Recently in New Zealand 2005 Category
We found a nice vineyard in Central Otago when we were in NZ last December 2005. It's called Olssens. We tried samples of their wines, b.s. a bit and bought 2 bottles of Jackson Barry 2002 or 2003 (I can't remember) (NZ 37.50 each), 2 bottles of Riesling (or was it Gurtzetraminer?) and 2 bottles of Verjuice (about NZ 10). The Jackson Barry were so nice that even a non-alcholic like me enjoyed it very much and would pour for myself ! The Verjuice is basically vinegar for salads or as marinades.
The lady who served us was very nice too. The lady told us they also export their wines including here. I just tried the number she gave me for the local wine seller but was told that they don't have it. They might have it before but not anymore. So I dropped the vineyard an email to ask about $$$ to buy from them directly e.g. shipping cost, tax, etc. Hope the price is tempting enough for me/us to go ahead. If so, I may get a few boxes. They are nice to drink ourselves and are good as gifts when visiting friends. :)
There were scrulptures in their garden and we spent some time there, taking pictures.
I've sent the dolphins photos available on this site to a few of my friends: little gordon, uncle leather, sam and raf, and sf. The response are all complimentary. 3 if not all 4 of those photos were taken by bb.
sf said, "The photos are fabulous. Awesome!!!! Wowwwwwwwwwwwww!!!!!"
I'm very happy and very proud ! :D
I've called mum. Hopefully I can have din din with her. It's been a while since we have din din together and since I see her !
PS yeah, deadline today.
My friend Emily is going to NZ in Jan 2006 and asked for my advice on itinerary, motels, and so on. She only had a week, flying from Sydney. She wanted more to do with nature, rather than shopping. I recommended the south island and I gave her a summary of where we went and stayed in south island. Here is the email I sent her today. It's repeated here because it serves as a good summary.
*************************************************
The costal scenic route in south island I had in mind is this: http://www.newzealand.com/travel/destinations/themed-highways/southern-scenic-route/southern-scenic-route_home.cfm We really wanted to go, but we didn't have enough time. We said if we go back, we'll do that route.
We stayed at the following motels in the South island:
Dunedin - Portobello. We like this very much and ranked this as the best of all motels we stayed in NZ. We didn't think the photos on its website have done them justice.
Queenstown - Colonial Village. This is a definite *no* ! We didn't like it at all and were glad to get out.
Franz Josef - Alpine Glacier. This is pretty good. The units are recently renovated. The owners were very nice and friendly, the best we have met in NZ. They gave us good tips as to which heli-hike tour offered best guide that we should join.
Christchurch - Milano. This is very nice and the owners were friendly too. There wasn't much to do at Christchurch and we did a day trip to Kaikoura for whale watching, which was great !
The owners at Alpine Glacier told us that they also travelled within NZ. Their advice is not to stay with motels with the Bella Vista chain as the rooms/units are small. Our own observation is that you should try to avoid big chains including Scenic Circle, especially if you are going in January, which I think is high season for NZ. We saw many Asian tours/coaches and they all stay with the big chains, presumably because they would have enough units to accomodate the entire tour !
Similarly for Milford Sound. We went on a cruise with a smaller "boat" than the large ones and we were glad we did. The large one (e.g. The Red Cruise which is fairly well-known) was packed with tour groups!
As for the car, we got it from Ezi-rent.
Do you or your friend have an ipod? We got a Tune Cast Auto for iPod which worked great and gave us many hours of pleasurable music!
It fell on afternoon/evening of 17th Dec, the second day we were in Franz Josef after our heli-hike ...
It was disappointing and bb was saying "how inconvenient!" As it turned out, it was good as it's all cleared on the last evening we were in Rotorua and we shared a jacuzzi ...
Another example that humans are too foolish to understand God's plan!
Here's the link to weather in New Zealand- very good site. If you place your cursor above the name of the town, it gives you the weather in that town.
Here's the link to weather in New Zealand- very good site. If you place your cursor above the name of the town, it gives you the weather in that town.
It's my second day of annual leave. I took yesterday and today off. but I was in office for both days. Not only that, the plan was to take advantage of the previous Sat off, so I would have 4 days of holidays - a long weekend. That was ruin by my boss, who made me go into the office on Sat afternoon, claiming that he wanted to discuss the case with me, and that discussion took less than 10 minutes!
Called my brother today. He confirmed that his video camcorder had been repaired. When I asked him if I could borrow it, he said yes on the basis that it would be the same. The way it came out was odd, and it took me a little while to understand he was trying to say that don't break it, or he'll break my neck. Stupid and slow of me ??!
Can't believe we are off next Saturday to our trip that has been planned a few months ago - yeah! I've been thinking of what needs to be done, bought and brought today ...
Did a bit of shopping this evening. Had a shop in mind that I wanted to visit but didn't find it in the shopping mall close to where I live. Could it be that it doesn't have a branch at that mall?? But me being me, I still managed a few new items. Nothing fanciful. Just a few cotton pullovers that could go with suit or with jackets for casual wear. They are cheap - like around 3 quid each. Can't beat that, right?
sf called this afternoon. blamed me for not doing research for him. what's new??! he always blames me, for whatever. my reply? "Whatever!" :D he said let's meet tomorrow afternoon. I told him I have a telecon early afternoon and have a seminar at 6:30pm. He said we'll meet at 5:30pm, he'll call me then. I said ok. Let's see how that turns out.
I saw an ad. It's recruiting for permanent magistrate. funny enough, the ad also said if hired, it'd be for 3 years. so it's not permanent?? then my smart brother told me the structure is that initially 3 years contract. upon satisfactory performance, it'll be extended for another 3 years. And upon satisfactory performance of the extended 3 years, then, you'll become permanent.
In any event, I'm very interested in that position. I'll put in an application soon. The problem is I need to come up with the reason why I want to join the judiciary. Why? It's always been my aspiration.
These days I feel more relaxed, and generally happy. feel like up in the clouds. feel unreal. Why? A side of me is looking forward to a new chapter in a new country when I'll tact along with bb. It's a mistery to me. I heard a lot about that country, that particular town. But I've never been, and the huge uncertainty is whether I'll like it there, if I'll be able to get a job, and if so, what to do?? My working skills are portable, but not so portable. The other side of me would like to join the judiciary, if I get hired. Well, both are not real yet. I'll cross the bridge when it comes, in the meantime, I'll dream on!
Dunedin - Portabello. All booked.
Queenstown - 1. Colonial; 2. Vacation villas; 3. Lakeside
Franz Josef - 1. Alpine Glacier; 2. Matheson; 3. Bella vista
Christchurch - 1. Milano; 2. Amross; 3. southern comfort
Rotorua - 1. Midway; 2. Coachman
Auckland -- Kingsgate
Found it! Or rather, them! Yes, I found two:
1. Maporama
This one is useful for going from one two to the other e.g. from Dunedin to Queenstown. It gives you the fastest time (assuming an average speed at 61km/hour) together with the suggested route with breakdown of details. Very handy.
2. Wises map
This one seems to give you the routes within a city or a town, although I'm yet to surf more on it.
We've been looking for something equivalent to Mapquest. How wonderful, now we've found it!
NZ 125
Note: One of Best Western Hotel
NZ 144
NZ 120
Note: Both BreakFree accomodation are resorts.
Reply: We have a studio available with a queen and single bed, bathroom, cooking facilities, heating, electric blankets, TV, balcony and great views of the lake and mountains for NZ$110 per night. We are situated on the main road into Queenstown, approximately 1-2 minutes drive or 10-15 minutes walk to the town.
Lakeside Motel
Reply: We would have available an upstairs studio unit for the dates requested.
The rate is NZ$129 per night. The unit has a full cooker and a microwave.
Turner Heights Townhouses
We have a 1 bedroom apartment available for your required
dates. It has a full kitchen, lounge area, ensuite shower and toilet and a
great view. We have off street parking if you have a vehicle.
The rate for our 1 bedroom apartments is $145 per night based on 2 persons.
Autoline Motel
Currently we have availability for the date(s) you require as follows:
Studio unit with kitchen NZD105 per night including tax
1 Bedrrom unit with kitchen NZD135 per night
Autoline Motel is an older style motel consisting of 11 spacious studio, one bedroom and 2 bedroom units and rated 2 STARS. It is only 8 minutes walk to the town centre. All units have fully equipped kitchens [including oven and frig but no microwave] and ensuite with shower and toilet. Complex facilities include a coin operated guest laundry, off street parking and activities booking desk. Please note that Autoline Motel reception is now located at Hurleys of Queenstown which is next door to Autoline.
Vacation Villas Queenstown
NZ 115
Comments: looks pretty good and within budget; lake and mountain view; and a second TV in the bedroom ...
Shades of Arrowtown
NZ 130 with kitchen
Lomond Lodge
Enquiry made.
Melbourne Motor Lodge
Enquiry made.
One of the accommodation mm is investigating says the rooms are equipped with electric frying pans, benchtop ovenss toasters etc. mm was asking bb what electric frying pans are and bb did a google image search.
bbmm went out for dinner tonight - fish head hotpot lah - and so expensive!! wonderful bb paid, and mm feels a little guilty ...
after din din, we returned to our respective homes (yeah, respective homes, sadly). mm went to a book store and looked up travel books for NZ. This hotel in Auckland sounded quite nice and appears to be within our budget:
Kingsgate Hotel Parnell
For the day we want - NZ 112.50
Apparently this is part of a group of hotels. mm will check out other destinations later :P
Ascot Parnell Hotel
This is nice too but too expensive lah :)
Best Western Midway Motel Rotorua
NZ 115 (1-bedroom)
Palm Court Motor Inn
Reply: We have a studio available at $125 per night or a 1 bedroom at $145 per night. Prices include GST Tax and both units have cooking facilities.
Coachman Motor Inn
Studio NZ 105 (or upstairs for NZ 125)
Ascot on Fenton
NZ 90 or $95 for 21 to 23 Dec 2005 (Labour weekend)
Ann's Volcanic Rotorua
Enquiry made.
Best Inn Rotorua
(Found this in a travel book. It says it's run by a Japanese. But can't find its website. Will look it up in agents :) )
Kingsgate Hotel Rotorua
NZ 118
755 Regal Court Motel
Enquiry made. Ref: JJIMXFNITR
Alhambra Oaks Motor Lodge
Reply: We have a studio @ $130.00 per night, this has 2 single beds, microwave, jug, toaster etc, Sky TV, bathroom has a shower seperate shower.
Harington Village Point Motel
Reply: we could offer you either a twin or a double self contained cottage. Everything is supplied including linen. The rate would be $96.00 per cottage per night. The weather will be nice in December and the Peninsula has a lot to offer. We are directly across the road from the beach and very close to all wildlife attractions. If you decide to stay with us, please confirm with creditcard details, this is not charged in advance but held to secure your booking.
Comment: a bit out of the way from central Dunedin, but it's on the Otago Penninsula, and the beach is within walking distance, you would be closer to nature and wildlife.
Portobello Motel
- can book you a studio unit with two single beds for those dates, cost $110 per night.
Need credit card details to confirm booking.
97 Motel Moray
- We have available standard studio units (Double - King or Queen bed or Twin beds) at $NZ97.50 per night. We also have executive / honeymoon studio units (Double - King bed) at $NZ120 and one bed-roomed suites ranging from $NZ130 to $NZ150 per night.
- Although we do not have full cooking facilities, all our units have the same style kitchenette facilities consisting of, fridge, toaster, jug, microwave, cutlery and utensils. Each unit has it's own ensuite bathroom, with standard units having either a walk in shower or a shower over the bath. The executive units are larger, having a larger bathroom with a separate shower and a two person bath and a 29" TV.
- We do have a Continental Breakfast available. The cost is $4.50 per person in our downstairs breakfast room or $6.50 per person delivered to your room the night before.
- Our Motel is situated right in the centre of Dunedin. Only 2 minutes walk from the Dunedin Information Centre, and a great selection of cafes, restaurants, bars and our shopping centre.
Alcala Motor Lodge
NZ 93 (+NZ 5 for 1-bedroom)
Garden Motel
We are pleased to say that we have availability for the nights that you require. We can accommodate you in either a large studio unit with 1 king and 1 single bed in the living area. The
unit has shower and toilet. The cooking facilities include bench top oven, hotplates, microwave, electric frying pan, toaster & electric kettle. The tariff for this unit is NZ$99 per night for up to 2 people staying plus $17 for each additional person *or* a spacious 1 Bedroom Suite with queen bed in the bedroom and 2 single beds in the lounge area. Toilet with wet area (easy access) shower en suite to main bedroom. Dining area and kitchen that includes oven, microwave, electric frying pan, toaster and electric kettle. The tariff for this unit is NZ$127 per night for up to 2 people staying plus $17 for each additional person.
- All of our units have telephone plus TV with 6 SKY Digital Satellite
channels and 5 terrestrial channels.
- We have ample off-street parking for all units.
Some useful links:
Supermarket Shopping Guide
This website have information about shopping, including which supermarket offers best value for money! It also offers other useful information about New Zealand, for example, living in NZ, NZ estate agent guide, finding a job, and even salaries ! It says according to The New Zealand Consumer's Association (which carries out regular surveys of supermarkets), for a typical family they currently report that the cheapest stores are Pak'N Save branches in Wellington.
For a typical basket of groceries, Woolworths is generally around 15 percent more expensive than Pak'N Save. The two main supermarket groups in New Zealand are:
The Countdown / Woolworths / Foodtown / 3 Guys chains / Big Fresh / Price Chopper chains.
Pak'N Save / New World / Four Square chains.
It also says:
- Woolworths is the winner for pleasurable shopping. The Woolworths shops are laid out more spaciously and tend to be quieter than the others, probably because their prices are higher.
- Countdown stores are slightly less spacious, a bit busier (and a bit cheaper).
- Pak'N Save is generally busy - it's known jokingly as "Push'N Shove" - and has a lower standard of décor, with bare concrete floors.
- In Woolworths and Countdown, shop assistants pack your bags for you. In Pak'N save, you pack your own.
Note: New Zealanders don't like it when foreigners tell them their accents are the same as Australians'! mm need to be careful lah - ha haa haaa!
New Zealand Reservations
Covers: Accomodation, Activities, Food & Wine, and so on.
Fox Glacier
Riverstone B&B Glacier
NZ 130 - 150
Rainforest Motel
Fully booked for our period.
Te Weheka Inn
NZ 310 for double/twin incl. breakfast.
Comment: Really nice, but way out of budget - saving this reference for later. :)
- Tariff : NZ$185.00 per night Inc GST
- Accommodation : Executive studio with queen bed, private bathroom with shower and bath, microwave kitchenette, underfloor heating and sky television (cable television).
- Units have internet access for your own computer outlet from your room, the price for this approx 10-15 cents per minute. Also, kitchenette's which entail a microwave for your cooking.
- Traveling time from Queenstown to Fox Glacier is 4.5hours drive
- Complex opened in October 2002 right in the heart of the Fox Glacier Village, so close to the cafe's, shops and tour operators. Our units are stylish, modern, clean and comfortable. Both the Fox Glacier and the world famous reflective Lake Matheson are just minutes away.
- Cancellation Policy : Your booking is not secure until credit card details
are provided . We require 48 hours notice of cancellation to incur no
charge.
- Attractions : We offer a free booking service for guided glacier walks and
scenic flights.
****************************************************************
Franz Josef
Punga Grove
Studio NZ 170
Glenfern Apartment
NZ 180
Alpine Glacier Motel
Queen studio NZ 110
Lake Matheson Motel
NZ 80 - 130
Glacier Gateway
Double Studio NZ 120
- Tariff per night is NZ$ 135.00. We have a three day cancellation policy. We
will forward you the full details of this on confirmation of booking.
- a Standard Studio available which has a queen. The ensuite bathroom has a heated towel rail, basin and a shower. The Studio has a microwave kitchenette with sink, fridge, kettle, toaster, coffee plunger, tea pot, cutlery and crockery. The rooms are heated by electric heating. Also in room ironing facilities, radio alarm clock, direct dial phone, dial up internet access and TV (sky). We have a coin operated guest laundry available for you your use on site.
- located in the heart of Franz Josef Village within two minutes walk of all restaurants and services.
Franz Josef Glacier Bed and Breakfast
NZ 100 - 150
Follow up with enquiry
Glacier View Motel
Studio NZ 135
Other links - NZ Tourism Online - Fox and Franz Glacier Accomodation
We shall pick up our car from Dunedin, leave it in Christchurch, fly to Rotorua where we shall pick up our next car, returning it in Auckland.
Suggestion: Looks like Ezi-Rent is the cheapest for our trip (Total cost from Dunedin to Auckland: NZ 758 - inclusive of Dunedin pickup; no extra cost for additional driver.) Downside is they cannot guarantee a CD player even if we book early, although that's true to most of the other rental companies.
Details of research as follows.
Dunedin
Nationwide
Group C - Nissan Pulsar 1.6 litre auto - Total: NZ 645.96 (NZ 64/day+NZ 30 pick up fee)
Ezi-Rent Car Hire
Group EC - Nissan Pulsar 1.6 litre auto - Total NZ 534 (NZ 56/day, NZ 30 additional)
Hertz
Toyota Corolla w/Automatic Transmission or Similar
Total: NZ 814.46 (NZ 549.08+(NZ 78.44x2)+NZ 18 (Airport concession fee) +tax)
Getaway Car Hire
This is a no go - they sau they have nothing available for us.
Avis
Compact Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.8 or Similar auto - NZ 775.16 (NZ 672.03 (Base rate) + NZ 17(Airport surcharge) + tax)
NB - the only one that seems to guarantee a CD player!
$59.00NZD per day.
This rate is based on Group C Mitsubishi Lancer or similar (1.8 litre, 4 door, automatic,
with air-conditioning) for 13 days.
Please note, extra hours under 3 hours, will be charged at 1/3 of the daily rate per hour. If extra hours are 3 hours or more, this will be classed as an extra day.
If you collect or drop the car off to the airport/ferry there is an airport/ferry fee of
$19.13NZD.
When travelling between the North and South Islands, no vehicle is taken on
the ferry, with the first car being left at the Wellington/Picton Ferry
Terminal and the second car being collected from the Picton/Wellington
Ferry Terminal. Each hire in each island is a minimum 3 day rental. It is
imperative if you wish to proceed with a reservation you advise your cross
over details also. Flying also applies.
Please note, the above rate that has been quoted, can only be guaranteed
with a confirmed booking.
PS Can't they give us the total cost too?? So lazy !
Avon Percy
NZ 58 per day, inclusive of unlimited mileage,insurance and GST.
Group D
THANKYOU FOR YOUR E-MAIL RE CAR RENTAL WE CAN SUPPLY A CAR @$59.00 PER DAY
INC GST UNLIMITED KM AND COMPREHENSIVE INSURANCE WHICH IS BY WAY OF CREDIT
CARD IMPRINT IF NO DAMAGE TO CAR ON RETURN THEN THERE IS NO CHARGE ON
THAT.....THERE ARE AIRPORT TRANSFERS OF $35.00 AND A ONE WAY HIRE FEE OF
$100.00 WILL APPLY DROPPING CAR OFF IN CH--CH......YES THE CARS DO HAVE AIR
CON AND IF YOU BOOK EARLY ENOUGH WE CAN PUT YOU IN ONE THAT DOES HAVE CD
PLAYER....WE ONLY HAVE A SELECTED FEW THAT DO SO WE DONT EVEN ADVERTISE
IT.....NO ADDITIONAL COST FOR EXTRA DRIVER.....REGARDS MARTY......
PS I don't like the capital letters - bad manners, and it's difficult to distill the information we want. May be they are not interested in us ... ??!
Thrifty
CCAR - Toyota Corolla 4 or 5 door, 1.8 litre, manual, air conditioning, radio with CD player, air bag(s), central locking. Also in this category: Toyota Corolla, Toyota Avensis
Total: NZ 784.58 ((NZ 75.60 x 9)+NZ 17 (Airport surcharge) + tax)
Rhodes Rental
Economy (1.6 litre, 4-door manual or automatic, sedan, seats 4/5) - NZ 59/day for 7+ days
Medium (1.8 - 2.2 litre, 4 door, automatic, sedan, seats 5) - NZ 69/day for 7+ days
Rotorua - Ezi-Rental seems to be the cheapest in this section too !
Nationwide
Group C - Nissan Pulsar 1.6 litre auto - Total: NZ 304 (NZ 76/day no additional)
Ezi-Rent Car Hire
Group EC - Nissan Pulsar 1.6 litre auto - Total 240 (NZ 60/day) (no additional)
Hertz
Toyota Corolla w/Automatic Transmission or Similar
Total: NZ 299.25 (NZ 62/day+NZ 18 (Airport concession fee) +tax)
Avis
Compact Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.8 or Similar auto - NZ 379.13 (NZ 320 (Base rate) + NZ 17(Airport surcharge) + tax)
Thrifty
CCAR - Toyota Corolla 4 or 5 door, 1.8 litre, manual, air conditioning, radio with CD player, air bag(s), central locking. Also in this category: Toyota Corolla, Toyota Avensis
Total: NZ 731.61 ((NZ 78.33 x 4)+NZ 17 (Airport surcharge) + tax)
PS And I think I've done all my homework for Car Rental now - yeah! (7 Oct 2005 around 11 am - and I'm obviously now busy at work - hee hee)
We shall pick up our car from Dunedin, leave it in Christchurch, fly to Rotorua where we shall pick up our next car, returning it in Auckland.
Suggestion: Looks like Ezi-Rent is the cheapest for our trip (Total cost from Dunedin to Auckland: NZ 758 - inclusive of Dunedin pickup; no extra cost for additional driver.) Downside is they cannot guarantee a CD player even if we book early, although that's true to most of the other rental companies.
Details of research as follows.
Dunedin
Nationwide
Group C - Nissan Pulsar 1.6 litre auto - Total: NZ 645.96 (NZ 64/day+NZ 30 pick up fee)
Ezi-Rent Car Hire
Group EC - Nissan Pulsar 1.6 litre auto - Total NZ 534 (NZ 56/day, NZ 30 additional)
Hertz
Toyota Corolla w/Automatic Transmission or Similar
Total: NZ 814.46 (NZ 549.08+(NZ 78.44x2)+NZ 18 (Airport concession fee) +tax)
Getaway Car Hire
This is a no go - they sau they have nothing available for us.
Avis
Compact Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.8 or Similar auto - NZ 775.16 (NZ 672.03 (Base rate) + NZ 17(Airport surcharge) + tax)
NB - the only one that seems to guarantee a CD player!
$59.00NZD per day.
This rate is based on Group C Mitsubishi Lancer or similar (1.8 litre, 4 door, automatic,
with air-conditioning) for 13 days.
Please note, extra hours under 3 hours, will be charged at 1/3 of the daily rate per hour. If extra hours are 3 hours or more, this will be classed as an extra day.
If you collect or drop the car off to the airport/ferry there is an airport/ferry fee of
$19.13NZD.
When travelling between the North and South Islands, no vehicle is taken on
the ferry, with the first car being left at the Wellington/Picton Ferry
Terminal and the second car being collected from the Picton/Wellington
Ferry Terminal. Each hire in each island is a minimum 3 day rental. It is
imperative if you wish to proceed with a reservation you advise your cross
over details also. Flying also applies.
Please note, the above rate that has been quoted, can only be guaranteed
with a confirmed booking.
PS Can't they give us the total cost too?? So lazy !
Avon Percy
NZ 58 per day, inclusive of unlimited mileage,insurance and GST.
Group D
THANKYOU FOR YOUR E-MAIL RE CAR RENTAL WE CAN SUPPLY A CAR @$59.00 PER DAY
INC GST UNLIMITED KM AND COMPREHENSIVE INSURANCE WHICH IS BY WAY OF CREDIT
CARD IMPRINT IF NO DAMAGE TO CAR ON RETURN THEN THERE IS NO CHARGE ON
THAT.....THERE ARE AIRPORT TRANSFERS OF $35.00 AND A ONE WAY HIRE FEE OF
$100.00 WILL APPLY DROPPING CAR OFF IN CH--CH......YES THE CARS DO HAVE AIR
CON AND IF YOU BOOK EARLY ENOUGH WE CAN PUT YOU IN ONE THAT DOES HAVE CD
PLAYER....WE ONLY HAVE A SELECTED FEW THAT DO SO WE DONT EVEN ADVERTISE
IT.....NO ADDITIONAL COST FOR EXTRA DRIVER.....REGARDS MARTY......
PS I don't like the capital letters - bad manners, and it's difficult to distill the information we want. May be they are not interested in us ... ??!
Thrifty
CCAR - Toyota Corolla 4 or 5 door, 1.8 litre, manual, air conditioning, radio with CD player, air bag(s), central locking. Also in this category: Toyota Corolla, Toyota Avensis
Total: NZ 784.58 ((NZ 75.60 x 9)+NZ 17 (Airport surcharge) + tax)
Rhodes Rental
Economy (1.6 litre, 4-door manual or automatic, sedan, seats 4/5) - NZ 59/day for 7+ days
Medium (1.8 - 2.2 litre, 4 door, automatic, sedan, seats 5) - NZ 69/day for 7+ days
Rotorua - Ezi-Rental seems to be the cheapest in this section too !
Nationwide
Group C - Nissan Pulsar 1.6 litre auto - Total: NZ 304 (NZ 76/day no additional)
Ezi-Rent Car Hire
Group EC - Nissan Pulsar 1.6 litre auto - Total 240 (NZ 60/day) (no additional)
Hertz
Toyota Corolla w/Automatic Transmission or Similar
Total: NZ 299.25 (NZ 62/day+NZ 18 (Airport concession fee) +tax)
Avis
Compact Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.8 or Similar auto - NZ 379.13 (NZ 320 (Base rate) + NZ 17(Airport surcharge) + tax)
Thrifty
CCAR - Toyota Corolla 4 or 5 door, 1.8 litre, manual, air conditioning, radio with CD player, air bag(s), central locking. Also in this category: Toyota Corolla, Toyota Avensis
Total: NZ 731.61 ((NZ 78.33 x 4)+NZ 17 (Airport surcharge) + tax)
PS And I think I've done all my homework for Car Rental now - yeah! (7 Oct 2005 around 11 am - and I'm obviously now busy at work - hee hee)
We have talked about various things we want to do when we are in NZ. We are also conscious about having a budget so that we won't go overboard. I've checked out the cost of some of the things we want to do, and here they are:
Dunedin
(i) Elm Wildlife Tour - seeing penguin, albatross, and so on at Peninsular - NZ 67
This can be combined with kayaking - for NZ 137
(ii) Dunedin Sunrise Penguin Walk NZ 65
(iii) Cadbury Chocoloate Factory Tour - Available 7 days a week - 9am to 3:15pm, with extended hours during school holidays and the summer season. Admission charges: NZ $15.00 adult (Approx 1 ¼ hours); Reduced Tours (Sundays, Public Holiday weekends) - NZ $8.00 adult (Approx 40 minutes).
(iv) Speights Brewery Tour - Tours run daily, with duration of 1.5 hours. Prices: Adults $15. For information, click here.
Useful links:
*******************************
Milford Sound
Red boat cruise
(i)scenic cruise - NZ 48
(ii) scenic flight - NZ 330
*******************************
Queenstown
(i) Jetboating NZ 99
(ii) Lord of the Rings 4WD Tour NZ 120
(iii) Full day Funyaks NZ 275
*******************************
Fox Glacier/Franz Josef
(i) Scenic flight NZ 325
(ii) Half Day Glacier Walk NZ 65
*******************************
Christchurch
(i) Hot Air Ballooning NZ 240
Christchurch i-Site Visitors Centre
(ii) Whale Watching in Kaikoura NZ 125. It says sometimes they could see dolphins too. If so, that would be real good value for money! (How much was it for dolphin watching in Coffs Harbour again? Pretty cheap, right?)
Kaikoura i-Site Visitors Centre
*******************************
Rotorua
(i) Zorbing wet zorb NZ 35; zorb + river raft NZ 110 - 115
(ii) Fishing and Thermal Bath
(iii) Scenic cruise, Trout fishing cruise and Lake Tarawera Cruise to Hot Water Beach
(iv) River Rafting (of course, the lower grades - just for fun !) NZ 90
(v) Termal pools - but the websites say it's standard in hotels and motels.
******************************
Others
Everthing you want to know about Lord of the Rings
PS More will be added to this post - watch this space!
We have talked about various things we want to do when we are in NZ. We are also conscious about having a budget so that we won't go overboard. I've checked out the cost of some of the things we want to do, and here they are:
Dunedin
(i) Elm Wildlife Tour - seeing penguin, albatross, and so on at Peninsular - NZ 67
This can be combined with kayaking - for NZ 137
(ii) Dunedin Sunrise Penguin Walk NZ 65
(iii) Cadbury Chocoloate Factory Tour - Available 7 days a week - 9am to 3:15pm, with extended hours during school holidays and the summer season. Admission charges: NZ $15.00 adult (Approx 1 ¼ hours); Reduced Tours (Sundays, Public Holiday weekends) - NZ $8.00 adult (Approx 40 minutes).
(iv) Speights Brewery Tour - Tours run daily, with duration of 1.5 hours. Prices: Adults $15. For information, click here.
Useful links:
*******************************
Milford Sound
Red boat cruise
(i)scenic cruise - NZ 48
(ii) scenic flight - NZ 330
*******************************
Queenstown
(i) Jetboating NZ 99
(ii) Lord of the Rings 4WD Tour NZ 120
(iii) Full day Funyaks NZ 275
*******************************
Fox Glacier/Franz Josef
(i) Scenic flight NZ 325
(ii) Half Day Glacier Walk NZ 65
*******************************
Christchurch
(i) Hot Air Ballooning NZ 240
Christchurch i-Site Visitors Centre
(ii) Whale Watching in Kaikoura NZ 125. It says sometimes they could see dolphins too. If so, that would be real good value for money! (How much was it for dolphin watching in Coffs Harbour again? Pretty cheap, right?)
Kaikoura i-Site Visitors Centre
*******************************
Rotorua
(i) Zorbing wet zorb NZ 35; zorb + river raft NZ 110 - 115
(ii) Fishing and Thermal Bath
(iii) Scenic cruise, Trout fishing cruise and Lake Tarawera Cruise to Hot Water Beach
(iv) River Rafting (of course, the lower grades - just for fun !) NZ 90
(v) Termal pools - but the websites say it's standard in hotels and motels.
******************************
Others
Everthing you want to know about Lord of the Rings
PS More will be added to this post - watch this space!
A studio unit with queen size bed and kitchenette @$120.00 per night or a one bedroom unit with a queen and single bed, a double spabath, kitchenette and two tv's/dvds @ $139.00 per night.
The above tariffs do not include breakfast, however a continental breakfast is available for $9.50. The office shuts at 9.30pm, but if you are arriving late we may be able to make other arrangements and there is plenty of off road parking at the motel complex.
We have a studio unit available for the above days. The tariff (inc. GST) is $130.00 NZ.
A one bedroom unit has a bedroom and with a separate lounge all of our units have their own ensuite's. The tariff for a one bedroom unit is $140.00 NZ
If you would like to secure this unit could you please send a credit card number and expiry date of the card, as this will guarantee your booking.
We have a secure booking page on our web site at www.glenlodge.com. On receiving your card details, we will send conformation of your booking and a reservation number.
Yes we have plenty of car parks.
A studio with queen bed costs $105/night.
A studio spa costs $120/night.
Breakfast is extra.
Off street car parking is available at no additional charge
Our prices include all taxes.
The price is $NZ112 per night for studio unit.
$140 for a larege 1 bedroom with queen bed in the bedroom and single bed in the living area
The motel is ideally located in the inner city, just a few minutes walk from Cathedral Square, the Town Hall, Convention Centre Arts Centre and Casino. We provide quiet clean,comfortable accommodation in spacious tastefully decorated rooms.
We have a bus stop at the door and provide free parking and free luggage storage.
The tariff for a one bedroom unit with queen bed and single bed is $115.00 GST Incl. per night.
The tariff for a studio is $110.00 per night with a queen bed.
Breakfast is not included in the tariff but is available.
Our units have internet connection, charged on a dial up system.
A studio unit with queen size bed and kitchenette @$120.00 per night or a one bedroom unit with a queen and single bed, a double spabath, kitchenette and two tv's/dvds @ $139.00 per night.
The above tariffs do not include breakfast, however a continental breakfast is available for $9.50. The office shuts at 9.30pm, but if you are arriving late we may be able to make other arrangements and there is plenty of off road parking at the motel complex.
We have a studio unit available for the above days. The tariff (inc. GST) is $130.00 NZ.
A one bedroom unit has a bedroom and with a separate lounge all of our units have their own ensuite's. The tariff for a one bedroom unit is $140.00 NZ
If you would like to secure this unit could you please send a credit card number and expiry date of the card, as this will guarantee your booking.
We have a secure booking page on our web site at www.glenlodge.com. On receiving your card details, we will send conformation of your booking and a reservation number.
Yes we have plenty of car parks.
A studio with queen bed costs $105/night.
A studio spa costs $120/night.
Breakfast is extra.
Off street car parking is available at no additional charge
Our prices include all taxes.
The price is $NZ112 per night for studio unit.
$140 for a larege 1 bedroom with queen bed in the bedroom and single bed in the living area
The motel is ideally located in the inner city, just a few minutes walk from Cathedral Square, the Town Hall, Convention Centre Arts Centre and Casino. We provide quiet clean,comfortable accommodation in spacious tastefully decorated rooms.
We have a bus stop at the door and provide free parking and free luggage storage.
The tariff for a one bedroom unit with queen bed and single bed is $115.00 GST Incl. per night.
The tariff for a studio is $110.00 per night with a queen bed.
Breakfast is not included in the tariff but is available.
Our units have internet connection, charged on a dial up system.
This year, we shall be going to New Zealand for our big holiday - for two weeks - yeah! We have this plan some months ago. What's even better is that we'll be away for 2 weeks, and when we come back, we'll still have a few days of public holiday to relax. We were going to go a week earlier, but because of my stupid boss, we had to postpone it for a week, but ha haa - it fits even better!
There are so many places we want to go, and so many things we want to do, but there's so little time. Yes, we could have also gone for those public holidays, but our families are here, and for that few days extra, the flight ticket would be doubled. We, being Aries, so practical, went for the cheaper one. :P
Flight tickets have been booked. We are working on accomodations and car rental. The plan is Auckland - Dunedin - Queenstown - Fox Glacier - Christchurch - Rotorua/Waitomo cave - Auckland.
I made a few enquiries with accomodations in Queenstown and Christchurch. They will be posted separately.
I was saying to bb - I am very very excited about our trip and wish it comes sooner. On the other hand, we'll be going away for two weeks only and once it starts, it will end fairly quickly, so may be I'll wait a bit more, and dream longer ...
This year, we shall be going to New Zealand for our big holiday - for two weeks - yeah! We have this plan some months ago. What's even better is that we'll be away for 2 weeks, and when we come back, we'll still have a few days of public holiday to relax. We were going to go a week earlier, but because of my stupid boss, we had to postpone it for a week, but ha haa - it fits even better!
There are so many places we want to go, and so many things we want to do, but there's so little time. Yes, we could have also gone for those public holidays, but our families are here, and for that few days extra, the flight ticket would be doubled. We, being Aries, so practical, went for the cheaper one. :P
Flight tickets have been booked. We are working on accomodations and car rental. The plan is Auckland - Dunedin - Queenstown - Fox Glacier - Christchurch - Rotorua/Waitomo cave - Auckland.
I made a few enquiries with accomodations in Queenstown and Christchurch. They will be posted separately.
I was saying to bb - I am very very excited about our trip and wish it comes sooner. On the other hand, we'll be going away for two weeks only and once it starts, it will end fairly quickly, so may be I'll wait a bit more, and dream longer ...
I found a website of a company that could tailor made holidays in New Zealand. That website also offers a few sample iterneries. One of them is called "Midlife Adventure" and (without admission!), could be a useful reference.
PS Did you notice that I managed to put a link to the words, but not the link to the website addresses??!!
I found a website of a company that could tailor made holidays in New Zealand. That website also offers a few sample iterneries. One of them is called "Midlife Adventure" and (without admission!), could be a useful reference.
PS Did you notice that I managed to put a link to the words, but not the link to the website addresses??!!
I am in the office and haven't done much since I came back this morning - attended a short internal meeting and dealt with a few administrative matters. That's all.
But on a personal side of things, I managed to fit in a few bits - (i) spoke to my friend here re dinner tonight (ii) organised dinner with two other friends - purpose of which is to introduce them to each other. why? because one of them would start a new job similar to that of the other and want to get some tips. (iii) spoke to our financier re investment (iv) spoke to travel agent re bbmm next trip - yeah! (v) surfed on internet re route to take in New Zealand. This page talks about a food and wine in New Zealand: http://www.newzealand.com/travel/about-nz/culture/new-zealand-wine-and-food/new-zealand-food-and-wine.cfm
And yes, we need to plan to make sure we'll go pass those places - to the extent we can fit them in! I have also found a few driving routes that are of interest. Let me look closer at them and will report later, ok? Very excited even thinking about it.
On the work side, I'm already planning ahead and started doing things that would be due when I'm away - to make sure I don't have to re-schedule bbmm holiday again (yes, it has been postponed for one week because of work, and bb was (as always) very understanding.) And I think she deserves another *smack* !
I am in the office and haven't done much since I came back this morning - attended a short internal meeting and dealt with a few administrative matters. That's all.
But on a personal side of things, I managed to fit in a few bits - (i) spoke to my friend here re dinner tonight (ii) organised dinner with two other friends - purpose of which is to introduce them to each other. why? because one of them would start a new job similar to that of the other and want to get some tips. (iii) spoke to our financier re investment (iv) spoke to travel agent re bbmm next trip - yeah! (v) surfed on internet re route to take in New Zealand. This page talks about a food and wine in New Zealand: http://www.newzealand.com/travel/about-nz/culture/new-zealand-wine-and-food/new-zealand-food-and-wine.cfm
And yes, we need to plan to make sure we'll go pass those places - to the extent we can fit them in! I have also found a few driving routes that are of interest. Let me look closer at them and will report later, ok? Very excited even thinking about it.
On the work side, I'm already planning ahead and started doing things that would be due when I'm away - to make sure I don't have to re-schedule bbmm holiday again (yes, it has been postponed for one week because of work, and bb was (as always) very understanding.) And I think she deserves another *smack* !
It's going to be New Zealand - yeah! Neither of us has been and other than the hot weather we are slightly concerned, I think we both are looking forward to go there!
We have 2 weeks and we plan to visit both North and South islands. I think I found the website for New Zealand that's equivalent to the aussi one we used earlier this year, with suggested driving route which we took and enjoyed immensely !! Here it is (I'll try doing this as a link that if you click on it, it will bring you to the website, so you don't have to copy and paste. Let's see if it works.):
http://www.newzealand.com/travel/
(No! It's not working. I had it worked a moment ago, then I thought I'll do it again as practice, but I could not get it work again!!!)
PS I just got it to work now, and that makes me happy :) And I feel I have learnt something from bb. She taught me how to do it some time ago, but this is the first time I have put it to practice :)
It's going to be New Zealand - yeah! Neither of us has been and other than the hot weather we are slightly concerned, I think we both are looking forward to go there!
We have 2 weeks and we plan to visit both North and South islands. I think I found the website for New Zealand that's equivalent to the aussi one we used earlier this year, with suggested driving route which we took and enjoyed immensely !! Here it is (I'll try doing this as a link that if you click on it, it will bring you to the website, so you don't have to copy and paste. Let's see if it works.):
http://www.newzealand.com/travel/
(No! It's not working. I had it worked a moment ago, then I thought I'll do it again as practice, but I could not get it work again!!!)
PS I just got it to work now, and that makes me happy :) And I feel I have learnt something from bb. She taught me how to do it some time ago, but this is the first time I have put it to practice :)
