Whale Watch, Kaikoura has become an icon of Eco-Tourism in New Zealand - a huge success story which has helped bring turn a small struggling rural coastal town into a prosperous must see destination for both local and international travelers.

Established and run by a group of local Nga Tahu Maori, the business has won numerous International Eco-Tourism Awards. Not only can Whalewatch introduce you to the magnificent Sperm Whale, but also to migratory Humpback Whales (June & July), Orca (summer months), New Zealand's own tiny Hectors dolphin, the high spirited displays of the Dusky dolphins, New Zealand Fur seals and the Royal Albatross.

There are over 79 species of whale and dolphin in the world today, with 34 of these species sighted in New Zealand waters, over half of these off Kaikoura.

The fact that the majority of these species stay here is understandable. From a cetacean's point of view, Kaikoura is indeed a marine paradise - an abundant food supply, ideal climatic conditions and safety. As a result we have the privilege of being able to witness these mammals close-hand in their natural marine environment. We can study their daily routines, recognize individual personalities and become part of their family life.

Whalewatch tours start at $110 for adults and $60 for children 3-15 years. GINZ can also recommend great places to stay in Kaikoura, including Lemon Tree Lodge and Miharotia Lodge.

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Australia News

Southern Victoria’s coastal districts offer wonderful escapes for holidays. The bays and peninsulas region includes the historic seaside town of Sorrento and the charming village style of Queenscliff, nestled into the rising contour of the coast amid green dairying countryside. This district is an endearing combination of coast and country, with a wide range of accommodation choices from farm and stationstays to bed and breakfasts and country cottages.

We recommend Eastcliff Cottage at Sorrento, 90 minutes south of Melbourne for luxurious bed and breakfast accommodation in a 1880's limestone cottage.

Another lovely rural option is Hillingdon House at Tussie Mussie Farm. This stunning mud brick house is situated an hour south of Melbourne in the cool climate wine growing area of Merricks North. Koalas are regularly seen in the gum trees overhanging the main building at Hillingdon, announcing their presence with the sound of gum nuts falling on the steel roof! The gardens here have been developed over 20 years and are part of Australia's Open Garden Scheme and include over 2 acres of roses, dry stone walls, border gardens and a small lake.

With many acclaimed golf courses, art galleries and craft markets, gardens and ocean surf beaches nearby, this is a great place to base yourself to explore the Mornington peninsula region.

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Pacific Island News

As I write I am three hours away from getting on a plane to Fiji for a 10 day family holiday. We are staying at Plantation Island in the Mamanuca group, about an hour and a half from Nadi by boat.

Plantation is a real family resort with a couple of great pools, kids clubs and lots of activities to keep everyone happy but plenty of space for parents to relax on the beach as well. We like it because there are a few restaurant options too. We can walk to Musket Cove, an easy 15 minute stroll for lunch and dinner by the pool. There is a good supermarket and store where we can buy snacks and lunches to keep the costs down and plenty of water sport options as well as tennis and mini golf.

Fiji has some great family holiday options - other islands well worth a visit for families are Mana and Castaway. For more information, have a look at Plantation Island and see our current specials here.

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