Alternative Accommodations, The Bay of Islands, NEW ZEALAND
Airing Date: Sep 4th, 2006
The Bay of Islands is a premier New Zealand holiday destination. The townships of this historic bay are infused with both Maori and European history.
You'll find out why the Bay of Islands is considered to be the birthplace of New Zealand as a bi-cultural nation - and the place for alternative accommodation options!
If you're looking for some accommodation with a difference then renting a Bach is a fantastic way to enjoy your time in New Zealand.
A "Bach" is basically a Kiwi term to describe the quintessential holiday shack or house. In the South Island they call them cribs.
Most baches have a working kitchen, laundry facilities, ample living areas, outdoor area, BBQ facilities, and some are located on absolute beach front. They vary in price, but if you shop around, you will find a place to suit your budget.
Many of the holiday homes can sleep 6-8 people, so if you are getting away as a couple of families or as a group, this can be very affordable.
Not only that, you get to experience New Zealand like the locals. You can base yourself in an area and spend time exploring it.
Kiwi's are renowned for their warmth and hospitality and on a farmstay you get to hang out with a New Zealand family and enjoy country life- from milking cows, mustering, feeding animals, or just sit back and relax- it's up to you how much or little you want to do.
Depending on the location some farmstays offer other activities, like fishing, horse riding or motor biking amongst others and depending on the location of the farmstay, you can use it as a base to explore the local sights.
Campervans (or motor homes) offer a way of taking in New Zealand that you can't get with traditional transport and accommodation.
Renting a van turns two of the biggest costs of going on holiday into one. It gives you transport to get you where you want to go and a place to sleep.
There are a whole series of tourist drives off the Highway that can take you on stunning scenic journeys to just about anywhere you want to go.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Air New Zealand one way to Auckland from:
$326 ex Sydney
$333 ex Melbourne
$333 ex Brisbane
$434 ex Adelaide
$549 ex Perth
Prices available online and include surcharges, fees & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply. Prices correct at 4/8/06.
Web: www.airnewzealand.com.au
Rent a Bach (All over New Zealand) - Prices from $330 - $2089 a week.
Web: www.rentabach.co.nz
The Farm - 1 hour south of Bay of Islands. Camping from $10 Ensuite double from $23.
Web: www.thefarm.co.nz
Ezi Cruiza Campa - Rental from $32 a day.
Price includes taxes. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
Web: www.ezy.co.nz
