Here comes the sun...

I know I'm a bit ahead of myself, I'm so well into the swing of this festive season that i have now swung onto New Years. This year will be very different for me as I no longer plan to be barefoot on a beach, Margarita in hand. Instead, I will be wearing 8 layers of polypropylene, an over sized coat which stands up by itself and a balaclava whilst sitting by the fireside, roasting chestnuts. But if you are lucky enough to spend December 31st in New Zealand ( please spare a thought for me by the fire..rocking slightly) you may as well go all out. New Zealand is the first place in the world to see the sun for 2007. And if you are really obsessed with being the first of the firsts to see in the dawn, spend your New Years Eve in Gizzy (thats Gisborne or 'Gtown' ). Gisborne is smothered in those white sandy beaches which are renown for its gnarly surf (dude) and is also one of the largest wine growing regions in the NZ. This can only mean good times. Make sure you check out the Lindauer Cellars (and give them some advanced warning). To ensure your good times are maximized, i would highly recommend the rhythm and vines festival which goes off 12pm December 31 until next year! Sun, sand and surf with a bit of music and a mellow mix of people from all over the country make this area the place to be this New Years. Nothing says Happy New Year more than a Happy Hot New Years in a scorching kiwi summer!

Comments

[Stephen]

Me and my wife are thinking of taking a holiday to New Zealand, probably early in 2008. We are both 50 this years and we want a 'special' holiday. From what i have seen on the internet its a beautiful country so really i'm looking for guidance on the best places to see and stay. I've read that the south island is particulalry nice?