travel march 2016
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Airlines will transport 3.8 billion passengers and 53 million tonnes of air cargo this year. In doing so, they will support some $3.6 trillion in economic activity and some 58 million jobs. In Asia-Pacific, the corresponding numbers are over $1,057 billion in GDP and 33 million jobs. By 2034, global demand will reach seven billion passengers.TRANSCRIPT
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3TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
The voice of the trade
PubLISHEr / EDITor:Lorraine Thomson
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aCCouNTS:Tanya Pikhtina
DESIgNEr:Lorraine Clark
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Airlines will transport 3.8 billion
passengers and 53 million tonnes of
air cargo this year. In doing so, they
will support some $3.6 trillion in
economic activity and some 58 million jobs.
In Asia-Pacific, the corresponding numbers
are over $1,057 billion in GDP and 33 million
jobs. By 2034, global demand will reach
seven billion passengers.
These are the numbers touted by the
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
director general Tony Tyler and they make
fairly impressive reading.
Mr Tyler made his remarks at the
Singapore Airshow Aviation Leadership
Summit and he cited the collaborative event
as an example of the working together
approach. “It’s great that we are looking at
the challenges,” he said, “of future growth
together with all stakeholders.”
At the time of writing this, I am on the
other side of the Tasman, enjoying a long
weekend in Sydney. The short flight over is
like a domestic flight and the number of
airlines offering flights always surprises me.
I can’t help but feel these airlines are not
looking at future growth together, but more
as arch rivals in some cases. The number of
empty seats on aircraft crossing the Tasman
can’t be economic for the carriers surely?
On the day of my travel there was a choice
of Jetstar, Emirates, Virgin Australia, Air New
Zealand and Qantas, all offering a three hour
and 35 minute flight – a total of 21 direct
Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
ASEAN Tourism Forum . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Air lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Interview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Cruise lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Philippines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Manly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Barossa Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Taranaki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Hotel hot line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Small business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Social scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
CoNTENTS
EDIToRIAL
Lorraine Thomson Publisher / Editor
flights. If I wanted to make one stop along
the way [such as Brisbane or Melbourne]
there was a choice of 68 flights!
I am not sure what all these flights are
doing for sustainability, but according to Mr
Tyler: “Environmental sustainability is our
license to grow. The aviation industry has
adopted ambitious carbon reduction targets,
such as cutting net carbon emissions in half
by 2050, compared to 2005 levels.
Infrastructure development is another
area that needs to be addressed.
We will add 3.2 billion new air travellers
in less than two decades, according to IATA.
Of these, 1.8 billion – 56 per cent – will be
in Asia-Pacific – the vast majority on routes
linked to China. If we can realize that growth
potential, then jobs and economic activity
will follow.
It will be a challenge to keep
up infrastructure
development in line
with growing
demand. But if
you add up the
numbers we could
be heading towards
a capacity crunch –
with a shortfall
against demand.
Many readers
I suspect, will
however, relish the
additional demand.
COVER: The Datai Langkawi, Malaysia.
Adding up thenumbers
4 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
NEWS
The Australian-initiated trend
for high school graduates taking
week-long holidays following
the end of their final exams in
late November and early December
– called schoolies – is catching on in
New Zealand.
Australian operator schoolies.com is
reaching out to the growing number of New
Zealand students spreading their wings to
the Gold Coast for their post-exam
celebrations. Schoolies.com chief executive
Matt Lloyd said New Zealand had emerged
as an exciting market as more and more of
its students [1,127 last year] searched for
alternative schoolies experiences.
Last year saw the strongest influx of New
Schoolies pool party, organized by Unleashed Travel, on Mana Island, Fiji.
Kiwis latch on to schoolie holidays
Brazil is heading the list of the most
cases in the recent Zika outbreak,
sparking major concern due to the
nation hosting the Olympics in
August. For New Zealanders, however, the
Ministry of Health is advising a national
mosquito surveillance programme has been
operating for some years at New Zealand’s
international points of entry. The ports and
airports are monitored regularly throughout
the year to ensure the early detection of any
exotic mosquitoes.
The Zika virus is a mild febrile viral
illness transmitted by mosquitoes, but the
mosquitoes that transmit Zika virus are not
normally found in New Zealand. Therefore
Zika should only be considered in people who
have recently travelled overseas.
Zika virus is however, closely related to
dengue and cases of the virus have
previously been reported in the Pacific
Islands, Africa and Southern Asia. Beginning
ProTECTIoN FroM ZIKa
For protection from the mosquito
that transmits Zika, the World Health
Organisation advises:
Using insect repellent – repellents
may be applied to exposed skin or
to clothing and should contain
DEET. Repellents must be used in
strict accordance with the label
instructions. They are safe for use
by pregnant women.
Wearing light-coloured clothes that cover as much of the body
as possible.
Using physical barriers such as
screens, closed doors and windows.
Sleeping under mosquito nets, especially during the day, when
Aedes mosquitoes are most active.
Identifying and eliminating potential mosquito breeding sites, by
emptying, cleaning or covering
containers that can hold even small
amounts of water, such as buckets,
flower pots and tyres.
Travellers will need to watch out for this Aedes aegypti blood-sucking mosquito.
Zika virus raises issues for Olympics
in 2014, Zika virus outbreaks have occurred
throughout the tropical and sub-tropical
areas of the western hemisphere, as far north
as Mexico and Puerto Rico.
Although symptoms associated with Zika
are generally mild, the World Health
Organization advises a possible association
has been observed between the unusual rise
of Zika cases and microcephaly cases in
Brazil since 2015. Microcephaly is a
condition where a baby is born with a small
head or the head stops growing after birth.
Vaccines to fight the Zika virus, according
to the World Health Organisation, are at least
18 months away from large-scale trials.
— Lorraine Thomson
Zealand students in schoolies history, with
20 per cent more graduates crossing the
ditch compared with 2014 and the forecast
for 2016 is even higher.
“Schoolies.com is looking to substantially
grow that figure in 2016 on the back of
strong marketing campaigns.”
The Gold Coast is the traditional and most
favoured destination, according to schoolies.
com, however other places include Airlie
Beach, Byron Bay and Lorne.
Meanwhile, another Australasian operator
Unleashed Travel, is also offering overseas
school leaver experiences. Last year the
company sent 40 New Zealanders on
schoolies trips, typically for one week at an
average cost of $2,500.
“We run graduate trips to Fiji (do more),
Vanuatu (adventure), Cambodia orphanage
(volunteer), Fiji youth development
(adventure and volunteer) and to Europe for
the big OE,” said Unleashed Travel head of
marketing Amit Anil.
Unleashed Travel organized schoolies last
year for a total of 785 students.
— Lorraine Thomson
CouNTrIES wITH aCTIvE ZIKa vIruS TraNSMISSIoNPacific IslandsAmerican Samoa
Samoa
Tonga
AfricaCape Verde
AmericasBarbados
Bolivia
Brazil
Colombia
Costa Rica
Curacao
Dominican
Republic
Ecuador
El Salvador
French Guiana
Guadeloupe
Guatemala
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
Jamaica
Martinique
Mexico
Nicaragua
Panama
Paraguay
Puerto Rico
Saint Martin
Suriname
US Virgin Islands
Venezuela
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Dept of Health.
5TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
NEWS
The theme for this year’s forum –
One community for sustainability –
was shared by all ten ATF member
nations: Brunei Darussalam,
Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao, Malaysia,
Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand
and Vietnam.
The 35th annual event, which attracted
2,600 tourism officials, buyers, sellers and
media, was officially opened by Philippines
president Benigno Simeon Aquino III.
With tourism being a vital foothold in
the economic and social growth of the
region and its countries, ASEAN is
committed to strive towards delivering a
quality destination experience for each and
every visitor – an endeavour centred on
responsibility, sustainability and inclusive
tourism development.
Tourism ministers at the forum adopted a
new ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan 2016 to
2025 with the following vision: “By 2025,
ASEAN will be a quality tourism destination
offering a unique diverse ASEAN experience
and will be committed to responsible,
sustainable, inclusive and balanced tourism
development, so as to contribute to the socio-
economic well-being of ASEAN people.”
The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) is a regional co-operative
effort to promote the Association
of South East Asian (ASEAN) region as one
tourist destination.rogEr aLLNuTT reports from the annual event,
held earlier this year in Manila.
One community for sustainability
Tourism ministers at the ATF opening ceremony.
In recent years ATF has focused on
encouraging tourists from within the ASEAN
community to explore within their own
country or other counties of the group.
However, with the huge markets of tourists
from China, Japan and Korea and India,
efforts are now concentrating on deriving
maximum numbers from those markets while
also tapping into other markets such as
Europe, North America and Asia Pacific.
CoMMuNITY INvoLvEMENT
Although it is the development of new
hotels and resorts that attract the most
media attention, there is a concerted
push for more resources to be devoted
to projects that increase community
participation. This can be as simple as the
construction or improvement of roads to
remoter areas and attractions, be they
beaches, mountains, waterfalls or local
museums. The spin-off to the local
communities can be game changing.
The increase in community involvement
has great potential for money to flow to
remoter areas and for example, local guides
to be trained and employed. A recent
development has been a marked increase in
accommodation options through such
initiatives as homestays, which provide the
opportunity for a more in-depth experience
for tourists. A number of homestays were
honoured in an awards presentation during
ATF and it was a joy to see the pride of the
recipients so recognised.
FLIgHTSThere is a growing emphasis within
ASEAN countries for better connectivity of air
flights between countries with one aim of
making it easier for tourists to include more
than one country on an itinerary. The
aviation sector is a key driver of the economic
future of the region.
Until recently there were no direct flights
from New Zealand to the Philippines but in
December last year, Philippine Airlines
introduced a four-times weekly service
between Auckland and Manila, via Cairns.
Early signs are that the service has been
well patronised with satisfactory loadings in
both directions. It is understood the
situation will be reviewed around the end of
March 2016 with a view to the longer-term
plans for the route. The airline also has
direct flights to Manila from other Australia
airports including Sydney and Brisbane.
The number of New Zealand tourists to
the Philippines was 15,724 in 2015, an
increase of 17 per cent on the previous year.
It is hoped this growth will assist in the
maintenance of the flights to Manila.
vISaSProgress is being made to make visa
free travel available for tourists from
countries within the ASEAN region to other
6 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
NEWS
✈
countries in the region. Many countries have also introduced (some
over many years) visa free travel for tourists from other countries.
New Zealand passport holders (and also Australian) have been
“penalised” with a visa for many countries still required, even for
short tourist visits and this can be an expensive consideration when
planning to visit a number of different countries. Nowadays the
introduction of e-visas or visa on arrival at major airports has
simplified obtaining a visa.
The question of visa free travel is essentially a political decision.
However, I was informed that Indonesia is likely to have visa-free
travel for tourists from New Zealand sometime in 2016.
ECoTourISMOne of the most rapidly developing area for visitors is ecotourism,
sometimes in conjunction with volunteering which is attracting more
participants. Options are being introduced in many packages.
FESTIvaLSAll ASEAN countries hold festivals during the year and it is
worthwhile to investigate the timing of festivals when choosing travel
itineraries. From a photographer’s viewpoint the colour and vitality
of festivals is a huge bonus. During my visit to the Philippines for
ATF I noted a seemingly continuous line-up of festivals, many
associated with ethnic or religious celebrations.
Roger Allnutt attended ATF as a guest of the Philippines
Department of Tourism.
Kingdom of Cambodia booth.
Travel Digest writer Roger Allnutt with Philippine Airlines [Manila] product
manager Ped Dimaculangan.
New research has
revealed Kiwi travellers
continued to cross the
ditch for a holiday in
2015, with three destinations
in Australia featuring in their
top five international getaways
last year.
The latest Hotel Price Index
from Hotels.com has revealed
Kiwis stamped their passports
most frequently in Melbourne and
Sydney in 2015, as both cities
came in at first and second place
for the third year running as the
most popular travel destinations.
The sun and sand of the Gold
Coast also won Kiwis’ hearts,
with this Queensland hot spot
landing in fifth place on the list.
The Hotels.com data also
revealed that despite the
weakening dollar against the
US, Kiwis dusted off their
suitcases for a trip to the States,
with the bright lights of Las
Vegas, the palm-lined shores
of Honolulu and the streets of
New York included in the top
10 most popular destinations
for 2015.
Commenting on the latest
figures, Hotels.com regional
director for Australia, New
Zealand and Singapore, Katherine
Cole, said: “With the Kiwi dollar
predicted to continue to stay
strong against the Aussie dollar in
2016, there hasn’t been a better
time for Kiwis to visit their
trans-Tasman neighbours in a
long time. We’re confident travel
to Australia will continue to see
solid growth in 2016.”
Top 10 overseas destinations for Kiwi travellers
Rank 2015 2014
1 Melbourne Melbourne
2 Sydney Sydney
3 Las Vegas Las Vegas
4 Honolulu Honolulu
5 Gold Coast New York
6 New York Gold Coast
7 Bali London
8 Bangkok San Francisco
9 Singapore Bali
10 London Singapore
Melbourne retains top city status
Strongest airline growth in five years
Global air passenger traffic grew by 6.5 per cent in 2015
as a whole – its fastest pace since 2010. The outcome,
according to the International Air Transport Association
(IATA), Airlines Financial Monitor, was set against a slightly
weaker economic backdrop than in 2014, but was boosted by the fall
in global air fares. Annual growth eased in the final months of the year,
partly reflecting airline strikes in Europe, but IATA is expecting another
strong year in 2016. Airlines reacted to robust travel demand by adding
capacity cautiously. Global passenger capacity increased by 5.6 per
cent in 2015 as a whole. Demand growth outstripped capacity growth
in all regions except the Middle East, where capacity surged by
12.6 per cent.
7TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
AIR LINES
SoLoMoN aIrLINES aDDS FLIgHTS
New Solomon Airlines flight schedules
operational from 25 April have been
structured to allow passengers departing on
the carrier’s international services ex-
Australia and the Solomon Islands same
day through-connectivity to the national
carrier’s extensive domestic network.
As part of the new scheduled timings,
passengers flying on the airline’s Brisbane
and Sydney to Honiara have ample time to
connect with Solomon Airlines scheduled
domestic services.
aIr NZ ParTNErS wITH aTr
Air New Zealand has entered into a
partnership with aircraft manufacturer ATR
to equip its 68-seat turboprop fleet with
advanced required navigation performance
(RNP AR) technology. This will save fuel
and emissions and help reduce the impact
of bad weather on services. The airline will
meantime purchase 15 new ATR72-600
aircraft to operate its regional services, four
to allow for further growth on regional routes
and 11 to replace its ATR72-500 fleet,
bringing its ATR fleet to 29 aircraft.
JETSTar ExPaNDS rEgIoNaL NETworK
New Jetstar services have started from
Auckland to New Plymouth and Palmerston
North, and Nelson to Wellington. The three
routes are an expansion of the airline’s new
regional network, which has delivered strong
passenger growth in Nelson and Napier since
launching in December last year. Overall
passenger numbers through Nelson Airport
rose 18 per cent in December, compared with
the same month the previous year, with traffic
on the Nelson to Auckland route jumping
33 per cent.
CaTHaY PaCIFIC aDDS NEw DESTINaTIoNS
Cathay Pacific Airways will launch a new
four-times weekly service to Madrid, the capital
city of Spain, on 2 June, subject to government
approval. This new link between Hong Kong
and Madrid means Cathay Pacific will offer
the fastest and most convenient air service
between New Zealand and Spain via
the Northern Hemisphere. The airline will also
launch a new four-times-weekly service to
London’s Gatwick Airport on 2 September,
subject to government approval. ✈
THE WAY WE’RE TURNING OUR LOUNGES INTO A LOCAL EXPERIENCESee what our frequent flyers have to say.
#irecommend
J006842 Travel Digest Press Ad.indd 1 15/02/16 2:57 pm
Fiji’s national airline Fiji Airways, is to
commence twice-weekly flights to
Vava’u, Tonga, starting 2 April. Fiji
Airways managing director and chief
executive Andre Viljoen said: “The new
route offers a seamless addition to Fiji
Airways’ South Pacific network. The Tongan
culture is guided by values that are rooted
in family and respect; visitors are treated
more like family
than tourists. This
ethos is aligned
with Fiji Airways
mission – just as
we welcome you
to our home when
you step on board, Tongans welcome you to
their tropical paradise when you arrive.”
Fiji reconnects with Tonga
8 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
INTERVIEW
New Zealand Captain Claudia Walding
has become the first female pilot to
take command of Solomon Airlines’
flagship Airbus A320. The
29-year-old has been piloting Solomon
Airlines’ Islander and Twin Otter aircraft
since joining the carrier in 2007.
Her attainment of an Airline Transport
Pilots License allows her to take the helm of
the carrier’s A320 flagship, in the process
becoming Solomon Airlines’ first female pilot
to do so.
Commenting on her achievement,
Solomon Airlines chief executive Captain Ron
Sumsum said she had set a benchmark for
the carrier’s equal opportunity development
for its female pilots – her success
representing a major achievement especially
in the context of a traditionally male
dominated Melanesian environment.
“She is an inspiration to her gender,
having the right mindset to turn a long term
potential goal into a reality.
“Congratulations must go to Claudia for
her determination to rise to the occasion and
lead from the front – literally the front of the
cockpit – in her quest for high achievement.”
Claudia says she is honoured to be given
the opportunity to set the milestone.
“I do so in the hope that it will set a
pathway for future candidates from the
domestic scene,” she says.
“Ever since I could remember, I’ve always
dreamed of flying planes. Growing up, my
enthusiasm and fascination with aeroplanes
led me to take it up as a career. Also, the
experience of travelling and going to different
and new destinations was something I’ve
always wanted as part of my life.
Much of her theory training was
completed at Advance Aviation Training
in Fiji. She then moved to Christchurch
and completed her Commercial Pilots
License at the International Aviation
Academy of New Zealand, which took just
over a year to complete.
“From memory, I was the only female
graduate in my class.”
Claudia knows of at least 15 other Kiwi
Captain at the helm
female pilots, some of whom were at the
flying school she went to, but in a different
year and some she has met abroad.
“Along with a few other professions, the
aviation industry is a male dominated
environment. However, having said that, it is
slowly growing in numbers with female pilots
taking up the position. Secondly, the lifestyle
requires a lot of commitment as pilots are
away from home for days, if not weeks at
a time.
“There’s a gradual change to try and
equalise the ratio, through promoting and
highlighting females in the industry. However,
it will take many more years before we see
much change.”
At Solomon Airlines there are 28 pilots
and Claudia is one of just two females in
the role.
“Solomon Airlines is and has been the
only airline I’ve ever worked for,” she says.
“Having grown up in Fiji and with my
family there, working in the Solomon’s was
ideal as it was close to home. In addition, the
Solomon Islands is a country I’d never been
to before, but had heard so much about.”
Some of the challenges Claudia faces
include the cultural differences, which over
time she has adapted to and the scarce
resources, in terms of infrastructure.
“The experience of it all, teaches you not
to take anything for granted and to be
appreciative of what you have.”
Claudia doesn’t have a favourite
destination “as they are all unique and have
their special characteristics”.
As far as getting back to New Zealand
goes, she says: “Not often, as most of my
family are situated in Fiji. However, I try and
get back at least once a year to visit other
family members and friends.”
Claudia would love to fly the A380 one
day, as she sees this as a new challenge.
“However, the lifestyle that usually
accommodates it, would be very demanding.
In the meantime, I’m happy flying the A320
short haul.”
Asked what innovations she would like to
see on aircraft, she says: “The innovation on
aircraft systems is forever evolving. On the
flight deck, we have some of the most
sophisticated instrumentation. Again, that is
something that we as pilots have to always be
up to date on.”
9TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
INTroDuCINg SILVER MUSE
With only 596 guests, Silversea’s new ship
Silver Muse has a graceful silhouette
encompassing a fusion of state-of-the-art
technology with flawless Italian craftsman-ship.
As well as numerous al fresco lounges and
restaurants and a high-end amenities, the ship
has the highest number
of large suites aboard
any Silversea vessel.
Reservations are now
open for voyages aboard
Silver Muse – with the
inaugural Mediterranean
season commencing in
April 2017.
Claudia has meantime been simply
following in her father’s footsteps.
“The role model I have, is my father.
Being a pilot himself, he has taught,
guided and supported me throughout
my flying career.”
In her eight years of flying, Claudia
has only experienced one disruptive
passenger. “He had consumed too
much alcohol and started being verbally
abusive towards the cabin crew. Once
we landed, the disruptive passenger
was escorted off the plane by officials.”
On her days off, Claudia’s time is
spent mostly outdoors – cycling, tennis,
gym, rock climbing and checking out
different cuisines at restaurants with
friends. Her ultimate career aspiration
is to become a check and training
captain, which encompasses training
and assessing pilots.
Captain Claudia Walding . . . the first female pilot to take command of Solomon Airlines’ flagship Airbus A320.
— Lorraine Thomson +612 8227 7333 | [email protected] | www.tramada.com
tramada connect BISeamlessly integrated Business Intelligence
®
DIFFERENTIATE WITH REAL-TIMEBUSINESS INSIGHTSINTO YOUR TRAVEL MANAGEMENT DATA
Cruise ships carrying the
Princess name are
looking decidedly upbeat
as they cruise into New
Zealand waters. Majestic
Princess was the first ship in the
fleet to debut the elegant new
livery design, featuring the
company’s iconic logo. The new
livery design will roll out
fleet-wide over the next few years.
The modern, sophisticated
look is designed to reinforce the
premium experience of Princess
Cruises.
Princess Cruises president Jan Swartz said
for nearly half a century the Princess logo had
represented the adventure of cruise travel around
the globe.“Now our ships sail to more than 360
ports of call worldwide and will be instantly
recognised from afar.”
Princess Cruises debuts new artwork
Majestic Princess sports the new livery design.
JaZZ ‘N CLaSSIC SaILINg
Featuring a special
concert programme of
world leading Jazz, swing
and classical music artists,
Amras Cruises has
announced a new,
one-of-a-kind, eight-day
musically themed cruise
set to sail from Paris on 6
October 2016. Sailing
aboard the MS Amadeus
Diamond through some of
Europe’s romantic cities
and countryside, the
itinerary follows in the
footsteps of van Gogh,
Cezanne and Gauguin –
with live music rounding
off each evening.
MSC CruISES buILDS bIggEr SHIPS
MSC is to build two Meraviglia-Plus next-
generation ships, featuring increased tonnage and
overall size, with a total of 2,444 cabins and a
maximum number of passengers and crew of
8,000. The two ships will be due for delivery
in October 2019 and in September 2020.
CRUISE LINES
✈
10 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
PEoPLE
✈
TopDogSales and Support Personnel
Top Dog LimitedPO Box 109708, NewmarketPhone +64 (0) 9 966 2549www.topdog.co.nz
231318 TopDog_bc.pdf 1 10/07/13 4:22 PM
TopDogSales and Support Personnel
Top Dog LimitedPO Box 109708, NewmarketPhone +64 (0) 9 966 2549www.topdog.co.nz
231318 TopDog_bc.pdf 1 10/07/13 4:22 PM
Helen Cambell, Managing director • TopDog Personnel, 300 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021Ph: (09) 966 2549 • Mobile: 021 276 9868 • www.topdog.co.nz
Specialist recruiter to the travel industry for 15 YearsPutting the personal in personnel
List your vacancy with TopDog or
apply for a new job – on our website
Travel Personnel
We’ve got a sharp eye on travel!
QaNTaS has appointed Wes Nobelius as its new regional general manager for
New Zealand, South America and the Pacific
Islands. Mr Nobelius, who will be based in
Auckland, has been with Qantas for 20 years
and was most recently the airline’s deputy
legal counsel. He replaces Igor Kwiatkowski who returned to Sydney in February to
become Qantas executive manager of
loyalty operations.
aMaDEuS has appointed Justin Montgomery as the new head of
commercial for the Pacific region (Australia,
New Zealand and Pacific Islands).
Mr Montgomery joins the senior manage-
ment team in the Sydney office and will
be responsible for growing Amadeus’
distribution business across the South
West Pacific. Previously he was managing
director at TraveltheWorld.
INTErCoNTINENTaL HoTELS grouP (IHG) has appointed Yvette Peverell to the role of director of
communications - Australasia and Japan,
in readiness for IHG’s anticipated expansion
in the region. Ms Peverell has 15 years’
experience in public relations in the
tourism sector, including a decade in the
hotel industry.
aIr NEw ZEaLaND has
promoted Jodie King
to the executive
position of chief
people officer. She
takes over the role
from Lorraine Murphy, who is moving to
Australia to become
group executive – people at National
Australia Bank. Ms King joined Air New
Zealand in 2013 to drive key initiatives and
more recently she has led the people
streams for airports and global sales.
NaNuKu aubErgE rESorT FIJI has appointed Mark Stanford as general
manager. An Australian national, Mr
Stanford’s career spans 25 years in resort
and operations management. Prior to his
Fiji appointment Mr Stanford served as
pre-opening general manager at the Royal
Purnama in Bali.
STar aLLIaNCE Country Steering
Committee has a new chairman. South
African Airways country manager Australasia
Tim Clyde-Smith will lead Star Alliance’s
activities in Australia. He brings to his new
role 25 years’ travel and tourism experience.
He joined South African Airways in 2012
from Emirates.
SouTHErN DISCovErIES has a new chief
executive. Tim Hunter will join Southern
Discoveries in April,
taking over from John Robson who steps down
after 20 years’
involvement with the
business, most latterly as general manager.
Mr Hunter started his tourism career as a
commercial pilot in the Southern Lakes
area and has held airline planning roles
with Air New Zealand. In 2010 he
became chief executive of Christchurch
& Canterbury Tourism.
MaNTra grouP has appointed
Scott Wallace to the role of regional general
manager – New Zealand. With 30 years’
experience within the hotel industry, most
recently he was Wyndham’s director of
operations – Queensland, Victoria and
New Zealand.
HErITagE HoTEL MaNagE-MENT has appointed James Pringle as
national sales manager, based in Wellington.
Mr Pringle has ten years hotel industry
experience, working mostly for the Hotel
InterContinental Wellington. Most recently
he was a sales executive for Positively
Wellington Venues.
CHrISTCHurCH aIrPorT has
appointed a new
marketing manager.
Sarah Carrick-Leslie
began her new role in
February, after more
than five years as
national advertising
manager for PGG
Wrightson. The airport
has also appointed Gareth Williamson
to the new role of trade development
manager – New Zealand. Mr Williamson
was sales and marketing manager for
The Walshe Group.
FIJI aIrwaYS has a new official
brand ambassador –
championship winning
Sevens coach Ben Ryan. The charismatic
Englishman arrived in
Fiji in 2013 to coach
the Vodafone Fiji
Sevens team and has
quickly become one of Fiji’s most popular
sporting personalities after coaching his
team to success at the 2014-2015
HSBC Sevens World Series.
Tim Hunter
Sarah Carrick-Leslie
Jodie King
Ben Ryan
Multitude of travel roles, for a multitude of skills.Check out the TopDog website for outstanding roles.
11TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
The capital Manila is the first port of
call, but it is also worth venturing
further afield to other parts of the
island archipelago to Cebu, Boracay
or Palawan for a relaxing holiday, although
nowadays many adventure activities have
been developed.
On my visit I travelled to the Ilocos region,
north of Manila, in the northern part of Luzon
Island and found this a most stimulating
region full of history and unique attractions.
MaNILaThe capital of the Philippines is a large,
sprawling city with over 12 million
inhabitants in the metropolitan area, which
has 16 districts. Manila is a city of great
contrast with skyscrapers and vast upmarket
shopping malls side by side, with huge
shanty towns where the local inhabitants lead
a very basic existence.
Most visitors to Manila stay in one of the
excellent hotels in the Makati area and after
seeing the main sights fly out to popular
beach side island resorts for a relaxing break.
The Makati area is home to many of the best
hotels from the Peninsula and Manila to more
recent additions such as Shangri-la, Ascott,
Dusit Thani and Sofitel.
The shopping options in the vast malls
are overwhelming, although prices are
comparable with other major Asian
destinations. The Mall of Asia is reputed to
be one of the largest in the world.
The main attraction for tourists is
Intramuros, which literally means within the
walls. Established as a fort (Fort Santiago)
in 1571, it has gone through various
iterations of use by Spanish, Japanese and
US forces and there are a number of
different facets to be seen. A guided tour is
the best option, but maps are available to
show yourself around. After climbing up on
to the walls, you appreciate the solidity of the
construction and you can view the golf
course, which has been built within the old
moat area outside the walls. At the historic
St Agustin Church, you appreciate this to be
one of the few buildings to survive the
bombing at the end of World War II.
Horse-drawn carriages called kalesas
(sometimes spelt calesas) are one way to get
around Old Manila, but I felt sorry for the
smallish horses working all day in the busy
Manila traffic. A typical sight in Manila is the
colourful jeepneys, a sort of mini bus / large
taxi, used by the locals to get around through
the difficult traffic. They are usually painted
in bright colours with lots of personal
accessories. They are a very cheap form of
transport, although taxis are also
inexpensive. If you want to get a feel of the
“real” Manila where the locals live in
crowded shanty like areas, take a jeepney
along one of the main thoroughfares to one of
the local shopping areas and explore on foot.
Philippines previewThe Philippines is now a new destination for New Zealanders
with the arrival of direct flights. rogEr aLLNuTT visits Manila and the Ilocos region.
12 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
A jeepney is a good way to get to
Las Pinas, only 5km from the centre of
Manila, for a visit to the San Joseph Parish
Church, famous for its bamboo pipe organ.
Further on you can visit Tagaytay and Lake
Taal, a “mountainous” area of hills and
volcanic craters.
The Filipinos love to eat and socialise and
there are literally thousands of restaurants,
cafes and bars to choose from. Many of the
hotels have excellent buffets. Karaoke is
popular – all Filipinos are wonderful singers.
If you want to get out of the crowded city
for a day trip, then take the cruise out to the
island of Corregidor, about 48km offshore,
which the Japanese occupied during most of
World War II until General Macarthur
returned in 1945. Numerous war
monuments, tunnels and memorials add to
the interest.
ILoCoS An hour’s flight north from Manila to
Laoag, brings you to the fascinating Ilocos
region of northern Luzon Island, at the top of
the Philippines archipelago. Prior to the
arrival of Spanish conquistadors under Juan
de Salcedo in 1572, the numerous tribes of
the region traded with Japanese and Chinese
merchants. The Spanish colonialists first
settled in Vigan, which became the centre for
the “galleon” trade between the region and
the Spanish settlements in Mexico, especially
from Acapulco.
Vigan, in Ilocos Sur, about a two-hour
drive south of Laoag, represents a unique
fusion of Asian building design and con-
struction with European colonial architecture
and planning. It became a listed UNESCO
World Heritage site in 1999 as an
exceptionally intact example of a European
trading town.
The compact layout of the small town
encourages walking as you admire the old
buildings and plazas and see the tourists
parading while shopping for souvenirs or
eating at one of the many restaurants. Even
in winter the temperature is pleasant and
eating outside is common. In the narrow
streets the local taxi is a motorcycle, with
attached small side car into which up to five
people are crammed.
One strange sight was to see a sign over a
doorway in the main street saying “accredited
mortuary” and I peered inside to see a
line-up of different coffins for use – many are
apparently rented!
A number of old mansions highlight the
status of the wealthy families in the region.
Syquia Mansion is one of the best ancestral
homes in the Philippines and is still lived in
by descendants of former President Elpidio
Quirino (1948 to 1954).
Hotel Luna is a good choice of
accommodation. An old heritage house, all
the facilities are modern, while the house
contains a great collection of artefacts and
paintings. It is like staying in a gallery.
Much of the city life centres on Plaza
Salcedo, with the imposing St Paul’s
Cathedral at one end. The Philippines is a
strongly Roman Catholic country and the
evening mass was well patronised by family
groups – the service was actually in English.
The large fountain in the plaza is lit up at
night for a “performance” of the dancing
fountains with a colourful interplay of music
and lighted water display.
Vigan is famous for the production of jars
using the local red clay and also a handloom
weaving technique called Abel Iloco.
Examples of the cloth, table runners and
scarves, make a good souvenir. The new
Vigan Conservation Complex is an arts and
crafts museum, training centre and
conservation laboratory.
At Bantay, a village a few kilometres
outside Vigan, a stop at the St Augustin
Church and Bell Tower is worthwhile. Climb
to the top of the bell tower for panoramic
views of the countryside with the rugged
Cordillera Mountain range on the horizon.
There are many large churches in Ilocos
Norte, but the St Augustine Church at Paoay
(also UNESCO World Heritage listed) has
imposing interior, unique balustrades along
both sides and a large coral-encoated
belltower. The Museum of the North
provides information on the local tribes in
the area and many still live in the nearby
Cordillera Mountains.
The region is mainly agricultural
with crops including garlic, corn, rice,
tobacco and dragon fruit. Local delicacies
include longganisa [a garlic flavoured
sausage] and empanada with its deep pastel
coloured wrapping.
Ex-president Ferdinand Marcos was born
in the area and at the village of
Batac you can visit a museum about him and
see his embalmed body in the adjacent
mausoleum. Buggy rides on the sand dunes
are a new attraction and you can see some
interesting rock formations and many wind
farms on the breezy coast north of Laoag.
If you are really adventurous, then include
a visit to the Cordillera Mountains,
particularly to Banuae to see the 2,000
year-old Rice Terraces, recognised as
one of the wonders of the world. ✈
Colourful jeepney mini-buses.
St Augustin Church and belltower,
Paoay.
PHILIPPINES
Fort Santiago, Manila.
PhilippinesBoracay ,
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.
Norfolk Island is becoming one of the hippest destinations for weddings,
with its fantastic climate, pristine beaches and the unpretentious nature of
Forrester Courts Luxury accommodation. Forrester Court has played host to
numerous boutique weddings over the years and has received rave reviews
from past guests the world over, we offer a number of ceremony and
reception options. Our grounds provide a romantic and exotic backdrop
Forrester Court Clifftop CottagesP.O Box 496 Norfolk Island 2899 P: + 672322838 E: [email protected]
www.forrestercourt.com
Set across sixteen sub-tropical acres this parkland estate is nestled on
the cliffs edge overlooking Cascade Bay with views of Bird and Elephant
Rock. Our cottages are self -contained, self catering and fully serviced;
our focus is to provide a serene, tranquil and relaxed environment where
guests’ can maximise their holiday experience. Forrester Court is the
perfect backdrop to begin exploring Norfolk’s countless activities in the
islands pristine marine playground, lush hinterlands, tranquil beaches
and rich historical tapestry.
Perched between Sea and SkyPremium Accommodation in our Oceanfront Cottages
You Dream it, we do it
You’ve decided to get married – but where do you want to exchange your vow?
to a truly unique wedding, vow renewal or elopement. Forrester Court
Clifftop Cottages, this five star property overlooks Cascade Bay. With its
stunning location and majestic views it is the perfect backdrop for your
wedding photos which will reflect the magic, which is exclusively Norfolk
Island. Whether it is a intimate wedding for 2 or 200 your special day will
be a breathtaking experience for you and your guests.
Wedding & event experiences
15TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
a SPECIaL wEDDINg aT SINgaPorE’S raFFLES
The secret lies in the service.
Impeccable, personalised service.
People will tell you that Raffles Hotel
in Singapore “stands for all the fables
of the exotic East”. They will talk about the
welcoming faces of the silk-turbaned
doormen, about the unrushed atmosphere of
splendour, about the fragrance of frangipani.
They will wax lyrical about the French
Renaissance architecture, with a three-storey
high central atrium, marble floors and
Corinthian columns. They might even
mention the numerous awards (most recently,
Singapore’s Leading Hotel 2015 bestowed by
World Travel). All of it is true. Yet, what
deservedly makes the Raffles one of the most
famous hotels in the world, one worthy of
hosting you and your loved one on your big
estination weddings
If throwing a party for a hundred people fills you with dread, if you
couldn’t care less about the colour
of the bridesmaids’ dresses, if you can’t
say “rehearsal dinner” with a straight
face – it may be time to elope, writes YvoNNE EvE waLuS
and have a wedding somewhere
exceptional and far away.
Sunset wedding in Rarotonga.
PH
OTO
: Wed
ded
Bliss.
The main staircase at Singapore’s Raffles Hotel is perfect for wedding photos.
17TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
WEDDINGS
PH
OTO
: Ho
lly Wallace, Q
ueensto
wn W
edd
ing A
ssociatio
n.
FROM LEFT: A white wedding in Queenstown and a wedding limo on the grandiose gravel driveway of Raffles Hotel, raked every morning.
day, is the way everything is
geared towards making your
experience effortlessly luxurious.
From the little chair the
restaurant waiter brings for your
handbag, to the daytime dish
they are delighted to deliver to
your room in the middle of the
night; the staff members take
pride in ensuring you are totally
comfortable with being treated
like their favourite member of
the royal family.
You can exchange your
vows in one of the courtyard
gardens under a wedding
archway, or indoors. The
East India Rooms opens out
onto a patio with a fountain
that refracts the sunlight.
The bright Jubilee Lounge is
perfect for a cosy romantic
ceremony. The Ballroom is
bigger and more formal,
with its impressive chandeliers
adding an atmosphere
of grandeur.
When planning your wedding,
remember that in Singapore
April is the warmest month;
January the coolest and
November the wettest.
a wHITE wEDDINg IN QuEENSTowNAlpine scenery is why you get
hitched in Queenstown and what
makes this destination unique is
that you need (well, ok, want) a
helicopter to get to the most
scenic wedding locations. You
may wish to hold the entire
ceremony on the slopes, or get
married at one of the luxurious
lodges and take the chopper to
the mountain for the bride-and-
groom photos.
Almost any location will be
dazzlingly dramatic, but check
out Coromandel Peak with its
vast mountain and lake views.
Nestled amongst the tussock
and overlooking Glenorchy, Mt
Alfred provides 270 degree
views and snow between June
and October. If you are after the
snow, but without the cold
temperatures, then Mt Larkin
is your wedding spot.
Expect warm weather in
summer, stunning colours in
autumn and carpets of blooms
in spring. But the winter is for
photo-ready backdrops of
guaranteed white.
a FaIrY-TaLE FESTIvITY IN FIJISay “bula vinaka” to white
sand and translucent lagoons.
Whether you get married on the
mainland or on one of the
islands (you have more than 300
of them to choose from), your
photos will take your breath
away every time you look
through the album.
Almost every Fijian hotel
can organise your wedding, but
Tokoriki Island Resort promises
an experience so memorable
that you’ll be back year
after year to celebrate your
anniversary. Their choice of
venues ranges from a relaxed
beach wedding under
a canopy, a conventional
ceremony in their stone chapel
with stained glass windows,
or a stylish spread by a private
infinity pool. Depending
on the wedding package,
a native warrior will escort
the bride, girls dressed
in traditional clothing will
scatter flower petals and a
Fijian choir will perform at
the ceremony. Conclude the
celebration with an ocean-
side banquet.
18 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
WEDDINGS
Beach wedding at The Datai Langkawi, Malaysia.
The clement climate ranges from
18 to 30 degrees depending on the season.
Visit in April through to November to avoid
the wet season.
PrIvaTE baY IN MaLaYSIa
Voted as one of the best beaches in the
world by National Geographic, the Datai Bay
in Langkawi, Malaysia, makes for a truly
memorable barefoot beach wedding. Walk
down a rose petal path to a fragrant bridal
arch of roses, orchids, gerbera, peacock and
lilies or pledge your promise beneath a
billowing muslin and organza blessing tent,
surrounded by white sand, emerald water and
sapphire sky.
A leading resort, The Datai Langkawi,
has enchanting appeal – a private bay and
pearly-white beach alongside pure rainforest
air and purling creeks. It’s a place to
indulge in both simple and sophisticated
pleasures; to live, love and laugh in the
moment; and to appreciate fine food,
luxurious accommodation and superlative
service. It’s all these that make The
Datai Langkawi a magical wedding and
honeymoon venue.
Whether a romantic beach wedding
or a traditional Malay blessing, The Datai
Langkawi’s team personalise every
celebration to perfection. Bespoke by
design, from food and beverage to
flower arrangements, local music and
firework displays.
Set in the heart of the rainforest and
built in the style of a traditional kampung
“village” home and adorned with local
artefacts, The Gulai House is ideal for a
traditional Bersanding wedding. Such
time-honoured local customs as a decorative
pelamin (wedding dais), live gamelan
(percussion) music and a culinary feast
of traditional halal specialties, make
for an authentic Malay celebration.
Book your Hen or StagParty today!
Take your vows
of love with the
Never Ending
I Dos at Vivanta
by Taj – Coral Reef,
Maldives. Lose yourself
in the scenic visuals
of this gorgeous
wedding location.
What could be
better than falling in love all over again against the scenic
backdrop of azure Maldivian waters, with flutes of champagne
at your disposal? Recite your vows standing at the altar, on
the powdery soft sands at the Moondeck.
Surrounded by traditional torches made from coconut
husks, under the shade of blue skies, or under millions of stars
and the vision of tiny sail boats at the horizon, soak in the
magic of unconditional, ever-lasting love. Take home a wedding
certificate and the champagne bottle cork in a special box,
before heading for the 45-minute spa treatment, which
includes a luxurious, revitalising massage and special seafood
dinner on the beach, with a bottle of house wine.
Taking vows
in the Maldives
We now fly from Auckland to Kuala Lumpur (via the Gold Coast) and then onwards to a hundred other
destinations around Asia, including some of the world’s best islands, like Langkawi, Boracay, Lombok and Phuket.
With our only-pay-for-what-you-use service, we’re the affordable, easy way to see Asia.
Book @ airasia.com
We’ll take you there for less
20 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
WEDDINGS
a TraNQuIL TaHITI TrEaT
Built upon Bora Bora’s coral islet,
the Four Seasons Resort is a sprawling
grove of coconut palms and herb-scented
pandanus trees with crowns of sword-like
leaves. Imagine your wedding ceremony
with a backdrop of the lush Pandanus
Grove set on the edge of a lagoon – unless
the turquoise water calls you to sail into the
sunset and tie the knot aboard the Four
Seasons Resort’s own luxury catamaran,
right between the ocean and the lagoon.
You can hold a custom-made reception
aboard or come ashore for your
commemorative dinner.
If the name Aherenoa (Eternal Love)
sounds like a good omen, you may
prefer to get married in the resort’s chapel
as you look out onto Mount Otemanu.
You can also choose to hold the wedding
at the intimate Sunset Motu, or a private
beach of one of Four Seasons Resort
ocean-view villas. With 54 acres of land
to choose from, you’ll be sure to find the
perfect spot for your special day. The best
part, though?
Your personalised wedding cake
prepared by the resort’s pastry chef will
tempt you with flavour combinations such
as vanilla-praline, chocolate-raspberry and
pineapple-coconut.
High season in Tahiti is in the cooler less-
humid months, May through to October.
rELax IN raroToNga
Planning your own wedding is fun, but
the reality of a destination wedding may
prove a bit stressful and more than a bit
time-consuming. If you’d like somebody
else to do all the worrying, remembering
oTHEr roMaNTIC wEDDINg DESTINaTIoNS1. The 13th century castle in Heildelberg, Germany is where you can get married in
its historic chapel and hold the reception in the royal ballroom.
2. The white terraces of carbonate minerals left by the flowing water in
Pamukkale, Turkey.
3. The Sacred Valley in Machu Picchu, Peru. You can have a symbolic Andean
ceremony led by a shaman who calls upon the Incan gods to guide your relationship
to last eternally.
4. Arrive on an elephant for a Hindu-style blessing and wedding banquet in a private
garden overlooking the Taj Mahal in India.
5. Say “I do” on the Maid of the Mist tour boat as it sails through the Bridal Veil Falls on the way to Niagara Falls.
Four Seasons beach wedding against the backdrop of the majestic Mount Otemanu, the landmark of Bora Bora.
and co-ordinating of overseas wedding
suppliers, look no further than your
experienced Wedded Bliss experts in
Rarotonga. You can do as little as letting
them know your budget and preferred style
(carefree, elegant, traditional), or you can be
involved in every decision from the comfort of
your own home while leaving the actual
organising to the professionals.
The eastern side of Rarotonga
encompasses Muri Beach, lagoon islets and
marine conservation areas. The western
coastline is ideal for sunset weddings. You
can marry standing in a heart-shape made of
seashells, or in a white coral church, or be
rowed in a vaka across the lagoon to an atoll
to the sounds conch shell and ukuleles.
Visit Rarotonga in April to May
or September to October. June through
to August can get quite chilly for a
tropical island, while summer is the
cyclone season.
FACT FILE
✈
A marriage ceremony overseas may not be legally binding unless one or both parties are citizens of the country in question.
There are a number of things that New Zealanders have to do before getting married overseas and the Department of Internal Affairs in Wellington will be able to provide details.
If you want to make it official, either be prepared for some admin, or have a quick transaction-like wedding in New Zealand before you elope to your dream wedding abroad.
PH
OTO
: Do
n Rid
dle.
For more information, contact our events team:Email [email protected] or call +64 9 912 3006
www.stamford.com.au/spak
winand go into the draw to
$3,000!
a weekend
get awayvalued at
we understand how important your wedding day is. you can relax knowing that everything we’ve planned together
is taken care of, and that your special day will be just perfect.
visit us at the bride & groom show in auckland on 1st may 2016 at stand #18
CeLeBRateyOUR weDDing witH US at
StaMFORDP LAZA AUCKLAND
22 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
momentsManly
Manly is a destination in itself and
an alternative for those who have
stayed in the Sydney central
business district before and are
now looking for somewhere else to stay.
There are the beaches, galleries, markets,
walkways, seaside cafes and shopping
arcades – all on a smaller scale and with
more of a relaxed holiday atmosphere.
Manly Beach itself is actually a world
famous Australian landmark – and one of the
most renowned patrolled beaches in Australia
for surfing. Captain Arthur Phillip named the
beach, after the indigenous people living
there. “Their confidence and manly
behaviour,” he said, “made me give the name
of Manly Cove to this place.”
Manly was one of the first seaside resorts
in Australia to allow daylight swimming and
surfing in 1903. The beach is easy to get
to with regular short ferry trips departing
from Sydney’s Circular Quay, followed
In Sydney for the weekend or the week and looking for a
quaint seaside place to stay
and to explore, LorraINE THoMSoN
recommends taking the
30-minute ferry ride across
Sydney Harbour, to Manly.
ManlyCorso.
23TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
by a casual stroll along the Manly Corso.
The cosmopolitan resort-style Manly Corso
is the central focal point of Manly – a
part-pedestrian mall lined with surf shops,
pubs, cafes and fashion retail outlets. The
Corso is also the fastest route to Manly’s
Ocean Beach.
The Manly to Shelly Beach / Cabbage Tree
Bay Eco-Sculpture Walk is my favourite walk.
This is a 15-minute walk beginning at South
Steyne, passing the Manly Surf Club at the
south end of Manly Beach. The Cabbage Tree
Bay Eco-Sculpture Walk hugs the coastline
all the way to Shelly Beach, passing Fairy
Bower Rockpool and delightful beachside
cafés. Along the way you gain an insight into
the bay’s marine life, plants, animals, history
and attractions through eleven sculptures
along the waters edge. Shelly Beach is the
perfect place for snorkelling and surfing,
or just plain relaxing on a delightful white
sandy beach.
The Manly Lagoon Reserve is home to
breeding grounds and habitats for a wide
range of fish species, as well as sea grasses
and birds. The reserve stretches from
Pittwater Road on one side, to North Steyne
Road on the beach side and there are plenty
of grassy areas around the park. The pathway
along the lagoon is a great place to ride bikes
or scooters and at the end of the reserve, at
Keirle Park, there is an outdoor exercise
equipment area, skate park and a large oval.
On the opposite end is Queenscliff Beach,
which is accessible by heading north
along the footpath.
Manly Cove; Manly ferry and view from North Head.
MANLY
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24 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
A short 15-minute walk
starting from the East
Esplanade heads to Little Manly
– a waveless beach, perfect for
paddle boarders and kayakers.
Little Manly is an alternative to
that of the more wide-sweeping
Manly Beach and is well set up
for looking at the harbour views
and enjoying the picnic areas.
Beyond Little Manly, North
Head is part of the Sydney
Harbour National Park and is a
perfect location to watch the
sunset. Here you will experience
awe inspiring panoramic views
of Sydney Harbour and the city
skyline. The walk to North Head
from Manly’s town centre takes
around 25 minutes and passes
the impressive building housing
the International College of
Management Sydney and Manly
Hospital.
North Head Sanctuary is
home to the most delicate flora
and fauna, complete with
hanging swamps. Its wild,
island-like nature has made
North Head Sanctuary a place
for isolation, observation and
contemplation. Rich in history,
North Head is a special place
for the Aboriginal people.
Manly Wharf, on the shore of
Manly Cove, is a well-
landscaped area with large
shaded grass lawns, perfect for
picnics. Nearby is the Manly
Art Gallery and Museum
featuring a selection of art,
beach culture collections and
ceramics. The exhibitions
change regularly, so there is
always something new to see.
Opened in 1930 by Manly
Council this was the first
metropolitan regional gallery in
New South Wales.
For the kids to let off some
energy there is Manly Water
Works – fully supervised giant
slides with large spectator
viewing areas. Fun activities
include riding the twisted
Cobra, daring the slippery
python and slithering in
the blackened tube of the
Insane Earthworm.
Opposite the gallery and
water works is the Manly Sea
Life Sanctuary, only four
minutes walk from Manly
Wharf. The sanctuary features
Penguin Cove, Underwater
Sydney, Shark Harbour and
Shark Dive Xtreme, (for those
brave enough to go diving with
the sharks).
For exploring the 20km of
dedicated cycle tracks, it is
well worth hiring a bike. Manly
Bike Tours has the largest fleet
and latest models of bicycles
for hire in the area. Suggested
routes include Bike the Beach,
Sydney Harbour National Park
Explorer and an off-road
mountain bike adventure to the
Manly Dam.
For those unsure of head-
ing off on their own, there
are a number of local
tour companies.
One such company, Life’s
an Adventure Manly, is the
winner of 17 tourism awards of
excellence, including Best
Australian Adventure Tourism
Business. This company
provides daily guided walking,
mountain biking, kayak and
4WD tours.
The Manly Tri Fun involves a
one-day cycling, kayaking and
walking tour to see the best of
Manly. It really makes the
sightseeing more interesting if
you have someone with you
who is familiar with the area
and has helpful information to
pass on.
After all the sightseeing it is
a good idea to visit Manly’s
only local brewery, the 4 Pines
Brewing Company. The
international award-winning
beer is brewed daily and can
be sampled in the bar and
restaurant. Live music plays
on Mondays, Tuesdays,
Wednesdays and Sundays. On
Thursdays there is an in-house
magician providing breath-
taking entertainment.
For low cost shopping,
Manly is well set up for markets
with the Manly Market Place
open every Saturday and
Sunday 10am to 5pm. The
Manly Design open-air markets
showcase emerging design,
fashion and gifts. The Farmers
Market is on Saturdays and
open until 2pm. The Beaches
Market every Friday is the best
place to buy quality food items.
Here you can find organic and
conventional fresh fruit and
vegetable sellers, meats direct
from the farm, delicious dairy
products and tasty cakes and
treats. There is great tasting
coffee, a wide choice of yummy
ready-to eat foods from around
the world and unique fashion
and homeware.
Q-Station, which used to be
the North Head Quarantine
Station, is at North Head
Scenic Drive. Only a five-
minute drive from Manly,
the Quarantine Station is
now listed as a heritage
site inside Sydney Harbour
National Park and is renowned
for its expansive, historic
surrounds. The building was
established in 1832 to
quarantine early immigrants
afflicted by disease until 1984.
Free historical exhibits retell
this story. To this day Q-Station
is said to be one of Australia’s
most haunted places, offering
Ghost Tours to those who dare
sleep the night. So yes, you
can stay at Q-Station in
four-star suites, dine at the
restaurant, have a massage, go
kayaking, do yoga, or simply
enjoy the public beach.
One of the bigger hotels
to stay at is the Novotel
Sydney Manly Pacific and this
is directly opposite Manly
Beach. The hotel has 213
guest rooms with uninterrupted
views from downtown Manly to
the beach and beyond. You
definitely don’t feel like you are
staying in Australia’s largest
city when you stay here.
No views of other high rise
buildings or congested
city traffic. ✈
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26 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
South Australia is the wine capital of Australia, with 200 cellar doors on Adelaide’s doorstep – the majority in the Barossa Valley.
LORRAINE THOMSON shares the
advantages of the vintages.
Wine barrels of the Barossa Valley
27TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
First settled in 1842 by European
immigrants, the Barossa Valley
[70km from Adelaide] still retains
its old-world charm, with around
150 wineries and cellar doors in the valley.
Half of the cellar doors are open to the
public, with most of the others open by
appointment. Many conduct tours of their
estates and winemaking facilities.
The Barossa Valley is also renowned
for its fresh seasonal produce, artisan food
producers and award-winning restaurants.
Visitors can drive the Barossa’s food and
wine trails or explore the countryside by
bicycle. Other options are to tour by
motorbike, vintage car, hot air balloon
or helicopter.
The magic of Barossa Valley’s world-
acclaimed wines lies in the diversity of its
growing conditions. The Eden Valley produces
distinctive cool-climate wine varieties; while
the region’s flagship shiraz is grown in the
warmer, low-lying areas.
Jacob’s Creek was the Barossa Valley’s
first commercial vineyard and one of the
oldest in the region. Penfolds and
Seppeltsfield are other iconic Australian wine
names found in the valley.
On the Butcher, Baker and Winemaker
Trail there are delicious home-baked breads
to try, as well as smoked meats and regional
produce. On the Barossa Cheese and Wine
Trail there are hand-made cheeses to sample.
The Barossa Heritage Trail, which stretches
from Kapunda in the north to Mt Pleasant in
the south, links many historic sites and cellar
doors housed in historic buildings. The trail
passes through charming heritage towns with
local artists displaying their paintings and
sculptures at galleries and craft shops.
The Tanunda Heritage Trail shows
historic photos and stories of the early
days of the Barossa and offers a rare
insight into this unique part of Australia.
For an organized wine tour, Ultimate
Winery Experiences Australia takes visitors
to premium wineries for wine tastings,
restaurant dining, wine matching, wine
education and gastronomy. There is the
opportunity to interact with the winemaker
and enjoy first-hand the rich diversity of
the region.
One such tour, Behind the Scenes of
Jacob’s Creek, takes visitors to places only
the locals know exist. Here the views of the
Barossa are breathtaking and the stories told
ignite your imagination – like the tale of the
Bavarian family who created one of the
world’s most famous wine brands on the
banks of a small creek. The tour begins
with a visit to the Steingarten Vineyard
where there are spectacular views of the
Barossa and the opportunity to sip on a
glass of Steingarten Riesling. Next is a visit
to the historical homestead of the Gramp
family, where visitors can enjoy a glass of
Johann, the company’s flagship wine. On this
site is also the original winery and vineyard
where the first Jacob’s Creek wines was
created. After a home cooked morning tea,
there is a visit to the Jacob’s Creek Visitor
Centre and a private food and wine master
class, followed by lunch in the restaurant.
The afternoon is spent at Jacob’s Estate
wondering through the kitchen garden and
observing the Jacob Family’s original
homestead, dairy and servant’s quarters.
This memorable day is finished off with a
walk down the unique Cork Tree Drive.
Another option is the Jacob’s Creek
Cooking Classes held in the outdoor kitchen
at the historic Jacob’s Estate Cottages. The
classes, led by the talented Jacob’s Creek
chefs, are held overlooking the kitchen
garden. Participants work in small teams,
picking fresh produce from the garden, which
will then be specially prepared into a gourmet
meal. After cooking skills have been put to
the test, there is a leisurely lunch matched
with Jacob’s Creek wines. This experience is
perfect for anyone looking for an engaging
hands-on activity and the unique venue offers
the perfect setting to experience the Barossa.
At Seppeltsfield Winery – the only winery
in the world to release a 100-year-old, single
vintage wine each year – this place is famous
for its Centennial Collection. The collection
is an unbroken lineage of Tawny of every
vintage from 1878 to the current year. At the
Centennial Cellar visitors can taste Tawny
made in their birth year directly from the
barrel, as well as table reds released in small
batches from the historic 1888 Gravity Flow
Winery, or the renowned 100-year-old Para
Vintage Tawny.
For a broad selection of Barossa Valley
wines, it is a good idea to visit during Aussie
Wine Month in April or the region’s annual
major event, the Barossa Gourmet Weekend,
in August.
After visiting the vineyards, one way to
indulge and unwind is by playing golf
amongst the gum-trees on one of Barossa’s
championship courses. Surrounded by
Jacob’s Creek and St Hallett vineyards and
adjacent to the Novotel Barossa Valley
Resort, the Tanunda Pines Golf Club is a
regional golf course on natural bushland.
There are 18 holes par 72, a Nike Concept
Golf Shop, equipment rental and motorised
golf carts. There is also golf tuition, group
clinics and a golf driving range.
A day spa experience is another way to
relax and at the Endota Spa, the signature
FAR LEFT: Jacob’s Creek is where 165 years ago, a Bavarian family created Australia’s largest wine brand on the banks of a small creek. MIDDLE: Barossa Chateau is surrounded by 22 acres of dedicated rose gardens. LEFT: A royal tour by Prince Charles and Camilla at Seppeltsfield Vineyard. The royal couple visited the Barossa as the first official destination of their Australian visit late last year.
BARoSSA VALLEY
28 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
Red Wine Soak is a romantic
option. This is where a couple can
immerse in a half-hour nourishing
red wine spa bath full of
antioxidants to help combat the
signs of ageing. The Endota Spa,
which also offers yoga classes, can
be found at the four-star Novotel
Barossa Valley. In addition to the
spa and the adjacent golf course,
this resort hotel offers basketball
volleyball, swimming and tennis.
Other places to stay include the
Lanzerac Country Estate, in the
heart of the Barossa Valley, set on
five acres in Tanunda. There are
five large suites, all refurbished
with modern bedrooms and
bathrooms but hidden inside a 100
year-old homestead over-looking
the Barossa Ranges.
Breakfast is served in the
“Barn” and this can also be used
for special occasion events. When
staying at this place you can walk
through 80-year-old vines or
explore the iconic wineries next
door – the Chateau Tanunda and
Turkey Flat.
At the Vine Inn Barossa there
is a range of accommodation
options. There are 18 four-star
executive rooms at the Vine Inn
Barossa hotel along with 11 self-
contained apartments and 18
standard recently refurbished motel
rooms at the Vine Court, just 350
meters north of the main hotel.
The family-friendly, award-winning
restaurant is open for three meals
a day, seven days, and has a casual
dining area, as well as the a-la-
carte Vine Garden Bistro.
For luxury accommodation, the
residence at Barossa Chateau is
furnished to exceptional standards
and appointed with original antique
and art pieces. Guests are invited
to immerse themselves in the
genuine hospitality of the premises
and spend a moment living as a
distinguished Barossan. Stately
surroundings combined with modern
facilities provide exceptional
comfort with three bedrooms,
two and a half bathrooms, formal
dining, full kitchen, lounge and
television room.
✈
gETTNg THErE: Air New Zealand has a four-
and-a-half hour direct flight from Auckland to
Adelaide. Other airlines with one stop on the way
in Sydney or Melbourne, include: Qantas, Jetstar,
Emirates and Virgin Australia. The Barossa Valley is
a 1.25 hour drive, north-east of Adelaide.
CLIMaTE: The Autumn months (March to May)
are mild but sunny, averaging 22 degrees,
although there can be chilly evenings. The
autumn leaves on the vines are a sight to behold.
CurrENCY: The New Zealand and Australian
dollars are fairly equal at the moment. $NZ1.00
equals $AUS 0.92.
EvENTS: The Barossa Vintage Festival is held
every two years, with the next festival held 19 – 23
April 2017. This is the Barossa’s biggest celebration
of wine, food, music, art, culture and tradition
and also the longest running wine tourism festival
in Australia with a history spanning more than
six decades.
FAST FACTS
BARoSSA VALLEY
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29TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
From Taranaki’s picture-perfect
mountain, to the sparkling sea along
the coast; there’s countless opportunity
to explore, discover and experience this
region’s magnificent gardens, rich Maori
heritage and numerous fine art galleries.
New Plymouth is one of the few cities in
New Zealand where you can be relaxing on
the beach one minute and climbing up a
mountain the next. And more Kiwis than
ever will now have access to New Plymouth
with Jetstar’s new service from Auckland –
with New Plymouth Airport adding a
temporary Jetstar terminal building to
support the launch of the new service.
For those planning a city break, Huatoki
Apartment provides a beautiful living space
right in the heart of the central business
district. Situated in the historic Colliers
Building, this comfortable, modern
accommodation is on Huatoki Square, Devon
Street – the city’s main street. The best cafes,
bars, galleries and shopping are right on the
doorstep of this spacious apartment, which is
fully-furnished with two double bedrooms (one
small mezzanine) and a well-equipped
kitchen. There’s plenty of room for you to
spread out and feel right at home and there’s
also double-glazing to keep you warm at night.
The apartment is ideal for up to four
people wanting to experience all New
Plymouth has to offer. Just a short stroll away
is the award-winning New Plymouth Coastal
Walkway running 13km from the port and all
the way to Bell Block – ideal for walking,
running, cycling or simply enjoying views of
the dramatic west coast.
The famous Len Lye designed art piece
known as the Wind Wand, is a kinetic
sculpture well worth a visit, particularly at
night. Also not to be missed is Pukekura
Park, one of New Zealand’s leading botanical
gardens featuring bush walks, formal
gardens, lakes, play areas, sporting
facilities and a tea house over 52 hectares.
Taranaki combines the charm of rural New Zealand with the sophisticated provincial appeal of New Plymouth. With Jetstar adding Auckland to New Plymouth flights and Govett-Brewster Art Gallery adding the Len Lye Collection, SaraH wEEKS finds
there’s a whole lot more to discover in this unique region.
MountainStrathmore Saddle,
Mt Taranaki.
PH
OTO
: C
arol
Dig
by /
East
ern
Tara
naki
Exp
erie
nce.
30 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
TARANAKI
Fully licensed transport operators, operating in Central and Eastern Taranaki for 14 years2 times Winner of Taranaki Tourism AwardsSmall Business Commended Award in 2015
In July last year, the Govett-
Brewster Art Gallery reopened
with the new addition of the Len
Lye Centre, giving a permanent
home to the collection and
archive of New Zealand’s
pioneering filmmaker and kinetic
sculptor Len Lye. From its
engineering to its architectural
design to the artworks within it,
the Len Lye Centre celebrates
the genius of Christchurch born
Len Lye who gifted his work to
be housed and cared for by the
Govett-Brewster. As New
Zealand’s first institution
dedicated to a single artist,
the exhibitions change out
quarterly, showing themed
selections of artwork from the
collection including kinetic
sculpture, film, painting,
drawing and photography.
Adjacent to the Govett-
Brewster is international art
cafe Monica’s Eatery, inspired
by the life and spirit of Monica
Brewster, a globetrotter even
before the golden age of air
travel and founding patron of the
Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.
Open every day for breakfast,
lunch and dinner, Monica’s
provides an exceptional food
experience in a comfortable and
edgy environment that draws on
re-purposed materials. Diners can
enjoy a hearty meal of wood-fired
angus scotch fillet with French
fries and béarnaise or a simple
salad of warm lentil, crispy
pancetta, avocado, baby spinach,
Zany Zues halloumi and free-
range poached egg.
For good food and drink in a
relaxed and comfortable
environment, Joe’s Garage on the
corner of Devon Street East and
Gover Street offers a selection of
brunch, burgers and thin-based,
custom-made pizzas, cooked to
perfection in a purpose-built
pizza oven. They’re fully licensed
with Steinlager Super Cold,
Speight’s and Isaac’s Cider on
tap, along with a Marlborough
Sauvignon and Pinot Noir
poured straight from the barrel.
Classic dishes include Chicken
Joe, a chicken breast stuffed
with herbs, lemon and cream
cheese with Joe’s slaw, gravy
and mash or stan the wallet,
a sirloin with caramelised
onions, Joe’s slaw, garlic
butter and chips.
The Black Harp is one of
New Plymouth’s most popular
Irish pubs – a place where
people can come together and
have a card game or two or
listen to live music. Those
spending a night down here will
be sure to have a whale of a
good time. The restaurant
sports a cosy yet stylish look
and is famed for its friendly
staff and delicious pub-style
menu, such as the legendary
chicken, leek and potato pies;
or family-style roast of the day
with all the trimmings. There is
Forgotten World Highway.
PH
OTO
: C
arol
Dig
by /
East
ern
Tara
naki
Exp
erie
nce.
Email: [email protected]: www.pioneervillage.co.nz
Take a nostalgic stroll through yesteryear and experience an outdoor museum presenting the life of Taranaki pioneers in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
OPEN 10am to 4pm daily
SH3, Main Road, Stratford
Ph. (06) 765 5399
CAFE FUNCTION CENTRE VILLAGE RAILWAY
Preserving yesterday, for today, tomorrow
www.facebook.com/PioneerVillageTaranaki
31TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
✈
often live Irish entertainment and happy hour
is always around the corner.
While it’s only 150km long, the Forgotten
World Highway is a memorable driving
journey. Built on colonial bridle paths formed
in the late 19th century, the highway is
remote and mysterious. It can be approached
from Stratford or Taumarunui and wriggles its
way over four mountain saddles through an
eerie one-lane tunnel and crooked river gorge.
Eastern Taranaki Experience guides Carol
and Dave Digby have nearly 40 years local
tramping experience, so know the highway like
the back of their hands. Operating since
September 2001, they run tramping and P
HO
TO: R
ob
Tucker
Wind Wand kinetic sculpture, Coastal Walkway, New Plymouth.
TARANAKI
cycling tours and Stratford Heritage Lodge
accommodation – providing package deals for
transport and transfers. Their small tour
groups allow more quality interaction with the
guide and they use comfortable, air-
conditioned vehicles. It’s a long day driving,
but they make extra stops with optional
guided walks to break up the trip. They’re also
Taranaki tourism and hospitality award
winners so you know you’re in the best hands.
During the tour there is a visit to the
Douglas Brickworks site and Te Wera for
morning tea where there is a lesson about
the forestry history and a visit to the camp
site (now an Education Centre). The highway
leads to the small historic village of
Whangamomona, where there is time to
wander around this place full of character and
enjoy lunch at the hotel. Interestingly,
Whangamomona declared itself a republic in
1989 and visitors can get a passport from the
local hotel.
The tour makes it’s way further east to the
heart of the Tangarakau Gorge to see the
74-metre Mount Damper Falls, one of the
highest waterfalls in the North Island, in the
lovely Moki Forest. There’s also the historic
180-metre Moki Tunnel, built in the 1930s that
goes through the heart of the hill. The
Whangamomona Saddle provides spectacular
views of native beech and podocarp forest.
Before returning to Stratford, there’s a side road
leading to the historic Bridge to Somewhere.
Carol and Dave are also agents for
Forgotten World Adventures, a tourism venture
allowing people to travel along a
decommissioned railway line in a self-driven
rail cart (ex-golf cart) through tunnels and
over bridges and rivers to townships that have
faded into the past. Using an abandoned
railway line, local Ian Balme, thought it’d be a
great idea to put railway wheels on a golf cart
to let tourists drive down – the ultimate in
Kiwi ingenuity and a great way to explore rural
New Zealand.
While in Stratford, it is worth visiting the
Taranaki Pioneer Village. Open every day
from 10am to 4pm, visitors can take a
nostalgic stroll through yesteryear and
experience this outdoor museum presenting
the life of Taranaki pioneers in the 19th
and 20th centuries. This attraction has appeal
to all ages as you step back in time when you
enter the village main street. And no visit
would be complete without taking a ride
on the Pioneer Express train
PH
OTO
: Glenn Jeffrey
The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery / Len Lye Centre in New Plymouth.
The Govett-Brewster Art
Gallery is New Zealand’s
first and only museum
of contemporary art and
is set in the coastal city of
New Plymouth. The latest
addition to the Govett-Brewster
– the Len Lye Centre – is New
Zealand’s first institution
dedicated to a single artist, the
pioneering filmmaker and kinetic
sculptor, Len Lye.
With its curved exterior walls
of mirror-like stainless steel, the
Govett-Brewster Art Gallery /
Len Lye Centre is the country’s
first example of destination
architecture linked to
contemporary art and now one
of its most iconic buildings.
Experience inspiring
architecture, innovative and
provocative work by New
Zealand and international
artists, quarterly changing
exhibitions, a regular event and
education programme, tours
and a late-night on Thursdays.
The 62-seat state-of-the-art
Len Lye Centre Cinema is a
welcoming environment to
experience Len Lye’s films,
cult, classic, arthouse and
experimental films, and regular
film festival programming.
For something a little
different, the Govett-Brewster
Shop is not your usual tat.
Contemporary design and
objects of inspiration, jewellery,
Len Lye and Govett-Brewster
merchandise, books, gift cards,
kids stuff and limited edition
collaborations mean you’ll
definitely need to add extra
time to your visit.
Monica’s Eatery, next door
to the Govett-Brewster, is an
Destination architectureand contemporary art
international art cafe inspired by
the life and spirit of Monica
Brewster, a globetrotter even
before the golden age of air
travel and founding patron of
the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.
The cafe is open seven days for
breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Govett-Brewster Art
Gallery combined with the new
Len Lye Centre is open six days
a week: Sunday, Monday,
Wednesday, Friday, Saturday
10am – 6pm. It’s closed
Tuesdays but open late on
Thursdays from 10am – 9pm.
Entry is free, although there
are charges for some events and
cinema screenings.
The combined art museum
has one entrance, through
the original Govett-Brewster
doors on New Plymouth’s
Queen Street.
32 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
✈
TARANAKI HoTEL HoT LINE
– a fun way to view the property
– giving the opportunity to see
what Stratford’s hospital,
courthouse, jail and school
used to look like and also visit
the village barber, print shop
and bookbinder.
The Tawhiti Museum in
Hawera is a unique experience
filled with life-size exhibits and
scale models presenting
Taranaki’s heritage in a series
of realistic and engaging
displays. Created by artist
Nigel Ogle, his attention to
detail is simply stunning with
all models designed and built
on site. Directly opposite the
front door of the museum
nestled under trees is the
themed Mr Badger’s Café,
providing a welcoming
environment to relax and enjoy a
coffee and freshly baked home
cooking. The use of delightful
dioramas based on the
characters from the Wind in the
Willows helps set the scene and
mood of the café.
The Tawhiti Bush Railway is a
half-hour train ride showing the
logging railways that used to
operate in Taranaki. With life-size
figures and buildings along the
line and an interpretation centre
set in a reconstructed sawmill
at the end of the track, this ride
is a favourite attraction at the
museum. Their newest attraction
Traders & Whalers is an
innovative historical presentation
of the Taranaki coast in the
1820 to 1840 period.
Illuminated only by the twinkling
of lanterns and candles, this boat
ride drifts through an eerie world.
Distant birds call and water drips
from mossy banks as burly
sailors barter with local Maori for
pork, potatoes and flax in return
for European goods – especially
that most sought-after item,
the flintlock musket.
The 200-room Crowne Plaza Christchurch will be one of the tallest buildings in the city.
Crowne Plaza to tower over Christchurch
Scheduled to open half
way through next year,
InterContinental Hotels
Group (IHG) is
developing the 200-room
Crowne Plaza Christchurch, as
one of the tallest buildings in
the city, presenting guests with
views of Mt Hutt and the New
Zealand ski fields.
Signalling a commitment
to the city’s economic revival,
the building will have 17 floors
and the ability to add an
additional floor on level 18.
Located in the central business
district and across from the
planned new Christchurch
Convention Centre, also due to
open next year, the upscale
hotel will be a conversion of a
current commercial building
owned by a consortium of
Christchurch investors.
Crown Plaza will have up to
five suites and 195 guest
rooms and food and beverage
options including an all-day
dining restaurant, a specialty
restaurant and lobby lounge
and bar.
Catering to both business
and leisure travellers, there will
be a business centre and
function space, as well as a
fitness centre.
IrIrIKI HaS NEw agENTRegency Tourism Marketing has added Iririki Island
Resort & Spa Vanuatu to it lineup of tourism properties it
represents. The partnership cements the company’s
dedication to bringing Pacific Island offerings to wholesale
and trade partners, as well as consumers, in New Zealand.
Iririki Island Resort & Spa will reopen after extensive
renovations on 1 May.
PEPPErS arrIvES IN MELbourNE
Peppers Docklands has opened its doors in Melbourne,
as the only five-star hotel within the Dockland’s precinct
and with direct access to the Etihad Stadium. The 87-room
contemporary hotel has a stylish Momami restaurant
and bar, pool, gym, 24-hour reception and concierge. ✈
33TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
SMALL BUSINESS
SoLE TraDErA sole trader operates the business
on his or her own. He or she:
Controls, manages and owns
the business.
Is personally entitled to all
profits / losses.
Is personally liable for all business
taxes and debts.
Tax is paid at the individuals tax rate.
Usually a sole trader can begin the
business without following any formal or
legal processes to establish it. He or she
may employ other people to help run the
business. Large numbers of businesses
operate as sole traders. No registration is
required to start a business as a sole trader.
All you need is a personal IRD number.
ParTNErSHIPIn a partnership, two or more people
run a business together. Each partner:
Shares responsibility for running
the business.
Shares in any profit or loss equally,
unless the partnership agreement
states otherwise.
Is liable for any debt within
the partnership.
Many partnerships are established with
a formal partnership agreement.
Tax is paid at the partners’ individual
tax rates.
The partnership itself does not pay
income tax. Instead it distributes the
partnership income or loss to the partners.
No registration is required to start a
business as a partnership; it may be
separately registered with the IRD.
LIMITED LIabILITY CoMPaNY
A company exists as a formal and legal
TA Accounting has over 100 travel business clients.
Email: [email protected]
web: www.travelaccounting.co.nz
Ph: 09 524 6178
If you need help with business structures for your business, contact TA Accounting to assist.
What is the best business STruCTurE for your buSINESS?
Small businesses in New Zealand, writes PauL DavIES, generally employ one of the following business structures
– sole trader, partnership, limited liability company, look through company, or trust.
entity in its own right. It is separate from
its shareholders (or owners) and directors
(legal managers).
The company Owns the assets and liabilities of
the business.
Its owners’ liability is limited to the
shareholding of the business.
Its directors run the business.
Ownership can change through a
transfer of shares without changing
the ownership of the assets owned by
the company.
Tax can be paid at 28 per cent by the
company, or shareholders can earn
salaries and pay tax at their own tax
rates. Tax paid dividends can be used
to distribute profits.
LooK THrougH CoMPaNY
This is a special form of company that
allows losses and profits to pass to the
shareholders untaxed. There are limitations
on the ownership and the amount of losses
that can be claimed each year.
The rules set in 2011 are currently
being reviewed by the IRD.
Must have five or fewer look through
counted owners.
Shareholders must be natural persons,
trustees or look through company.
Profits and losses pass to owners
according to their shareholding.
Shareholder / employees must be
on PAYE.
Disposals of property may be taxable.
Tax is paid by the “look though owners”
at their tax rates.
TruSTSA trust is a legal structure where ownership
is with the trustees who hold assets for the
benefit of beneficiaries of the trust. For tax
purposes income earned can be distributed to
beneficiaries with certain restrictions. Losses
remain in the trust until used.
Ownership is in a separate legal structure
to both beneficiaries and trustees.
Trustees run the trust and maybe
personally liable.
A company can be a trustee.
Trusts are excellent structures for asset
protection provided that they are properly
administered.
Income can pass through a trust to
beneficiaries over 16 at their tax rates.
Trustees income is taxed at 33 per cent.
34 March 2016, TravEL DIgEST
SoCIAL SCENE
The InterContinental (IHG) Sydney
rooftop Club Lounge hosted players,
sponsors and tourism dignitaries for
the official welcome of the Sydney
Rugby Sevens tournament held recently at
Allianz Stadium.
IHG have been the official hotel group for
the ARU for ten years with the Inter
Continental Sydney playing host to sevens
teams from 16 countries. Eventual winners
New Zealand secured a thrilling victory over
Australia in the final in front of a sellout crowd.
InterContinental hosts rugby sevens
Australian Sevens coach Andy Friend, World Rugby general manager competitions Philippe Bourdarias, ARU chief executive Bill Pulver, Destination NSW chief executive Sandra Chipchase, HSBC Australia chief executive Tony Cripps, Australian Sevens captain Ed Jenkins and IHG key account director sport Phil Beeson.
Rocky Mountaineer launch
Rocky Mountaineer recently
entertained travel industry
guests at Marvel Bar & Grill
on Auckland’s North Wharf.
On a visit from Canada, Rocky
Mountaineer vice president global
sales Karen Hardie and director sales
Asia Pacific Robert Halfpenny
announced the new global television
campaign All Aboard Amazing, now
playing on television screens in New
Zealand, Australia, US and Canada.
The television commercial is
animated and helps inspire the
scenery and branding.
Rocky Mountaineer vice president global sales Karen Hardie and director
sales Asia Pacific Robert Halfpenny.
Go Holidays product develop-ment manager North America
Sheralyn Black, with Rocky Mountaineer’s evening host, Asia Pacific sales manager
Mark Richardson and Go Holidays product co-ordinator
North America Millie Toal.
CTS Tours business development manager Barbara Boyce, China deputy consul general in Auckland, Song Chenmao and CTS Tours marketing manager Howard Chen.
Guizhouvisit
A tourism delegation from the
Chinese province of
Guizhou, promoted the
stunning natural features of
the destination to travel industry
leaders at Auckland’s Rendezvous
Hotel – coinciding with the city
celebrating Chinese New Year. The
province, which has ten times New
Zealand’s population, is in the south
west of China and includes six cities
and 22 national forest parks. With
increased infrastructure and high-
speed railway connection, Guizhou has
been enjoying a 30 per cent increase
in tourists over the past year. The
main attractions include picturesque
waterfalls, caves, mountains, lakes
and festivals.
Guizhou Provincial Interna-tional Culture Association chairman Zhang Guangzhi.
35TravEL DIgEST, March 2016
SoCIAL SCENE
Simply Nigella
All things culinary were top of mind at the recent
Simply Nigella event at the Langham in Auckland.
World Journeys hosted top agents at the glittering
fundraiser for The Rising Foundation, along with
a sumptuous gala dinner, Kerre McIvor as MC and live
entertainment from Dave Dobbyn and Lizzie Marvelly.
World Journeys, in partnership with Cathay Pacific and Trails
of Indochina, donated a luxury Culinary Vietnam and Cambodia
trip for two to the charity auction, which sold on the night
for $17,500.
Jill Gothard (Bon Voyage), Kate Gohar (World Journeys) and Kerry Graham (Travel Managers).
Vanessa Traille (Cathay Pacific) and Sally Sutton (St Heliers United).
Nicola Thomas (Accent on Travel) Mark Pirihi (Cathay Pacific) and Michelle Burgess (Cathay Pacific).
P & O relishes sport- ing connections
Friendly touch game between NRL league legends and P&O crew.
When P&O’s Pacific
Pearl cruised across
the Tasman into
Auckland recently, it
was bringing a shipload of
passionate rugby league fans into
the city. Brisbane Broncos team
member and New Zealand Kiwis
captain Adam Blair was on the
four-night cruise with his family.
The star player trained onboard by
racing passengers who travelled up
the ship’s deck levels in the lift and
he ran the stairs as well as making
the most of the gym facilities.
The rugby league connection
follows other sporting cruises P&O
has been making over the past year
and this includes a cruise to the
Melbourne Cup and also to the
Tennis Open in Melbourne.
Carnival Australia / New Zealand
executive chairman Ann Sherry,
speaking on the ship’s top deck,
said Pacific Pearl’s five-month
deployment to New Zealand will
feature 20 cruises and will
generate up to $20 million in
economic value to this country.
Over the coming year 18
Carnival ships will visit New
Zealand and this, said Ms Sherry,
represents 80 per cent of ships
coming in.
“This year P&O will more
than double the number of
passengers we carry on cruises
from New Zealand,” she added,
“with a 122 per cent rise over our
2015 numbers, reflecting New
Zealanders’ growing passion
for cruising.”
Onboard Pacific Pearl in Auckland: ARL coach Laurie Daley, ATTEED chief executive Brett O’Riley, NRL player Adam Blair, Carnival Australia / NZ executive chairman Ann Sherry, former NRL players Matt Cooper and Dan Hunt and ship captain Othello Ghoshroy.
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