March Hare Cycling Opens

NEW TOURISM VENTURE OPENS AT HEART OF CLASSIC NZ WINE TRAIL

Fancy a leisurely afternoon pedaling amongst the Northern Wairarapa vineyards, through olive groves and across paddocks?

Well thanks to March Hare Cycling, a brand new cycling experience based at the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail and located only 1 ½ hours from Wellington, visitors can hire bicycles and explore the Northern Wairarapa – one of New Zealand’s up and coming wine regions.

Owner of March Hare Cycling, Gretchen Bunny, says the self guided cycling tour has been specially designed to give visitors an insiders look around the scenic area located five minutes north of Masterton as well as the chance to sample fresh local produce, a variety of wines and olive oils.

“This type of wine tourism experience is new to the Northern Wairarapa and I’ve spent long hours on the bike developing the best route so visitors can experience first hand the unique characteristics that make up this increasingly popular wine-growing area,” she says. “Not only will people get to meet an eclectic group of local personalities but they will also be able to enjoy a delicious picnic of locally sourced produce and have exclusive access to trail routes across farmland and in between vineyards.”

Gretchen established her business in October this year after spending almost 15 years working outside of the region and overseas. But her passion for the Northern Wairarapa was so great she decided to return home and share her passion with others.

“Six months ago I was made redundant from a job I loved and was contemplating moving back to the or to Australia,” she recalls. “However I was really excited by a number of developments happening in the Wairarapa and realized this is where I want to be. I also realized there was a great opportunity for me to provide a new tourism experience here.”

Starting within the leafy groves of Loop Line Olives visitors can cycle cross country on quality and comfortable bikes meandering through the vineyards and nearby olive groves. With an easy to follow map and a well marked route visitors enjoy a picnic of locally sourced produce and have exclusive access to cycle across some of the region’s most scenic farmland and through vineyards.

March Hare Cycling is focused on making the day as easy and relaxed as possible and is easily accessible.

“For Wellingtonians the train is a great option,” says Gretchen. “Not only is it incredibly scenic but it means you can enjoy tasting the wines without worrying about the drive back. Plus we’re able to collect you from the Masterton Railway Station, deliver you to March Hare Headquarters then drop you off again in time for your train home.”

The cost is $65 per person and includes bike and helmet hire, a delicious picnic, a route map and exclusive access across private land.

March Hare Cycling is now taking bookings for summer and also offers vouchers – the perfect gift to give someone needing to unwind during the festive season. There is a maximum of 20 persons and booking are essential for catering purposes.

A curious blend of old and new

Turkey combines simplicity and sophistication

Diversity is the word for this dazzling destination where the ruins of ancient civilisations mix with vibrant nightlife, cosmopolitan shopping and modern marinas. 
And now holidaymakers looking for the ultimate Turkish experience can discover towns untouched by tourism and beautiful bays still only accessible by boat as part of a Sunsail sailing flotilla.
Flotillas are the ultimate in social sailing, where you sail your own boat under the watchful guidance of a Lead Crew - including a qualified skipper, a hostess and an engineer – along with about 10 other boats.
All holidaymakers have to do is relax and discover this amazing country including experiencing delicious, exotic cuisine, meeting friendly locals and uncovering hidden treasures in an Aladdin’s cave of bazaars selling spices, silver trinkets and carpets.
“Flotilla holidays appeal to all ages and we find that once people have experienced them, they come back again and again,” said Sunsail Yacht Charter’s marketing manager Kim Lehmann.
“Our cruising area encompasses some of the most stunning sailing grounds that southern Turkey has to offer. Blessed by sunshine and good winds, you’re almost guaranteed great sailing on moderate seas.
“There is always plenty of free time to explore on your own and then meet your fellow sailors and lead crew at agreed destinations for barbecues, cocktail parties and picnics. And on family flotillas there is an activities coordinator especially for the kids.” 
Sunsail Yacht Charters invented the flotilla sailing holiday in 1974 and continues to lead the way with these fun-filled social sailing adventures around the world.
Turkey is less expensive than most Mediterranean destinations and few others possess such a wealth of culture, history and intrigue.
Special offer: For a limited time only, receive a free ‘Nibbles & Drinks’ package* for your first night on board, when you book any Turkish flotilla for the 2010 sailing season (best times May to October).  In addition, holidaymakers who book six months in advance can take advantage of Sunsail’s special five per cent Advance Booking Discount.
* Applies to new bookings only.

More than half of NZ to change traditional summer holiday plans

Jasons Travel Media recently asked Kiwis what they’re planning to do for the Christmas and summer holidays, just around the corner in less than three months time.  A staggering 60% of respondents are changing their plans from the norm this summer – opting to spend their time somewhere other than where they have gone for summer holidays in the past.  When asked, there were a plethora of reasons for the break from traditional plans including ‘better deals on accommodation elsewhere’, ‘decided to go somewhere close’ and ‘money is a bit tight this year’.

Over a third of respondents have already sorted their Christmas and summer holiday plans, with 35% aiming to get sorted within the next month.  Over 60% of people booked their accommodation when they made holiday plans, with 40% of respondents using third party websites and directories such as www.jasons.com to book accommodation.  Not surprisingly, price is the biggest factor for over 70% when choosing accommodation, with location, amenities and hot deals also contributing to the decision making process.

Around 27% of Kiwis are opting not to take a Christmas or summer holiday this year.  Of those who are taking holidays over the summer, 68% will be travelling within New Zealand while 11% will head to Australia or the Pacific.

Top spots for holidays this summer include Northland, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and perhaps surprisingly – Auckland!  The survey also revealed a whopping 38% of respondents missed out on their accommodation of choice in the past due to leaving their bookings too late.  Says CEO of Jasons Travel Media, Matthew Mayne, “With summer just around the corner we advise Kiwis to book their summer holidays as soon as they can to avoid disappointment. Travellers can feel confident about booking online with Jasons Travel Media, where there are no fees, commissions or hidden costs when you book.”