Placeholder Content Image

5 lesser known benefits of taking vitamin C

<p>Many people tell me they take a vitamin C supplement as part of their winter wellness regime, to help ward off illness during the colder months.</p> <p>Vitamin C is well known for its bolstering effect on the immune system, so I love to boost my vitamin C intake whenever I'm travelling, too.</p> <p>But this superstar nutrient has many other functions that are critical to how we look, feel and function on a daily basis.</p> <p>It's a nutrient that we must consume daily, and consuming additional amounts above what is needed to prevent a deficiency is associated with health benefits.</p> <p>Just in case you needed more reasons to love vitamin C, here are five of its lesser-known functions in the body:</p> <p><strong>1. Adrenal health</strong></p> <p>The adrenal glands love vitamin C! The adrenals produce our stress hormones (adrenalin and cortisol) as well as some of our sex hormones, so adrenal function – for which vitamin C is essential – is inextricably linked to how we feel.</p> <p>Vitamin C is used up when stress hormones are produced, so requirements may be increased during periods of stress (which unfortunately seems to be more often than not, these days). Chronic stress can also impact immune function and vitamin C is wonderfully supportive for this.</p> <p><strong>2. Efficient fat burning</strong></p> <p>Vitamin C is involved in the production of carnitine, a compound that is essential for transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, the energy factories of each cell (think of each mitochondria as a mouse running on a wheel), so that they can be used for energy.</p> <p>Really think about this – fat is a slow burning fuel, so if you want to avoid an energy rollercoaster you want this process to be functioning optimally.</p> <p><strong>3. Maintaining the body's structure</strong></p> <p>Vitamin C is required for the production of collagen, a structural protein in bones, tendons, cartilage and skin. While many people have heard about the importance of collagen in the skin from a beauty perspective, its other roles seem to be less appreciated.</p> <p>Healthy bones and tendons are critical to our ability to move with ease and therefore for maintaining our body's functionality, and this has a huge impact on quality of life. Vitamin C is also essential for wound healing.</p> <p><strong>4. Improves iron absorption</strong></p> <p>Iron absorption from plant-based foods is enhanced in the presence of vitamin C. This is important considering that iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world.</p> <p>The presence of 75 milligrams of vitamin C can increase the amount of plant-based iron absorbed by around 300 per cent, or even more if the person is iron deficient. Include vitamin C rich vegetables with your meals. Brassica family vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and kale are good sources.</p> <p><strong>5. Reduced risk of chronic diseases</strong></p> <p>Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that reduces damage and inflammation in the body, helping to protect you from degenerative diseases. There is evidence that eating plenty of fruit and vegetables (which tend to be rich sources of vitamin C) as well as adequate vitamin C levels are associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and some cancers. </p> <p>Great food sources of vitamin C include broccoli, capsicum, kiwifruit and citrus fruits, however it's important to know that preparation and cooking methods can influence the vitamin C content of these foods. Vitamin C is sensitive to heat and is water-soluble so it can be lost in water. Lightly steaming or stir-frying vegetables instead of boiling them will retain more vitamin C.</p> <p><em>Written by Dr Libby Weaver. Republished with permission of <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span></strong></a>.</em></p>

Body

Placeholder Content Image

4 wondrous lesser-known anti-ageing beauty products

<p>Instead of slathering on another layer of that expensive “night serum” and hoping for a miracle, why not consider this list of nifty anti-ageing beauty products that work wonders on turning back the clock to make your appearance more youthful.</p> <p><strong>1. Hair thickening and treatment products</strong></p> <p>We know that the state of our hair can be a <a href="/lifestyle/beauty-style/2016/08/most-common-physical-feature-we-worry-about-with-age/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">big give-away when it comes to ageing.</span></strong></a> As we age, hair follicles become smaller leading to a loss of volume, while a decrease in lipid oil production results in dullness and dryness. However, there are some very useful products out there that can give your locks their life back. Focus on shampoos that have replenishing and thickening qualities like <a href="http://www.tresemme.com.au/product/category/1019041/youth-boost" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">TRESemme’ Youth Boost</span></strong></a> collection and <a href="/%20http:/www.dove.com/uk/collections/advanced-hair-care-series/youthful-vitality.html" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">DOVE Youthful Vitality.</span></strong></a></p> <p><strong>2. Hand and nail cream</strong></p> <p>This is an easy one to forget, but the humble hand cream can turn back the clock on hands. Fragrance free, heavier creams and ointments are best – and make sure you moisturise straight after showering, washing the dishes and cleaning the house. Naturally Ageless Skin Smoothing Hand Cream from <a href="http://burtsbees.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Burt’s Bees</strong></span></a> is a great option.</p> <p><strong>3. Lash and brow boosters</strong></p> <p>Thin eyebrows and weak eyelashes will take away from the symmetry of your face – which when perfected will really make your face pop for a youthful glow. Just as you groom and maintain the hair on your head, the hair on your face needs some attention as well.  Don’t go rushing out to make an appointment at the salon, though, simply invest in some eyebrow powder and a booting serum. <a href="http://beautyinhighdefinition.com/shop/brows/lash-brow-booster/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Lash&amp;Brow Booster by High Definition</span></strong></a> is enriched with active ingredients such as argan oil known to enhance the length and volume of brows and lashes.</p> <p><strong>4. Plumping lip balms</strong></p> <p>The older we get, the less collagen we produce, leading to our lips losing the protein that supports their plumpness. There are products, however, that stimulate natural collagen formation through honey, hyaluronic acid and even purified bee venom. If you don’t mind a bit of a tingling sensation, try out <a href="http://www.manukadoctor.com.au/apirefine-lip-enhancer-15ml.html" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Manuka Doctor's ApiRefine Lip Enhance.</span></strong></a></p> <p>What’s your favourite anti-ageing product? Tell us why you like it in the comments below.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/beauty-style/2016/08/anti-ageing-skin-treatments-for-every-budget/"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">4 anti-ageing skin treatments for every budget</span></strong></em></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/beauty-style/2016/08/budget-beauty-buys/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">5 budget beauty buys</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/beauty-style/2016/07/problem-with-all-natural-skincare-products/"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The problem with “all-natural” skincare products</span></strong></em></a></p>

Beauty & Style

Placeholder Content Image

7 lesser-known brilliant books by famous authors

<p>When you hear the name “Douglas Adams”, you think <em>Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy</em>. When you hear “Vladimir Nabokov”, you think <em>Lolita</em>. But did you know there were more to these incredible authors than just their most popular novels? From Orwell to Brontë, we take a look at some of the books that didn’t quite leave the same impression as those that came before and after them but are just as great in their own right.</p> <p><strong><em>Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency</em><a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fdirk-gently-s-holistic-detective-agency-douglas-adams%2Fprod9781447221098.html" target="_blank"></a> by Douglas Adams</strong></p> <p>He brought us the wonderfully wacky <em>Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy</em>, but Adams’ 1987 novel <em>Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency</em> is up there with his best. It’s just as crazy, clever and hilarious as all his other work. Don’t believe us? On its cover, Adams describes it as a “thumping good detective-ghost-horror-who dunnit-time travel-romantic-musical-comedy-epic”.</p> <p><strong><em>Coming Up for Air<a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fcoming-up-for-air-george-orwell%2Fprod9780141185699.html" target="_blank"></a></em> by George Orwell</strong></p> <p>We’re betting you’re familiar with Orwell’s dystopian classics <em>1984</em> and<em> Animal Farm</em>, but his 1939 novel is worthy of the title “classic”, too. A bit more down-to-earth than his other work, <em>Coming Up for Air</em> showcases Orwell’s signature pessimism, cynicism and criticism of capitalism and commercialism. One thing’s for sure, it’ll make you think.</p> <p><strong><em>Invitation to a Beheading<a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Finvitation-to-a-beheading-vladimir-nabokov%2Fprod9780679725312.html" target="_blank"></a></em> by Vladimir Nabokov</strong></p> <p>1955’s <em>Lolita</em>, which Nabokov wrote in English, is undoubtedly one of the most famous and most controversial books of the last century, but the novels he wrote in Russian deserve just as much attention. The surreal, metaphorical <em>Invitation to a Beheading</em> was the work Nabokov held in “the greatest esteem” and is ideal for fans of Franz Kafka.</p> <p><strong><em>Island<a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fkangaroo-david-herbert-lawrence%2Fprod9781515364535.html" target="_blank"></a> </em>by Aldous Huxley</strong></p> <p>Huxley is best known for his dystopian masterpiece Brave New World, but the author also created a distinctly utopian world in the 1962 novel Island. It tells the story of a cynical journalist, who falls in love with the way of life of a small island on which he finds himself shipwrecked. A recommended read for anyone who has read Brave New World.</p> <p><strong><em>Kangaroo<a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fkangaroo-david-herbert-lawrence%2Fprod9781515364535.html" target="_blank"></a></em> by D. H. Lawrence</strong></p> <p><em>Sons and Lovers</em> and <em>Lady Chatterley’s Lover</em> might sound familiar, but how about <em>Kangaroo</em>? The English author wrote his ode to Australia after visiting with his family in 1922. The vivid descriptions of the rugged Australian landscape as well as the politics of the time will give you a new-found appreciation for the land down under.</p> <p><strong><em>Villette<a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fvillette-charlotte-bronte%2Fprod9781853260728.html" target="_blank"></a></em> by Charlotte Brontë</strong></p> <p>The talented Brontë sisters produced some iconic novels, but perhaps the most beloved is Charlotte’s <em>Jane Eyre</em>. However, did you know that many consider her fourth novel <em>Villette</em> to be even better? The novel follows a young girl who travels to the fictional French town of Villette to teach at a school and finds herself wrapped up in adventure and romance.</p> <p><em><strong>The Red House Mystery<a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fthe-red-house-mystery-a-a-milne%2Fprod9780099521273.html" target="_blank"></a></strong></em><strong> by A. A. Milne</strong></p> <p>Milne is most famous for being the creator of <em>Winnie-the-Pooh</em>, but the author has also tried his hand in the mystery genre. Set far from the Hundred Acre Woods lies the Red House, where a guest at a local inn is called up to solve a murder that has local authorities stumped. This whodunit will be a hit with Sherlock Holmes fans.</p> <p>How many of these lesser-known books have you read? Tell us what you thought about them in the comments below.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/books/2016/07/6-classic-books-that-were-banned/"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>6 classic books that were banned</em></span></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/books/2016/06/best-books-of-2016-so-far/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Best books of 2016 so far</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/books/2016/05/top-10-book-series-ever/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em>Top 10 book series ever</em></strong></span></a></p>

Books

Placeholder Content Image

5 lesser-known cruise lines you will love

<p>Everyone is familiar with the big cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, Carnival or P&amp;O – especially as one of their ships is docked at Sydney Harbour almost every day. But how about some of the lesser-known lines that offer a one of a kind experience?</p> <p><strong>1. Coral Expeditions</strong></p> <p>This small-ship line operates just a handful of vessels, all of which carry around 50 passengers. They sail around the Great Barrier Reef, through the Kimberley region or around the rugged wilderness of southern Tasmania. It’s best suited to adventurous, active travellers who like to spend their time off the ship, exploring, hiking or kayaking.</p> <p><strong>2. Viking Ocean Cruises</strong></p> <p>Viking River Cruises is one of the biggest names in the business with more than 50 ships sailing rivers around the world. But did you know they’ve also launched two ocean ships, and more are on the way? The mid-sized ships have a few really exciting features that you won’t find anywhere else, like an infinity pool cantilevered over the back of the ship and a glass-roofed central lounge area. Plus, almost everything onboard (like alcohol and specialty dining) is included in the price.</p> <p><strong>3. Fathom</strong></p> <p>This newly launched line is the first in the industry dedicated completely to voluntourism. It operates just the one ship, the Adonia, and sails from Miami to the Dominican Republic or Cuba where passengers engage in volunteer programs, like school visits and community projects. They are also encouraged to learn about the destination before they arrive, with lecture programs and language classes onboard during the voyage.</p> <p><strong>4. Un-Cruise Adventures</strong></p> <p>As the name suggests, Un-Cruise doesn’t think of themselves as a traditional cruise company. Operating a fleet of small ships in places like Mexico, Alaska, the Galapagos Islands and Hawaii, there’s a big focus on wilderness, wildlife and culture. Passengers will get to swim with sea lions, kayak around icebergs or hike through lush jungle looking for birds. There’s lots to do onboard too, with lectures, whale watching and sunrise yoga sessions.</p> <p><strong>6. Hapag-Lloyd</strong></p> <p>German cruise line Hapag-Lloyd operates what is generally regarded as the most luxurious ship in the world, but there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of it. The flagship Europa 2 is sleek, stylish and seriously swish. The cabins are huge, all come with a balcony, most have a bath tub with jets and many even have a steam sauna. There are 13 dining options for just 500 guests and the bilingual staff are on hand to meet your every need. At the same time, the atmosphere is relaxed and you never need to put on a tie if you don’t want to.</p> <p>What’s your favourite line to cruise with? Have you tried any of these under-the-radar, lesser-known cruise lines?</p> <p>Please share your story in the comments below.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/travel/cruising/2016/05/5-things-you-must-do-to-avoid-seasickness-on-a-cruise/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">5 things you MUST do to avoid seasickness on a cruise</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/cruising/2016/05/10-things-you-must-never-do-in-a-cruise-cabin/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>10 things you must never do in a cruise cabin</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/cruising/2016/05/po-ships-first-new-zealand-cruise/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>P&amp;O’s first cruise around New Zealand</strong></em></span></a></p>

Cruising

Placeholder Content Image

10 lesser-known New Zealand holiday spots

<p>There’s so much more to New Zealand than just the tourist-brochure hotspots like Auckland, Queenstown and Milford Sound. These are the best off the radar spots to visit.</p> <p><strong>1. Kapiti Island</strong></p> <p>Sitting just off the coast of the Wellington region, Kapiti is one of the country’s oldest and most important nature reserves. You’ll need to visit as part of an approved tour group so only a small number of people are on the island each day. Camp over night for the chance to see the NZ national emblem, the kiwi, in the wild.</p> <p><strong>2. Little Kaiteriteri</strong></p> <p>The seaside resort of Kaiteriteri is quite well known and often referred to as the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. This means it’s can also be quite crowded. A bit further down the coast, Little Kaiteriteri is a hidden gem, an absolutely stunning stretch of beach that is completely deserted most of the time.</p> <p><strong>3. East Cape</strong></p> <p>Covering the easternmost point of New Zealand’s North Island, the East Cape is ruggedly beautiful and yet receives hardly any visitors – just 1% of tourists make it this far. That means deserted beaches, coastal jungle, scenic roads and a fascinating Maori culture just for you.</p> <p><strong>4. Te Mata Peak</strong></p> <p>The Hawke’s Bay region is known for its food and wine, so work up an appetite with a hike to the top of Te Mata Peak. Standing nearly 400 metres above sea level there are incredible views of the Ruahine, Kaweka and Maungaharuru Ranges, Cape Kidnapper, and even the volcano Ruapehu on a clear day. It’s also a significant place in Maori history and is said to be formed from the body of the giant Te Mata.</p> <p><strong>5. New Plymouth Coastal Walkway</strong></p> <p>NZ is a great walking destination and New Plymouth is one of the lesser known trails. The 10-kilometre promenade runs along the coast with ever changing views of the city, beaches, forests and mountains. There’s even outdoor sculptures along the way.</p> <p><strong>6. Ohau Waterfall</strong></p> <p>This picturesque waterfall along the Ohau Stream is a popular spot for playful young fur seal pups from the nearby colony to take a dip. You’ll need to stay calm and quiet so as not to scare them, and hopefully you’ll be able to see a happy band of them frolicking under the falls.</p> <p><strong>7. Waipapa Point</strong></p> <p>Another one for the animal lovers, this secluded point in the Catlins, on the southeast corner of the South Island, is home to one of the rarest species of seal in the world, the critically endangered New Zealand sea lion. Watch for them just hanging out on the beach.</p> <p><strong>8. Raglan</strong></p> <p>This lively coastal town has managed to stay off the tourist radar, though it can’t stay that way forever. Nearby Manu Bay has what many believe to be the longest, most accessible and consistent left-hand break in the world and, if you’re skilled enough, you can catch a wave and surf it for up to two kilometres.</p> <p><strong>9. Arrowtown</strong></p> <p>Think of it as Queenstown without the hype. It’s a charming, gold rush-era town with many of its colonial buildings still standing and easily one of New Zealand’s most picturesque settlements. Plus it’s right next to the adventure playground of Coronet Peak.</p> <p><strong>10. Forgotten World Highway</strong></p> <p>This winding stretch of road runs through King Country in the North Island and is one of the world’s great drives (even if it is a little ‘up and down’ as the locals say). Gorgeous vistas look over remote, untouched wilderness in a forgotten corner of New Zealand. Just don’t expect phone service.</p> <p>Have you been to any of the locations mentioned above? Where’s your favourite place to go on holidays in New Zealand? Share your thoughts in the comments below.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/domestic-travel/2016/05/10-breathtaking-photos-new-zealand-beautiful-roads/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>10 breathtaking photos of New Zealand’s beautiful roads</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/domestic-travel/2016/05/why-you-need-to-visit-the-spectacular-otago-central-rail-trail/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Why you need to visit New Zealand’s spectacular Otago Central Rail Trail</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/cruising/2016/05/new-zealand-by-a-cruise-ship/"><span><em><strong>Wine, wonder and Lord of the Rings – New Zealand by cruise ship</strong></em></span></a></p>

Domestic Travel

Placeholder Content Image

6 lesser-known Australian islands

<p>Sometimes the best holidays are taken in locations that are under the radar. Here’s six Aussie islands you might not know, but would provide a great escape!</p> <p><strong>1. Bare Sand Island, Northern Territory</strong></p> <p>If you were marketing an island, naming it Bare Sand wouldn't be smart (even if it was accurate). Nor would posting signs mentioning unexploded bombs (the island was once used by the Royal Australian Air Force). And the less said about crocs, the better.</p> <p>But to the flatback sea turtles that come ashore each winter, Bare Sand is paradise. From the cruise out of Darwin across the Timor Sea, to watching turtles nesting or hatchlings exploding from the sand, this is nature at its most basic. Take a $250 day tour with <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="http://seadarwin.com/" target="_blank">Sea Darwin</a><a href="http://www.austurtle.org.au"></a></strong></em></span> (April-September) or spend $420 for a seven-day volunteer project with <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="http://www.austurtle.org.au/" target="_blank">AusTurtle.</a><a href="/seadarwin.com"></a></strong></em></span></p> <p><strong>2. Dirk Hartog Island, Western Australia</strong></p> <p>Almost 400 years ago (October 25, 1616), a young Dutchman named Dirk stepped ashore on an island off the coast of Western Australia, poked around, scratched his name on a pewter plate and continued on his way. If only he knew what he was missing.</p> <p>Today, adventurers in search of history, mystery and wildlife can fly or cruise from Denham to Dirk Hartog Island. The reward is a chance to experience the Shark Bay World Heritage area minus the crowds, spotting loggerhead turtles, visiting a fossilised reef, exploring Cape Inscription and, if you're lucky, kayaking alongside a family of dugongs.</p> <p>Accommodation is Crusoe-basic at the <a href="http://www.dirkhartogisland.com/" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Dirk Hartog</span></strong></em></a> Island Eco Lodge or campsites. From $22 for a campsite to $446 for a three-day package. </p> <p><strong>3. Haggerstone Island, Queensland</strong></p> <p>If shipwrecked, you could only dream of washing ashore on a place such as <a href="http://www.haggerstoneisland.com.au" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Haggerstone Island.</strong></em></span></a> Loved by A-listers and solitude seekers alike, this all-inclusive boutique resort on the Great Barrier Reef is reached by charter flight from Cairns or Weipa.</p> <p>The resort is Gilligan-simple: three handcrafted huts, a two-bedroom beach house, pavilion and jetty. Fresh food is the hero, with fish caught daily, and herbs, fruit and vegetables supplied by the organic orchard. Activities include boating, fishing, skin diving, snorkelling, bird watching and beachcombing.</p> <p>Haggerstone is bleached, barefoot luxury at its best. From $750 a person a night, all-inclusive (excluding air charters). </p> <p><strong>4. Woody Island, Western Australia</strong></p> <p>It's not every day you can stay in an A-class nature reserve. Named for its stands of tall trees, <a href="http://woodyisland.com.au" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Woody Island</strong></em></span></a> can be reached easily by boat transfer from Esperance.  Go for the day or stay the night in safari huts at Woody Island Ecostays, the only accommodation on the 240-hectare island.</p> <p>Walk to Twiggy's landing (named after a dog that was stranded there, surviving on lizards for 3-plus months), swim, follow the snorkel trail at Shearwater Bay, fish from the jetty or enjoy the native birdlife. Safari Huts from $140 a night for two people. </p> <p><strong>5. Montague Island, New South Wales</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.montagueisland.com.au" target="_blank"><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Montague Island Nature Reserve</strong></span></em></a>, near Narooma on the south coast of <a href="http://www.visitnsw.com" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em>NSW</em></strong></span></a>, is home to 6000 pairs of little penguins, as well as formidable populations of Australian fur seals, shearwaters, crested terns and silver gulls. Depending on the time of year, humpback whales, dolphins and green turtles can be seen in the surrounding waters.</p> <p>All are reason enough to visit, but the real drawcard is the opportunity to stay overnight in a restored lighthouse keeper's quarters. Better still, sign on for a <a href="http://www.conservationvolunteers.com.au" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>conservation</strong></em><em><strong> program with Conservation Volunteers</strong> </em></span></a>and spend your weekend counting penguins, restoring habitats or pulling weeds. Cost is $595 a person for a three-day Nature Escape. </p> <p><strong>6. Houtman Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia</strong></p> <p>Murder, mutiny and mayhem were the order of the day in 1629, when the Dutch merchant ship Batavia hit a reef at the edge of the Abrolhos Islands, an archipelago of 122 islands about 60 kilometres off the town of Geraldton. Today these islands, rich in marine and other wildlife, are largely deserted except for the fishermen who live in brightly painted shacks during the rock lobster season.</p> <p>Options include a full-day tour, <a href="http://www.geraldtonaircharter.com.au" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em>flying over the remains</em></strong></span></a> of a fort built by the survivors before landing on East Wallabi Island for a day of swimming at Turtle Bay or <a href="http://www.abrolhosislandcharters.com.au" target="_blank"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">chartering a boat</span></em></strong></a> for a multi-day cruise. Cost is $260 for a full-day Abrolhos Islands Shipwreck tour. </p> <p><em>Written Kerry Van Der Jagt. First appeared on <strong><a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span>.</a></strong></em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/02/a-look-inside-first-class-cabins/">Inside 8 first class cabins that will amaze you</a></span></em></strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/02/most-photographed-locations-in-london/">London’s 8 most photographed locations</a></span></em></strong></p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/02/holiday-ideas-for-animal-lovers/">8 holiday ideas every animal lover needs to experience</a></span></em></strong></p>

International Travel

Placeholder Content Image

The lesser-known places to visit in New Zealand

<p>Planning a trip to New Zealand? Make sure you visit these local hotspots and lesser-known treasures while you’re there.</p> <p><strong>Wanaka</strong></p> <p>Not far from Queenstown is Wanaka, an area awash with wilderness, fishing opportunities, and ski terrain. Wanaka boasts two ski fields, Cardrona and Treble Cone, and is surrounded by a beautiful lake and mountain range.</p> <p><strong>Dunedin </strong><em>(pictured)</em></p> <p>One of the most popular sites in New Zealand to visit, Dunedin is nestled in the Otago Harbour. Here, you can experience Edwardian and Victorian architecture, get to know the city’s rich heritage, and explore the renowned art scene. The city centre also boasts amazing restaurants, cafes and hotels for your pleasure.</p> <p><strong>Hokianga</strong></p> <p>Hokianga Harbour offers beautiful blue waters and golden sands, contrasted with lush forest. Experience the guided night walk accompanied by the locals, where you’ll explore Waipoua Forst and learn about the area’s fascinating history. Enjoy swimming, sandboarding, and fishing and forget about life in the city for a while.</p> <p><strong>Rotura</strong></p> <p>Rotura is home to sparkling lakes, breathtaking scenery and even a volcanic zone. Let the adventurer in you run wild as you experience the geysers, mud pools, and fumaroles that Rotura has to offer.</p> <p><img width="545" height="332" src="http://www.mynatour.org/sites/default/files/imagecache/page_display/rotoura.jpg" class="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 8px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p><strong>White Island</strong></p> <p>About an hour away from Rotura you’ll find the less frequented White Island, which holds claim to New Zealand’s one and only active marine volcano. White Island is also home to surf towns, white sand beaches and the Ngati Awa tribe, who can share their traditional hangi feast with you. The island is privately owned, however, so a tour guide is necessary to visit.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/travel/international-travel/2015/08/exciting-travel-experiences/">9 travel experiences full of excitement</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/travel/international-travel/2015/08/best-animal-migrations/">The world’s 7 greatest animal migrations worth seeing</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/travel/international-travel/2015/08/ridiculous-hotel-amenities/">The most ridiculous hotel amenities we've heard of</a></strong></em></span></p>

International Travel

Our Partners