Lord Howe Island, NEW SOUTH WALES
Airing Date: Sep 8th, 2003
Lord Howe Island is just a two-hour flight from Sydney. Winter temperatures average around 18 degrees and summer days a glorious 25, so the weather is always just right.
Just 11 kilometres long and 3 kilometres wide, Lord Howe offers fun water activities and unique sightseeing.
A great way to explore the deep is to board a glass bottom boat ride like the Coral Princess. Spring is the perfect time to observe the underwater world, because the tidal currents aren't as strong and there is less wash in the lagoon. The water is clearer, making it easier to see the 450 species of fish patrolling the waters.
A three-hour trek to Mutton Bird Point is the perfect opportunity to see some rare wildlife. Between September and April thousands of sea birds nest along the cliffs of Lord Howe Island. Masked Boobies are strong in numbers in the area, with up to 200 nesting pairs there at the moment. The males help the females nurse the young, doing everything from minding the nest to searching for food.
Another native to the island is the Kentia Palm, the most popular indoor plant in the world. A 90-minute nursery tour is available, and you can even buy your own Kentia. Most airlines will transport your palm tree home for a fee.
Despite the gentle year round climate, most resorts close for winter and re-open on the first day of spring. By law only 393 visitors are allowed on Lord Howe Island at any one time, so you can be assured you'll never have to battle a crowd.
The island's biggest resort, Pinetrees, holds a seafood night every Monday, with some of the biggest sushi platters you'll ever see.
For a spring finale head to Ned's Beach, where every afternoon at four o'clock visitors gather to throw bread to the fish and watch the feeding frenzy.
The facts:
Qantaslink has frequent connections to Lord Howe Island. Prices start from $710 ex Sydney and $583 ex Brisbane. Prices include charges, levies and taxes.
Qantas
Tel: 13 13 13
Five night packages at Pinetrees Resort including all meals and island transfers start from $825 per person twin share. This is a spring special available until October 31, 2003.
Pinetrees Travel
Tel: 02 9262 6585
