In conversation with Neha Bhola, Country Manager-India from New Zealand Tourism, on having the best outdoor experiences in Kiwiland…
Did you know that Zorbing was invented in New Zealand, specifically in Rotorua?
Or about the short but giving lifecycle of glowworms found in New Zealand caves?
Or about visitors taking a Tiaki promise?
When Neha Bola, Country Manager-India from New Zealand Tourism, visited Panache World recently, she pointed out the design on her T-shirt.
“Tiaki”, she said.
Tiaki (pronounced tee-ah-key) is a Māori word that represents the collective care towards the culture, people, and environment of New Zealand, ‘now and for future generations’. You become a guardian of Aotearoa (New Zealand) the moment you step off the plane. Every visitor (manuhiri) gets invited into this circle of care and is encouraged to take up the Tiaki promise while exploring the country, she added.
A biker and trekker, Neha Bhola shared with Panache World her ‘unique 100 % New Zealand’ experiences in a country she has explored since 2012.
Edited excerpts from an interview for the discerning traveller who loves the outdoors and is looking for new experiences in New Zealand:
North Island or South Island – which wins your heart?
That’s my right eye and left eye. I can’t pick. I love parts of the North Island. It’s where I’ve gone on holiday. If you are looking at majestic landscapes, then the South Island is your gig.
Your favourite season in New Zealand, and the best place to experience it.
I love autumn! Love the shades of yellow, green, and orange, and the nip in the air. The Abel Tasman National Park is a great place to experience it. Just being there by yourself and taking in the moment was amazing for me!
Highlight a few destinations or private experiences in New Zealand that haven’t hit mainstream itineraries yet…
The Lost World, a cave adventure that unfolds in the Waikato region. It’s where you can see glowworms by abseiling 100 metres and walking through caves. It’s a great experience to understand glowworms and how short and giving the lifecycle of a glowworm is!
What is a new luxury experience to have in New Zealand for wellness…
It’s a different kind of luxury. I’d say try the forest therapy on Waiheke Island. They take you to the middle of the forest. It’s about grounding yourself. And the energy you feel from that experience is outstanding. I know some people have had goosebumps. It’s a special moment that stays with you. It’s run by Terra and Tide.
The best road-trip route, according to you, is…
My first time in New Zealand was in 2012. I rode on a Harley from Auckland all the way to the Bay of Islands. From there, I rode on to visit Tāne Mahuta (the most revered tree in New Zealand, also called ‘Lord of the Forests’) in the North Island. I was there by myself and met a Māori guide, who also held a special prayer for me. That ride all the way up and back was amazing!
Another route I love is on the West Coast. You start driving down from Nelson via Punakaiki, all the way into the town of Franz Josef/ Waiau. It’s picturesque, with amazing winding roads, beautiful lakes, and forests. Not many people know about this.
The best restaurant you’ve eaten at this year?
Gibbston Valley Winery & Restaurant. They have gone through a 360-degree turn. Their menu features outstanding fresh produce food!
One dish every visitor MUST try in New Zealand…
The popular belief is that everyone must try Fergburger (a Queenstown must-do for gourmet hamburgers!) But I think nothing beats a good steak in New Zealand. If you are non-vegetarian, you must try a steak.
An underrated activity tourists are missing out on?
Zorbing in Rotorua (where Zorbing was invented). Because it’s different. In New Zealand, the ball has warm water inside if it’s cold outside, and cold water if it’s hot outside, and the beauty is that you stay at the base without moving 360 degrees as the ball rolls. It’s a lot of fun! If you don’t like someone, don’t get into it with them!
One other experience I would encourage everyone to do is the Redwoods Treewalk within the Whakarewarewa forest in Rotorua. It’s beautiful to take the suspended eco trail around redwood trees at twilight. The sight is amazing!
Treewalk
The most romantic place for a proposal?
I haven’t received a proposal in New Zealand! So it isn’t a fair question. (Laughs)
I think a sweet spot would be on a beach within the Abel Tasman National Park. There are white sandy beaches; you can see rainforests, mountains and the ocean. It’s special!
A favourite Māori cultural experience?
I’d say Pōwhiri, which is a ceremony welcoming visitors to New Zealand. I witnessed it from Te Puia (a geothermal region) in Rotorua. It’s powerful. Even if you don’t relate to it, you feel the energy flow through you from the person performing it.
One thing you’d never recommend to visitors?
Do not overspeed. New Zealand is all about scenic open roads, and people do underestimate the curves.
What’s one hiking trail that changed your perspective on New Zealand?
Marlborough Sounds. I hadn’t planned on doing it, but due to a ferry cancellation, I ended up backpacking in the woods. I spent 48 hours on the trail by myself, with tin food and a few sandwiches. That changed my perspective on how beautiful New Zealand forests are and how safe they are!
New Zealand on your mind? Check out more Panache World journeys:
Rosewood Cape Kidnappers: The luxury farm in NZ that makes celebrities gasp
Eagle’s Nest: An award-winning retreat in the North Island for planet lovers
Rotorua: A geothermal wellness experience for your reset.
