The most special of sojourns

The publication of the Pacific

New Caledonia

islandtime

MARCH/APRIL 2013

Niue The last outpost of ancient Polynesia

Cook Islands You can’t help falling in love

Win 4 nights in Niue flying Air New Zealand

RUMOURS LUXURY VILLAS & SPA RAROTONGA – COOK ISLANDS If your clients want the best and a close to home destination, then Rumours is a perfect fit for Luxury holidays, Honeymoons, Babymoons or Special Occasion Holidays “It was so beautiful that some days we never left our villa” Gary & Jill - California

• Absolute white sand beachfront location • Private swimming pools in all villas (Spa pools in all beachfront villas) • Waterfalls off huge rocks into pools • Villas designed with attention to amazing detail • Large spacious two bedroom/two bathroom – huge four poster superking beds • Private tropically gardened courtyards • Priority use and rates in Award Winning Waterfall Spa (World Travel Award winner 2011 & 2012) • Where every guest is special

W: www.rumours-rarotonga.com E: [email protected] P: +682 22551

Same holiday, different year? Like most consumers, travellers are becoming more demanding. And it's no surprise. We're all leading busier lives, so our spare time is in short supply. But when we do have a break, we want a rewarding experience - something fresh, something we can connect with in one way or another. In this issue we feature two destinations that tick those boxes. First, New Caledonia, which has so much going for it. It's close (just 2½ hours out of Auckland and even quicker getting back), it's beautiful, it's diverse and it delivers a unique Pacific experience in spades.

Contents New Caledonia Feature ....................... 4 Niue Feature ....................................... 16 Cook Islands Feature ......................... 22

We also look at Niue - a small island that's starting to make a real name for itself. More flights are landing, the tourism infrastructure is growing and the feedback from visitors is outstanding. People truly love the place and numbers will continue to grow. Along with these features we have our regular updates and we have another fantastic competition - the grand prize a trip for two to Niue. Entry details are inside.

America Samoa .................................. 31

Before we go, a big thanks to our supporters. Till next issue, take care and safe travels.

Hawaii ................................................. 35

Samoa ............................................... 32 Tonga ................................................. 34

Vanuatu .............................................. 36

Don’t forget to LIKE us on Facebook

Norfolk Island ..................................... 41

Fran & M att

Get updates of all our latest adventures, see photos of industry events and have the chance to WIN some great prizes.

Niue ................................................... 42 Tahiti .................................................. 43 Fiji ....................................................... 44

From Whitianga to Tahiti... Monett Johnston, Travel Director at United Travel, Whitianga was the very lucky winner of our Tahiti Competition. And what a prize - seven nights at the Radisson Plaza Resort Tahiti (with breakfasts and massage) and flights with Air Tahiti Nui. Congratulations Monett, we can't wait to hear about your holiday! Photo (from L to R): Monett holding a copy of Islandtime with Julie Sloane, Julie Pepper and Jody Simpson.

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Please post cheque to: Island Media 11A Seaside Avenue, Waterview, Auckland 1026, New Zealand or for further details email: [email protected]

Fresh skin on the go!

The publication of the Pacific

Publication

WIN 1 of 6 Nahaia Cleansers Travel can definitely take its toll on your skin, what with airplanes, air-conditioned hotels and South Pacific sunshine! But keep this compact Nahaia moisturising cleanser in your handbag and you’ll have fresh skin wherever you go. It’s packed full of friendly ingredients too - organic coconut cream, moringa seed, sage, kawakawa to name just a few.

Name

Agency/Co. Address

All entries into this months Niue competition will go into the draw. Good luck!

Recipe courtesy of Grand Hotel and Casino, Vanuatu

PUBLISHER Fran McDermott [email protected] Mobile: 021 557 170

Island Media 11A Seaside Ave Waterview Auckland 1026 New Zealand www.islandtime.co.nz

* Overseas rate on application

EDITOR Matt Taylor [email protected]

SALES AND MARKETING Emma Van Tuyl Phone: 09 473 9448 Mobile: 021 495 302 [email protected]

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Peter McDermott [email protected] ACCOUNTS LIsa Watson [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Scott Lee, Mike Hall COPY EDITOR Mark Barratt-Boyes

DESIGN & PRODUCTION MacWork Design & Print Email: [email protected] www.macwork.co.nz

South Pacific National Tourist Offices AMERICAN SAMOA VISITORS BUREAU Ph: +1-684-6999805 Email: [email protected] www.americansamoa.travel

HAWAI’I TOURISM AUTHORITY Ph: (09) 977 2222 Email: [email protected] www.hawaiitourism.co.nz

NIUE TOURISM OFFICE NZ Ph: 0800 359 437 Email: [email protected] www.niueisland.com

SAMOA TOURISM AUTHORITY Ph: (09) 379 6138 Email: [email protected] www.samoa.travel

TONGA VISITORS BUREAU Ph: (676) 25 334 Email: [email protected] www.thekingdomoftonga.com

COOK ISLANDS TOURISM Ph: (09) 366 1106 Email: [email protected] www.CookIslandsExperience.com

NEW CALEDONIA TOURISM Ph: 0800 Noumea Email: [email protected] www.visitnewcaledonia.com

NORFOLK ISLAND TOURISM Ph: 0800 359 437 Email: [email protected] www.norfolkisland.com.au

TAHITI TOURISME Ph: 0800 TAHITI (824484) www.tahitinow.co.nz

TOURISM FIJI Ph: (09) 376 2533 Email: [email protected] www.fijime.com

VANUATU TOURISM OFFICE NZ Ph: (09) 277 6060 Email: [email protected] www.vanuatu.travel COVER IMAGE Noumea, New Caledonia Photography: ©New Caledonia Tourism

March/April 2013

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New Caledonia. The most special of sojourns. By Matt Taylor

Amedee Lighthouse Island. ©New Caledonia Tourism

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Step on board an Aircalin flight to Noumea and your French experience begins immediately as the crew welcome you with a friendly 'Bonjour'. From there it escalates in the most exciting of ways. When you land just 2 1/2 hours later, it's French language, French products and French cars driving on the left side of the road! It's no exaggeration to say this is a little piece of France, it surely is. But when you add in a rich Melanesian culture and a diverse island landscape that's as beautiful as anything, anywhere in the world, what you're left with is one of the South Pacific's most unique and most memorable travel experiences.

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At over 450 kilometres long, New Caledonia's main island of Grand Terre is big, so don't expect to be hiring a scooter and buzzing around it in an hour or so. With that size comes a rich diversity of landscapes. On the east picture postcard beaches, in the west rugged coastlines. Up north red plains where cowboys roam, tropical forests and waterfalls. Down south is the cosmopolitan centre of Noumea and a remote wilderness beyond that. Offshore, the Loyalty Islands of Ouvea, Lifou and Mare are a vision of tropical paradise, as is the spectacular Isle of Pines. Most Kiwi travellers won't have the time to see everything on offer - you'd need a month to do New Caledonia justice. What you can do is pick a region, enjoy and explore for a week or so, and then come back to a different region another time.

Viva la food. To say the French love their food is an understatement. The celebration of food and of course the consumption of food goes hand in hand with the French way of life, and luckily for Kiwis, these fine traditions have found their way halfway round the world to New Caledonia. Bar side dining at the markets

The Supermarche. Aisles of fun. A great place to start your culinary adventure is at a local Noumea supermarche (supermarket). Here you'll wander the aisles and find shelves fully stocked with all sorts of goodies imported direct from France - fine chocolates, mouthwatering cheeses, pates, crackers, buttery biscuits all the way through to tinned vegetables. You name it, the supermarche will have the French version of it, including a bunch of weird and wonderful things like frozen frogs legs! In the deli section you'll find local meats with a subtle French twist. Ham, prosciutto, salami of all different varieties will be stacked up, it's really just a matter of being adventurous and sampling the different flavours. As a rule the local beef industry is fairly small, but it's supplemented with delicious New Caledonian venison which is plentiful. The team at Le Petite Cafe

Fresh tuna NZ$35kg

As you'd expect, the bakery will be full of baguettes straight from the oven (mind you, you'll find these everywhere from corner stores to petrol stations.) There's all manner of pastries and in true sweet tooth tradition, you'll have countless numbers of treats to choose from - such as long donuts covered in little chocolate pom poms. Warning, they're rich and highly addictive! Last but certainly not least there's a massive selection of imported French wines from all the wine growing regions. You'll get a budget bottle for NZ$10-$12 which certainly won't break the bank. And it's the same with most of what you'll find in the supermarche and everywhere else for that matter. Dollar for dollar, prices are on a par with what you'll pay in New Zealand. For visitors staying in self-contained accommodation, a trip to the supermarche is a fun and very affordable way to take care of your daily dining options. And even if you just pop in for essentials like a freshly baked baguette, french butter, spreads, cheeses and meats it's still an interesting experience - especially compared to your Countdown or Pak 'n Save back home!

View from Le Rocher

Local produce. Local people. For the city's freshest produce and seafood, all roads lead to the Municipal Market next to the water at Port Moselle. (If you're driving, there's a big carpark right next door, plus it's free.) At 4.30 each morning, local producers set up their stalls with locally grown fruit, vegetables and herbs. You'll also pick up a croissant and pain au chocolat for about NZ$2.50. Again, prices compare to what you'll find in New Zealand, plus it's fun doing your shopping alongside the locals. Mornings are the quietest part of the day at the markets, but the place gets busier and busier as the day rolls on. Sitting alongside the fruit and veggie stands is La Buvette du Marche - which is basically a bar that sells a variety of food and coffee, but no alcohol. Try a croque monsieur (toasted ham and cheese sandwich), it's a very tasty snack. The seafood markets are in the building opposite. The boats come right in, drop off their catch and it goes on the market as fresh as can be. Tuna is a real specialty with deep-red slabs proudly on display. Prices are around NZ$35 per kg and the vendors will slice off as much as you need. You'll also find marlin, mahi mahi, prawns and crabs up for sale, as well as punnets of poisson cru - a delicious version of raw fish that leaves out the coconut cream.

Kitchen prep at Le Petit Cafe

Eating out. As you'd expect, Noumea has plenty of options when it comes to eating out and one of the best in town is Au Petit Café on Avenue des Freres. A walk up the hill from the Municipal Markets, this cute little café / restaurant was established by chef Gabrielle Levionnois, who runs his establishment in a very unique way. For a start, he refuses to use anything but the very freshest local produce to create each dish. The challenge is that harvest times in New Caledonia can vary and in some cases this produce is only available for a few months at a time. To get around this complication, Gabrielle limits his menu to just four mains and four desserts, and will change out recipes from week to week according to what produce is available. "To me this is the only truly sustainable way to cook and synchronise with nature" he says.

Market vegetables

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The evening I dined there, I chose a marlin dish for a main and cheesecake for dessert. Both were sensational. As good as anything you'd be served in a top New Zealand restaurant, but with the ambience that was uniquely French. I'd recommend both dishes to anyone, but chances are they will have been replaced by something just as nice! Mark down Au Petit Cafe as a must visit - they're open Tuesday to Friday, lunch 11.30am-1.30pm, dinner 7pm-10pm. (Gabrielle only opens the restaurant four days a week, so he and his staff are well rested.)

Dining your way around the bays. A majority of the tourist accommodation is dotted around Citron Bay and Anse Vata, and it's here you'll find the biggest choice of cafés, restaurants and bars. Promenade rue Laroque is the main road that hugs the coast between the two hot spots. It actually feels a bit like Auckland's Mission Bay with the beach on one side and the restaurants etc on the other. Another must visit is Le Rocher, a super cute creperie that boasts sweeping views over Citron Bay. Crepes are extremely popular with the French, but at Le Rocher you can fill your tasty pancake-like dish with flavours from all over the world - like Mexican, Italian, American and Middle Eastern. Or you could try a delicious seafood option like fresh local tuna which is pan fried and mixed with lettuce, mushrooms, onions and tomatoes - all for the very reasonable cost of NZ$20. The food is fantastic, the view is spectacular and as an added bonus, the open air restaurant has a canopy that dispenses a fine mist that keeps patrons cool! Le Rocher is tucked up behind Le Surf Hotel at the northern end of Anse Vata - just follow the driveway to the top. For an overwater dining experience pop into Le Roof restaurant at the southern end of Anse Vata. Again the views are great, especially at sunsets and they have a large menu to choose from with dishes like mahi mahi risotto and rossini style beef fillet with pan-fried foie gras. Keep a look out for the stingrays passing by or the odd turtle. Just down the road you'll find plenty more choice. Casa Italia serves up authentic pizza and pasta, Stone Grill delivers your main meal's meat on a sizzling hot block, Fun Beach Restaurant and Grill offers western style dining for lunch and dinner, and for something sweet you might like to try La Sorbetiere for an ice cream, waffle or crepe.

Duck Island

Over at Citron Bay you'll find even more choice. Les 3 Brasseurs is a French chain that has a boutique brewery downstairs and a restaurant up top - once again with great views. There you'll find everything from burgers, Italian, Mexican, steak joints, Spanish to seafood. If you're just after a drink, no problem. Wander the strip and simply, pick a bar that looks like a bit of you - live reggae, pop or rock, or a bit disco or techno, the choice is yours!

Ouen Toro. The best view in town. If you want a bird's eye view of Noumea and the surrounding area you can't go past the lookout at the summit of Ouen Toro Park. There are a couple of ways to get up there. The energetic option is taking one of the many walking tracks up to the 128m summit or you go the easy option and drive! Regardless of how you get there, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the many bays that make up this picture postcard peninsula. The outlying islands are in full view and on a clear day you'll see all the way down the southwestern coast. Closer in you'll see the kite and wind surfers skipping across the bluest of seas.

Island time Noumea style. If you find yourself based in Noumea, it doesn't mean you have to stay in Noumea. Exploring the local area is a piece of cake and a popular option is doing a day trip out to one the islands that sit just out off the coast.

Ile Aux Canard. A gem off the coast. Otherwise known as Duck Island, this stunning little spot is roughly a kilometre off Anse Vata Beach. Local company Plages Loisirs run taxi boats out to Duck Island and you'll find their base half way along Anse Vata Beach - look out for the hut with the big thatched cone roof (you can't miss it). They go back and forth between the island all day long, so there's no need to book and if you walk up just after a boat has left, don't worry, you'll only need to wait 10 minutes or so for the next one to whisk you away. The return fare is around NZ$12.

South coast view from Ouen Toro Park

The Duck island crew

NOU LOW PRICES

If you want to take your own food, drink and snorkelling gear to the island that's fine - plenty of people do. The other option is hiring your snorkelling gear once you arrive and grabbing a bite from the island's funky little restaurant which serves up a full menu, including snacks, mains (the seared tuna is delicious) and desserts. They also have a full bar for liquid refreshments - you'll get a big bottle of of water for around NZ$6 and a cold can of beer for the same. The atmosphere is superbly laid back and the snorkelling is top notch with crystal clear water and loads of colourful fish meandering their way through the coral. And even if the wind gets up, this part of this island is sheltered from the breeze. All in all, it's a fun, affordable day trip, an ideal place to spend a few hours kicking back, plus it's suitable for adults and kids alike.

Amedee Lighthouse Island. For those wanting to go a bit further afield there's the full day trip (8.30am to 5pm) to the historic and exceptionally beautiful Amedee Lighthouse Island. This protected nature reserve is 24km out of Noumea, which means a 40 minute boat trip across the world's largest lagoon. For the price of around NZ$250 your trip includes a welcome cocktail drink, full buffet lunch, island dance show, glass bottom boat trip and a barrier reef cruise. They'll even show you how to climb a coconut tree and tie a sarong - tying a sarong is probably the handier of those two skills! The lighthouse itself was actually built in Paris in 1861, before being dismantled and shipped to Amedee where it was re-erected - a job that took 10 months of hard labour. Walking to the top takes exactly 247 steps, but the panoramic view is worth the effort. If you feel like relaxing that's fine, there's plenty of time to kick back on the beach or go for a snorkel.

Kuendu Beach. Picnics in paradise. Another fun excursion is a visit to Kuendu Beach. To get there you head north towards the airport, turn left at the cruise ship terminal and just keep following the road out past the New Caledonia University till you reach this wonderful secluded spot. It's only about 20 minutes drive from the centre of Noumea, but you'll feel like you're a world away. The beach itself is seriously stunning and the headland has a real Mediterranean look to it. Back from the clean white sand is a wide grassy area that's perfect for a picnic or bbq, plus there are plenty of trees to shade you from the sun. The sound of locals playing reggae music adds to the chilled-out vibe. And if you want to try your hand at boule (french bowls) the players are more than happy for visitors to join in.

Better package prices all year round to New Caledonia. Book W Class any time up to 21 days before departure, then contact your preferred wholesaler. It’s that simple!

Drinks

Meals

Entertainment

Luggage

(09) 977 2238 www.aircalin.com

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Local activities. Get the pulse racing. With the lovely climate and spectacular natural environment, it's no wonder New Caledonian locals are an active bunch. From the moment the sun comes up, they'll be walking, swimming, windsurfing, kitesurfing or stand-up paddleboarding. Here's a bit of what's on offer for active travellers.

Taming the wind The crystal clear waters and reliable winds make it a true paradise for windsurfers, kitesurfers and sailors. Every day of the week you'll see sails of some sort racing across the water, with literally hundreds of mad keen locals making the most of the conditions. Stand-up paddleboards are also popular with plenty of coastline to explore. And with lots of shops and specialist hire outlets there is no need to cart your rig all the way from New Zealand.

An underwater wonderland When you fly into Tontouta Airport you'll get a bird's eye view of the world's largest lagoon. This World Heritage Site has endless opportunities for world-class diving and snorkelling - underwater caves, fluorescent coral, turtles, whales - this underworld is exploding with life.

Kuendu Beach

Climb to your heart's content Grand Terre, the main island of New Caledonia is big. We're talking 450km long - which is about the same distance as going from Auckland to Napier, so it's not like you can drive around the island in a couple of hours. With that scale comes a mountain range that splits the main island and offers some fantastic climbing.

Hiking There's no better way to see the countryside than hiking it. The gorges round Dumbea, a hike up Mt Koghi, Blue River Park and Grand Randonnee are some the highlights for those wanting an on-foot adventure.

Mountain biking New Caledonia is perfect for Kiwis wanting to get their mountain biking fix offshore. The trails around Blue River Park, Noumea, Dumbea and the Dzumac Mountains provide a playground for bikers.

Anse Vata sunset

Aircalin. It's fun flying with the locals. If you're going to New Caledonia, making the journey with Aircalin, the national airline, will make your experience all the more real. From the moment you step on the plane, you'll be greeted with a relaxed "Bonjour" - so your New Caledonian experience really does start before you even take-off. (It's fun trying to converse in French, however all the crew speak excellent English, so you'll never be stuck.) Flying up on one of the recently refitted Airbus A330's is also a real pleasure. The totally refitted cabins are spacious (they've taken out seats to improve comfort) and the vibrant colour scheme representing the lagoon and rich, red earth gives the aircraft a very relaxed feel. Which is just the way you want to arrive. It's also nice having a meal, drinks (including the local beer Number One), in-flight entertainment and a generous 23kg of luggage included in your fare. And the inflight entertainment, including movies, music, tv and games, will keep you occupied for the short 21/2 hour flight. Aircalin fly to Noumea on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

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Anse Vata afternoon

A question of cost. How New Caledonia stacks up. Perceptions can mean everything when you're selling a destination and historically, New Caledonia has been considered expensive. In the past that may have been true, however, in 2013 the basic day-to-day costs for travellers (food, drink and tours) are very much on a par with what you'd expect to pay back in New Zealand and anywhere in the South Pacific. In a quite a few cases things it's are actually cheaper. Below you'll see some examples of actual pricing from our February visit. Beer from bar or restaurant Local beer 250ml glass Local beer 500ml glass

NZ$6 NZ$12

Au Petit Cafe, Central Noumea Main meal Dessert

NZ$32 NZ$14

Le Rocher Creperie, Anse Vata Crepe with pan fried tuna

NZ$20

Pizza and Pasta - Anse Vata A family restaurant on Anse Vata Beach. Pasta and Pizza Tagliatelle carbonara Spaghetti bolognaises Prosciutto (large) 3-4 people Hawaiian (small) 1-2 people

NZ$21.70 NZ$19.20 NZ$29 NZ$22

La Pirgoue Restaurant - Chateau Royal, Noumea. Some prices from the signature restaurant at one of Noumea top resorts. Mains Fillet of venison with light pepper crust Veal Medallion with foie gras and port wine dressing Crumbled snapper escalope with ginger dressing Wine by the glass Red Wine Saint Emilion 2006 Passac Leongnan Argentine Cote de Provence Rose

NZ $13.50 NZ $11.90 NZ $8.60 NZ $6.60

White Wine Alsace Bourgogne

NZ$10 NZ$10

Return taxi ride to Duck Island

NZ$12

First Hilton for New Caledonia Global hospitality brand Hilton Worldwide has signed a franchise agreement with GLP Hotels for a 154 key conversion project to be known as Hilton Noumea La Promenade Residences. The apartment hotel located halfway along beautiful Anse Vata Beach opened in 2008, but come July it will officially become the first Hilton branded property in New Caledonia. General Manager of GLP Hotels, Jean Rambaud, said "We have spent the last seven years building GLP Hotels to where it is today and we are very excited to be able to bring such a well known hotel brand to Noumea. We believe it will generate a lot of awareness for GLP Hotels and the whole tourism industry in New Caledonia". For more information go to www.HiltonNewCaledonia.com

NZ$31 NZ$33.50 NZ$31

5-star Sheraton set for December opening Located near Bourail, 170 kilometers north of Nouméa, the Deva Territory will be home for Starwood Hotels & Resorts brand new property - the Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Golf Resort & Spa. The project is by far the biggest undertaken in this part of the island, however a sustainable approach is being taken to preserve the pristine natural environment. Specifications include: 60 bungalows (55sq m each) 40 suites with 1 to 3 rooms 80 guest rooms ranging from 35 to 43sq m 1 main restaurant serving 200 guests 1 main bar, comfortable and spacious, featuring Link@Sheraton 1 restaurant & bar serving 80 guests by the pool and beach 1 banquet hall (350sq m) with outdoor patio Activities: • 18-hole golf course by Dye, one of the most prestigious US golf course designers • One 700sq m internationally acclaimed spa offering multiple treatment rooms and a cardio-fitness gym • Kids Club

Royal Tera becomes the Chateau Royal

• Leisure and sports activities around the complex will include: tennis, scuba diving, sailing, windsurfing, surfing, sea kayaking and paddleboarding, among many others. With all this and more, the property is set to be a real standout for New Caledonia and we will keep you updated as this major project progresses.

As of March 1, 2013, the Royal Tera Resort is no longer be part of the TERA Group of hotels. On top of that TERA Group will no longer managed by the SOH (Societe Oceanienne d'Hotellerie. From now the hotel will be called Chateau Royal Beach Resort & Spa. Details for the resort are 140 Promenade Roger Laroque or PO Box 18716, 98807 Noumea, New Caledonia.

European brand name shopping, French cuisine mixed with the flavours of the Pacific, the largest lagoon in the world to play in, and nightlife that never stops. This IS New Caledonia! www.visitnewcaledonia.com www.newcaledonia-tv.com

Artists Impression

New Caledonia Morning- Noon - Night! March/April 2013

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GLP Hotels Promotion

GLP HOTELS True style. True choice. GLP HOTELS provides Kiwi travelers with a range of quality accommodation options in some of New Caledonia’s finest locations.

Le Parc

New Caledonia is well know for its magical mix of French sophistication and Melanesian traditions. French food, language and customs have blended with a laid-back island lifestyle to create a tropical experience unlike any other in the South Pacific. For Kiwi travellers it’s also very close. Board a plane in Auckland and in after a short 2½hr flight you’ll be enjoying an idyllic tropical climate, turquoise waters and gourmet cuisine. When it comes to accommodation, GLP Hotels has a diverse range of quality accommodation options that exceed expectations. Four hotels and one apartment hotel, combine for a total of 650 rooms ranging from standard hotel rooms to spacious suites to luxury apartments to stunning overwater bungalows. In Noumea, they are ideally located in the heart of stunning Anse Vata Beach, overlooking the clear blue waters of the world’s largest lagoon. For that perfect island escape, travellers can make their way to an exclusive resort located on Escapade Island – just a short 20 minutes by boat from Noumea.

Beachside at Nouvata Parc Complex. Perfectly positioned on Anse Vata Beach, sitting alongside numerous cafés, restaurants and boutiques, but still close to the city and main attractions, Nouvata Parc Complex consists of three hotels with a total of over 300 rooms, grouped around a spectacular lagoon style pool and tropical gardens. Guests at all three hotels can enjoy the services provided by the complex including the restaurant, bar, boutique, hairdresser, tour desk and business centre. All they need to do is step outside.

Oceane Conference Room

The complex also has the largest conference facilities in Noumea with the ability to be able to accommodate up to 1000 people. A new conference room “Salle Oceane” has recently been opened and overlooks Anse Vata Beach. This light and airy room is ideal for smaller groups – catering to 80 in theatre style or 40 in classroom style – and can also be used for product launches, exhibitions and cocktails. Accommodation options include: Le Parc deluxe 3-star sophistication and elegance. 110 rooms and six suites all with private balconies and perfect for business or leisure travel. Le Nouvata superior 3-star comfortable and charming. 74 rooms all with balconies overlooking the beach or the pool. Le Pacifique 2-star exceptional location and value for money. 120 rooms with kitchenette facilities with the added advantage of many 3 star facilities.

La Promenade Apartment Hotel on stunning Anse Vata. Soon to be rebranded with world famous Hilton name, this 4 star apartment hotel is located on Anse Vata Beach offering stunning views over the lagoon and within easy walking distance to numerous restaurants, boutiques and water activities. The hotel features a total of 160 spacious and modern self-catering apartments, ranging from studios to one, two or three bedroom apartments. All rooms have fully equipped kitchens and laundry, spacious bedrooms and lounge, up to two bathrooms and large balcony overlooking the bay. Aside from the usual 4 star facilities, this property also provides complimentary internet access and secure undercover parking. Located on the first floor and alongside the pool, is the restaurant “Café Terasse” one of the best in Noumea, offering a selection of local and French cuisine with an accent on freshly caught seafood. The health centre is for women only but the fitness room is open to all guests. Mixing business with pleasure? Travellers wanting business facilities can take advantage of the 30 seat conference room complete with up to date audio-visual equipment is located next to the restaurant.

Wedding Chapel A fantastic new addition to Le Promenade is the Wedding Chapel that sits amongst the garden on the first floor of the hotel. The panoramic views over the lagoon make it the perfect place to tie the knot, renew wedding vows and have any other special occasion. GLP Hotels are also able to organise ceremonies with a uniquely personal touch.

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La Promenade Apartment Hotel

Escapade Island Resort. 20 minutes to paradise.

Escapade Island Resort overwater bungalows

In 2012, Escapade Island Resort received the ultimate accolade when it was named “New Caledonia’s Leading Resort 2012” at the recent 19th World Travel Awards held in Singapore. Each year these awards acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel industry, so this was a fantastic achievement for the resort. Located on an islet 20 minutes by boat from Noumea but a world away from the bustle of city life, this small and intimate island nestled alongside a natural 200 hectare marine reserve promises a relaxing and peaceful getaway. Escapade Island Resort offers the ultimate in comfort and luxury to travellers seeking peace and serenity in a tropical setting, but is also a mecca for windsurf and kitesurf enthusiasts where the trade winds meet on the northern tip of the island. The resort features a restaurant and a swim up bar located poolside for sunset cocktails. Massage, boutique and a water sports hut ensure you can do as much or as little as you want during your stay on Escapade Island. For a special occasion or small meeting, the chapel located in the gardens is inspirational. Built in perfect harmony with the environment, the 69 luxury bungalows offer the highest level of comfort: 44 garden and beach bungalows, spacious and tastefully furnished, with the lagoon at your doorstep and 25 luxurious overwater bungalows, following the curve of the white sand beach. For more information and images visit www.glphotels.com. For trade news and access to videos, images and e-brochures copyright free for your presentations, visit www.glphotelspro.com La Promenade Apartment Hotel Chapel

Hilton Bedroom Suite

Escapade Island Resort overwater bungalows

GLP Hotels offers the largest range of accommodation options in New Caledonia

www.glphotels.com March/April 2013

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North Province Promotion

The energy is in the North Beyond its magnificent scenery and the warm welcome of its inhabitants, the North is also a land to be explored with passion. A land rich in activities and intense sensations. Your heart will beat at a frenetic rate. Jump into the water and plunge into the heart of the North. On horseback, on foot, by 4WD or by boat, any means is good for exploring the attractions of this unique land. To plunge right in, nothing is better than canyoning. Canala village, which almost became the capital of New Caledonia, will give you all the thrills you desire. Knal Canyon offers a 70-metre descent over the sheer drop of the unavoidable and breathtaking Ciù waterfall. Enjoy the view over this magnificent bay protected from the elements before you push off. Via waterholes and slides, you will reach Gélima tribal village. After so much effort, drop by the old La Crouen hot baths so you can dive into the history and legends of these thermal springs with their health-giving properties.

A bit of hunting... To really understand life in the bush, you have to “péter un gadin”, a colourful local expression meaning to shoot a deer. Hunting is an integral part of New Caledonian culture, regardless of ethnic origin. In each home in the bush, you will find a deer skull hung on the wall. The Caillou, or “pebble” as the locals call New Caledonia, has long been considered the main country organising trophies for hunting Rusa deer. Hunting parties are unique occasions for touching the heart of the country and those who live there: authentic meetings with the inhabitants and unforgettable walks across the plains or along the ridge lines. Pouembout, the agricultural breadbasket of the North Province, is the ideal starting point. The rural gîte Paddock de la Boutana offers deer hunting. Perhaps you will manage to bring back a catch of tasty meat? And with a bit of luck, your guide will give you the secret of his marinade...

...or a bit of fishing Another favourite New Caledonian pastime: fishing! The North is a special area for lovers of fishing rods and reels. Professional fishers, custom authorities and the Province are working together to preserve their fisheries heritage. When you go fishing, you will have the opportunity to get close to the incredibly diverse underwater fauna. And especially to understand the real meaning of sport fishing. You will discover it with charter companies like Voh Fishing which will take you along the coral reef, on the ocean side. Yellowfin tuna, skipjack, common dolphinfish, wahoo or swordfish will tie you in knots: a real fight between your future catch and you. Discussions with the fishers will be full of guidance and good advice. And even if you come back empty-handed, a rather rare situation, the trip on the lagoon will remain unforgettable.

The world of silence The beauty of the ocean can also be admired underwater. The New Caledonian lagoon is full of incredible treasures. It is a place highly prized by divers, as few locations in the world contain so many species. The extremely diverse fauna (parrots, blue groupers, rays, reef sharks, turtles etc.) move amidst lush flora. Dive near these unique reefs, selected

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for registration on the UNESCO World Heritage List, accompanied by experienced and accredited instructors. The North will reveal its pristine seabed in crystal-clear water. Whether at Hienghène, with Babou Côté Océan, at Poindimié, with Tiéti Diving, or at Koumac with Rêve Bleu Calédonie, the underwater world will take your breath away – even with a scuba tank! Imagine yourself suspended in a silent universe, a veritable symphony of colours. The peaks and canyons are carpeted with giant gorgonian and other types of coral. The many caves in the coral reef offer an ideal refuge for the thousands of tropical fish: a true feast for your eyes.

Walking towards Eden The North has a great number of activities for sport fans. New fields of discovery await them. Mont Panié is an example, accessible after a particularly steep and long climb. But once on top, the view is unforgettable. The highest point on New Caledonia (more than 1,600 metres) constitutes a botanical reserve that is exceptionally rich in endemic plants (mountain araucarias, giant kaoris, etc.). Stay alert and you may see some of the 90 listed species of butterfly on the mountain. The Dayu Biik Association will give you the keys for entering this preserved Eden. The presence of a guide is an undeniable plus: he or she will help you recognise the endemic tree species and will tell you local legends. If you come from Hienghène, you will pass the La Ouaième river and cross over on the last ferry still in 24-hour operation. If you need to cool down, take a detour by the Tao waterfall. But the paths in the central mountain chain or its foothills will take you to many other exceptional sites, deep in the still unspoilt New Caledonian natural environment: majestic tropical forests, ridge lines with breathtaking lookouts (and vertical drops), endemic plant species and mysterious legends will punctuate your journey.

The bushdweller’s best friend The horse is certainly the stockman’s best friend, along, of course, with the blue heeler. A horse ride is an excellent way to admire the niaouli savannah on the great plains or cross the mountain chain and its virgin forest. To have a go at the “tropical western” with New Caledonian cowboys, you just have to meet keen riders. In Koné, capital of the North Province, the stockbreeders will put you into the saddle with no problem. Try, for example, the three-day trek that will take you to Atéou, the highest tribal village in New Caledonia. In the early morning, the view over valleys filled with mist is stunning. To the clip-clop of horses’ hooves, the mountain chain will surrender its secrets, and in the right season you can fish for prawns while camping by the edge of the creek. Under water, on foot or on horseback, your heart will beat to all the rhythms in the North.

The North, the real heart of New Caledonia

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et ready to explore an unusually diverse and authentic destination. From the niaouli plains of the West Coast to the greenery-shrouded waterfalls of the East Coast, not to mention desert islands, attractive beaches and exceptional diving locations, the North

of New Caledonia has much to offer you. A magnificent natural environment, a rich and eventful history, exceptional biodiversity, a lagoon listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, a rainbowcoloured population with a sturdy character… Welcome to the North!

www.tourismeprovincenord.nc

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12013 - Photos Ducandas

Mavua Village

Loyalty Isands promotion

Welcome home...

Somewhere in the middle of the South Pacific, off the coast of New Caledonia and far from congested mass tourism routes, lie three hidden pearls of pristine beauty, three islands of legend and tradition, which greet you in a turquoise setting... Lifou, Maré and Ouvéa open their doors and their hearts to you. Welcome to the Loyalty Islands! Long considered by navigators as an enchanting paradise, the Loyalty Islands offer some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, full of flourishing endemic plants and animals. The islands also contain unusual cultural wealth and diversity. Kanak society has a specific identity founded on land, which is the record of the clans’ origin, and custom, which perpetuates ancestral values. At a time when sustainable tourism is growing, the Loyalty Islands offer the visitor a unique opportunity to share the Kanaks’ daily life and to walk in their steps long enough for a stroll or a fishing trip. Each island has its admirers: Ouvéa for its beauty and beaches; Lifou for its immense bays bordered by New Caledonian pines; Maré for the way it sums up the islands’ splendour. Give yourself time to explore at will the limpid azure waters of the lagoon, the gardens with their profusion of scents, the ancient paths and caves. Let yourself be carried away by these islands imbued with the spirit of the Pacific.

Welcome home…

In the islands, hospitality is a tradition that is expressed in a range of tourist accommodation suitable for all tastes and all budgets. In each island, you will find international-standard hotels, located on the finest sites, for a stay with all mod cons. Ouvéa’s luxury hotel Le Paradis d’Ouvéa has just reopened this month after a complete refurbishment. It has the most beautiful location on the island: just after Mouli Bridge, set on the white-sand ribbon of Mouli Beach, it offers 16 bungalows with decks on the beach side, facing the turquoise-tinted lagoon and 18 bungalows on the garden side, with two restaurants to welcome you: “Le jardin d’Eden” («The Garden of Eden») for casual dining, where you can eat a salad or tuna tartare and “La part des Anges” («The Angels’ Share”) which will introduce you to New Caledonian fine dining.

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On the other side, if tourism for you is not just a consumer product, but above all a pretext for discovering new horizons, encountering new lifestyles, immersing yourself in your hosts’ traditions and daily reality, for exchange and sharing, the Loyalty Islands have created the «Island tribal accommodation» label to meet this need for authenticity, while providing visitors with a guarantee of quality. «Island tribal accommodation» is a tourist accommodation facility typical of the Loyalty Islands, located on custom land. It is a simple and authentic accommodation facility, which is part of the host tribal village. Your hosts will welcome you personally and introduce you to daily life in the tribe and the customs and traditions of people deeply attached to their roots: learning about daily activities (weaving, sculpture, fishing, cooking and so on), visits to the Kanak fields and natural sites, tales and legends, constant discussions with your hosts… The Loyalty Islanders’ human and cultural assets and hospitality are an inexhaustible source of mutual enrichment.

Treasures to be shared…

Legendary lands of unique beauty, the Loyalty Islands are an invitation to all kinds of discoveries: discover a fabulously rich and exceptionally well preserved natural world; discover a people, its beliefs and its way of life, far from any readymade folklore; discover yourself, at last: far from the usual reference points of modern life, soothed by the winds and waves and the gentle murmurs of tribal life; forget everything and find your true nature again... In the Loyalty Islands, lazing around is not the only activity! Snorkelling or hiking, visiting archaeological sites, diving, introductory workshops, culinary tastings, etc. If you are one of those tourists longing to explore, Maré, Lifou and Ouvéa have developed excursions and activities focused

on the sea, the land and Kanak culture to offer you a truly rewarding stay. Beginning with visits to the caves: unusual and spellbinding, the limestone caves are an original way to spend an afternoon exploring. On Lifou, the Hnanawae cave is accessible to everyone, after a brief walk of around 15 minutes. With its 11 km of galleries, it is at present the largest cave recorded in the territory. It contains in particular the Warriors’ Hall, where decisions were made in bygone days. Maré and Ouvéa are not being left behind and also offer underground excursions. If the lagoon attracts you, there too diving clubs offer a multitude of options for snorkelling excursions in the finest marine playing field you can imagine. Ouvéa is known to offer the finest underwater encounters, in particular in the famous Pleiades islets. The atoll, all of which is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List, has enough to rekindle the enthusiasm of the most blasé diver! Apart from guided hikes, exploring the Loyalty Islands is also about experiencing its culture and heritage, as on Maré where sculptors regularly open their doors for exhibitions and sales. Several associations also offer opportunities to see local dishes being prepared, basketwork and weaving designed or else to explore the economic wealth of the islands. Activities not to be missed on Lifou, Maré or Ouvéa: Underwater diving with or without a tank, boating, kayak trips, excursions to an islet, line fishing, sport fishing, hikes, visits to caves, botanical introductions, visits to vanilla plantations, cultural excursions, guided tours of the island, bike trips, tribal village activities, stories and legends, local cuisine, markets, crafts etc.

The Last Outpost of Ancient Polynesia

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The little island of Niue is fast gaining a big reputation for those looking for a little bit of adventure and something altogether new in an island holiday. Affectionately known as "The Rock", Niue offers a unique and diverse range of natural experiences for land and water lovers alike. Niue has caught the attention of visitors and made "the list" of the likes of ‘Lonely Planet’ who have placed snorkelling with the whales in Niue at the top of their list and noted Niue as being one of the great “under the radar, unmissable destinations.” Islandtime shares some of the secrets and treasures of Niue….

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Niue is just three hours flying time north-east of New Zealand but it feels like it’s a million miles away - a tropical haven of peace, close to home, yet a world apart. It is the largest coral atoll on earth, surrounded by crystal-clear seas teeming with a great variety of marine life. Niue stands alone in the vast South West Pacific, a lonely outpost shaped like a heart and measuring just 64km around the perimeter coast road. It’s a rough diamond, perched on top of a huge undersea volcano, fortunately now extinct. Coastal cliffs rise up to 70 metres, undercut by pounding seas that penetrate rock cliffs and chasms and flow into crystal-clear swimming holes and snorkelling rock pools within hidden coves. These secret places are only reachable through winding sea tracks through the lush rainforest, which makes them an essential part of the ineffable charm of Niue. The island is big on eco-tourism and soft adventure with an incredible variety of tours and excursions to plantations, virgin rainforest tracks, fascinating other-worldly coastal rock formations and countless fishing, diving and snorkelling opportunities. With around 130 hotel rooms in Niue, the visiting humpback whales and their calves sometimes outnumber the visitors during the July to October cetacean migration period. Niue is one of the only places in the world where you can swim with whales. In one of the world’s safest destinations, crime is almost unheard of and people feel perfectly safe walking after dark. With the small island population there is never a lot of pressure on the infrastructure. The visitor can explore the island knowing they are bound to discover a private cove, swimming hole or bushwalk. The sparkling rock pools, coves, chasms and Aladdinesque caves are a real highlight of a Niuean holiday. If you have dreams of an idyllic, safe tropical paradise for a holiday in the sun, Niue gives you the chance to experience those dreams. It’s a destination that will under-promise and over-deliver every time.

A rock and a great place

The great visibility on my scuba dive is due to Niue’s lack of rivers and sandy shores. Rainwater is absorbed by the porous limestone surface terrain and collects in a giant subterranean aquifer. With a low resident population there’s virtually no pollution.

Writer Paul Rush travelled to Niue for the very first time and experienced the island's laid back nature and magnificent natural beauty. Needless to say he (like many others before him) fell in love with the place they call "The Rock".

Divemasters Shannon and Crystal lead me deeper into the waters of Avatele Bay, weaving around kaleidoscopic coral bommies among curious Maori wrasse and spiky lion fish. In a cathedral-like cave banded sea snakes spiral upwards to greet us with sinuous reptilian movements. Later Crystal explains that Niue is one of only three places in the world where you can swim with both whales and dolphins.

Adventures in paradise My first visit to the lovely island of Niue starts quietly by settling into the comfortable Matavai Resort and learning to chill out island-style, while watching humpback whales breaching from the restaurant terrace. Relaxing is compulsory on Niue Island, so the first step is to slow down, unwind, smell the flowers and enjoy the marine life. I’ve arrived on the world’s largest coral atoll to a genuinely warm greeting by the locals but I sense that something is very different here. I don’t see the archetypal golden sand beaches of the Pacific. This place is an intriguing contrast - standing apart as the staunchly independent last outpost of ancient Polynesia with the macho title of "The Rock". Niue is a featherweight in population terms but it punches well above its weight in terms of dramatic landscape features of karst limestone formations and soaring cliffs. The island is the craggy summit of an undersea volcano rising straight up from the ocean’s depths.

Niue Island is so versatile in its marine activities that I’m able to seamlessly segue from swimming with spinners to spinning for pelagic swimmers. Once Paul Pasisi’s fishing charter boat is lifted by crane into the water we immediately start fishing for yellowfin tuna, barracuda, mahi mahi and wahoo. When a gold Shimano reel screams in protest, Paul hands me the rod with instructions to do battle with a big fighting fish. The line is stripping off the reel at a rapid rate and when I take the strain, my arms ache. My back harness is then clipped to the reel to relieve leaden muscles and I crank hard. A long streak of bright silver flashes in the sunlight – we’ve hooked a fiercely defiant Pacific barracuda. Once the 18 kilo monster is hauled on board I make an ineffectual effort to hoist it up for a photograph. A little later another strike produces a fountain of flying spray as a powerful wahoo launches itself out of the water. These sleek pelagic marauders can exceed 70 kph in top gear and this one has decided he’s not coming quietly.

This is the essence of its appeal to the traveller who longs for a taste of true adventure under the warm embrace of the tropical sun. Going to the beach Niue-style is akin to embarking on a journey of exploration in what is essentially a giant adventure playground. I call into the Visitor Centre in Alofi township to learn about sightseeing options. A hire car will give me access to the 14 villages around the 64km sealed ring road. Also to 30 sea tracks that lead to an intriguing variety of secret coves, deep chasms and secluded caves. I soon discover favourite spots around the coast: Limu Pools with their crystal-clear waters, Matapa Chasm with its bubbling freshwater spring, Hikutavake with triple rock pools, Anapala and Togo Chasms that appear to descend to the centre of the earth, Avaiki low-tide pools that were once reserved for kings and the striking formations known as Tavala Arches. The Crazy Uga Cafe has superb ocean views

The island has a variety of excellent guided tours covering orientation, flora and fauna, bush lore, local culture, caving, golf, fishing, diving, snorkelling and marine biology. In the evenings I drive into Alofi and share the "good life" of the local people in the cafés, restaurants and bars. Popular venues are Crazy Uga Cafe, Avi’s Restaurant, Jenna’s, Talo’s, Clayton’s or the Falala Fa Bar. I soon realise that the gentle people of Niue are one big family and I’ve been adopted as one of their own.

Avi’s Ark is one of the popular social venues

Sea tracks lead to surprising coves, caves and chasms

Niue has given me an out of the ordinary travel experience - an enjoyable odyssey of soft adventure and social activity on a very hard coral atoll. I think it’s the most surprising "Rock" in the world.

Deep, blue and crystal clear Immersed in the world’s cleanest seawater, I’m feeling buoyant in body, mind and spirit. Visibility underwater is an astounding 50 metres, sufficient to gain a clear view of a freewheeling pod of spinner dolphins turning and twisting in a delightful aerobatic display. The sleek, grey creatures are performing their class act within a mere 200 metres of the shoreline of Niue Island, their South Pacific home. This remarkable raised coral atoll rises between 30 and 60 metres straight out of deep blue tropical waters. With no fringing reef, dolphins and humpback whales come close inshore and can be observed from vantage points all around the island. The best lookouts I found were the restaurant terrace at the popular four-star Matavai Resort and a natural promontory in the centre of Alofi township.

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‘Yahoo – It’s a Wahoo’ is the joyful cry of a successful angler

The 14 kilo speedster comes on board to the triumphant cry of ‘Yahoo – it’s a wahoo!’ We all stare in wonder at the shimmering, quivering fish, sharing the excitement of the moment. In September 2012 the innovative Niue Tourism team put on an outstanding International Wahoo Fishing Tournament. Ray Galt from Invercargill reeled in a whopping 36.8 kilo fish to take home the heaviest wahoo title. Mark Fraser from New Plymouth was awarded the overall total weight prize at 83 kilos. The island will host the inaugural Ladies Only Tournament in June 2013. Back on land I return to the pampered luxury of my accommodation, still very much in touch with the ocean. A female humpback whale and calf breach in unison 300 metres offshore from my ocean view balcony. Later, I paddle a vaka dugout canoe along the coast, followed by a cycle trek through cool forest glades and avenues of perfumed frangipani and bougainvillea to a spectacular honeycombed limestone ravine. I find a sequestered swimming cove with bright tropical corals – a surprise discovery on an island full of unexpected delights. Along with my favourite pool at Matapa Chasm, it’s another highlight I’ll cherish in my Niue Island memories.

Hooked on Niue Geoff Thomas shares a fishermans tale from the seas of Niue.

Matavai Resort is the perfect place for relaxing

Taumafai and his fellow villagers go out early every morning when the conditions are favourable. They are usually home by 9 o’clock with a catch which provides a good income, for prime species like wahoo can be sold for $11.30 a kilo to the restaurants and resorts. A 30 kilo fish is worth serious money.

Geoff Thomas first travelled to Niue two years ago as part of his highly successful television series, "Outdoors with Geoff." It would come as no surprise that when it comes to finding fishing spots, Geoff really does have the pick of the crop. Since visiting, Geoff has been drawn back to the deep blue oceans of Niue and the warm hospitality of her people. Since being hooked with his first encounter, Geoff has returned again and again hosting fishing tournaments and reconnecting with a land and sea he has developed a great fondness for. Here, he shares one of his many fisherman’s tales of Niue.

So here we were, paddling quietly out onto the indigo waters and as fellow fishermen have done for aeons we traded fishing stories, and wife stories, and it became clear why elders such as Taumafai have such respect for the waters that pound their rock and the fish that swim there. It is a custom that goes back 800 years when the first sailors from Samoa and Tonga arrived here and, falling in love with the island, remained. Sitting in what seems like an eggshell perched over hundreds of metres of water with no slap of waves on an aluminium hull and no buzz of a four-stroke outboard you become enveloped in a feeling of peace, of ultimate contentment.

“Wait for a wave to flow over the rock, push the canoe out and step into it. Then you are away,” said my guide, Taumafai Fuhiniu. It sounds easy, but the swells are ocean rollers that swirl over the rocks, sucking back out in foam-tinged eddies and the canoe is a hollowedout log that looks paper thin.

“This is my second wife,” said Taumafai, patting the hull of his canoe, or vaka as it is called. “When I have had enough of my wife’s talking I come out here, and sometimes I just sit and don’t even fish.”

There is no reef surrounding the island of Niue to provide a buffer against the ocean’s waves, but if it is too rough then the outrigger canoes stay on the rocks under their covering of coconut fronds. The upside to this environment is that you are in 200 metres of water a short paddle from the coast and the sea floor continues to fall away into the abyss, so you don’t have to go far to find the great fish which roam these tropical waters; fish like yellowfin and albacore tuna, wahoo, giant trevally, barracouda, wahoo and billfish like marlin and sailfish.

He is the acknowledged master canoe maker, carving the hull the traditional way from a single log of forest mahogany. Modern tools may have replaced stone and shell adzes, but the construction has not changed and the finish is so smooth it looks and feels fibreglass – until you knock it and hear the wood talking to you. The adze marks on the inside are another giveaway. These vaka fishermen are supreme anglers. They use only handlines; stout lines of 400 metres of 100 kilo breaking strain monofilament. They slip chunks of mackerel into the water and drift a whole mackerel down so it follows the berley in the current. Then, when a fish strikes, they battle it by hand, wrapping the line around a bent knee to take the weight and stop the fish. If it is too powerful they simply straighten the leg and the coils slip over the side. Scarred thighs and legs seared by line cuts are testament to reactions which were a tad slow. And they catch fish. Tuna average about 10 kilos but a yellowfin of 47 kilos was weighed not long ago. A wahoo of 47.8kg was also weighed in the Niue International Wahoo Tournament – caught by a vaka fisherman and easily eclipsing the 36.8kg specimen which topped the catches brought in by the 10 charter vessels in the four days of fishing. “I have landed six billfish in this vaka,” said Taumafai. Talking quietly in island fashion, there was no hint of boasting. Just a fact. Sitting with the line in hand and the water only centimetres away it is hard to imagine battling a marlin or a large tiger shark like the one hooked by a vaka fishermen here last year. What they do is exhaust the fish before bringing it alongside, then dispatch it with a billy club, lash it to the canoe and paddle back to shore.

Master canoe maker Taumafai Fuhiniu keeps a watchful eye on the writer’s canoe skills.

Taumafai told how young men once would paddle to Tonga, 1000 kilometres and four days away, as a sort of traditional rite of passage. “I might do it one day, even though I’m getting older,” he mused. They certainly earn their fish, these vaka fishermen of Niue.

Getting There

What to Do

Air New Zealand runs a weekly service from Auckland to Niue on Saturdays, crossing the date line to arrive in Niue at 1pm on Friday. A second Air New Zealand service starts in mid April 2013 and will depart fortnightly ex Auckland on Wednesday’s from mid April to late October. Which allows for three, four, seven, ten, eleven and fourteen night options.

The island is ideal for day excursions, which can include exploring the many sea tracks and secluded coves where you can picnic, swim and snorkel in an idyllic private setting. Group tour operators offer excellent fishing charters, scuba diving, swimming with whales and dolphins, caving, reef walks, nature walks, coconut crab hunts, plantation visits and biking tours. The main town of Alofi has an interesting selection of cafés, bars and restaurants, colourful produce markets and a small group of shops including an art gallery with stunning landscape paintings of the local scenery.

Getting Around Niue Rentals have hire cars from $45 a day. Scooters and mountain bikes can also be hired to access scenic sites and villages around the coastal road.

Local Information Niue Island is an independent state, free-governing in association with New Zealand. Niue is pronounced New-ay and the main languages are Niuean and English. The island is 260sq km or around four times the size of Rarotonga and the population is around 1500. The New Zealand dollar is the official currency, electrical connections are 240 volt and there’s free wireless internet access.

Where to Stay The island has one full service resort, The Matavai Resort and in addition to this there is a good range of self catering and cottage style accommodation options to choose from including the recently opened Matavai Motel.

Websites www.niueisland.com, www.airnewzealand.co.nz, www.matavairesort.com, www.niuerentals.nu

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nd la a e Z w e N ir A g in y and fl t r o s e R i a v a t a M e Staying at th SIX QUICK QUESTIONS TO TAKE YOU TO NIUE Niue is a small island that's making a big name for itself and you could be heading to this laid back paradise by correctly answering the six questions below - and you'll find all the information you need at www.niueisland.com. Best of luck!

PRIZE PACKAGE INCLUDES: Returns flights for two courtesy of Air New Zealand 4 nights for two at The Matavai Resort Daily breakfasts Transfers Rental Car (not including fuel) An orientation tour of Niue r i Reso a v a t a

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ANSWER S IX QUESTIO NS FOR YOUR CHA NCE TO WI 1) What is th N! e currency o fN

iue? 2) When do Air NZ fly to Niue? 3) How long is the flight to Niue? 4) How big is Niue? 5) How man y rooms doe s the Matava i resort have 6) When ca ? n you swim with whales in Niue? Email yo

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ur answers to info@isla Subject line ndtime.co.n : Niue Comp z. Competitio n closes 30 April 2013. The Matavai Resort Th M Matavai Resort is Niue's premier accommodation option. Situated in the magnificent natural surroundings of Niue, and designed to take full advantage of its unique environment, our resort blends into the breathtaking landscape of coral outcrops, coconut palms, rainforest, and tropical flowers. Perched over the Pacific Ocean, our cliff-top deck provides a vantage point from which to watch the resident turtles surface, spinner dolphins patrol, and (in season), humpback whales cruise right past the resort.

Air New Zealand New Zealand's national carrier flies once a week on Saturday from Auckland. From 17 April – 23 October an additional fortnightly service will operate on a Wednesday.

Niue

www.niueisland.com

Terms and conditions: Travel is for 2 adults flying in Economy Class The Works from Auckland To Niue return. Travel must be commenced and completed by 30 June 2013. Travel is on Air New Zealand operated services only, seats are limited and are subject to availability. Travel during Public or School Holidays is not permitted. All Airport and government costs are at the traveller’s expense. Bookings must be requested at least 7 days before proposed departure date and tickets are non changeable once issued. Travel is non transferable, exchangeable or redeemable for cash. Travel is not eligible for any frequent flyer (including Airpoints Dollars) accrual, upgrades, companion redemption or credit of tier status. Travel is non transferable or redeemable for cash and must be utilised whilst employed in the travel industry. Employees of Air New Zealand and their immediate family are not eligible for entry. All prize travel will be subject to Air New Zealand’s General Terms and Conditions of carriage, to view visit www.airnz.co.nz The Matavai Resort accommodation is for one resort guest room with breakfast for two. Subject to availability.

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AWARDED TRIPADVISOR’S CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE 2012 FINALIST OF THE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS BOUTIQUE RESORT 2011/2012

quiet secluded oasis the finer things in life

Te Vakaroa is a

perfect for honeymooners and couples who appreciate

All villas absolute beachfront Heated Jacuzzi Large pool No children under 12 Daily breakfasts delivered to your villa Complimentary vip return airport transfers with fresh Áower leis Fruit platter and a bottle of wine on arrival Gated property with a maximum of 18 guests

TE VAKAROA VILLAS • MURI BEACH • RAROTONGA P: (682) 25590 or (682) 55020 www.tevakaroavillas.com | [email protected]

The Cook Islands. You can’t help falling in love. By Emma Van Tuyl There are few places that can rival the beauty of the Cook Islands. Crystal-clear waters, flawless beaches and sunny blue skies make the Cook Islands the sort of place that people fall in love with. So what better place to celebrate your own love and tie the knot!

©Pacific Resort Aitutaki

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Everyone knows the well-worn Hollywood cliché. The happy couple walking hand-in-hand along a white sand beach without a care in the world. It’s an image we’ve all seen a thousand times, but in the Cook Islands this scene is real and for those who come here it’s pure magic. The Cook Islands are about as far from hustle and bustle as you can get. Add that to some of the South Pacific’s most spectacular natural scenery and you have a true recipe for romance. All flights from New Zealand to the Cook Islands land in Rarotonga and any couple who stays here will be spoilt for choice. The worn-down volcanic pyramid provides a stunning backdrop to an island that boasts some serious romantic escapes. Beachfront resorts, holiday homes and guesthouses are all great options and can certainly fit most budgets. Less than one hour's flight from Rarotonga is Aitutaki, the other main tourist stop. World famous for its breathtaking coral lagoon, Aitutaki is heaven for couples. As you’d expect, snorkelling and boat trips exploring the lagoon are a must-do for visitors and there are some interesting sights on land, including local marae and some fascinating coral-walled churches. Having said that, the best thing about Aitutaki is being able to do absolutely nothing. Sleep in, swim, snooze in the afternoon, kick back with a cocktail, on Aitutaki there is no rush. This is a place to relax and enjoy each other's company, which is just what this special part of the world was created for.

Tying the knot in paradise The Cook Islands have always been a popular place for Kiwis to get married and it’s no surprise why. The "Cooks" are exquisitely beautiful, the locals will welcome you with open arms and the laid-back island atmosphere is guaranteed to charm anyone. But while the stunning location looks after itself, there’s more to a great island wedding than just sending out invites and jumping on the plane. Every couple wants to know that their special day will turn out just as they’ve planned and that means getting a local professional to organise everything from the catering to the photography.

The expert organisers The resorts of the Cook Islands are wedding experts and will provide wedding coordinators to provide guests with a comprehensive package, that includes a personal planner who will liaise with a couple from start to finish. They’ll organise the wedding location, the celebrant or minister, transfers to the Registrar of Marriages, a floral bouquet and all the other essentials. For those who want to spend a little more, there’s a list of optional extras including pre-wedding massages and the production of a wedding DVD.

Muri Beach

can marry three days after landing in the country. If that isn’t quite quick enough, couples in a particular hurry can pay a small fee to waive this residency requirement! Otherwise the legal side of a Cook Islands marriage is straightforward. The only paperwork needed are birth certificates (in English), original passports and any Decree Absolute (divorce documents), if this applies.

The icing on the cake Which brings us to the all-important honeymoon. Even if you’ve chosen to get married back home in New Zealand, the Cook Islands is obviously a great place to come for your honeymoon. Quite simply, you couldn’t hope to find a more romantic part of the world to celebrate your lifelong commitment. If you’ve chosen to come to the Cook Islands for the wedding, there’s no need to worry about the honeymoon - all you need to do is stay exactly where you are. Let’s face it, true love is hard to find, but if you are lucky enough to meet that special someone it’s a moment that should be celebrated. And there’s no better place to do that than the Cook Islands.

The Cook Islands Wedding Checklist The legal requirements of getting married in the Cook Islands are straightforward, but there a few things that Kiwis should take note of: • If a bride or groom is under the age of 21 they will need written parental consent.

Signing is simple

• An application for a marriage license must be made in person to the Registrar of Marriages at least three working days before the wedding ie, New Zealanders cannot apply for a licence before they arrive.

Getting married in the Cook Islands is also easy from a legal point of view. As a general rule most South Pacific nations require a 30 day wait before the marriage, but in the Cook Islands couples

• Applicants for a wedding licence must produce a passport, and if divorced, a copy of the Decree Absolute.

Welcome to Palm Grove, your private piece of paradise! Beachfront and garden bungalows Onsite restaurant and bar Personal wedding co-ordinator Rarotonga’s quiet southern coast PO Box 23, Rarotonga, Cook Islands p:+682 20002 f: +682 21998 e: [email protected] www.palmgrove.net

Welcome to our little piece of paradise in the Pacific, situated on the western side of Rarotonga. Our one and three bedroom boutique self catering apartments are available for your enjoyment and relaxation. New property opened 2012.

Coral Sands Apartments RAROTONGA, COOK ISLANDS

phone: (+682) 21959 [email protected] www.coralsands.co.ck

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Heaven sent to Aitutaki If you’re after a true Bucket List destination for your client’s wedding or honeymoon, then the "World’s Most Beautiful Lagoon," Aitutaki Lagoon, could not be more perfect. Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa is the only resort located directly on this spellbinding lagoon, and it’s the only private island resort and the only one with overwater bungalows in the Cook Islands. One leading TV celebrity has even called it “The most romantic place on earth.” Following the recent completion of a $2 Million resort-wide makeover, the Resort is now rated 4.5 star and looking absolutely fabulous. All bungalows are now in a beachfront location, and the resort now also offers stunning new Premium Beachfront Bungalows as well with million-dollar views, some of the best views not only in Aitutaki but in the South Pacific. 2012 has seen a significant increase in weddings at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa as more bridal couples become aware of this wonderful paradise location. 2013 is set to see a further increase in weddings at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa as well as at sister resorts, the adults-only 4.5 star Sanctuary Rarotongaon the beach and at iconic Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa. Says Director of Sales & Marketing, Liz Raizis: “We have taken the decision to do away with our previous requirement that at least 50 percent of a couple’s wedding guests needed to be staying with us. This is primarily to assist both the couple and their travel agent to proceed with their booking arrangements without the worry of whether their guests will follow suit some time later. “We know from many years experience with weddings that those groups that ‘stay together, play together’ and have much more fun if they are co-located at the same great resort destination such as those we offer. However we also recognize that we don’t want to put impediments in the way of betrothed couples or their travel agents in having them worry as to whether they will meet the threshold, so we’ve done away with it confident that this will be a win-win all around,” says Liz. Your client’s dream wedding awaits at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa. Heaven Sent.

Lagoon of Love Weddings

F

eel secure that you’re in the best of hands when you book your Big Day with us. The best sunset beach locations, extensive wedding & reception options, Personal Wedding Planner, professional Wedding Photographer, great accommodation selection for all styles + budgets. Your Lagoon of Love Wedding. Heaven sent.

YOUR PERSONAL WEDDING PLANNER - [email protected] SISTER RESORTS:

SANCTUARY rarotonga

Aroa Beach l Rarotonga l COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 25800 l [email protected] www.TheRarotongan.com

Aroa Beach l Rarotonga l COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 25900 l [email protected] www.SanctuaryRarotonga.com

Akitua Island | Aitutaki Lagoon | COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 31200 l [email protected] www.AitutakiLagoonResort.com

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Vaka Sunset Weddings The Vaka Cruise presents an ultimate and unique wedding experience, Vaka Sunset Weddings. We invite you onboard our 21 metre Polynesian style Vaka Titi Ai Tonga. Set sail just before sunset on the stunning waters of Aitutaki Lagoon for what will be the most romantic evening of your lifetime together. Be one of the lucky couples to share this exclusive experience. The Vaka Cruise Wedding planners can help guide you through our selection of wedding packages. We strive to make your wedding day stress and hassle free. Our packages cater to a range of budgets and can be specialised to meet all your needs. For more information and bookings please email: [email protected]

Coral Sands Coral Sands is one of the newer ventures on Rarotonga’s western coast and offers the perfect accommodation for couples, groups, wedding parties and professional visitors to Rarotonga. Owners Karen and Bob Hamilton are friendly and had eight years history in hospitality in New Zealand before coming to Rarotonga. The recently completed self-catering apartments are either one or three bedrooms and are finished to a high standard. With direct beach access guests can enjoy watching the sunset over the lagoon in the evening. Kayaks and snorkelling equipment is supplied for use, a safe in each apartment, swimming pool and local pre-pay cellphones are supplied to guests while they are staying. It’s the small touches that make this property special.

©Cook Island Tourism

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Muri Beach Club Hotel Moana Sands Muri Beach Club Hotel is located on the beautiful waters of Muri Beach in Rarotonga. The lagoon offers guests the ability to relax or enjoy water sports such as snorkelling, swimming, kayaking and Muri Beach Club’s own sailing school and windsurfing and kitesurfing. As an adult only resort, guests can enjoy the quiet peace and romance that is offered. Muri Beach Club Hotel specialises in quality Polynesian cuisine perfectly suited to the location and weather. A wedding or honeymoon at Muri Beach Club Hotel is full of options and your personal wedding coordinator will look after all the details; a marriage licence, celebrant and if needed, witnesses. Celebrate your wedding with the sparkling white sands between your toes and a glass of champagne in your hand. Packages available to suit all budgets.

Sands Restaurant and Bar at Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel has recently redesigned their menu incorporating owner Tony Bullivant's mantra of finest, freshest and memorable. Committed to using the best local produce the menu showcases unbeatable Pacific Fusion Cusine incorporating an array of delicious menu options guaranteed to please even the most discerning diners. Enjoy an entrée of slow cooked pork belly served over rocket lettuce with kumura and chorizo mash topped with caramelized onion jam. Follow this with parmesan crumbed parrot fish fillet served over maniota fries with a slow roast tomato salad and salsa verdi or a poached chicken breast filled with spinach, paw paw and feta cheese served over a creamy coconut and roast pumpkin risotto with pine nuts. Finish off the night with a mouthwatering peacan pie served warm with fresh guava sauce and coffee ice cream. Tony says “Knowing how to bring food that is visually stunning and is packed with flavour is what we are about. I know great dining brings people together for the most enjoyable experiences and here at Sands that is what we offer.” With the new beach decking area at Moana Sands, guests can now also enjoy al fresco dining with spectacular beach and lagoon views. The Sands is open for breakfast and dinner daily, has an extensive bar menu and also offers catering options for weddings, group functions and events.

Big changes at Palm Grove Work on redeveloping the swimming pool and patio at the Palm Grove Resort in Rarotonga began on April 4. The existing swimming pool is 24sq m and the new pool will be significantly bigger at 40sq m, and a much more modern design, says spokesperson Betsy Eisler. The patio and a new, covered area will include a guest barbecue, outdoor shower, tables and chairs. The resort is undertaking the second part of its renovation of the Garden Studios at the same time by gutting and rebuilding the kitchens and bathrooms. The lounges were refurbished last year.

• 3 convenient locations in Muri, Arorangi and Avarua • After hours service • 100% locally owned • Open 7 days a week • Airport pickup and drop off available • 24hr temporary license available • Guaranteed best price possible

[email protected] www.islandcarhire.co.ck

Car Medium l ia Spec ay 4 $ 0.99/d

The rediscovered “lost Tinomana village” where guestss experience 500 years of history and culture of the … Rarotongan people – Årst hand and where it all began… There are two cultural experiences to be enjoyed: 1. The day “sacred sites” self discovery tours (open from 9am to 3pm Monday to Saturday) 2. Sunset Cultural Show and feast “Drums of our forefathers” Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays [email protected] www.highlandparadise.co.ck

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Te Vakaroa Villas – A private paradise. Te Vakaroa Villas on beautiful Muri Beach offers guests an upmarket alternative to beachfront accommodation. With a no children policy, Te Vakaroa Villas is the perfect destination for a private, revitalising and relaxing retreat. The infinity pool and Jacuzzi located at the front of the property overlook the lagoon, guests can enjoy peace and quiet while taking in the uninterrupted and stunning view out over the lagoon. The six self-catering luxurious villas sit in well with the surroundings featuring natural colours, floor to ceiling sliders and wooden shutters and offer internet access, flat screen TV, stereo system, kitchen and laundry facilities. The ground floor one-bedroom villas offer vast views over the lagoon and out to the Pacific Ocean and the two-bedroom upstairs apartments also enjoy mountain views. Although there is no onsite restaurant, a light tropical breakfast is delivered each morning and a few steps down the beach takes you to a great local restaurant, or guests can order room delivery from the very popular Sails Restaurant located next door. Front desk manager Poko always has a smile on her face and like the owners and remainder of the staff, she is happy to help with any queries that you may have. Te Vakaroa Villas is a great property for those looking for a private escape, relaxation and luxury with the comforts of home.

RAROTONGA COOK ISLANDS

All inclusive Wedding package $5999 for 30 people ; Beachside Ceremony under a floral archway in tropical paradise ; 30 of your close family and friends ; A Polynesian buffet feast ; 3 hour beverage package ; Choice of three amazing venue options that has totally got you covered ; 1 tier wedding cake ; 5 nights in a Deluxe Beachfront room for bride & groom ; Brides floral head ei and Grooms neck ei

Quote “I do” for more information at [email protected] | www.muribeachclubhotel.com or see your local travel agent for details

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Highland Paradise – Drums of our forefathers 25 acres of stunning gardens, a recreated village and marae with exceptional views sets the scene for a sunset show, tour and feast. Highland Paradise offers visitors the opportunity to be taken back in time and experience the past through a guided tour of a historical mountain village. An evening spent overlooking the valley and out to the sea while watching the proud and sometimes sad history of the village from tribal war, the missionaries arrival in Rarotonga to the present day through exuberant dance. The MC for the evening Danny is quick, witty and informative and the dancers enthusiastic. Visitors are captivated and feel a part of the experience learning about and enjoying drumming, singing, dancing, cultural history and a traditional umu feast.

Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel & Villas Rarotonga provides a wonderful idyllic location for a dreamy tropical wedding or romantic escape. With a picturesque stretch of white sand beach and iridescent lagoon providing the perfect backdrop, there is no better place for you to exchange wedding vows or get to know each other better on your relaxing honeymoon away from the stresses of everyday life. At Moana Sands we invite you to relax and enjoy another day in paradise.

www.moanasands.co.ck

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Home of Sport in the Pacific The Edgewater Resort & Spa is a special destination that has been extending its warm Polynesian welcome for more than 40 years and awaits you to discover paradise. What sets this premier Rarotonga resort apart is what Edgewater brings to this stunning island location: great dining options, first-class entertainment, a dedicated kids’ club, health spa and pool. The Resort has over 250 air-conditioned rooms, with six room types to suit groups of all sizes, and budgets. Our coastal setting provides versatile outdoor venues from lush tropical gardens to white sandy beaches, plus our excellent service, food and comprehensive facilities make The Edgewater the ideal location for your next sporting event. As the largest resort in Rarotonga, Edgewater has more space, more activities and more to offer.

Rarotonga Road Race

The Edgewater Resort & Spa is the best-known Cook Islands resort, offering affordable luxury on the sheltered west coast of Rarotonga. Our prime location puts Rarotonga’s natural splendour front and centre; the magnificent sunsets, the surrounding lush green mountains and the view over the white sandy beach and deep blue lagoon. The Edgewater Resort & Spa has always been a fan of sport and sporting holidays, and is heavily involved with sponsorship of many sports on the island. We are proud to be known as “The Home of Sport”, and with our excellent amenities and 3-bedroom villas, we are the perfect base for any visiting sports team or group, while showcasing our famous smiles and unique culture. Our Garden Villas are your home away from home. Each Villa contains 3-bedrooms with full kitchen (including dishwasher, microwave, fridge/freezer, ), laundry (including washing machine, clothes line, iron) and air conditioned lounge (TV, Video, DVD player, hotel movie channel), 2 showers/toilets (including hairdryer), ceiling fans in all rooms, internet wifi available in Villas. Guests also have access to the resort’s swimming pool, tennis court, activities, games room, restaurants, water equipment (snorkels etc), a great beach and the Coconut Kids Club for 4 to 12 year olds. And to top this off, each guest is entitled to free daily tropical breakfast in the restaurant.

Rarotonga International Triathlon

Netball in Paradise tournament

In addition to your accommodation requirements, the resort also tailors packages to include meal requirements for teams and officials as well as support services for day to day requirements. From past experience we understand that servicing sports groups requires planning to exceed their needs and expectations. Whether you are planning a sport event, sport conference or team building, our team will ensure your stay and event is not only successful, but fun and stress free. 2013 is an exciting year with the 19th Rarotonga International Triathlon week from May 9-16. This is another fantastic sporting holiday with the resort being a major sponsor and host for awards and function nights, along with great packages for athletes and spectators alike. From September 19-25, the 36th Round Rarotonga Road Race week of running will take place, which is another event the resort is heavily involved in, with a majority of the athletes and their supporters staying with us and the resort being the start and finish for the fun-filled Round Raro Relay! In early November the Cook Islands hosts the annual Sevens In Heaven 7’s Rugby tournament, a fun-filled 3-day tournament showcasing exciting 7’s rugby with teams from New Zealand, Australia and around the Pacific. With competitions in the likes of best-dressed and dash-for-cash races, this is the Cook Islands version of the Wellington or Hong Kong Sevens! Once again, The Edgewater Resort & Spa is the choice for a large number of teams, some of which have returned 3 years in a row! December sees our Netball in Paradise tournament where the resort is a Gold Sponsor. The Netball in Paradise tournament is on for its second year, with the first year an outstanding success.... Teina Taulu, administrator for the event says “Thanks to the Edgewater Resort & Spa for providing first class service to all our international netball teams that competed in Netball in Paradise 2012. Feedback from our teams has been fantastic with the “coconut grapevine” and “Facebook” going viral and teams registering for 2013. Get ready Edgewater – Netball in Paradise 2013 is going to be bigger and better….” The Edgewater Resort & Spa is also a huge supporter of Cook Islands Cricket, a sport that has really developed in the Cooks over the last 3 years. The resort sponsors the weekly women’s cricket competition, as well as having a close affiliation with the Northern District Knights from New Zealand who toured here in 2011.

Keep an eye out on our website for special sporting packages as they become available at www.edgewater.co.ck

New Zealand Northern District Knights

Sevens In Heaven 7’s Rugby tournament

American Samoa

Brochure boosts exposure

Angling for a prize The deep blue waters surrounding American Samoa will again attract top anglers after mahi mahi, wahoo, yellowfin and billfish during the annual I'a Lapo'a Game Fishing Tournament.

American Samoa has been included for the first time in the travel wholesaler Air New Zealand Holidays’ 2013-2014 Pacific Islands brochure. “Air New Zealand is a well recognised global airline which offers the most extensive network schedule into the Pacific from Auckland, so partnering with their holidays division will boost our global exposure,” said the Executive Director of the American Samoa Visitors Bureau, David Vaeafe.

Women anglers are also invited to take part in the tournament, which takes place from May 5 to 11 and is organised by the Pago Pago Game Fishing Association. The award dinner is a fun affair, with plenty of food, drink, music and dancing. As well as prizes and cash, the winner is also invited to fish the 2014 IGFA World Offshore Championship.

“As Air New Zealand flies daily from Auckland to Samoa, this also helps promote the ‘Samoa Islands’ brand (both Samoa and American Samoa) to the traveling public,” he said. Accommodation, tour operators and the local airline Inter Island Airways are all featured.

AMERICA N SAMOA

American Samoa

Hike the challenging trails of the National Park of American Samoa, snorkel and dive superb Fagatele National Marine Sanctuary. Visit Bay the museum in Fagatogo and view the three moon rocks given to American Samoa by President Nixon from the Apollo 11 Moon Mission. Spend the day on Aunu’u Island and hike trail that rings the island stopping the off at the only quick sand lake found in the Pacific. Drive to both the eastern and western ends of Tutuila along the shoreline and see humpback whales breaching and frolicking just a short distance from shore. Fish for marlin and tuna at the Pago Pago Harbor entrance. Visit a US Naval Base and explore the World War II sites and historical naval buildings. Shop for popular American goods and experience famous Samoan hospitality at the many restaurants around Tutuila.

Pago

Our Favourites Take a hike in the National Park of American Samoa

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Visit the historical US Naval sitesMO on A, AMERI Tutuila Island TAHITI, SA

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Rainmaker Mountain, Pago

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean is the Territory of American Samoa, an undiscovered Polynesian paradise. From the moment you first sight the islands, their rugged mountain peaks jutting out of the Pacific Ocean covered in lush tropical rainforest, you know you are in for a treat. At the centre of the main island of Tutuila Pago Pago Harbor, one of the deepest is in the Pacific surrounded by three towering majestic mountains, Mount Matafao, Mount Alava and Rainmaker Mountain.

Snorkel and dive the Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary Shop for cheap American and international branded goods Visit the quick sand lake on Aunu’u Island

Travel Tips N

HOW TO GET THERE

Air New Zealand operates direct flights to Apia (Faleolo Airport) in Samoa from Auckland every day, year round. On arrival in Apia, connect with Inter Island Airways who fly twice a day from Faleolo Airport to Pago Pago International Airport in American Samoa. National Park of American Samoa

PAGO PAGO 1

Pago Pago Harbor

AUNU’U

FAGA’ALU

TUTUILA SE’ETAGA OTTOVILLE 2 LLLI’ILI

3 FOGAGOGO VAITOGI

Fagatele Bay

FIND YOUR ACCOMMODATION REF. HOTELS 3 1 2 1

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Moana a Sina ¡¡¡ Sadie’s by the Sea ¡¡¡‘ The Tradewinds Hotel ¡¡¡‘ Turtle and Shark Lodge ¡¡¡¡

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PACIFIC OCEAN

CURRENCY United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels. ATMs are available in the main commercial areas on Tutuila Island. TIPPING AND ETIQUETTE Tipping is not practiced or expected, however leaving a small monetary gift for good service will be welcomed. Bargaining is not practiced and bathing suits should only be worn at the beach and not in the town area or in villages. LANGUAGE Samoan is the official language and most people also speak English, which is the language used in business. ELECTRICITY 110V 60Hz. US plug.

Flag Day on April 17

WEATHER GUIDE American Samoa has a warm tropical climate, with a dry season from May to October and wet season from November to April. Pago Pago Temperature Average (Max.°C) J F M A M J J A S O N D 30 29 30 30 29 29 29 29 29 29 30 30 Rainfall Average (mm) J F M A M J J A S O N D 455 386 358 254 160 130 81 89 132 170 267 371

The main public holiday in American Samoa is Flag Day on April 17. This commemorates the day that the American flag was first raised on the island back in 1900. Among other things, celebrations include a major arts festival.

Small bay teems with marine life The spectacular marine life of Fagatele Bay is now one of the six areas which comprise the new and expanded National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa.

Did you know?

Fagatele Bay, designated a sanctuary in 1986, contains 65ha of marine habitat in a sunken volcanic crater off the southwestern coast of Tutuila Island, adjacent to the villages of Futiga and Vaitogi.

American Samoa has two distinct seasons:

This small area supports some of the greatest diversity of marine life in the sanctuary system, with 168 species of coral and 271 species of fish, along with birds, sea turtles, dolphins and humpback whales. Access to the bay is down a steep 5km trail.

Wet season is November to April

Explore our islands… Experience our culture…

Dry season is May to October However, during wet season most rain tends to fall at night, so you can still get out and about during the day.

Enjoy your holiday!

Suite #200, Level 1, Ottoville Center, Corner Ottoville & Ili’ili Rds, PO Box 4240, Pago Pago AS 96799, American Samoa Ph: +1-684-6999805 F: +1-684-6999806 E: [email protected] W: www.americansamoa.travel

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Samoa

Big improvements for fales Sinalei has begun a complete refurbishment and upgrade of its 16 Garden View Fales. According to the resort management, the move is expected to raise the standards of their lead-in rooms, which will be in better keeping with the high standards already on offer at the resort, but also provide the best holiday experience for guests in “vastly improved” facilities.

Overwater fales nearing completion Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa has confirmed a new opening date of June 1 for six new over-the-water fales after a delay following cyclone damage. The resort is offering a re-opening special for sales until May 30 and travel to March 31, 2014 for guests to try the new fales. As there may be some slight disruptions while the work is completed, guests already booked into accommodation at the resort will receive a daily credit per room. This credit will be offered for each day guests are in-house and is available for every room category at Coconuts. The credit may be used for meals, drinks, tours from the tour desk and the Coco Beach Spa. Guests who may be concerned about construction work happening can change their travel dates or cancel their existing reservation with no penalty.

Situated on the peninsula in Apia Harbour Amanaki is the capital’s newest hotel - where Samoan hospitality extends to giving you the best deal on superior accommodation. With 20 spacious ocean-view rooms, a stunning pool, and a great restaurant this stylish new property is exactly what you need for a relaxing holiday or comfortable business trip.

Amanaki Hotel Sogi Peninsula Apia, Samoa Phone: +685 27 889 www.amanakihotel.com

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Samoa

Hotel will continue the legend The Aggie Greys Group is turning the cyclone damage to its original Apia hotel into a positive. The legendary property is closed for 2013, but will be recreated anew, when it reopens in 2014 following a complete refurbishment to become one of the most prestigious hotels in the South Pacific. The hotel will comprise about 177 rooms and Samoan–style bungalows, with the lobby lounge acting as a focal point. The interior design will take cues from the British colonial/plantation style with a palette of dark wood, relaxing whites and pale hues. Plans include a grand ballroom for up to 300, conference rooms, a fitness centre and spa, a hairdressing salon and gift shops. There will be two restaurants. One will feature an international menu and the other, set in a commanding Samoan falé, will offer Samoan and international cuisine as well as hosting Aggie’s famed FiaFia Nights. There will be plenty of open space available, a pool with a pool terrace, a cocktail lounge and a pool bar. "Whilst we were devastated to see our beautiful hotel suffer so much from Evan, we are excited to be able to recreate our grandmother’s dream,” said the owner and Managing Director of Aggie Grey’s Group, Fred Grey. The hotel would be able to satisfy increasing demand in Apia for upscale accommodation,” he said. “It will still bear the hallmarks of Mrs Aggie Grey herself and we will adhere to her notion that our guests will be made to feel that the hotel is their home.” Aggie Grey's Lagoon, Beach Resort & Spa, located five minutes from Faleoleo International Airport, remained completely unaffected during the storm and was able to accommodate guests from Aggie Grey’s Hotel after it was badly hit by the cyclone. The resort is on the same spot where the first Polynesian migrants stayed when they landed in Samoa three millennia ago. Its 140 Deluxe Ocean View Rooms overlook the beach and lagoon with views across to the islands of Savaii, Apolima and Manono. Families are well catered for, with a Dolphin Kids Club for children aged up to 12, a wide range of watersports at Aqua Samoa, the Manaia Polynesian Spa and five restaurants. The resort is also available for conferences and corporate retreats.

Aggie Grey's Lagoon, Beach Resort & Spa

SUPPLY 5346IT

Aggie Grey’s Hotel & Bungalows

Escape to Samoa’s Coastal Paradise In a land where unspoiled customs, culture and courtesies still exist, we invite you to share our piece of coastal paradise for your next tropical escape. Aggie Grey’s Lagoon Beach Resort & Spa offers a whole new holiday experience in Samoa.

Here you can relax around the lagoonside pool, dine at a choice of five restaurants, indulge in a therapeutic spa treatment or play a round of golf. There is also a great kids club and children under 12 years stay, play and eat free. WWW.AGGIEGREYS.COM/RESORT

March/April 2013

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Tonga

New airline set to fly A new airline has been formed to fly Tongans and visitors within the kingdom following the departure of Chatham Airlines. From March 4, Real Tonga is flying between Fua’amotu International Airport on Tongatapu and the outer islands of Vava’u, Ha’apai and ‘Eua. Flights to the Niuatoputapu and Niuafo’ou island groups are scheduled to begin in April, an airline spokesperson, Lusia Latu, said in a statement released to IslandTime on March 6. Real Tonga Limited is fully owned by its parent company, Palu Aviation Service Ltd, a Tongan-owned and managed company. PAS has operated in Tonga and Samoa providing line maintenance support for Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia and Air Pacific (Fiji Airways). PAS has operated out of Faleolo International Airport, Samoa since 2007, certifying Air New Zealand’s B767 and Airbus A320s and Virgin Australia’s B737NGs. “Real Tonga’s goal is to provide the travelling public with an airline that has safety as its main priority and is customer-focused,” says Latu. “We are committed to ensuring domestic air transport in our kingdom is not disrupted, and that it has adequate seat capacity available to cope with customer demand.” Two Harbin Y-12 turboprop high-wing aircraft with two crew and about 17 passengers will commence the operation. The airline also has access to a nine-seat BN2 Islander, a 19seat DHC6 Twin Otter and a 68-seat ATR72-500 aircraft and these would be introduced in accordance with passenger demand, Latu said. The Y-12s, which are type-certified by the American Federal Aviation Administration and the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority, are being wet-leased from Air Vanuatu.

“An extended formal partnership is very possible for both parties in the near future. It is Real Tonga’s intention to gain its own Air Operator’s Certificate within six months to take over the operation from Air Vanuatu and operate under its own right. Real Tonga was set up with support from the Government of Tonga. “Given the tight timeframe for Real Tonga to fill the gap in domestic travel after the announcement of the departure of Chatham Airlines on March 2, REAL Tonga has committed to rise up to the opportunity.” Latu said. See www.realtonga.to

Cruise ships create a stir Exciting times lie ahead for Tonga as the kingdom is expected to see more cruise ships visiting following the opening of the new Vuna Wharf in Nuku’alofa last December. Seventeen cruise ships are expected to visit Tonga during the year, with 13 ships calling on Nuku’alofa, five to Vava’u, one each to Niuatoputapu, Niuafo’ou and Ha’apai (the one to Ha’apai will stay for two days), Pangai and Tofua. “With a dedicated wharf and a cruise steering committee now in place, we anticipate the increasing number of cruise ship visits will help develop Tonga as a cruise destination,” said Moana Taukolo, the acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Commerce, Tourism and Labour. The first cruise ship to call into Tongatapu was the MS Columbus II which arrived on January 28. The German Ship carried about 698 passengers and over 200 crew. The luxurious MS Europa with her 500 passengers berthed on the following day. Most of the cruise ships are from Australia, Germany, the United States and New Zealand, but the first Italian ship, the Costa, is expected to arrive in November. Four of the ships will call into the kingdom twice. Among the 17 cruise ships was the Caledonia Sky, which was set to call into Niuatoputapu and Niuafo'ou but had to make other arrangements, due to bad weather. The new 120m wharf, built at a cost of $20 million, is adjacent to the site of the original Vuna Wharf which dates back to 1906 but was damaged by an earthquake in the 1970s. Cruise ships up to 270m can now berth at the end of the capital's main street and within sight of the Royal Palace. This improves access for passengers, who previously had to disembark from their ship at a commercial wharf 3km east of downtown.

Tonga’s islands With 176 islands scattered across the Pacific Ocean, Tonga has a huge variety of options to explore. Real Tonga’s schedule includes services from Tongatapu to several outlying islands.

Ha’apai The central island group of Ha’apai is an undeniably authentic slice of Polynesia. Its about 40 minutes flying time from Tongatapu to Lifou Airport, the group’s main airport. The 62 scattered islands, atolls, reefs and shoals, warming trade winds and pristine atolls provide a superb tropical backdrop for more adventurous travellers. They can stay in remote ecolodges or village guesthouses, before deciding between kayaking, snorkelling or riding a horse along deserted beaches. Captain James Cook dubbed the Kingdom of Tonga “The Friendly Islands” after a warm reception on the Ha’apai island of Lifuka.

Vava’u Vava’u is said to be the adventure hub of the Kingdom of Tonga. A tropical labyrinth of 61 islands dotted with coral gardens, deserted beaches and clear lagoons, the northern Vava’u group is probably best known for the humpback whales which stay there from June to November to care for their newly-born calves and breed for another generation. Sailors also know Vava’u for its steady trade winds and sheltered anchorages. Gamefishers can catch or tag blue marlin and other pelagic fish, while down below are sea caves, shipwrecks and abundant coral reefs.

‘Eua Hilly and covered in lush rainforest, ‘Eua’s combination of beauty and rugged landscape is for travellers in search of adventure and eco-experiences. A “blink and you’re there” flight of seven minutes links Tongatapu to ‘Eua on its southeastern tip. Visitors can tramp on well-marked trails within ‘Eua National Park either on their own or join a guided walk. Cliffs, caves and sinkholes characterise northern ‘Eua, or venture to the rocky southern coastline. Humpback whales visit from June to November, and divers can explore ‘Eua’s one of the Pacific’s largest underwater caverns, with natural light illuminating a huge amphitheatre at a depth of almost 30m.

Niuafo'ou and Niuatoputapu These two islands are even more isolated. Niuafo’ou is an active volcano located on an underwater ridge. The island contains a steep-sided caldera, a rocky and coastline, black sand beaches and two lakes, one of which has three islets. The name Niuatoputapu means sacred island. It’s 300km away from Vava'u. Mata'aho Airport accepts international flights. Most of the residents live in three villages and look out on a calm lagoon surrounded by a large reef, so there are plenty of opportunities for diving, fishing, bush walks and the chance to taste authentic Tongan village life. There is a small resort.

True Family Fun 34 islandtime March/April 2013

True Romance

True Adventure

True Beauty

www.thekingdomoftonga.com

Hawaii

O‘ahu Visitors Bureau With its international landmarks of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, along with the city of Honolulu, O‘ahu is known as the Heart of Hawai‘i and is a dream destination for many. The island is also the centre for arts, culture and cuisine from around the Pacific Rim, while downtown Honolulu is a mecca for culture, history and art lovers, with many galleries. Less than an hour's drive from Waikiki is the Windward Coast, where you can sunbath at Kailua Beach and stroll through Kailua Town, with its charming restaurants, boutiques and country ambience. Further up the coast at the foot of the Koolau Mountains you'll find Kaaawa Valley. Rent a bicycle, take a guided tour on horseback, or hop aboard an all-terrain vehicle and experience the valley's spectacular scenery for yourself.

Sea Life Park Among the most popular features of Sea Life Park Hawaii on O‘ahu is the wholphin, the only specimen in captivity of the extremely rare hybrid of a female bottlenose dolphin and a male false killer whale, which is similar to an orca. Located north of Hanauma Bay, the park features reefs, lagoons, pools and theatres. It offers daily swims with dolphins, dolphin shows, a monk seal and penguin exhibit, a Sea Trek dive adventure and a chance for guests to feed sea turtles and sea lions. Brave souls can also “step” into the new Hawaiian Shark Tank and experience the world of Hawaii’s sharks, guided by interactive technology.

Polynesian Cultural Centre This year, the Polynesian Cultural Centre, Hawaii’s top paid visitor attraction, celebrates 50 years of preserving the cultures of Polynesia. The six island villages represent Aotearoa (New Zealand), Fiji, Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti and Tonga, as well as exhibits depicting Rapa Nui (Easter Island) and the Marquesas. Visitors can immerse themselves in the different cultures over the span of five decades through exhibits, demonstrations and hands-on activities. A week of festivities extending from September 1-8 includes a living timeline of the centre’s colourful history at this year’s Kamehameha Day Parade in Hawaii and the Pioneer Days Parade in Utah. The centre began back in the old Laie hukilau, which started in 1948 as a way to raise money for the community while educating and entertaining guests. The centre has now grown to cover 17 hectares.

Miramar at Waikiki The Miramar Hotel is popular with New Zealanders due to its location and price. The hotel is centrally positioned just a block back from the beach and adjacent to the International Market. This location allows guests to choose rooms with either ocean or city views.

New initiatives for this year include the renovated Hukilau Theatre and an immersive film, Kamaaina: child of the land, a 12-minute movie based around a moolelo, an Hawaiian tale of ancestors, and the creation of the aina, the Hawaiian Islands, and how they shape the identity of the Hawaiians.

Ala Moana Shopping Center The strength of the New Zealand dollar against the greenback offers unprecedented value and selection for travellers to Hawaii. The Ala Moana Centre has 290 stores, including nearly 70 dining options. The world’s largest open-air shopping centre, it records 42 million visitors per year, making it Hawaii’s most popular destination for shopping and entertainment. Retailers range from the finest French and Italian houses to popular American favourites and an array of surf and beachwear shops. It’s also Honolulu’s major transfer hub for public and private transport.

Facts and figures • 42 million annual visitors per year—making it Hawaii’s most visited destination with locals and tourists. • World’s largest open-air shopping centre • Research identifies the Ala Moana Centre as the “favourite” shopping and entertainment destination in Hawaii.

Roberts Hawai‘i

• Imagery Association—located next to the Pacific Ocean and across from famous Hawaii beaches.

As the largest privately owned tour and transportation company in Hawai‘i, many New Zealanders have utilised the services and tours that Roberts Hawai‘i offers.

• Retailers range from the finest French and Italian houses, popular national favorites, and an array surf/beachwear shops.

The employee-owned and operated company began serving the tourism industry on Kauai in 1941 and now operates sightseeing tours on four islands, dinner cruise sails on Oahu and Kona, inter-island air-room-car packages and the Magic of Polynesia show at the Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel.

• One of Honolulu’s major transfer centers for local and visitor public and private transportation.

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Vanuatu

Six on the beach Honeymooners who can’t take their eyes off each other will find themselves being distracted by the views from the Nasama Resort’s six new luxurious one-bedroom Oceanfront Apartments. They are situated right on the beach with private balconies that take in unobstructed ocean views and gentle sea breezes for those who wish to unwind and let Vanuatu’s natural beauty take over. There are three apartments on the ground level and three on an upper level. Each apartment has a king-size bed and a single bed, a kitchen, sitting area, airconditioning and fans. There is also a Sony television, a DVD player, free wireless internet and an Ipod docking station.

Family fun at Holiday Inn Remember the board games like Scrabble and Monopoly we played when our family was on holiday? They’re all included in the Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu’s new Family Villas. The conversion of the three villas adds to the extensive list of children-friendly facilities and room types already on offer for guests. The villas include bedding for two adults and two children, Playstation 3 and games suitable for children, beach toys, a DVD player and movies, and private beach access into the lagoon. Children can also join all the other guests at the Holiday Inn and mix with local children in a guided tour to the Vila North School, where they can interact with the local year-three class for about one hour. This visit is sure to enlighten guests, as they also have the opportunity to support the school. And during the school holidays, a market tour takes place with a host guiding guests through the local fresh produce markets, explaining all the different types of fruit and vegetables and providing samples and insights into the local culture.

Effective immediately BOTH our WED and SAT flights operate at convenient middle day timings allowing for domestic connections from all NZ destinations both northbound and southbound. AKL, arrives at 1100, departs for VLI at 1200. Remember your Vanuatu experience begins the moment you step aboard our Boeing 737-800 and encounter our friendly crew and fine service with FREE drinks and FREE meals.

There’s also a BBQ pack for two adults and two children in its own private location on the beach, with a private chef, to try the local produce and Vanuatu’s famed steaks.

Ph: 9 373 3435 Fax: 9 358 1413 Email: [email protected] www.airvanuatu.com www.vanuatu.travel

Suddenly everything becomes crystal clear. When you live life at a million miles per hour, you forget what’s really important. Visit Vanuatu and you’ll soon remember 83 unspoilt islands surrounded by blue waters and filled with the happiest people you will ever meet. You can find yourself there, in no time.

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Vanuatu

Top chef cooks up a treat The Iririki Island Resort recently hosted the international chef Robert Oliver and the television production company Zoomslide, who were in Vanuatu filming the first episode of their food and travel show, Real Pasifik. The show is based on Oliver’s prizewinning book, Me’a Kai – the food and flavours of the South Pacific.” Several VIPs enjoyed a five-course meal at the resort’s Watermark Restaurant, featuring classic ni-Vanuatu dishes made with local organic produce. The team also worked with five young chefs from around Port Vila and travelled as far afield as South Santo. The Director of Real Pasifik, Anna Marbrook, said the team had valued using Iririki Island Resort as its base. “It is such a stunning location and the staff have been brilliant.”

General Manager to drive tourism Angela Heilala has been appointed as the first General Manager of the Vanuatu Hotels & Resorts Association, the leading tourism organisation in Vanuatu. Angela’s role developed following increasing demands on VHRA executive’s time participating in tourism issues. She will be responsible for one-on-one contact with VHRA members and interaction with the Department of Tourism and the Vanuatu Tourism Office. The chairman of the VHRA, Tony Pittar, said Vanuatu recorded its highest number of annual arrivals in 2012. "This upward trend needed to be continually nurtured to ensure it is maintained. Angela’s appointment is an important step in assisting the growth of this very important industry.”

The series will screen in New Zealand later this year. Oliver says he is planning to return to Vanuatu with his family.

Vanuatu’s Newest Resort • Spacious fully self contained • All rooms with stunning ocean views • Free Wi Fi throughout • Family friendly • Five minutes to fine restaurants and ten minutes to Port Vila CBD. Phone: +678 28009 Email: [email protected] www.nasamaresort.com

Agency bookings commissionable

Ratua is a private island right in the well-preserved Vanuatu archipelago. This 146-acre jewel of unexplored nature is covered with lush tropical vegetation, and bordered by sandy beaches, turquoise water and amazing marine life. This eco-luxury hideaway was developed with a strong ambition to preserve an untouched sanctuary while establishing some modern comforts. Swim or snorkel, enjoy a horse ride or boat trip, treat yourselves at Ratua’s overwater Sunny Spa or do nothing at all!

+678 30020 | [email protected] | www.ratua.com

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Vanuatu

Visitor numbers on the rise Vanuatu is rapidly becoming a favourite destination, if 2012’s travel figures are anything to go by. Total holiday arrivals by air (excluding those visiting friends and relatives) rose by 15.25 percent to 108,145. VFR arrivals increased to 22,590, up 8.4 percent. “This is our best year on record for holiday arrivals, surpassing 2009 by some 7528 arrivals,” say Bryan Death and Valerie Byrne of Total Management Solutions. Total cruise ship arrivals increased to 218,667, up by a massive 48.2 percent, and this number is anticipated to grow by a further 20 to 30 percent in 2013. New Zealanders accounted for only 0.13 percent of the total visitor market. The goals for Vanuatu tourism in 2013 are to: • improve the cruise ship “meet and greet” experience at Port Vila Wharf to an acceptable level for international passengers • encourage cruise ship passengers to spread the word in source markets • drive marketing initiatives in major source markets to maintain 2012 growth patterns, and • further develop the number of overseas visitors to the outer islands.

Easy riding at Bellevue Ranch Tom Ngam is a private man who likes to keep a low profile. But that hasn’t stopped him gaining a reputation as “the horse whisperer of Vanuatu” and setting up Bellevue Ranch, one of Vanuatu’s leading riding stables. Tom left home at the age of 13 to work on a cattle ranch in Port Vila, where it was obvious that he had a special affinity with horses. He then spent many years at a riding school, where his reputation led to invitations to visit Australia and Belgium to train and work with horses. Today Tom operates Bellevue Ranch, located about 10 minutes from Port Vila, where he runs an equestrian school and recreational park. Riders have several options, including a 60-minute ride through a plantation, a rainforest ride and a sunset ride. It’s a relaxing ride, as Tom’s skills ensure the horses are very understanding and easy-going.

Internationally recognised as one of the Pacific’s best island destinations, Villa 25 is an absolute waterfront boutique retreat in an exclusive location only minutes from Port Vila. Three spacious, beautifully appointed luxury villas, an enticing infinity pool, a gorgeous Pacific style lowana, all overlooking a sheltered private beach. In a very short time Villa 25 has gained a reputation as being one of the finest boutique accommodations Vanuatu has to offer.

The setting is sublime. [email protected] | www.villa25.vu | Ph +678 7764439

No better place to unwind Idyllic beaches, tropical gardens and crystal clear seas

www.iririki.com Relax and unwind in a tropical paradise

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Vanuatu

Food for thought at the Grand Hotel Grand Hotel and Casino recently welcomed Ella Fellini in the role of Food and Beverage Manager. Originally from a fashion background with such magazines as Harpers Bazaar, Ella also has also worked as a chef running successful restaurants in both Sydney (on the Rocks) and in Vanuatu. Another new addition to the team is Dikpal Tamarang who was welcomed into the role of Executive Chef late February. Dikpal developed his well honed cooking skills in Nepal, The Maldives and the United Arab Emirates, and most recently he held the role of Executive Chef at Iririki Island Resort in Vanuatu. Dikpal has a passion for fusion cooking, and looks forward to being able to introduce new and exciting dishes to the hotel's menus. With Ella and Dikpal heading the teams at the Grand their emphasis will be looking to focus on providing a fantastic dining experience with great menu options utilizing local produce and first class service incorporating the renowned friendliness of the local ni-Vanuatu staff.

Let Us Make Your Dream Come True The Memories, The Moments...

Ratua Private Island. Paradise found. When it comes to boutique Pacific properties, Ratua Private Island (which sits just off Santo) is one of the very best. Yes this is pure luxury, but in the most environmentally sustainable of ways. Foodwise, Ratua has its own organic gardens and orchard with over 1000 fruit trees, they source beef, chicken and pork from local villages, plus local fishermen call by every morning with their freshest catch. "We try to use only our own food and what the community can give us" say the owners Isabelle Ysos and Marc Heron. On top of that, all resort profits are returned to community to help fund a variety of projects. Ratua is home to just 15 luxury villas, so peace and privacy is guaranteed. The villas were actually transported from all the way from Indonesia and some are up to 200 years old. The South Village and West Village villas can be booked individually, while the Fish Village villas are more suitable for groups. Ratua offers a unique experience in one of the most beautiful parts of the South Pacific and it is an absolute must-do for the discerning traveller.

P F E W

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+678 22 313 +678 22 665 [email protected] www.lelagonvanuatu.vu

P O R T - V I L A

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V A N U A T U

March/April 2013

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Holiday Inn Promotion

Holiday Inn Resort continues to develop A year has passed since the Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu was fully refurbished. The A$12.9 million transformation has led to the property becoming one of Vanuatu’s top family resorts. From a superb pool area for children to the popular Family Suites with banyan-tree themed bunk beds with individual televisions, the Holiday Inn Resort has come a long way. It continues to develop and add to its guest experience, particularly in bringing an authentic Vanuatu experience to life. Every morning, the Kids Club hosts a weaving class in the Verandah Restaurant to keep them entertained while their parents enjoy breakfast. The Sports Hut offers a diverse selection of complimentary activities every day. Whether it is a friendly game of beach volleyball or a coconut-husking demonstration, the activities staff are available for your outdoor leisure. On Mondays and Thursdays we have our Kava Tasting and Storian (storytelling) evenings. Vanuatu is known for its kava throughout the Pacific, and our kava tasting shows guests how it is made and provides an opportunity to share in a shell or two with our resident chief. The resort offers nightly entertainment from cultural to contemporary music at our Lobby Bar, Pool Bar or Verandah Restaurant. During the last six months the team at the Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu has broadened activities for pre-teens and teenagers with the addition of the Hip Hop Dance lessons with Wan Smol Bag Yut Senta (Youth Centre) on Wednesday afternoons and a visit to the Vila North Primary School on Thursday mornings. It’s another opportunity for visiting children to have a unique ni-Vanuatu experience of their own. Other activities soon to be introduced include a barbecue package for groups and families and Frisbee golf. Though the Holiday Inn is known as a prime family resort, much is still being done to cater for couples, such as the introduction of our romantic dinners in the Cabanas on the Beach, with a personal attendant for the evening.

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Norfolk Island

Country music hits the dance floor New Zealander Marian Burns’ upbeat violin playing has enticed many country music fans onto the dance floor over the years. The fiddler is expected to do the same again as one of the special New Zealand guests during the Norfolk Island Country Music Week on Norfolk Island from May 20-24. Other Kiwis to join her during the New Zealand Showcase Concert programme are headline act Dennis Marsh and Kevin Greaves. Australia will be represented by the duet of Beccy Cole and Adam Harvey as the headline act, Amber Joy Poulton and Paul Costa. The international rivalry will go head-to-head with the competition for the Trans-Tasman Entertainer of the Year Award, with four entrants from each country. The Australian pop band Mental as Anything will add a totally different tone during the 20th celebration concert, and the festival finishes with a giant jam among the bands, where musicians and the audience can mingle, relax over a drink and enjoy a dance.

Nothing tinny about these sheds! Norfolk Island’s latest luxury accommodation offering, The Tin Sheds is expected to find favour amongst those looking for a spacious retreat where guests can enjoy all the mod cons but within a tranquil garden setting. The Tin Sheds is privately owned and opens this April. The project has been a labour of love for owner, Elizabeth Nowell who leaves no detail out: from state-of-the-art kitchen appliances to high-tech, low impact living spaces, The Tin Sheds brings together all the luxuries of modern living in very relaxed surrounds that include expansive, private outdoor living spaces which are secured by individual card access. Visitors can also avail themselves of a number of inclusions, including an uber-trendy Fiat 500 (2013 model) car along with a half day Discovery Tour with Baunti Escapes, 30 minute Swedish relaxation massage, mobile phone with $10 credit and a lot more to make your Norfolk escape as stress free and relaxing as possible – and how could you not, when there is an area called ‘the pleasure centre’ which offers a central heated SwimSpa, minigym and massage room for private treatments. Visit www.tinshednorfolkisland.com or book via your Norfolk Island wholesaler.

Action and adventure at your fingertips. Without a doubt, Norfolk Island is a great place to relax. But for those visitors wanting some action on their island holiday, there's no shortage of choice. Here's a quick snapshot of what's on offer:

Hiking Norfolk is made for bush-walking and there are ten sign posted tracks that are well-maintained and signposted - the most popular being the Bridal Track out to Cape Cook Memorial.

Kayaking Sea kayaks are available at Emily Bay. Guides can take you around the coast, but it is weather dependent.

Mountain Biking

Did you know? A third of Norfolk Island is designated as national parks and reserves.

With hardly any traffic on the roads, mountain biking is great fun. There are a few hills around the place, so a reasonable level of fitness is required, plus there is a new track at Anson Bay.

Horse Riding If you feel like going for a gallop, well, maybe not that fast, Silky Oaks Stables on Mission Road offer horse riding for all levels.

Golf There's a picturesque 9 hole course at Kingston, right on the coast. The 19th hole (aka club rooms) are situated in a magnificent Georgian manor where you'll find a pro shop and cafe.

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Niue

Niue poised for increased visitor numbers Niue Island Tourism Business Development Manager, Hayden Porter says "The Rock" is ready!” Over the past two years, Niue has been working on enhancing its accommodation offerings, both in terms of quality, comfort and flexibility. This has resulted in the island’s only full service resort, The Matavai undergoing an extensive refurbishment programme as well as the recent opening of the Matavai Motel. The Matavai Motel offers duplex style motel accommodation with the option to use and chargeback resort facilities at nearby Matavai Resort. The Matavai Motel is just one of many self-catering accommodation options throughout the island that also include cottage style accommodation.

Renowned artist John Pule to exhibit Visitors to Niue in April are for an artful treat. As part of the 3rd Niue Arts and Culture Festival, renowned artist John Pule will be exhibiting a selection of his work starting with the exhibition opening on April 18. The festival theme is “Guided by our Traditional Knowledge”, which will offer visitors a unique and deep insight into traditional Niuean cultural perspectives, stories and traditions. Pule, who is well known in New Zealand and is represented by Auckland’s prestigious Gow Langsford Gallery, integrates his craft as artist and poet into unique, and often large scale works that are inspiring and engaging to the viewer. Pule recently took part in the first major group exhibition of contemporary Pacific artists at the Auckland Art Gallery, for which his piece received critical acclaim. The Niue Arts and Culture Festival from April 18-22 April.

Looking to turn a holiday into an event? Niue is fast gaining an international reputation for its innovative island style events which make use of its unique geographical and marine features. Test your strength and stamina at the annual Rockman and Rockwoman event in November with a duathlon, team and Rock-Tri event. This event was won in 2012 by a Canadian ironman and found favour with contestants the world over as a unique way to follow on from the Auckland World Tri series event. Fishing skills can be put to the test with a number of fishing tournaments being held on the island, including the Frank Bunce hosted, Black Heart Rum Tournament in May. There are also the island’s signature events, Rally of the Rock and Round the Rock, both held in the first week of June. Visitors to the island in April can also be treated to a culture fest with the 3rd Niue Arts and Cultural Festival. The festival will open this year on the April 18.

Event highlights over the coming months include: 3rd Niue Arts and Cultural Festival 19-26 April (opening night April 18)

Increased air services extend holiday flexibility

Makefu Village Showday May 11

Air New Zealand has increased seasonal air capacity to Niue to the tune of 2352 additional seats, a move welcomed by Niue Island Tourism. Niue Island Tourism Business Development Manager, Hayden Porter says the additional seasonal service “offers visitors greater flexibility of holiday duration with 3,4,7,10,11 and 14 night stays now being very viable holiday options for Kiwis.”

Round the Rock June 5

The seasonal service will coincide with an increasing calendar of unique on-island events as well as the world renowned whale watching season that runs between July and October. The additional mid week, fortnightly services commence April 17 and will run through until the end of October.

For full details including registration see www.niueisland.com/events

Black Heart Fishing Tournament May 25 – June 1 Hosted by All Black legend, Frank Bunce Rally of the Rock June 3

Inaugural Ladies Fishing Tournament June 8 – June 15 Rockman and Rockwoman Seris Nov 4-7

Photographer © Christine Syme Photography

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42 islandtime March/April 2013

Ex pe rie nc e th e ad ve ntu re!

Tahiti

App helps make holiday happen

Hit me with your best shot

Tahiti Tourisme New Zealand has introduced a travel app for Android and Apple mobile phones to make it easy for travellers to Tahiti to make the most of their holiday. The free app uses only GPS, so all maps and information are available offline. It has all the information needed by travellers, including activities, transport, shopping, dining and accommodation.

Great travel photographs can be taken just as easily in your home town as in some exotic location far across the sea. As long as your images tell a story about a place, documenting the people, the land or the culture, with no geographical limitations, they can be considered travel photography. If you think you might have taken some prize-winners that could begin a new career, pick out the best five, add a short paragraph on why you want to be a travel photographer and submit them to the new Travel Photography Awards.

Travellers can add their photographs to the favourites section so they can revisit their holiday after they return home or share details with friends and family. If they are not online, every item they would like to share, including comments, photographs and postcards will be saved and sent as soon as they are online again. The app is available in French and English.

Google Play QR code

The winner will spend a week exploring and experiencing French Polynesia with travel photographer Chris McLennan. The prize includes international airfares, transfers, accommodation including meals and all organised activities, plus other goodies. There are also prizes for the finalists and runners-up, plus a People’s Choice award and a Best Rookie entry. The judging panel includes travel and photography industry experts, plus Phil Koeghan of The Amazing Race. www.travelphotographyawards.com

Instore QR code

©Chris McLennan

Eating out The strong New Zealand dollar means there has never been a better time to travel to Tahiti, for eating out does not have to break the bank. Feedback from agents who have recently made a visit is that eating out is much cheaper than they expected. New ©Ty Sawyer Zealand city prices are a good indicator of what to expect to pay. Dining out with the locals in the colourful mobile vans called Les Roulottes in Papeete is an inexpensive way to enjoy good, everyday Tahitian cuisine from steak, to crepes to pizza. Buying your own produce is likewise affordable and the fresh fruit selection at the markets and supermarkets is aromatic and colourful.

©Chris McLennan

Stress free at St Regis Moorea has more to offer If you were to ask a couple where in the South Pacific they would most want to be married, chances are most would pick the lush island of Moorea with its soaring backdrop of sawtoothed peaks. The wedding package at the Moorea Pearl Resort & Spa should tick the boxes. It includes Polynesian background music, a ceremony under the Tree of Love, and an MC to present the blessings and an abundance of tropical flowers, including lei. A more expensive option is for the couple to wear traditional white wedding pareos and exchange their vows on a motu, or private islet, before a Polynesian priest. These arrangements can also be combined with the legal wedding package, which helps take care of all the paperwork.

Couples can take it easy and let others deal with the stress at the new Bridal Boutique at the St Regis Bora Bora Resort, whether it is a wedding, a renewal of vows, a special proposal or a honeymoon. The boutique has a wedding planner to help with all the preparations, specially designed bridal gowns, luxe changing areas with a fitting specialist, lounges, wedding albums and even a “romance butler”. The rest of the bridal party, including the attendants and their families can also be outfitted. The resort has partnered with the Norwegian designer Cecilie Melli to create the programme. She has designed a selection of wedding gowns, including a western-style gown and Tahitian dresses.

For your relaxing vacation on one of the best beaches of Moorea.. Hotel Les Tipaniers, Moorea PF Tel: (689) 56-12-67 Fax :(689) 56-29-25 www.lestipaniers.com [email protected] March/April 2013

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Fiji

New booklet for Fiji travel trade The publishing company ProMag has produced the second edition of its booklet Everything Under the Sun – your guide to Fiji. The company targets the conference, incentive, exhibitions and travel management sectors.

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