport Agency for delays and/or road closures. https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/

Here in Dunedin, we've had mostly dry, sunny and warm weather, but we've also had a few days with intermittent rain and fog. But even on the rainy days, it's been very warm.

Personally, I never use an umbrella here in NZ (the wind turns them inside-out), but rely on my gortex jacket. Though it can be uncomfortable if it's warm and humid. I could see how an umbrella could come in handy for towns, but couldn't imagine carrying one on a walking track.

Yes, NZ has strict biosecurity rules. So clean any shoes or equipment that you have used on a walking tracks, wilderness areas or farms. Clean your shoes well, making sure to get rid or any soil or seeds that might be stuck between the grooves. If you do this, you will not have delays. Please review this passenger arrival card.
passenger-arrival-card-april-2022-v2.pdf
Even within NZ, there are sometimes shoe sanitation/wash stations at the start of a track, particularly on the North Island, where kauri dieback disease is present. You won't be spending time on the North Island, but this shows you how NZ tackles such biological threats to the environment.
https://www.kauriprotection.co.nz/ab...protect-kauri/
There are similar precautions for visiting pest-free islands.
https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-re...-free-islands/

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Old Jan 5th, 2023, 03:28 PM
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I just got back mid December. The packing tips are the same for the South Island all year. One pair of pants zipped off to shorts, that was mostly handy for washing just the lower muddy legs, while still wearing the shorts (over leggings one day). Maybe a long sleeved running shirt instead of a merino top. I prefer the thin merino to synthetics even in summer, they are not hot and hold up to rain and not being washed. I also find them less clammy in sweat. Of course cotton takes forever to dry but you can wear the t shirts indoors (or to sleep in). My base layers are polypro which also dry quickly and have patterns so I can just were the top by itself. The sun is so strong that I always wear long sleeves outdoors, but I have a thin quick-dry that I wear with a tee underneath if I think there will be no rain (that's when you carry the umbrella, LOL).

As for umbrellas we used them often and they fit in a jacket pocket. Rain is not always accompanied by wind and even when it is, if a small umbrella if sturdy should not flip inside out. We were very happy to have them (sometimes sharing as we hustled to shelter). If you do have an excellent waterproof outer layer then you can get away without one. I also find them handy for keeping rain off of camera gear and have figured out how to take a photo from under an umbrella when necessary.

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Old Jan 6th, 2023, 04:22 PM
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NIWA, NZ's National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, just published its seasonal climate outlook for January through March. This is about as close as you'll get to a longer-term weather prediction. Not many surprises. It says it will be warmer and more humid than usual. So be prepared for daytime temperatures in the high 70s to mid 80s on many days of your trip, though it could get even hotter inland. You'll most be on the South Island's "West Coast, Alps and foothills, inland Otago, Southland". Here's what NIWA is predicting for that region.
  • Temperatures are very likely to be above average (70% chance). More easterly-quarter winds and marine heatwave conditions will result in high heat and humidity at times.
  • Rainfall totals are most likely to be below normal (45% chance). Due to La Niña, more frequent offshore winds will likely result in extended dry spells, such as during mid-to-late January. Low rainfall may also occur around the hydro lakes. The region should remain aware of the potential for an ex-tropical cyclone or atmospheric river, particularly as La Niña eases over the next three months.
Technically, Fiordland is considered part of the "Southland" region, but weatherwise, it's unique in that it gets the highest rainfall in the country.

If you'd like to read the full report by NZ's climate experts, which also describes the weather outlook for the other regions you'll be visiting, it's here:
https://niwa.co.nz/climate/seasonal-...023-march-2023

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Old Jan 8th, 2023, 07:16 PM
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Greetings Diamantina and migb, having such up to date information from both of you is giving me a really good idea of what to expect for our trip. The weather report looks good for our time there, and we will be prepared for inclement weather. The restaurant information is good to know since we will be dining out sometimes, tipping, asking for the check, amount of food. I have been making my wish list of hike from the www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation. Such a good informational site for approximate time and distances. I had a panic moment the other
day when my NZ visa app was not transferring to my new phone, oh no! But had already photocopied the verifying email and the panic was gone. Whew! I will try to post pictures and updates every couple of days for a trip report, but it will be rudimentary for sure....suntan lotion has been ordered and for now I am enjoying our first dusting of 2 inches of snow...take care. I'm impressed about taking pictures while under an umbrella...
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