Self Drive New Zealand Ski Vacation - What to look out for

Spring is in the air for the northern hemisphere. Flocks of migrating birds which flew south for warmer climates are starting to return to the northern hemisphere to breed. The snow is melting and the frozen lakes are thawing. Spring and summer are definitely on their way.

For Singaporeans who yearn for a cooler vacation destination to escape the heat in tropical Singapore, do consider the southern hemisphere for the upcoming June holidays. In this post, we are going to explore the ski fields in North island of New Zealand and helpful tips for a safe and fun filled self drive winter vacation in New Zealand.

New Zealand comprises of 2 islands – the North Island and the South Island. These islands are known affectionately in local Maori legend as “Fish of Maui” and “Canoe of Maui” respectively. The legend spoke of Maui, a demi-god who fished the North Island out of the ocean, and the South Island was his canoe.

Situated in the heart of the North Island is the Tongariro National Park, the oldest national park in New Zealand. It has been acknowledged by UNESCO as a dual World Heritage Site for its spectacular natural beauty and rich cultural significance. Tongariro National Park is also home to New Zealand’s largest ski area, Mt Ruapehu. Mt Ruapehu boasts the largest number of chair lifts throughout New Zealand. For a tourist, this means visiting a site of tremendous importance, plenty of room to enjoy winter sports and minimal waiting time for the chair lifts. Your adrenalin is pumping and you are all ready to ski or snowboard. How about throwing in an extra bonus, a self drive vacation for a more relaxing pace and freedom?

Pulling over to take a picture of the magnificent Mt Ruapehu, New Zealand

Driving up a mountain is a breathtaking experience for many, but caution needs to be exercised when navigating those narrow roads winding up the mountain with tight bends and corners. At Mt Ruapehu, snow chains are available for hire when the road conditions require them. As you ascend or descend from a mountain, drive slowly and carefully even if the road is straight. There may be ice on the road and you cannot see it until you are on it. The wheels lose traction when it is on ice and the car may skid if you drive too fast.

Sharp bend ahead

Do approach bends and corners, slowly and carefully. You do not know what is round the corner and you cannot see what is ahead until you get around the bend.

Breathing taking mountain views

Besides driving more carefully and at a speed that you are comfortable, here are some tips which I have found useful while driving to a ski field. If you notice that there is a huge pileup of vehicles behind you, do not panic and do not let them pressurise you to go faster than you would like. Proceed as usual, and when you come across a safe spot to stop, pull over and allow the vehicles to pass. In that way, you can have a more leisurely drive at a speed that you are comfortable. Braking distances increase under snow and ice conditions and applying brakes suddenly may cause the vehicle to skid. Apply brakes early and gently. Always turn on the vehicle’s headlights when the skies are overcast. Keep an eye out for traffic signs. They will prepare you for what is coming up ahead.

Be safe and have lots of fun.

Your Travel Beacon,
Joanne

Romance, Wine and Art - Hawkes Bay (New Zealand)

The Hawkes Bay region is situated on the east coast of North Island, New Zealand. It is the home of New Zealand's oldest and second largest wine region. The region is well known for its award winning Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec and is also New Zealand's leading producer of red wines.

My husband and I are so in love with the region's wine. We are saving a bottle of 2007 Brookfields Malbec for this year's Valentine Day. It would have been better if we could visit Hawkes Bay now to bask in the warmth of summer, savour good food and sip rich bodied wines.

Visiting Hawkes Bay was a romantic getaway for us when we lived in Wellington, New Zealand. Hawkes Bay's moderate winter and long warm summer make the region a perfect place for growing fantastic grapes for wine making and also a perfect year round vacation destination.

To visit the vineyards, we chose to self drive along the country roads surrounded by picturesque hills and clear blue skies. We shared many memorable moments and took many beautiful pictures along the scenic route.

Church Road Winery

Besides award winning wines and delicious gourmet food, Napier and Hastings - cities in the region are known for having the highest concentration of Art Deco buildings. Many of these buildings were designed by New Zealand architect Louis Hay, whose style was influenced by well known American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The strong presence of the local Maori culture had also shaped a style of Art Deco buildings that is truly unique to New Zealand.

There are many ways to marvel at this piece of unique architecture. We have chosen a self guided walking tour. It suited our need for relax pace and our theme - a romantic getaway for two. We strolled along the streets of Napier and Hastings hand in hand, admiring the splendor of the Art Deco buildings. Occasionally, we chanced upon a nice shop selling local art pieces and jewellery. We stepped in and took our time to browse. When we got tired, there was no lack of good coffee shops for us to stop by, sip coffee and enjoy a slice of cake while watching the stories of the cities unfolded itself.

Iconic Napier Art Deco - T&G Building & The Dome

This romantic trip to the Hawkes Bay region arrive at its highlight when you check into one of Napier's finest luxury accommodation - The Dome. The Dome offers stunning oceans views and is only a few steps away from the city's fine restaurants and soft sandy beaches.

The Hawkes Bay region takes you away from the bustle of city life whilst offering an extensive selection of fine vineyards and restaurants, unique Art Deco buildings and luxurious hotels stay for you to enjoy that magical moment with a special someone. Hawkes Bay is definitely one of my favourite romantic getaway destinations.

Your Travel Beacon,
Joanne