Season 3: Recent Episodes
Kiwitripsters
On this edition of Kiwi Tripsters, Mike and Andrew swap thermals for holiday warmth. They bask in the urban pleasures of embracing Brisbane. Taking in the history, culture and best neighbourhoods in the city. Plus a jaunt across the bay to Moreton Island. Bring it on, Brisbane.
Snaking around the CBD like a serpentine artery, Brisbane River sets the stage for the city’s photogenic appeal, inter-connecting so many distinctive pockets of goodness. Just ten years out from hosting the Olympics, Brisbane’s eyes are firmly future-focused. We set the scene on a walking tour.
Calling all culture-vultures, we head across the river to South Bank. Check out the storehouses of incredible art, Streets Beach, the River Public Art Trail plus we preview River Fire, coming up in September. And we dip into the city’s treasury of great eats.
Valley-bound. Prior to delving into the multiple delights of Fortitude Valley, make a date with the Story Bridge. Climbing this super structure is a Brisbane holiday highlight. The Valley boasts a stunning array of live music venues, boutique shopping and buzzy cafes. Plus we prowl down James Street, Brisbane’s glitterati magnet.
If you need a break from the urban beats, take a quick escape to Moreton Bay for some island time. Tangalooma Resort on Moreton Island, is an unpretentious bolt-hole of soft white sand beaches, lassoed by vivid blue waters teeming with marine life. The wildlife experiences, ship wrecks and sand tobogganing are all indelible highlights at Tangalooma.
Chat with Karlee Baston from My Queensland checks-in with some insider tips and sizzling holiday deals
Discover the soul of Brisbane, Queensland’s cosmopolitan capital for arts, culture and destination dining. With stunning natural assets, a laidback charm and a subtropical alfresco lifestyle, Brisbane fast lays on the seduction factor. For timely tips and trip inspiration, start your exploration on the Sunshine State’s official visitor website. www.queensland.com
We enjoy some sound encounters in Queen Charlotte, highlight two great lodge stays, we taste our way through wine country, plus we dabble in many of the other inviting indulgences to be found in Blenheim. Welcome to Marlborough.
Let’s begin our Marlborough adventures in the bustling port town of Picton, the great gateway to the Sounds. We tuck into Toastie Picton, admire the historic vessel Edwin Fox, hit the waters by sea kayak with Wilderness Guides and board the Mail Boat Cruise on Queen Charlotte Sound.
Fancy some bite-sized chunks of the Queen Charlotte Track? Aside from the full four-day traverse, the celebrated track affords some fabulous day-walk options. We showcase our favourite chunks and highlight two magnificent accommodation experiences at Furneaux Lodge and Punga Cove Resort. Book now for spring!
Wine Country, here we come! Marlborough produces 75% of New Zealand’s wine with 85% of that being Sauvignon Blanc. Even if you’re not a fan of that variety, Marlborough caters to a wide palate, including Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris – plus some of the nation’s best bubbles! We discuss our favourite stops on the wine trail. Plus we sample Boom Town Brewing and Roots Marlborough Dry Gin!
Bites and sights in Blenheim. One place you must dine at in Blenheim is Gramado’s Restaurant and Bar. We tell you why. Plus we stake out some great gourmet pies and handcrafted chocolate. But the biggest blockbuster in Blenheim is the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. Mike and Andrew discuss the highlights.
From the sensory natural pleasures of the Marlborough Sounds to the cultural head-turners, wines, craft producers and dining heroes of Blenheim, plan a flavour-loaded fling with the Top of the South. Make your first port of call, the region’s official website. https://marlboroughnz.com/
On this edition of Kiwi Tripsters, we escape the clutches of winter for the warm embrace of the Sunshine Coast. Join us we as indulge in Mooloolaba’s beachy pleasures. We venture into the hinterland where charming mountain villages and rainforests await. Plus we savour the creative magic of Eumundi.
Blessed by the gods with a seemingly endless sweep of sugar- white sandy beaches, Mooloolaba is positioned at the heart of Sunshine Coast’s 100 kilometre long coastal sweep. We check out the beachy pleasures, dynamic dining scene and sightseeing thrills.
Savour the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast. Elevate your playground and discover the hive of hidden gems lurking in the hinterland, from the mountain villages of Maleny and Montville to the enchanting rainforest encounters and Bird World.
The powerhouse of Eumundi. Former Cantabrians, Paul and Nicky Thomas relocated to the Sunshine Coast and are at the helm of a most enterprising hospo empire. Paul is with us to talk about the glorious Imperial Hotel, Eumundi Brewery, Eumundi Distillers and their latest accommodation venture, HOLA – the House of Local Art.
There’s a perky, plucky, creative spirit coursing deep through Eumundi. If you are partial to a good market, Eumundi will blow your socks off with its twice-weekly mercantile showstopper. Plus we recommend some great eats in town, at Bungalow and Popina.
As we turn the spotlight on the Sunshine Coast, Karlee Baston joins Kiwi Tripsters from My Queensland, the Queensland holiday experts, with some timely tips and sizzling holiday deals. https://myqueensland.co.nz
Swap winter for a Sunshine Coast escape. Experience contemporary beach culture, lush and soothing rainforest encounters, charismatic Hinterland villages and unforgettable dining. Relax and recharge your senses on the Sunshine Coast. www.visitsunshinecoast.com
On this edition of Kiwi Tripsters, we say G’day to the GC. From the glitter strip of the Gold Coast and the dynamic dining scene, to the vast trail of treats of Tamborine Mountain and the thrills of the theme parks, escape to play on the GC.
The epic holiday playground of the Gold Coast never fails to entertain. We showcase some familiar favourites and fresh new finds in Surfers Paradise, to inject into your next GC getaway. Must-dos include Cali Beach, the Hopo Ferry and the Home of Local Arts.
The buzz about Broadbeach. Once the little bro to big sister Surfers, Broadie is on a roll. The red-hot dining scene’s tentacles seem to keep spreading in all directions, particularly the outdoor scene. We highlight some five-star feasts and showcase the glittering new Dorsett Gold Coast hotel.
Take a break from the beachside bling and for a soothing diversion to Tamborine Mountain. The hinterland mecca houses a hive of artisanal treats, like Tamborine Mountain Distillery, and truly gorgeous rainforest encounters like Tamborine Skywalk.
Add some thrills and spills to your playground escapades on the Gold Coast by revelling in the theme park parks. What’s new, what’s shiny, what are the star additions? We have the lowdown on the latest and the greatest from the theme parks.
Escape to play on the Gold Coast. From theme park frolics and the glitter strip of golden beaches to the dynamic dining and the soothing world heritage-listed beauty of the hinterland, start planning your next great playground getaway to the GC. www.destinationgoldcoast.com
On this edition of Kiwi Tripsters, Mike and Andrew dabble in the world of dark tourism. From scenes of horror and tragedy to sites of major world history, join us on a journey where the backstory packs a history-making punch.
We start our dark tourism journey in London and the building that has lorded over London for a millennium - The Tower of London. From the torture room to some of its notorious guests, like Guy Fawkes, we discuss some of its indelible history. Plus we set the scene on the Jack the Ripper tours, which remain wildly popular in London’s East End.
Hiroshima’s darkest days have given rise to a booming visitor industry. The passage of time helps, but Hiroshima is a shining example of the enduring power of post-disaster tourism, if it’s done right. We discuss the essential sights, including the A-Bomb Done, Hiroshima Castle and the remarkably poignant museum.
World War II has left a legacy of solemn sites of world history across the likes of Poland and Germany. Mike and Andrew take a journey through the concentration camps and the death camps of Auschwitz, Birkenau, Dachau and Sachsenhausen.
Finally on this special edition focused on dark tourism, we showcase the 9/11 Memorial Museum in New York, Pearl Harbour, the KGB Museum in Vilnius and a pilgrimage to the Gallipoli Peninsula.
On this edition of Kiwi Tripsters, ready, set, go. Travel’s new age has taken flight, as Kiwis start to spread their wings again. We share some timely tips to help you navigate the Covid-age of travel, plus we celebrate the South Pacific, our bumper holiday playground.
At the dawn of a new era of international travel, what destinations are trending and what are the biggest tips to bear in mind as you prepare to spread you wings. We highlight some timely tips to help you navigate the Covid-age of travel and how to steer clear of the biggest traps.
It’s one of the most decorated luxury resorts in the South Pacific, constantly scooping prized awards – Yasawa Island Resort & Spa in Fiji. The owner and director of the resort, james McCann joins Mike and Andrew to talk about the major refresh undertaken during the past two years and the surging rebound in visitors flocking back to Yasawa Island.
Swap winter’s chills for tropical thrills! Mike and Andrew reminisce on some of their most memorable experiences holidaying in the South Pacific, including a guide to the best spots for sundowner cocktails in Rarotonga this winter.
If you’d like to add a splash of French flair and flavour to a South Pacific vacation, look no further than New Caledonia. In a matter of days, direct flights between Noumea and Auckland resume. Mike and Andrew are joined by Sally Pepermans from New Caledonia Tourism.
On this edition of Kiwi Tripsters, getaway to Wānaka this autumn. We dive into the thriving food and drinks scene, check out some family crowd-pleasers, dip into local culture and soak up the world-beating adventures in the great outdoors.
Fanning out from Wānaka, the 54km-long Mt Aspring Road is a golden gateway to goodness. A world-class wilderness route that opens the door on so many outdoorsy attractions including Mt Aspiring National Park. We highlight some of the essential attractions including Diamond Lake and Rob Roy Glacier Track.
Eat, stay and play in Wānaka. Blessed with world-class wineries, a thriving craft beer scene and epic foodie scene, where should you head for some of Wānaka’s signature tastes? We highlight our top recommendations, plus we showcase the absolute lakefront accommodation oasis, Edgewater, Wānaka.
Mike and Andrew chat to Joe Waide who has a very unique offering. Joe operates Wanahaka, the only wine tour in Central Otago that connects the wines and land with Māori culture and the history of the area. https://www.wanahaka.co.nz/
Wānaka is tailor-made for magical family holidays. We check out the National Transport & Toy Museum, the mind-bending amusements of Puzzling World, the food truck scene, the incredible boutique cinemas and some fabulous lakeside pastimes that won’t cost you a dime.
Nourish your soul with an autumn getaway in Wānaka. Crisp air, incredible colours and the ideal temperature for some hearty adventures. Hit the trails, savour the lake, gaze at glaciers, treat the family to some holiday frolics and soak up the region’s superb food and drinks scene. Escape to play in Wānaka. https://www.lakewanaka.co.nz/
On this edition of Kiwi Tripsters we head for the hills, the hot pools, the vines and coastline of the Hurunui District. From sipping wine in Waipara to gazing in wonder at the cliffs of Gore Bay, join us for a flavourful autumn roadie all over the Hurunui.
Hurunui’s southern gateway is wreathed in vines. Welcome to the wonderful wine region of Waipara. We highlight some of the fabulous Ma and Pa enterprises that power this region, from Torlesse Wines and Terrace Edge to Georges Road Wines and The Bone Line.
When you’ve had your fill of the wine trail, launch yourself into Hurunui’s incredible food scene. We take a look at the incredible makeover of the Amberley Hotel, savour the culinary verve at Waipara Springs Winery & Café before heading to Hanmer to nosh at the Hanmer Springs Hotel and No. 31 Restaurant.
A time-honoured haven of healing, Hanmer Springs is pitch-perfect for relaxation and recreation. We take a restorative dip at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa before hitting the amazing trails through the forests and across the countryside. Don’t miss the Forest Amble Walk, festooned with whimsical wooden sculptures.
An essential experience when road-tripping the Hurunui is the Gore Bay Tourist Drive. Swap the countryside for the coast on this classic Kiwi detour, where nature’s wizardry hits next-level. We showcase Manuka Bay, the Cathedral Cliffs, the Ready Money Trail and there’s a special place to stay that will blow your socks off!
Whether you’re sampling wines in the coolest little wine region of Waipara, marvelling over limestone landscapes, basking your body in thermal hot pools, or blazing the magnificent coastal and forest trails, the Hurunui District is loaded with holiday adventure and pure pleasure. Make your first stop the region’s official visitors website. https://visithurunui.co.nz
On this edition of Kiwi Tripsters, we take a roadie along the West Coast, from Westport to Ross, including the creative delights of Hokitika. Plus we countdown to Vivid Sydney and we size up the breakfast plates of the world. What are the world’s best breakfasts? Plus we welcome our new co-host, Andrew Sepie who joins Mike Yardley.
Despite a sequence of floods in recent months, Westport and the Northern West Coast has bucked the trend and enjoyed a bumper summer in the visitor stakes. We highlight some of the essential experiences on a West Coast roadie, from the delights of Tauranga Bay and Cape Foulwind to wonderful Punakaiki and the rise of rise of cycle trails including the fabulous new Kawatiri Trail.
Further down the West Coast, Hokitika is a great base camp for autumn road-tripping in Westland. We discuss the myriad of creative finds in Hokitika, from the delights of the Glass Blowing Studio to the incredible array of driftwood sculptures on Hokitika Beach, before venturing to Ross, the Tree Top Walk and Lake Mahinapua.
If you’re looking to time a visit to Oz with a truly great festival, you’d be struggling to find a more spectacular festival than Vivid Sydney, an exuberant celebration of creativity, innovation and technology, transforming the cityscape in extravagant fashion. After a two year hiatus, Vivid Sydney roars into life on May 27th and we set the scene on some of the big highlights instore.
What are the world’s best breakfasts? What are the breakfasts worth travelling for? Mike and Andrew have assembled their hot list of the best – subjective, as it may be! But they all sing loud about the sense of place and the sensory joy of international travel, from breakfast bagels in New York to Shakshuka in Morocco.
On this edition of Kiwi Tripsters, we hit the road to take a fresh look at mighty Manawatū. From the fun of Feilding and the art, eats and beats of Palmerston North, to the spectacular array of outdoorsy pursuits across the scenic countryside, welcome to Manawatū.
On Kiwi Tripsters, we check out why Feilding is repeatedly honoured as being New Zealand’s most beautiful town. Friday is THE day to visit Feilding, for the largest saleyards in the Southern Hemisphere, the amazing farmers’ market and the arty scene, headlined by Joe McMenamin’s art studio.
We explore the Manawatū Scenic Route, one the region’s designated country roads, serving up awe-inspiring views across the corrugated hinterland. Running from Ashurst to Mangaweka, the Manawatū Scenic Route is the primary touring circuit that showcases the beauty and charm of the backcountry, threading together a necklace of scenic gems, rolling farmland, hidden valleys and charming settlements.
Palmerston North’s downtown banquet of temptations is formidable. Boasting a true town centre, framed by The Square, we nosh heartily from the vast array of eateries wrapped around it, turning the spotlight on Brew Union, Haru, Little Savanna and Munch, before hitting the arts trail.
Explore the magnificence of the mighty Manawatū. From the scenic country roads and glorious walks alongside the gorge to the market magic of Fielding and the beauty of Palmy’s Arts Trail, Manawatū is ripe for discovery. www.manawatunz.co.nz