Hugo making the most of the Abel Tasman beaches

summer 2010
YHA New Zealand Members’ Magazine
YHA is the world’s first and largest independent travellers’n e t w o r k .
YHA/H I hostels enable New Zealand and international
m e m b e r s t o c o n n e c t w i t h t h e n a t u r a l e n v i ro n m e n t , l o c a l
c u l t u re a n d l i k e m i n d e d t ra ve l l e r s .
Adventures in New zealand and beyond...
Printed on 100% recycled and chlorine free paper with use o f ve g e t a b l e - b a s e d i n k s .
Hugo making the most of the
Abel Tasman beaches - page 4
YHA Bay of Islands, The Rock - page 5
Aus tralian Summer s - pag e 8
The Cologne Experience - page 12
BACKPACK
Editorial
Kia ora koutou
It has been a challenging year for YHA New Zealand as it has for all of the tourism industry. The 2010 Annual Report
records a disappointing financial result for the latest financial year, which is a direct result of the global financial
crisis and particularly low trading volumes in the last two months of the year. However, a significant surplus result
has been budgeted in the new financial year, and it is pleasing to note that we are performing ahead of that budget
in the year to date.
Additionally, YHA is well positioned for a resurgent economy – we are a stronger network, we are more efficient and
our brand reputation remains as strong as ever.
The Annual General Meeting of the Association took place in Wanaka in mid-October, and was a very positive
meeting which is becoming a highlight event for the YHA membership. The introduction of electronic voting for
elections and constitutional motions has changed the emphasis of the meeting, which now takes place within a
wider weekend member event supported by free hostel accommodation for members and a range of (discounted)
activities. This has succeeded in drawing new participants to the AGM, and contributes to our goal of increased
member participation in the Association.
All of Christchurch has been affected by the September earthquake, but both of our hostels came through relatively
unscathed. Not only did our crisis management systems prove very effective, but our staff were simply magnificent
in responding to the needs of our guests and the organisation, despite any personal impact on their own families
and property – they truly showed that YHA is more than just a job to our staff!
YHA also continues to achieve wider recognition - we congratulate Clive Croy on his re-election to the Board of
Hostelling International, and we also congratulate Chris Sperring and his team at YHA Wellington City, who won the
Backpacker Award at the recent New Zealand Tourism Awards.
Finally, I take this opportunity to wish all members a safe and prosperous Christmas and New Year.
Mark Wells – Chief Executive
From the editor
In the last couple of weeks I’ve enjoyed a
when a young boat skipper welcomes everyone
What we’re here to do is give both Kiwis and
welcome reminder that, despite claiming to be
aboard and does their job so well. Tourists
tourists experiences which entrance and
employed in the tourism sector, I’ve become a
come to one of the farthest points on earth
inspire. The reminder that those experiences
manager of processes and policies and board
because what we have is really fantastic!
are just outside the door of every hostel in the
papers and websites and emails and all the
other routine minutiae of any-old-business.
And that really isn’t what drew me to the job.
A beach drop off at either location feels like
a prison break after a stressful Christchurch
country was as refreshing as the first plunge of
my early summer swims.
winter. What if I just took that yacht and
To all our readers, have a wonderful and safe
I was levered out of my chair by the fortuitous
sailed to the horizon? But after thoughts of
summer being inspired by the people and
coincidence of a carrot and a stick. Carrot in
flight subside what is left is the inspiration
places of Aoteaora.
the form of invitations to experience some
of clever people in beautiful places, leading
excellent tourism activities in Abel Tasman
interesting lives.
National Park and the Bay of Islands and stick;
my wife reminding me that I was becoming a
boring old git!
Getting out of the office and rediscovering
YHA New Zealand
parts of New Zealand which had become
more memory than reality was just the start
What I saw with new eyes was the beauty of
to summer I needed. There are countless
New Zealand, and the hospitality and quality
permutations of location, activity and travel in
of our people. It really makes you proud to be
New Zealand and so often the hostels form a
a Kiwi, sitting amongst international visitors
hub for all this to independent travellers.
2
Daniel Shields (Editor)
Manager, Marketing and Sales,
Contact: YHA National Office
PO Box 436, Christchurch, 8140
Ph. 03 379 9970
Email: daniel.shields@yha.co.nz
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NEW
ZEALAND
YHA Wellington City wins
New Zealand Tourism Award
The start of the summer season would almost feel incomplete if YHA Wellington City didn’t
pick up another award! The hostel has enjoyed tremendous success over recent years with
multiple Hostelworld Hostel of the Year awards and last year’s international prize for best large
accommodation in the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards.
This summer starts with the hostel winning the backpacker category in the Tourism Industry
Association awards. The theme of the awards this year was, ‘Innovating for Success’. The hostel
entered the awards citing environmental sustainability as their innovation.
Lisa Gebbels (YHA Wellington, Groups
Manager) and Chris Sperring (Area
Hostel Manager).
Manager, Chris Sperring says, “We are delighted with this award and the recognition it brings
to our accumulated efforts. It’s also recognition of our energetic staff and guests who are the
inspiration and the answer to our continued improvements and success.”
The hostel has over 250 sustainability features. These range from a heat transfer
system which reduces the energy required to heat the hostel’s water, to ‘switch off’
stickers on all light switches and recycling of clothing and batteries.
The team’s aim is not only to be sustainable themselves, but also to educate their
guests on how they can be sustainable as they travel. Guest involvement is integral
to the hostel’s sustainability programme. This involves not just doing their part to
conserve water and electricity and manage waste but also in making suggestions
which are considered for future improvements.
What’s special about Wellington is that its sustainability message is set in a big urban
building. Both domestic and international travellers can be inspired and learn how to
apply sustainability initiatives in their homes too, no matter where they live.
Lisa Gebbels (YHA Wellington, Groups Manager), Chris
Sperring (Area Hostel Manager), Prime Minister John Key
and Grant Ward (Qualmark).
Stewart Island Project major donation
I take this opportunity to publicly
acknowledge and thank the Trustees for their
support for the project, and with whom we
will agree an appropriate recognition of this
donation in the facility.
I am delighted to announce the first major
donation to the YHA New Zealand Stewart
Island Project following confirmation from the
Trustees of the Peter Wilding Estate of a high
six-figure donation. This is a fantastic and
most generous contribution, which not only
reflects Peter’s passion for Stewart Island
and supporting youth, but also continues
the close connection between YHA and the
Wilding family – Peter is a nephew of Cora
Wilding, the founder of YHA.
The Stewart Island Project involves the
development of a 54-bed eco hostel and
Learning Centre on Stewart Island. The
objective of the project is to support learning
through exploration, showcasing the natural
resources of Stewart Island in a way that will
inspire students and travellers alike to be
more proactive in addressing their personal
impact on the environment.
The Learning Centre is at the heart of the
project; it will be a dedicated area equipped
to create a vibrant and interactive learning
environment in support of the discovery
of the unique environment and history
of Stewart Island as well as the core
components of environmental sustainability.
Having purchased a waterfront property and
achieved a confirmed Resource Consent, the
focus of the project over recent months has
been the Capital Fundraising Campaign, and
this will continue into 2011. Our members
have generously supported this campaign,
but its ultimate success lies in large donations
from the philanthropic sector, from corporate
sponsors and from central government and
organisational grant programmes.
Mark Wells
Chief Executive,
YHA New Zealand
For more information about the Stewart
Island Project and to make a donation,
refer to: yha.co.nz or call Mark Wells, the
Chief Executive on (03) 353 9197.
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3
BACKPACK
Cab to Paradise
After a winter of wet weather and earthquakes the Shields family needed a break. A long weekend in
Nelson with a trip into Abel Tasman National Park was hastily arranged around the hustle of family life.
The rock garden and the step to the boat were more than enough entertainment
while we booked in for our trip.
Sharing a five bed dorm in a hostel with your kids is never going to qualify
as a romantic getaway! But it’s still fun. While no-one wants a meltdown in
the lounge, most guests love to see kids around – especially a Kiwi family.
They open up conversations and you can’t help laughing when the internet
terminals are transformed from police dispatch desk to plane cockpit. The
weekend ended on a high when the staff joined in the fun and two little girls
checked their parents out.
The highlight of our break was a trip into Anchorage Bay in the heart of Abel
Tasman National Park and then a walk across to Te Pukatea Bay. From the
moment we drove into Marahau at the park entrance we sensed a special
experience. The sand was golden, the air still and the sea sparkling. White
tractors towed silver boats to the low water mark.
We’d booked an Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi for our trip. The name suggests utility,
but Aqua Taxi delighted us. Nice touches transformed a sturdy aluminium
work boat with a big motor into a magic ride. Nicola delivered us to the boat
while juggling the day’s operations and still having time to shoot the breeze.
Paulie our skipper welcomed us aboard.
When you catch a cab in town, you want it to go by the most direct route
and quickly. We were headed North, but Paulie wheeled off to the South,
‘Thought you might want to see a famous landmark before we headed up
the park.’ Ringside seats for Split Apple Rock. As we headed away my young
son, Hugo ran down to join me at the back of the boat, fascinated by the
motor and the wake.
Next thing the boat dropped into a tight arc at full speed. Our taxi was
pulling a donut for the entertainment of a two year old. Faces old and
young cracked into big smiles and strangers started talking as it dawned
on other passengers what was going on. Hugo was in heaven!
4
Abel Tasman Aquataxi
Sandy Bay Rd, Marahau
YHA Nelson
59 Rutherford St, Nelson
w: aquataxi.co.nz
ph: 0800 278 282
e: info@aquataxi.co.nz
w: yha.co.nz
ph: (03) 545 9988
or: 0800 278 299
On the water taxi to our destination.
We disembarked onto the beach at Anchorage and made our way up over
the hill to Te Pukatea Bay. Coming down through the bush we got glimpses
of paradise. Clear water lapped at swept sand. A few sea kayakers lazed
near their boats. One end of the beach would be ours.
We dumped gear under overhanging branches and hit the water. It still had
an early summer chill, but was perfectly swimmable. Shells and stones
were discovered; the rocky backdrop to the beach explored. The kids
crowded around in happy terror while I held a jellyfish for them to touch.
Amy and I took turns having grown up swims into the deep water, lying on
the warmer top layer and watching the shafts of light twist downwards.
All too soon we had to return to meet the boat at Anchorage for the pickup.
In such perfect weather the headland walk seemed too far and too rushed.
Stella and Lily were itching to explore. The creek running out over the sand
was bath warm. Soon all three were splashing up under the foot bridge and
daring one another to let their feet slide into the small, dark pools under
the banks. Hugo finally pushed it too far and fell in.
Our boat was back and after
final plunges we boarded
and began the trek home. In
paradise every trip ends with
ice-cream and we had ours in
Kaiteriteri. As we drove out
three kids with ice-cream smiles
snoozed in the back seat.
MARAHAU
KAITERITERI
MOTUEKA
NELSON
The Shield s girls do some hoste l work
Spli t App le Roc k.
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exper ience .
NEW
ZEALAND
Hostel News
YHA Bay of Islands
YHA New Zealand has recently signed up a hostel floating
out in the Bay of Islands, in the country’s winterless north.
The Rock Overnight Cruise is a purpose built vessel owned
and run by Sarah and Jonny Greener.
Nicola Ross, one of our intrepid Customer Services staff,
recently stepped aboard to file this report.
The first sights that greeted us as we boarded The Rock were the log burner just
inside the open back deck, comfy looking couches and the long kitchen cum bar
that runs almost the length of the lounge like lower deck. Our wood lined rooms
carried on that sense of relaxed comfort. Each one has an ocean view and access
to the balcony. The invitation to start off with a cuppa sealed the sense that we’d
dropped into the floating holiday home of a couple who’d somehow conspired to
be on a perpetual summer holiday.
Holidays are about fun and there is a sense of playfulness in The Rock trip. First
up was shooting practice at Matilda, the ‘Australian’ plastic duck who is towed
along behind the back of the boat. Some of us tried to play pool up at the front
of the lounge. You need a sense of humour to do this on a rolling boat! Fishing
lines were also going out in the hope of some impromptu additions to the
night’s menu.
After a couple of hours of cruising around the islands we anchored for the night.
Dinner was a big Kiwi buffet with steak and sausages cooked on the barbecue.
The fish weren’t biting but there was still plenty to eat.
After dinner we went night kayaking. Away from the lights of the boat we could see
the phosphorescence. Any splash or disturbance and it lights up like stars in the
water. The kayaks were stable enough to lie back in and look at the stars in the sky
too. Back on the boat we relaxed with the crew. Puzzles and games came out. My
favourite was the Penguin, Holes and Fish game; it made a lot of sense once you
knew what to look for, but you need to get on a cruise to find out what it all means!
We finished off the evening sitting around the fire, playing songs and singing.
The next day I jumped off the back of the boat just before 8:00 am,
the best way to wake up on a boat! After breakfast we landed on one
of the islands and walked up a steep hill for 360 degree views of the
Bay of Islands. It was worth the walk! Next we put on wetsuits before
snorkelling out to get some Kina. Lunch was on the island and we spent
some more time kayaking and relaxing on the beach before returning to
the boat to start our cruise back to Paihia. We tried the morning’s catch as
we motored home. We hardly noticed that, unusually, we hadn’t seen any
dolphins, because there’d been so much else to do.
In 22 hours Sarah, Jonny and their crew had shared a slice of their holiday
with us. Our only regret was knowing that while work beckoned for us,
their endless summer continued.
AHIPARA
w: yha.co.nz
e: book@yha.co.nz
Call free 0800 278 299
PAIHIA
The Rock
w: rocktheboat.co.nz
ph: 0800 762 527
WHANGAREI
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AUCKLAND
WHITIANGA
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BACKPACK
Earthquake - the hostel experience
Christchurch is recovering
after the 7.1 magnitude
earthquake that struck in the
early hours of September the
4th. Locals though, weren’t
the only ones affected by
the quake. There were
guests staying throughout
the city and they had the
bewildering and terrifying
experience of waking in an
unfamiliar bed to a civil
emergency. The earthquake
was a lucky near miss with
no deaths, but it provides
an opportunity to reflect on
what happened. It’s also a
good chance to pass on our
experience to members and
travellers to consider for
their future travels.
The earthquake happened
The corner of Manchester and Worcester Streets, just down from the hostel.
at 4.35 am, right at the dead
of night. The party goers had gone home and the early birds weren’t
Stuart MacWilliam, YHA NZ’s property manager, was on the scene
about yet. But, at YHA Christchurch City, night security staff member
almost immediately. He comments that YHA Christchurch City is a
Jason Morrison was working. Some guests were awake getting ready
strong, earthquake strengthened building. As soon as it was apparent
for the early shuttle out to the airport.
that the building was not falling down, it was the safest place to stay.
Jason, a pretty laid back guy, realised that this was not a routine quake
and immediately got into action. Most hostel crisis plans are written
It was a matter of minimising risk by staying in a known safe environment
that could be controlled. Outside was unknown damage and danger.
around fire. This is generally accepted as the most likely, really bad
Staying at the hostel was the Rotorua Boys High 1st XV rugby team,
thing that can happen in a hostel. Jason, who had read the crisis plan,
coach Mark Everson and some parents. The team was up preparing for
had the presence of mind to start with the fire plan and then adapt it to
an early flight and boys were scattered across rooms, bathrooms and
the circumstances.
downstairs in the games room.
The practical outcome of this was to evacuate guests from their rooms,
Mark says that two simple steps had a significant impact in managing
but not to evacuate them outside the building. Falling masonry and
the situation. One, the team had an agreed gathering point in the
glass represented the greatest risk of harm in Christchurch. YHA has
hostel. Second, Mark had a numbering off system for the boys and
now added this detail to its crisis plan.
a rooming list. All the boys had the presence of mind to go to the
Immediately after the initial quakes Jason broke glow sticks at 10 feet
intervals around the hostel as a backup to the emergency lighting.
Back in the lobby, guests comforted one another and relived their
meeting point and within minutes Mark knew he had one boy missing
and which room he was assigned to. That instantly cut down the
search. Thankfully, that missing boy was the team’s heavy sleeper!
experiences. After the initial large shocks guests were allowed to
Because of the planned early departure all the team had prepared their
return to their rooms to collect a duvet or pillow so they could be more
clothing and gear the night before. This made getting dressed and
comfortable.
being ready to move a simple and quick process.
Jason’s comments were that the hostel guests made two major
Mark is obviously proud of his team. The boys kept their composure and
contributions to the evacuation. No one panicked and virtually
acted with maturity when the quake struck. But what is also clear is that
everyone did as they were asked. Not only did this make the initial
prior organisation gave everyone some shared sense of what to do. This
evacuation safer, but it created a situation where staff and guests could
is as relevant to parents and groups of friends as it is to school kids.
act quickly if further action was needed.
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NEW
ZEALAND
Christchurch
Safety tips when staying in
paid accommodation:
• When you check in, before drinking or socialising, find
the exit points to the building and get an understanding
of the layout.
• If you are really not happy with a building, leave. It might
cost you a night’s accommodation charge and isn’t that easy
in practice, but that may be a small price to pay.
• Look for obvious strong points in the building.
• Agree a gathering place. If the hostel has a designated
meeting point, use this.
Many cars were
damaged during the
big earthquake and
the thousands of
aftershocks.
• If you have friends, family or a group staying in multiple
rooms create a rooming list and numbering off system –
or an equivalent.
• If something does go wrong – don’t panic, try to think clearly.
• If staff are organising an evacuation – cooperate.
• Before you go bed at night prepare:
- Have a light source close to hand, could even be the
screen of your mobile phone.
- Know where your clothes and belongings are.
Jason Morrison, Night Security at
YHA Christchurch City.
What the boys appreciated from the hostel staff was the sense of calm.
They also gained a lot of confidence from the simple act of being given
glow sticks, which they helped to distribute. Over the next day and
night, as the boys were stuck in town they were pleased to be back in
the familiar surroundings of the hostel with friendly supportive staff.
The hostel didn’t have a major power interruption and didn’t lose
water, but this was not the case everywhere.
Mark is highly complimentary of the YHA Staff and this is echoed by
- Know where essentials such as glasses are.
- Fill your water bottle.
• When travelling always carry a basic first aid kit, including
scissors, dressings and bandages.
• Think about what are the absolute basics you would need to
fend for yourself for 72 hours.
• Take out travel insurance. Accommodation providers are
not required to provide shelter out of the goodness of their
hearts and your original accommodation may not
be available.
Hostel Operations Manager, Kate Ufton. All the staff, regardless of the
state of their own homes, were at work on time that morning, providing
comfort to the guests.
Everyone in the earthquake knows it was a terrifying and disorienting
experience. But Christchurch is a well built city and YHA Christchurch
City is blessed with great staff. The stark comparison is Haiti where an
earthquake of the same magnitude leveled Port Au Prince.
No-one wants to be reduced to cowering at home in fear of the next
natural disaster, so the best alternative is managing the risk. Jason’s,
Stuart’s and Mark’s experiences and advice, though not exhaustive
provide some excellent points for travellers.
Both hostels in Christchurch are fully
operational and welcoming guests.
w: yha.co.nz
e: book@yha.co.nz
Call free 0800 278 299
YHA Christchurch City
273 Manchester Street, Christchurch
ph: (03) 379 9535
YHA Rolleston House
5 Worcester Street, Christchurch
ph: (03) 366 6564
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BACKPACK
Australia
Summer in the cities - Australian style
Australia’s cities are a vibrant mix of culture, sport and entertainment. The climate and laid back Aussie
style lend themselves to outdoor events day and night. There’s something for everyone in a packed
summer calendar.
Moonlight Cinema
Sydney Vivacity
One of Australia’s favourite outdoor summer events, Moonlight
Sydney Festival returns from 8 – 30 January, 2011 for three weeks of
Cinema, is back on in capital cities around the country from December
eclectic, audacious, exciting, and chilled events showing off Sydney’s
to March.
unique personality.
Dust off your picnic blanket, pack up a tasty dinner, and head out to
Highlights include free concerts in the Domain, the famous
watch great flicks under the stars. The latest releases, cult and classic
Speigeltent and Beck’s Festival Bar, and the curtain raising Festival
films are all on the bill at venues in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne,
First Night, which transforms the city centre into an epic theatre of
Perth and Sydney. Better still, YHA members receive concession rates
music and spectacle.
on tickets.
It’s just one of many events making up Sydney Vivacity celebrations in
At a time when everyone is watching their pennies, Moonlight is a fun,
the New Year. Take in a big name sports competition, check out Circus
cheap night out. All Moonlight venues are fully licensed, and if you
Oz’s aerial and acrobatic feats and comedic mayhem, cheer on the
don’t want to BYO there’s plenty of food and drinks available when you
annual Australia Day Ferrython, and stick around for the Chinese
get there, plus a limited supply of bean beds for hire.
New Year Twilight Parade and dragon boat races.
For the full schedule of flicks in your city and to purchase tickets visit
Tickets to Sydney Festival performances are available on the day at the
moonlight.com.au
Tix for Next to Nix booth in Martin Place, and start from $25. For more
Movie lovers can also enjoy mini masterpieces at the world’s largest
details visit vivacitysydney.com
short film festival, Tropfest, with live screenings at outdoor sites
around Oz on 20 February, 2011.
Aerial view of the Fire Water performance of the burning convict ship at
Campbell’s Cove in the Rocks, Vivid Sydney Festivale 2009.
Image - Tourism New South Wales.
Falls Festivale. Ashlorien Management Pty Ltd.
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WORLD
Australia
Good Sport
If you enjoy your sport then you’re in for a blockbuster season.
Kicking things off in style are the dresses, drinks and dollars
of the famous Melbourne Cup. Hot on the horses’ heels comes
the hotly-contested Aussie vs. Pommie cricket clash, taking
in Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne and Sydney on its
Australian tour from November to January.
Bikes, boats, and balls all jostle for space on a packed program
that includes:
V8 Supercars, Sydney, NSW
3-5 December, 2010
PGA Golf Championship, Sunshine Coast, QLD
9-12 December, 2010
Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race
From 26 December, 2010
Blues Fest, Ben Harper and Bonnie Raitt. Image - Tao Johnes.
SYDNEY
ADELAIDE
Santos Tour Down Under, Adelaide, SA
16-23 January, 2011
MELBOURNE
Ocean Classic, Lancelin, WA
6-9 January, 2011
Australian Open
17-31 January, 2011
For hostel bookings in Australia visit yha.com.au
Yachting in Sydney Harbour.
Melbourne Federation Square.
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9
BACKPACK
Ireland
Irish Inspiration
Ireland is a mythical place, its landscape and
culture intertwined. Every hill, valley and
town has a colourful history, always well
told. A tour of modern Ireland is inescapably
a tour of its past, whether you are visiting
movie locations, pubs or landscapes.
Haunting Donegal
The music of Ireland is steeped in the atmosphere of Donegal, with
Clannad and Enya perhaps the best know exponents of this haunting,
mournful sound. But the haunting doesn’t end there. The renowned
Poisoned Glen with its resident ghost the Green Lady, gives a sense of
mystery as do the many ghost stories of the county as you go exploring
the Bloody Foreland walk! When you’ve had your fill of the uncanny you
can chill out and avoid the ghosts at Errigal Hostel.
An Óige, the Irish Youth Hostel Association has an extensive
hostel network, so wherever you are there will be a welcoming
hostel to call home, as you discover the country.
County Wicklow is a diva!
County Wicklow, just south of Dublin, has been the location for movies
including Braveheart, Excalibur, Into the West, Michael Collins, Reign of
Fire and King Arthur. Diehard movie fans can take advantage of location
tours of their favourites.
But Wicklow is not just a beautiful film setting, the Harbour Bar in
Bray was judged best pub in the world by Lonely Planet, the perfect
place to share your own tales of adventure over a Guinness or a nip
of Jameson’s. The best pub in the world – it has to be in Ireland really,
Harbour in Donegal.
DONEGAL
BELFAST
doesn’t it? And you can get a great night’s sleep before you start
exploring Wicklow, at the 5 Star Glendaloch International Hostel or
Knockree Hostel.
Irish cliffs - a wonder of
the world
The Cliffs of Moher in County Clare are newly short-listed for the
DUBLIN
MOHER
WICKLOW
Drystonewall on Pen-y-ghent
in Yorkshire Dales.
KILLARNEY
CORK
seven wonders of nature. They are an ancient landscape, a renowned
bird sanctuary and are named after a fort demolished in the Napoleonic
Wars. Lonely Planet is also a fan, as the famous cliffs were selected
as one of the top ten places in the world to cycle. You can stay in the
Burren Hostel in Lisdoonvarna, minutes away from the cliffs, and while
you are in Clare check out the famed surf in Lahinch. There’s plenty
more for film and TV buffs too.
Walk
Killarney
TripAdvisor Traveller's
Choice selected
Killarney as one of the Top 10 Outdoor & Adventure Destinations
in Europe. The TripAdvisor comment read - "Forget fashionable
footwear, only your most comfortable shoes will cut it in Killarney. It's
a walking town, and every trail is a history lesson. You can journey on
foot through Ireland's first national park, 26,000 acres of woodlands,
sandstone mountains and low-lying lakes. When your feet wear out,
take in Killarney National Park via boat from Ross Castle". So pull on
your hiking boots and forget the pedicure while staying at Killarney
International Hostel.
Irish Cliffs and kayaking at The Range, Isle
of Anglesley.
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w: anoige.ie
e: assist@anoige.ie
ph: +353-1-8304555
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WORLD
UK
YHA England and
Wales introduce
Glamping
NEWCASTLE
UPON TYNE
GRINTON
HARROGATE
Crossover – it’s everywhere. Your gas guzzling
four wheel drive mated with a shopping trolley.
Your mobile phone shacked up with a personal
LIVERPOOL
computer. And now in accommodation – your tent
just got friendly with a carpenter. Welcome to
glamping. While it might sound a bit mardi gras it’s
actually a contraction of glamorous camping. YHA
England and Wales have recently launched camping
pods at Grinton Lodge in the Yorkshire Dales.
The Grade Two listed building surrounded by acres
of land, overlooks the stunning views of Swaledale
and Arkengarthdale, and across the rolling heather
clad moors of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
The pods are crafted from pine. Campers can put
everything they need inside, lock the double-glazed
doors, and have a good night’s sleep whatever the
weather. The frames are insulated with natural
sheep’s wool, a perfect barrier to cold and noise.
And the roof is made up of weatherproof, noise
reducing panels, with a core of galvanised steel.
They are a fantastic way for outdoor enthusiasts
to stay outdoors without the discomforts sometimes associated
with camping. They sleep up to five people, you can stand up and
walk round in them, and they’re cosy and warm.
You’re obviously not going to strap a steel and wood pod to your
backpack for an escape to your favourite secret spot. Glamping is
a complement to traditional camping and is particularly suited to
some of YHA England and Wales’ beautiful country settings.
Andy Barnett, Operations Manager at YHA Grinton Lodge
says, ‘We’re really pleased with the pods, they add a fun and
interesting accommodation option to our hostels and they’re
great for both families and couples.’
Glamping pods in Yorkshire Dales National park.
They might have old school campers muttering into their
enamel tea cups, but don’t be surprised to see pods at more
English hostels soon. They’re a clever mix of all that’s good
about camping and hostelling, providing comfort and privacy,
yet retaining the sense of being in the outdoors.
Frustrated campers, a little cross-over might be just the spark
your camping buddy needs!
For more information about the pods and prices,
contact YHA Grinton Lodge.
e: grinton@yha.org.uk
ph: +44 (0) 174 888 4206
Two Family Pods for up to five people cost from £30 during the week
and £35 at weekends. A Standard Pod holding up to three people is
priced from £25 weekdays and £30 weekends.
w: yha.org.uk
e: customerservices@yha.org.uk
ph: 0800 019 1700 (within UK) +44 (0) 162 959 2700 (international)
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11
BACKPACK
Germany
City Sanctuary for Travellers
Staying in a former church seems appropriate in Germany’s Cathedral City.
Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine River.
Cologne is Germany’s oldest city, founded in 38B.C. Its location close to the French border
has made for an interesting history as it has passed back forth between German and
French control. At the heart of the city is the Cologne Cathedral. Its construction started
in 1248 and was abandoned in the 1500s before being completed in 1880. By that stage it
had assumed significance as a national monument as well as a church. Today it is a world
heritage site, listed by UNESCO as ‘an exceptional work of human creative genius’, but
surely also a monument to sheer tenacity!
More than seven million people visit the Cathedral every year. Its twin gothic spires
dominate the cityscape. For four short years on its completion it was the tallest building
in the world. The church’s huge scale was designed to house relics of the three kings and
to be a fitting place of worship for the Holy Roman Emperor. In these more secular times it
is interesting to reflect on what inspires such creativity and endeavour. Now as much as a
religious site, it is a place of pride for the people of Cologne.
HAMBURG
BERLIN
COLOGNE
The hostel is open 24 hours and has a knowledgeable staff who can
help with basics such as transport options or provide more indepth
hints and tips for the curious traveller. The hostel is located very close
to both the train and international bus stations.
MUNICH
Jugendherberge Pathpoint Cologne Backpacker Hostel
Machabäerstraße 26, 50668 Köln
w: pathpoint-cologne.de
e: info@pathpoint-cologne.de
ph: 0049 221 1305 6860
Close to the Cathedral is the newly opened Pathpoint Cologne
Backpacker hostel. The hostel is situated in an old church building
formerly used for baptisms and weddings. A crucifix in the lobby recalls
the building’s original purpose, but now it’s a backpacker sanctuary.
The building’s conversion includes private and shared accommodation,
options for catered and self catering dining and perhaps most important
to modern travellers – good lounges and internet services.
If you’re thinking of going to Cologne, the Fifth Season* is the time
for an experience that is unique to the city. Running from the 11th of
November, 11:11 am, right through to Ash Wednesday the carnival
builds up to a final week known as the Crazy Days. This includes
the whole city taking part in a masquerade. There’s also a colourful
festival fringe which caters for all tastes.
*carnival time from 11th November to Ash Wednesday, especially around Cologne
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WORLD
China / Kenya / Uganda
International Classifieds
Here’s a taster of some of the hostels and experiences available through Hostelling International.
Check out hihostels.com for more.
YHA China – New
YHA Kenya
Enchoro Wildlife Camellia Hostel
Camp
This hostel, located in a central, secure
Enchoro Wildlife Camp an affiliate of
YHA Kenya is one of the best budget
and semi-luxury accommodations
available in Masai Mara. It’s the
closest camp site to the main
entrance gate of Oloolaimutia Hills in
Lunch at YHA Kenya Enchoro Wildlife Camp.
YHA Uganda
seeking volunteers
YHA Uganda needs volunteers to work
with children at the Nyabugando and Kikyo
Mara National Game Reserve.
All rooms in the tented camp have scenic
views over the Mara with a sit-for-hours
veranda with outside chairs. A delicious
affordable menu is provided, catering for
breakfast, lunches and dinner as well as
snacks during the day.
children centers in the Kampala District.
The reception handles bookings and enquiries,
Other projects are located close to the
no matter what activity you are looking at
and exclusive area was reopened in May
2010 after extensive renovations. It aims to
promote cultural exchange, conservation of
the environment, social responsibility and
travel under your own steam. It also provides
in-service training for young people to learn
how to run a youth hostel.
New features include:
• 1,500 sq. metres landscaped, mature
garden and sitting out area
• Spacious dormitory/private room (over 20
sq meters per room)
• 95% of dormitories/rooms are en-suite
• Cosy and tastefully decorated
common room
Rwenzori mountains national park and
doing. From game drives, balloon safaris,
• Self-catering kitchen
Queen Elizabeth national park. Travelling
walking, trekking, cultural visits, and getting
• Self-service laundry
to the parks and to see the gorillas is cheap.
entertained by the Masai Morans and Women.
• Luggage storage (free on the day of
Hostel facilities include double and triple
To stay and book any of our Enchoro road tour
rooms, with care taken of cleanliness,
packages quote your YHA Membership and
security and privacy. At this time most
grab your 10%discount!
hostellers are coming from the USA with
e: balukuzapiere@yahoo.com
ph: +256 772 552 238
m: +256 782 154 151
• 24 hours hot water
• Travel information, visa application and
tickets all under one roof
• English speaking staff
more expected in the next year.
Baluku Zapiere, Chief Executive
departure)
Head Office
Nairobi International Youth Hostel Bldg
Ralph Bunche Road
PO BOX 4473-00200
Nairobi- Kenya
w: enchorowildlifecamp.com
e: info@enchorowildlifecamp.com
ph: +254 202 726 011
or: +254 202 723 012
m: +254 722 655 321
or: +254 710 322 787
• Environmental practices
• Free Internet
• Free video
• Authentic European kitchen
• Sports facilities nearby
• 1 minute to the airport light rail (up and
running by 2011)
Kunming - Camellia
No. 96 Dongfeng Dong Road
Kunming Yunnan Province
650041 China
e: newcamellia@gmail.com
ph: +86 871 8374 638
or: +86 871 8374 639
f: +86 871 3147 033
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13
GET
Environment
INVOLVED
Annual General Meeting
A very positive AGM took place in Wanaka on 16 October 2010. The Board and staff were joined by 71 senior
financial members, who as well as attending to the AGM processes itself, enjoyed a weekend of fellowship,
fun and activities.
Other Highlights
In relation to the AGM:
There were a number of other highlights over the weekend, including:
Elections
1981 members (14.8%) participated in the election, of which 32%
voted electronically.
The Friday evening dinner, at which:
• The sale of the YHA Upton Street property in Wanaka was
National Board
announced, followed by a very informative and entertaining
John Hammond was elected to the National Board.
presentation on the history of the Upton Street hostel
Coral Laughton elected to the Chair in place of the retiring Ben Mitchell.
Harry Guitry was returned as Deputy Chair.
Honorary Vice Presidents
• A substantial donation to the Stewart Island project
was confirmed
• The formal opening of a new outdoor picnic area at YHA Wanaka
The successful candidates were:
by Jean Nelson and Donald Paterson, which was financed from a
bequest from Noel Jackson to the YHA Dunedin Branch
Hamish Allardice
Dave Berry
For full details of the AGM Constitutional Notices of Motion and a copy
Amanda Gower
of the Annual Report, please refer to yha.co.nz
Elizabeth Beer
Awards Committee
Gwyn Rogers was re-elected
Patron
The Governor-General, Rt Hon Sir Anand Satyanand, was re-elected
Patron of the Association
Constitutional Notices of Motions
Three Constitutional Notices of Motion were passed. These related to:
i.
Adding General Business items to the AGM agenda
ii. The process in support of Constitutional Notices of Motion
iii. Minimum membership requirements for Board nominees
General Notice of Motion
One general notice of motion, proposing the reinstatement of the
New Zealand YHA Hostel Guide, was considered by the meeting
This motion was lost.
2010 Awards
The following Awards were conferred by the AGM:
Certificate of Merit
Rose Gray, nominated by the Rotorua Branch
Julie Hooper, nominated by the Wellington Branch
Beverly Kirby, nominated by the Whangarei Branch
Richard Kirby, nominated by the Whangarei Branch
Florence Shroff, nominated by the Tauranga Branch
Distinguished Service Award
Ken Geoghegan, nominated by the Wellington Branch
Honorary Life Membership
Charlie Smith, nominated by the Wellington Branch
14
YHA New Zealand Chair (Immediate Past) Ben Mitchell and
YHA Australia Chair Alex Zilkens sign the Statement of Intent
between the two organisations (above) and Coral Laughton
Chair (Incoming) opens the YHA Wanaka barbecue garden.
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GET
INVOLVED
Environment
YHA Wanaka Barbecue Garden
The AGM saw the official opening of YHA Wanaka’s barbecue garden. The new garden was funded by legacy money from the
Dunedin branch of YHA. Hawea architect Donald Paterson designed the furniture in conjunction with a local builder. YHA and the
YHA Wanaka team are very grateful for the time and effort that went into getting the
furniture and the garden space designed and finished. It’s a welcome addition to the
hostel and will be enjoyed by guests through the summer season.
The new outdoor furniture, funded from a bequest
by Noel Jackson (above) and looking out from YHA
Wanaka across Pembroke Park to the lake (left).
YHA Wanaka wins
prize for ‘Clean up
New Zealand week’
Sometimes it pays just to take part! The YHA Wanaka team won a
$3000 prize sponsored by Panasonic for their involvement in this
year’s ‘Clean Up New Zealand’ week. Luke Tarplett, Hostel Manager,
said that all staff, bar the one needed to man the desk, took part and
partners helped out too. This is another example of the dedication
YHA hostel teams show to their local communities and environments.
YHA Wanaka staff, raring to go during Clean Up NZ week.
Cemars
(Certified Emission Measurement and Reduction Scheme)
YHA New Zealand is the first backpackers in the world to achieve
As part of CEMARS requirements, YHA has developed a greenhouse
CEMARS certification. The 2009/10 financial year is the second
gas (GHG) emissions reduction plan which outlines projects intended
consecutive year that we have committed to CEMARS.
to reduce energy expenditure and lower GHG emissions.
Manaaki Whenua/Landcare Research, CEMARS’ owner, has generously
In the last year a major focus of the organisation’s efforts have been
offered to sponsor YHA for a second term in adopting CEMARS and we
to get an accurate and audited GHG emissions measurement in place.
are very appreciative of this on-going partnership. This partnership has
This number forms the basis for the organisation’s efforts to reduce its
ensured that YHA is reporting credible emissions information that is
emissions. Emission reduction plans are now underway. This includes
verified by third party auditors.
the upgrading of Auckland and Wellington hostels to the use of hot
water heat pump technology.
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15
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for
Contact the YHA Customer Services Team for:
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