Free Travel Newsletter : May 2019
Written by Steph Kendall
Brought to you by New Zealand Tourism Guide www.tourism.net.nz.
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A tiny nature reserve in Lake Wanaka, accessible only by boat - this is Mou Waho Island life.
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Editor's Pick
New Zealand's Northland region of the North Island begs to be explored on your trip to the Aotearoa (Land of the Long White Cloud). A combination of breath-taking seascapes, golden beaches, secluded coves, ancient forests and oodles of activities to cater to all budgets, makes Northland one of New Zealand's most tourist friendly spots.
The Northland region extends north to the tip of the Northland Peninsula, covering an area of 13,940 km2, a little over five per cent of the country's total area. It is bound to the west by the Tasman Sea, and to the east by the Pacific Ocean. The land is predominantly rolling hill country. Farming and forestry occupy over half of the land and are two of the region's main industries. (read more)
The Mindful Traveller
You may have noticed that many New Zealand tourism businesses display a 'Qualmark' rating, the iconic Kiwi fern, plus a tier rating, criteria rating and star rating (the latter used for accommodation only).
The rating is provided by Qualmark, the New Zealand tourism industry's official quality assurance organisation which evaluates businesses in four key areas: economic, social and people, environment and culture, health safety and well-being.
Within environment and culture, businesses are evaluated on their understanding and usage of energy and natural resources, discharges and waste, customer and staff engagement and involvement, investment in and enhancement of the environment, awareness of other cultures, empathy towards historic and New Zealand cultural aspects, and an understanding of the concept of manaakitanga. Loosely translated as hospitality, 'manaakitanga' plays a key role in Māori society and inspires the New Zealand visitor experience.
If you see a business with a Gold award, you'll know that it is one of the businesses leading the way in making New Zealand tourism a world class, sustainable visitor destination. Do be aware, however, that there are many businesses who are also taking great strides in sustainable and eco-friendly practises, but who do not choose to be evaluated by Qualmark (the cost of which can be off-putting to smaller operators). Do your research before you book with them - you'll usually find plenty of reference to sustainable approaches on their websites (including'eco-pledges, eco-friendly, green or sustainable policies), in other travellers' reviews and you can always ask the business owner directly.
Tiaki Promise
You may have already seen the Tiaki promise on your flight here. This promise is being championed by Air New Zealand and is a promise to care for New Zealand for now and for future generations. By following the promise, you are making a commitment to New Zealand - to act as a guardian, protecting and preserving our home (read more).
Top of the Shots
Adrenalin junkies come to New Zealand! And here's why!
This fantastic shot from Fox Glacier Sky Dive says it all! Scenery like nowhere else in the South Island - best enjoyed with eyes open. Fox Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world - also can be accessed by foot.
Thank you @foxglacierskydive for sharing this snap with us.
Share your New Zealand travel snaps with us on Instagram.
Travel Chat
This Month's Hot Topic: Zorbing
Q: Hi, is there anywhere to do zorbing in the South Island?
We understand that zorbing is only happening in Rotorua in the North Island, but happy to hear from anyone who's zorbing down south!
[Zorbing is a sport in which a participant is secured inside an inner capsule in a large, transparent ball which is then rolled along the ground or down hills. Ed]
Visit our travel forum for the latest questions and the answers from the travel experts!
Stay, See, Do
This month: THE GREAT JOURNEYS OF NEW ZEALAND
Experience the best of New Zealand by train. The Great Journeys of New Zealand Scenic Journeys operate three unique long-distance services; the TranzAlpine, Coastal Pacific and Northern Explorer. Their award-winning carriages feature at-seat commentary, an on-board cafe and open-air viewing. The Great Journeys of New Zealand Scenic Journeys are a must-do tourism experience in New Zealand.
New Zealand Events
Planning to be at an event or planning an event? - All you need to know about New Zealand events, and more is right here!
