New Zealand

  • Filmmaking in Middle-earth

    Fans of Bilbo Baggins’ exploits will be tickled pink as The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey DVD hits stores this month. The film, shot in New Zealand, is the first chapter in Peter Jackson’s new epic trilogy set in Middle-earth 60 years before J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings saga.

    An exciting aspect of the release is the new DVD’s special feature, “New Zealand: Home of Middle-earth.”

    Magical and intriguing, New Zealand has drawn storytellers and filmmakers for decades. They have used the nation’s unique, lush landscapes to create both intimate films and monumental blockbusters. Continue Reading

    March 8, 2013 • New Zealand • Views: 11808

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  • Great Facts about Christchurch

    Green 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

    May 16, 2012 • New Zealand • Views: 3537

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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

    April 12, 2012 • Ian Swain Sr, New Zealand • Views: 5439

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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.

    nz4 Continue Reading

    March 19, 2010 • Bloggers, Ian Swain Sr, New Zealand • Views: 3667

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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.nz3 Continue Reading

    March 17, 2010 • Bloggers, Ian Swain Sr, New Zealand • Views: 8377

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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.nz2 Continue Reading

    March 15, 2010 • Bloggers, Ian Swain Sr, New Zealand • Views: 3322

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