Been There Thread, We're going down under

Next week BT and I are heading off for three weeks in Oz and New Zealand.

It's mainly to see family - particularly BT's sister. And I'll be seeing my best man who I haven't seen for 40 years.

We're not going to be doing the grand tour, but we'll be taking in Sydney, Canberra, Auckland and Hamilton.

I'd be interested in any 'must sees' in those parts - particularly the kind of things not to be found in guide books.

Coaster, I hope you have a whale of a great time, and when you get a chance let us know what you find interesting.

You should resist trying to bring back a kangaroo.

Whilst in Sydney you should try the skywalk at Centrepoint tower or the bridge climb.....You have to be fit.
Have a nice meal in Chinatown.It'll wean you off all those Indian curries that you all seem to eat up there. :lol:

From Hamilton drive the short distance to Rotorua for a pleasant day out.A ride on the jet boat or the helicopter is good fun while in the area.

8)

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If I had only thought of that before.

arrozy, it's summer there now is that right? Sounds like a perfect time for a visit.

Coaster, if you get in touch with Hazel, she'll give you a good agenda. And probably arrange to meet you.

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Gina
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Retired and relaxed!

You would be most welcome, Coaster, and I would love to show you both my part of Sydney. When will you be here ?

It is still summer here and February is out hottest and most humid month but at the moment the temperature is 73 degrees with the humidity at 49% - very pleasant.

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Be crafty

What a shame your both not coming to Melbourne Coaster,Sparkles and I could have entertained you...
I have been to Sydney,love it,always reminds me of London...
We have been to Canberra,very clean place but only stopped
for a coffee really... :lol:
I think we are the only State which hasn't had any rainfall and
flooding...
Have a fantastic time while your in NZ and OZ...

Very many thanks for those thoughts and kind messages.

BT has a cousin in Melbourne, but he's flying up to see us so unfortunately we won't be making that trip, but I do appreciate the thought .... perhaps next time.

Hazel, I didn't want to presume on you, but as always you are most kind and welcoming. I'll PM you our plans and we'll see if anything fits.

Our visit is short and there's a lot to fit in, but we're really looking forward to it.

I'm told it's warm enough for us not to need to take a jumper, but I might just try to bring one back, Bounder :wink:

Have a great time Coaster and BT. Kath and I are hoping to do it next year (dependant on certain events) and if we do go, we'll be there for 3 months!!

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"Beer is living proof that God loves us and wants to see us happy." --Benjamin Franklin

Hi Coaster

We were in OZ and New Zealand last March and April loved every minute of it. Sydney is a wonderful city, we stayed in the Rocks area close to the harbour. One regret we didn't do the bridge climb, left it a bit late and then it was fully booked. As Ozy mentioned you need to be fit and book in advance.

Besides the Bridge the Opera house is a must in the harbour area and then jump on one of the many ferries that whiz across the harbour to the different suburbs and beaches, particularly liked Manly.

Hazel was a doll drove us all over the place. The best thing about Australia is the Australians wonderful, lovely, friendly with a brilliant sense of humour. Make sure you have a drink or two with the locals. When we visit a city we normally seek out the city tour bus - you know - open deck upstairs with the commentary. Most major cities in the world have them, we do the tour then go back to the places that interest us.

We had just a week left for New Zealand not enough time really and only visited the north island to visit friends. Firstly in Wellington and then drove up to Auckland - stopped overnight at Lake Taupo on the way up. Our friends live north of Auckland in a fabulous position on the coast. Your money will go a long way in New Zealand - great value.