New Zealand

• Great Facts about Christchurch

  
  Here are some facts about Christchurch.

  Since the Napier earthquake in the 1930’s every New Zealander has been contributing (via taxes and fuel purchases) to the Government Natural Disaster Fund – a pot of money managed by the Earthquake Commission (ECQ). To be used to help New Zealand  recover from any natural disaster. The Government (via the fund) will pay the first $100,000 of any damage sustained to your home (caused by a natural disaster) provided you have property insurance. The remainder is covered by your insurance company. Continue Reading

  Great Facts about Christchurch was last modified: May 6th, 2014 by Swain Destinations

  May 16, 2012 • New Zealand • Views: 2531

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• Queenstown, New Zealand in April 2012

  
  Queenstown, New Zealand

  Queenstown, is the adventure capital of New Zealand, if not the world. I love it more every time I visit as there is always something new to discover – and this time was no exception. This trip was to attend TRENZ, a large trade event where all services (hotels and tour companies) meet with travel companies like mine to renegotiate rates and learn about changes and new experiences. This year, there were almost 100 new experiences for me to learn about. Continue Reading

  Queenstown, New Zealand in April 2012 was last modified: May 5th, 2014 by Swain Destinations

  April 12, 2012 • Ian Swain Sr, New Zealand • Views: 4354

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• New Zealand Part IV

  Cities: Queenstown

  We say farewell to Philip and the team at Blanket Bay and head towards Queenstown. It is only a 45 minute drive and along the way we stop at my good friend Tania’s lodge – Azur set in the hills of Queenstown, with incredible views of The Remarkables. The Lodge is only a 5 minute drive to the town center yet you have the views of the lake and mountains that are amazing; with 9 suites this is the perfect lodge for couples who want to be away from the town yet close enough to have access to all Queenstown has to offer.

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  New Zealand Part IV was last modified: May 8th, 2014 by Swain Destinations

  March 19, 2010 • Bloggers, Ian Swain Sr, New Zealand • Views: 2793

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• New Zealand Part III

  Cities: Franz Josef, Glenorchy

  These New Zealand breakfasts are just phenomenal – fresh country eggs, selection of French Toast, Home Made Porridge (Oatmeal), and some unique creations at each lodge, make the start of the day something special. Continue Reading

  New Zealand Part III was last modified: May 8th, 2014 by Swain Destinations

  March 17, 2010 • Bloggers, Ian Swain Sr, New Zealand • Views: 7494

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• New Zealand Part II

  Cities: South Island High Country

  A hearty breakfast in the country kitchen at Wharekauhau and then we meet Dougal McKenzie, who is a “kiwi” from the South Island but has been living in the North Island for the past 30 years. Dougal is going to show us the region including some wineries today. Continue Reading

  New Zealand Part II was last modified: May 8th, 2014 by Swain Destinations

  March 15, 2010 • Bloggers, Ian Swain Sr, New Zealand • Views: 2388

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• New Zealand Part I

  Cities: Taupo, Palliser Bay

  Eagerly, I planned this trip for my wife Linda and me to visit some of my favorite places in New Zealand, including some of the wonderful luxury lodges. Linda hadn’t been to New Zealand in over ten years, so I was looking forward to sharing many new experiences with her since much has changed over the years.

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  New Zealand Part I was last modified: May 8th, 2014 by Swain Destinations

  March 12, 2010 • Bloggers, Ian Swain Sr, New Zealand • Views: 9308

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