Who: Chris Veesaert of Littleton
Where: “The Bra Fence” near Cardrona, South Island
Beat meal: Eating outdoors at The Plateau in Fox Glacier Village. Lamb, farm-raised deer and green-lipped mussels are the local favorites and well worth sampling. The food in New Zealand is always delicious and beautifully presented. Meals seem expensive at first, but factor in the exchange rate and remember that taxes and tip are already included, and the gourmet-style meals become a very good value.
Best deal: The gorgeous scenery – it’s all FREE! Roam quaint Christchurch, walk among seals on a beach, watch penguins waddle to shore in the evening and look up to view an albatross with its 10-foot wing span. You can hike in subtropical forests, discover hidden waterfalls, walk on a beach and view snow-covered mountains – all on the same day. Watch bungee-jumpers at the original A.J. Hackett bungee site for free, and if you have the nerve, spend a few kiwi dollars and have the experience of a lifetime jumping 43 meters.
Best time to go: December through early April, their summer months.
Best travel tip: There are few motels and hotels outside of the cities, and during the tourist season “No Vacancy” signs are the norm. Book all of your lodging well in advance. Many Kiwis open their homes and farms to travelers to supplement their incomes. The home stays are more casual than our B&Bs and can be researched on New Zealand websites. It’s a wonderful chance to meet the friendly families and catch a glimpse of their lives. Breakfast is included, so it means not searching for a restaurant before your day’s activities.
