Traveling Overseas - Journeys

KARORY SANCTUARY

2009-06-07T01:31:00.000-07:00

While you are in Wellington, you have an opportunity to see New Zealand's rarest wildlife in its natural environment by visiting The Karory Sanctuary. It's located just ten minutes from Central Wellington. You can reach the place by car or by bus.

In my opinion, bus is the cheapest choice. with only five dollars New Zealand, we can buy day tripper ticket. Day tripper ticket is designed to give us freedom to go around Wellington by using only one ticket. We are able to catch bus or get off in every bus station just by showing the ticket to the driver. Ticket is available at the bus. Tell the bus driver that you want to buy day tripper ticket then pay five dollars.

Anyway, if you want to see the New Zealand National Mascot, the Kiwi, in their wildlife, the Karory sanctuary is the right place to visit. Tour provide us encounters with birds and reptiles normally just found on offshore islands. Walking track include a cruise accross the lower lake and chance to see the Tuatara, New Zealand's living dinosaur. The best time to do the tour is when darkness has settled. If we are lucky, we can see the Kiwi. I suggest don't make a noise that can make the animals run while you do the tour.

There are different prices between day and night tours. Day tour is only $14 New Zealand, but the night tour is more expensive at NZ$ 60 (guided tour). For further information, you can visit the Karory Sanctuary Experience ZELANDIA website (click here).

SEAVIEW MARINA IN EASTBOURNE

2009-06-04T17:56:00.000-07:00

CIRCUS QUIRKUS

2009-05-24T17:53:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I went to TSB Centre - Wellington to watch Circus Quirkus show. Lots of children accompanied by their family came to the show. The Circus Quirkus is a non animal circus style show, guaranteed to entertain and amuse the entire family, both young and old. As usual, they love the clown.

The Circus Quirkus is now touring in New Zealand and Australia. You can check their tour dates and show locations by visiting their website here.

PERCY SCENIC RESERVE

2009-05-20T12:27:00.000-07:00

GETTING AROUND TO NEW ZEALAND

2009-05-18T21:17:00.000-07:00

New Zealand has 3 big airports : Auckland, Wellington and Chrischurch. Auckland is the main international gateway for passenger arriving in New Zealand or into Chrischurch if they want to fly to the South Island. Wellington only handles flights to and from Australia.

Air New Zealand which is the national airline, has flight to Australia, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, USA and Europe, directly or via Pacific Islands.

Auckland’s’ international terminal has visitor facilities and information centres, sightseeing and onward travel arrangements. Special elevators and toilet facilities are available for the disabled. Chrischurch and Wellington have similar facilities. All passenger leaving on international flights pay an airport departure tax NZ$25.

Taxis are expensive around NZ$50. Cheaper options are the Airbus, cost NZ$15 one way, or the Super Shuttle www.supershuttle.co.nz, a door to door service that can be booked in advance or at the Information Desk at the airport, cost NZ$24 one way.

HOSTELS AND BACKPACKER ACCOMODATION

2009-05-16T14:25:00.000-07:00

Hostels are as common as motels in New Zealand, provide clean and basic accommodation. Besides numerous hostels run by the YHA, YMCA and YWCA, there are also hundreds hostels that usually called ’backpackers’.

Finished are the days of separate dormitories and lights out by 10pm : hostel s now have private rooms as well as a more liberal attitude to visitors. Communal facilities, usually include kitchens, lounge areas, laundries and so on, and although you may sometimes have to provide your own bedding, this can often be hired for a small charge. Nightly costs are around NZ$12-20 for a dormitory bed.

Numerous guides and information booklets are available from information centres and hostels, including BBH Backpacker Accommodation Guide, which lists over 350 hostels and can also be ordered online for free here. the website also provides hostel listings and customer reviews. Backpacker website also available here if you want to travel around the world (Europe, Asia, Africa) and looking for a bed on a budget.

GUEST HOUSE AND B&B ACCOMODATION

2009-05-15T22:04:00.000-07:00

Staying in a private guest house or B&B (Bed & Breakfast) is a good way to meet people and find out about the locality. Standards vary widely : a room in a basic guest house costs from NZ$30 per person, while one in a more comfortable B&B where the breakfast is included, will set you around NZ$40-60 per person.

For further information you can visit Bed &Breakfast website here.

SEATOUN TUNNEL

2009-05-15T00:26:00.000-07:00

NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL - WELLINGTON

2009-05-12T17:24:00.000-07:00

Anzac Day Wreathlaying Ceremony is held in this place.

WELLINGTON WATERFRONT

2009-05-09T22:59:00.000-07:00

The Wellington's beautiful waterfront can be seen from level 6 of Te Papa Museum. Te Papa Museum is open everyday. General admission is free. From Te Papa, you can walk along the Wellington Waterfront to Oriental Bay Beach and enjoy the rest of your day.

ONE DAY IN AUTUMN

2009-05-09T01:58:00.000-07:00

On the way to Eastbourne I saw these lovely ducks and seagulls enjoying the fine sunny autumn day in the Waiwhetu Stream, at Riverside Drive, Lower Hutt.

DO'S AND DON'T'S

2009-05-09T00:18:00.000-07:00

New Zealanders are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality, and have an outgoing, relaxed attitude towards visitor. However, there are etiquettes we must follow. All Maori tribes, many sub-tribes and community groups, and even universities and schools still have their marae (courtyard/square/plaza). The protocol governing marae is highly formalised and it is very important that you seek permission before entering the whare runanga (meeting house) on any marae, and walk around the marae rather than across it. Footwear must be removed before going inside a whare runanga. It is more than likely, however, that your visit to a marae will be part of an organised tour, in which case you will be told what to do.

The Maori greeting kia ora, which means both ‘good health’ and ‘welcome’ accompanied by pressing noses, is answered with the same words.

Smoking. New Zealand is a health conscious nation and smoking is on the decline (it has the lowest rate of tobacco consumption of any First World country). Smoking is banned on all public transport and, since 2004, in all indoor workplaces, including restaurants, bars, and clubs.

New Zealand has neither mammals nor snakes but it does has small sandflies. If you are bitten by these insects, try to refrain from scratching for 30 minutes, the itching will go away.

It is also worth noting that the weather can be highly variable from one area to the next. One day you might be comfortable in a T-shirt and shorts, the next you might be better off in a rain jacket! the best advice is to come prepared for highly changeable conditions.

THE INTERISLANDER EXPERIENCE

2009-05-07T01:52:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has ever done a road trip of New Zealand will have indelible memories of their Cook Strait crossing.

Interislander has three ferries, Arahua, Kaitaki and Aratere. They are big and have powerful ship.With over 5000 sailings each year, there will always be a crossing that fits in with your schedule. And, because all three are able to carry vehicles, it easy to take your car or rental car between the two islands. Just drive on and drive off. With your car safely parked you can enjoy the crossing.

Be sure to have plenty of film, or memory in your camera. How knows, you may even be lucky enough to be catch sight of a dolphin or three as you cruise along. If you are feeling hungry, there are cafes and bars in which you can enjoy a meal or a light snack, a soft drink or a glass or two of New Zealand beers and wines.

As well as offering some great outdoors scenery, Interislander has plenty to keep you entertained indoors as well. You can catch a new release movie in the onboard cinema, And for the kids, Interislander’s children’s play area are available and will keep them, hopefully, amused for the whole voyage.

Be sure you won't be late to arrive onboard if you travel when the clock changed in the begining of Daylight Saving Time.

THE NEW ZEALAND MAPS

2009-04-29T02:07:00.000-07:00

This is the New Zealand Maps with English and Maori names, pictures taken at Te Papa Tongarewa.

AT TE PAPA MUSEUM

2009-04-29T00:25:00.000-07:00

This is a kiwis display at Te Papa museum

TE PAPA TONGAREWA

2009-04-26T16:14:00.000-07:00

Te Papa Tongarewa, which translated as "For Things Precious" is an institution proud of all things kiwi. It is situated on wellington's beautiful waterfront, the museum has quickly become a 'must see' on any visitor's itinerary.

Opened in 1998, the museum represents a state of the international art facility dedicated to showing New Zealanders country, the here and now, as well as the then-and-there. Te Papa is big, at 36,000 square metres and six level, far too big to take on one visit. But if you don’t have the time or opportunity to come back again and again, you can take an informative one hour guided tour of Te Papa (admission charges apply).

There are rooms and 121 interactive exhibits in Te Papa, and some of them specifically targeted at children. There are also new multimedia adventure, where you can create the action or venture into Our Space. it's fun. Visit Te Papa our space here to discover the interesting images and clips.

Everyone leaves Te Papa with their own set of favourites. Te Papa is open everyday. General admission is Free.

THE COLOSSAL SQUID IN WELLINGTON

2009-04-26T14:28:00.000-07:00

The colossal squid has caught the world's attention. This female colossal squid is the most massive invertebrate ever discovered, with 4,2 m long and holds the record for the world's largest eye measuring 27cm in diameter, and weighting 495kg. Nearly half a tonne!.

The colossal squid was landed by the New Zealand fishing vessel, the San Aspiring, in the Ross Sea in 2007 and gifted to Te Papa by the Ministry of Fisheries.
Stored for a year in a freezer in Te Papa’s Tory St facility, it was defrosted in April 2008 and examined by a team of international scientists,

with marine biologist Dr Steve O’Shea (Director, Earth & Oceanic Sciences Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology and Colossal Squid expert), leading the way.When you are in Wellington, dont forget to visit Te Papa and come face to face with Te Papa colossal squid. You may explore the life of a squid through computer interactive or watch the documentary on their television. the admission is free.

For further information about colossal squid exhibit, you are welcome to visit Te Papa website here.

Oh, yeah, do you know what's the difference between Colossal and Giant squid? Find out the difference: click here and here.

ANZAC DAY

2009-04-24T20:04:00.000-07:00

This Friday after I got off the train n walking through the railway station foyer, I saw a women dressed in military uniform. She was smiling and just standing near the wall. Two men approached and gave her small money, and picked a small red paper poppie. In the Lambton Quay, again, I saw men and women wearing different but similar uniforms - some of them are old, maybe retired already - were distributing the paper poppies. I wondered what they were doing, then I realised. It was relating to Anzac Day!

What is Anzac Day? Anzac Day is one of New Zealand and Australia national public holiday. Anzac Day (every 25 April) is served as a day of commemoration for those who fought and lost their live for their country and to honour returned servicemen and women. Back to 1916, 25 April is observed as the anniversary of the landing of the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) in April 1915 - the soldiers were known as Anzacs - who fought at Gallipoli in Turkey during World War I.

In New Zealand, Anzac Day is observed with remembrance services until 1 pm, followed by a relaxed holiday afternoon. Shops are close between dawn and dusk, and open afterward at 1 pm. There are dawn services in every city in New Zealand, held in local war memorial places. The commemorative services begin before dawn with marches through the city. This year 2009, the Anzac Day Wreathlaying Ceremony is held in National War Memorial, Wellington, with television covered of it.

The ceremony contains the following features : introduction, hymn, prayer, an address, laying of wreaths, recitation, the playing of "The Last Post" by a lone bugler, a minute of silence, "Reveille", and the playing of both New Zealand and Australian national anthems.

Anyway, I think Anzac Day is similar to heroes days or "Hari Pahlawan" in Indonesia. The Indonesian government has designated November 10th as a Heroes Day to honor those who died, mostly ill-equipped young men, in a clash against heavily armed British troops during their short-lived occupation following Indonesian independence.

FOREIGN REPRESENTATIVES TO INDONESIA

2009-04-22T00:56:00.001-07:00

Embassy of Australia in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said Kav C 15-16, Jakarta Selatan 12940
Telepon: +62 21 2550 5555 - Fax: +62 21 2550 5467

Embassy of Canada in Jakarta, Indonesia
World Trade Centre, 6th Floor Jalan Jend. Sudirman Kav. 29-31
Jakarta 12920Indonesia
Telephone: (62) 21-2550-7800 - Fax: (62) 21-2550-7811

Embassy of Croatia in Jakarta, Indonesia
Menara Mulia, Suite 2801 Jalan Gatot Subroto Kav. 9-11
Jakarta 12930Indonesia
Telephone: +62 (21) 525-7822/7611 - Fax: +62 (21) 520-4073

Embassy of The Czech Republic in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jl. Gereja Theresia 20, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat 103 50
Tel.: (62-21) 3904075-7 - Fax: (62-21) 3904078

Embassy of France in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jl. M. H. Thamrin No.20, Jakarta Pusat 10350, Indonesia
Tel (62)(21) 23 55 76 00 - Fax (62-21) 23 55 76 01

Embassy of Germany in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jl. M.H. Thamrin 110310 Jakarta, Indonesia
Tel.: 021-398 55 000
Fax : 021-390 1757
Fax consuler/visa: 021-316 22 84

Embassy of Iran in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto 110, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Phone : +62-21-31931378, 31931391, Fax : +62-21-3107860

Embassy of Italy in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jalan Diponegoro no.45, Menteng, Jakarta 10310
Tel. : (+62- 21) 31937445, Fax : (+62- 21) 31937422

Embassy of Japan in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jl. M.H. Thamrin 24, Jakarta Pusat (10350)
Tel: +62-21-31924308 Fax: +62-21-31925460

Embassy of The Netherlands in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said Kav. S-3, Kuningan 12950
Jakarta Selatan - Jakarta Indonesia
Phone:+62-21-5248200 - Fax:+62-21-5700734 +62-21-5275975

Embassy of Singapore in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said Block X/4, KAV No 2 Kuningan,
Jakarta Selatan 12950
Tel: +62-21 29950400 (Mainline), +62-21 5201489
Fax:+ 62-21 5201486 (General), + 62-21 5202320 (Consular Section)

Embassy of Sweden in Jakarta, Indonesia
Menara Rajawali, 9th FloorJl. Mega Kuningan Lot #5.1
Kawasan Mega Kuningan, Jakarta 12950
Phone: +62-(0)21-2553 5900, Fax: +62-(0)21-576 2691

Embassy of Switzerland in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jl.H.R. Rasuna Said Blok X 3/2, Kuningan
Jakarta-Selatan 12950, Indonesia
Tel. +62 21 525 60 61 / +62 21 520 74 51 - Fax +62 21 520 22 89

Embassy of The United Kingdom in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jl. M.H. Thamrin No 75Jakarta 10310, Indonesia
Telephone: (62) (21) 2356 5200 Fax: (62) (21) 2356 5226 (Political)

Embassy of The United States of America in Jakarta, Indonesia
Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan, No. 3 - 5, Jakarta 10110, Indonesia
Telephone: (62)(21)3435-9000; within Jakarta 3435-9000
Fax: (62)(21) 385-7189

General Consulate of The United States of America in Surabaya, Indonesia
Address: Jl. Dr. Sutomo no. 33, Surabaya 60264
Phone: (62-31) 295 6400, Fax: (62-31) 567-4492

For a full listing of foreign representatives to Indonesia, click here and (here and here, without websites)

FOREIGN REPRESENTATIVE TO NEW ZEALAND

2009-04-20T01:59:00.000-07:00

Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia, Wellington
Street Address: 70 Glen Road, Kelburn, Wellington 6012
Postal Address: PO Box 3543, Wellington 6140
Telephone: (04) 475 8697; 475 8698; 475 8699
Facsimile: (04) 475 9374

Australian High Commission, Wellington
Street Address: 72-76 Hobson Street, Thorndon, Wellington 6011
Postal Address: PO Box 4036, Wellington 6140
Telephone: (04) 473 6411

American Embassy, Wellington
Street Address: 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Wellington 6011
Postal Address: PO Box 1190, Wellington 6140
Telephone: (04) 462 6000- Facsimile: (04) 472 3537

British High Commission, Wellington
Street Address: 44 Hill Street, Wellington 6011
Postal Address: PO Box 1812, Wellington 6140
Telephone: (04) 924 2888; (04) 924 2889 (Consular)

Embassy of the People's Republic of China, Wellington
Street Address: 2-6 Glenmore Street, Wellington 6011
Postal Address: PO Box 17-257, Karori, Wellington 6147
Telephone: (04) 472 1382 (Reception)

High Commission of Canada, Wellington
Street Address: Level 11, 125 The Terrace, Wellington 6011
Postal Address: PO Box 8047, Wellington 6143
Telephone: (04) 473 9577Facsimile: (04) 471 2082

For a full listing of embassies, you can visit New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (click here)

NEW ZEALAND EMBASSIES OVERSEAS

2009-04-19T02:53:00.000-07:00

New Zealand High Commission - Canberra :
Commonwealth Avenue, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia
Consulate : Tel. (612) 6270 4211 / Fax. (612) 6273 3194

New Zealand High Commission in Ottawa, Canada :
99 Bank Street, Suite 727
Ottawa,Ontario K1P 6G3, CANADA
Tel: (613) 238-5991
Visa Information Tel: (613) 238-6097
Fax: (613) 238-5707

New Zealand Embassy in Beijing, China :
1 Ritan Dongerjie , Chaoyang DistrictBeijing 100600
People Republic of China
Tel: 0086-10-8532 7000 / Fax: 0086-10-6532 4317

New Zealand Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia :
Sentral Senayan 2, 10th Floor, Jl Asia Afrika No 8,
Gelora Bung Karno, Jakarta Pusat 10270
Tel; (+62) 21 2995 5800 / Fax: (+62) 21 5797 4578

New Zealand High Commission in London, UK :
New Zealand High Commission
New Zealand House
80 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4TQ
UNITED KINGDOM
Tel: 0044-20-7930-8422
Fax: 0044-20-7839-4580

New Zealand Embassy, Washington, USA :
37 Observatory Circle, NW
Washington D.C. 20008
United States of America
Telephone: 1 (202) 328 4800
Facsimile: 1 (202) 667 5227

For a full listing of New Zealand embassies and consulates in other countries, you can visit New Zealand Embassy website. (click here)

INDONESIAN EMBASSIES OVERSEAS

2009-04-17T02:38:00.000-07:00

Indonesian Embassy in Canberra, Australia
8 Darwin Avenue,Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Tel. + 612 - 62508600 / Fax. + 612 - 62736017

Indonesian Embassy in Vienna-Austria
Gustav Tschermakgasse 5-7, A-1180 Wien, Austria
Tel: +431- 47623-0 / Fax: +431 479 0557

Indonesian Embassy in Ottawa-Canada
55 Parkdale Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 1E5
T: 1.613.724.1100 / F: 1.613.724.1105

Indonesian Embassy in Helsinki, Finland
Embassy of The Republic of Indonesia c/o Consular Section
Kuusisaarantie 3, 00340 Helsinki
Phone: (358-9) 477 0370 / Fax : (358-9) 458 2882

Indonesian Embassy in Paris, France
Ambassade d’Indonésie - 47-49, rue Cortambert, 75116 Paris
Tél: 01 45 03 07 60 / Fax: 01 45 04 50 32

Indonesian Embassy in Berlin, Germany
Botschaft der Republik Indonesien, Lehrter Str. 16-17,10557 Berlin
Tel. : 030-47807-0 / Fax : 030-44737142

Indonesian Embassy in The Hague, Netherlands
Tobias Asserlaan 8, 2517 KC Den Haag, Netherlands
Tel: +31-070-3108 100 / Fax: +31-070-3643 331

Indonesian Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa
949 Schoeman Street, Arcadia, Pretoria, Tswane, Gauteng
Phone: +27 12 342 3350 /Fax : +27 12 342 3369

Indonesian Embassy in London, United Kingdom
38 Grosvenor Square, London W1K 2HW
Telp. (020) 74997661 / Fax. (020) 74914993

Indonesian Embassy in Washington, United States of America
2020 Massachusetts Ave. N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20036, USA
Tel 202 775 5200 - Fax 202 775 5365

For A full listing of Indonesian Embassies, consulates and permanent missions in other countries :
- with website: click here.
- without website : click here .

PARLIAMENT BUILDINGS IN WELLINGTON

2009-04-16T22:33:00.000-07:00

When you are in Wellington, the Capital City of New Zealand, don't forget to visit the historic Parliament Buildings. Parliament's Visitor Centre is open everyday. It is in the ground floor foyer of the Beehive (also known as the Executive Wing), you come in through Parliament’s main entrance between the Beehive and the steps of Parliament House, and follow the signs.

You can get free tour guided by specially trained staff, depart on the hour from the Visitor Centre (the Beehive). Tour duration is one hour. Tour visitors must check their belongings into secure storage before joining a tour, so please arrive 15 minutes before the hour. Tour route/times subject to change. Groups of 10 or more need to book.

The Parliament Building is located on Molesworth Street, Wellington, and only 5 minutes of walk from the Wellington railway station. In the sunny day, a lot of people spend their afternoon to eat their lunch or sandwich in parliament grounds, or just sitting on the green grass park enjoying the sun and chatting with their friends.

For further information, visit the Parliament website here.

MOSQUES IN INDONESIA

2009-04-16T16:39:00.000-07:00

If you want to make a trip in Indonesia especially to see all 'Houses of Allah' (mosques), besides Masjid Istiqlal and Masjid Kubah Mas, here are some of mosques that you might like to visit :

1. Masjid Baiturrahman, Banda Aceh (Click here and here)
2. Masjid At-Tin, Taman Mini, Jakarta (Click here)
3. Masjid Agung, Demak (Click here)
4. Masid Raya Makassar, Makassar (Click here)
5. Masjid Agung, Surabaya (Click here)
6. Masjid Atta'awun in Puncak-Jawa Barat, surrounded by nice tea-plantation area. (Click here and here)

KUBAH MAS MOSQUE

2009-04-16T16:38:00.001-07:00

One of the largest and the magnificent mosque in Indonesia is Golden Dome Mosque (Masjid Kubah Mas). Owned by a business woman from Serang named Dian Juriah Maimun Al-Rasyid, this mosque is also known as a Masjid Dian Al-Mahri.
The domes, the pillars, the chandeliers, and the ornaments are covered by pure 24 carat gold. The materials used, such as gold, chandeliers, and granite were imported from Italy, Spain, Norway, and Brazil.

The mosque was built on 80 hectare land. It features of fruit trees and flowers planted around the mosque, halls and a huge parking area. Since the mosque was opened for public, lots of people from Jakarta and outside Jakarta come to see it.

Not far from the mosque, in the same area, there is a huge open hall. Many people are having picnics there, they are spreading their mats, sitting on them, and eating their food brought from home. Near the hall, toilet rooms are available.

ISTIQLAL MOSQUE

2009-04-16T14:32:00.000-07:00

As the country’s large muslim population, Indonesia has many beautiful mosques. Masjid Istiqlal (Istiqlal Mosque) is the biggest mosque in South-East Asia, made from alabastar marble. (Click here to see the mosque pictures). This mosque is located on the North-East corner of Merdeka Square, Central Jakarta on the historic Lapangan Banteng.
The name “Istiqlal” means “freedom” and the mosque can hold up to 250,000 people, but you usually won’t see that many people here except on the holiest days of the year – eid Fitr and Idul Adha/mubaroq. If you’ve never seen a mosque on the inside before, then this would be a good one to start with as the scale is truly huge. The mosque also provides facilities for social and cultural activities, including lectures, exhibitions, seminars, conferences, bazaars and programs for women, youth and children. If you do want to visit, remember to wear long pants.

Besides Istiqlal Mosque, Indonesia has a magnificent mosque that is located in Sawangan -Depok, South Jakarta, called Masjid Kubah Mas (Golden Dome Mosque). It takes 2 hours by car from Jakarta. Since it was opened for public, this mosque has been one of the favourite destinations and attracts lots of visitors. Everyday, you can see lots of people from Jakarta and outside Jakarta come to visit, by car or bus.

CUBA STREET CARNIVAL, WELLINGTON

2009-04-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Cuba Street Carnival celebrated 10 years to the day since the very beginning, It was held on 20-22nd February 2009. It's living up to its reputation as NZ's largest FREE music festival. There were lots of stages planned throughout Cuba Street and Courtenay Place on Saturday 21st February 2009.

Lots of bands and DJs performed at the day and night event. Many of Wellington's famous bars were coming out onto the street with great line ups and a parade along the streets. The event attracts national and international interest. The first Cuba Street Carnival in Wellington was held on 21 February 1999.

USEFUL WORDS, ENGLISH - INDONESIA

2009-04-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

GREETING
English Indonesia
How do you do? : Apa kabar?
Good morning : Selamat pagi
Good afternoon : Selamat siang

Good evening : Selamat malam
Good night : Selamat tidur
Goodbye : Selamat tinggal
Bon voyage : Selamat jalan
Fine : Baik
Welcome : Selamat datang
Excuse me : Permisi, maafkan saya
I'm sorry : Saya minta maaf
No : Tidak
Yes : Ya
Thank you : Terima Kasih

PRONOUNS & TITLE
English Indonesia
I : Saya
You : Anda, kamu
We : Kita, kami
He/She : Dia
They : Mereka
Mr. : Bapak
Miss : Nona
Mrs. : Ibu

QUESTIONS
English Indonesia
Can you help me? : Bisakah menolong saya?
How do I get there? : Bagaimana untuk kesana?

How far? : Berapa jauh
How long will it take? : Berapa lama?
How much (price)? : Berapa harganya?
What is this/that? : Apa ini/itu?
What is your name? : Apa/siapa nama anda?
When? : Kapan?
Where? : Dimana?
Why? : Kenapa? Mengapa?
Go up : Naik
Go down : Turun
Turn : Belok
Right : Kanan
Left : Kiri

Front : Depan
Behind : Belakang
North : Utara
South : Selatan
East : timur
West : Barat
Up : Atas
Down : Bawah

USEFULL WORDS & EXPRESSIONS
English Indonesia
A little : Sedikit
A lot : Banyak
Beach : Pantai
Beef : Daging sapi
Chicken : Ayam
Cold : Dingin

Crab : Kepiting
Drink : minum
Do not have : Tidak punya
Eat : Makan
Exit : keluar
Female : Perempuan/wanita
Fish : Ikan
Fruit : Buah
Have : punya
Hot : Panas
Male : Lai-laki/pria
Meat : Daging
Money : Uang
Mutton : Daging kambing
No : Tidak

Please : Tolong/silahkan
Pork : Babi
Prawn : Udang
Salt : Garam
Shop : Toko
Sugar : Gula
Toilet/WC : Toilet/Kamar Kecil
Trishaw : Becak
Wait : Tunggu
Want : Ingin/mau
Water : Air

LOCAL CUSTOMS, DO'S AND DON'TS

2009-04-12T15:08:00.000-07:00

Some countries have their own local customs that are often different to other countries. When visiting Indonesia, you should observe local customs and practices. For your information, here are some common courtesies and customs as follows :

Although handshakes are generally acceptable for both men and women, some Muslim ladies may acknowledge introductions to gentlemen by merely nodding and smiling.
A handshake should only be initiated by ladies. The traditional greeting or salam resembles a handshake with both hands but without the grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friends outstretched hands, and then brings his hands to his chest to mean, "I greet you from my heart". You should reciprocate the salam.

It is polite to call before visiting a home.
Shoes must always be removed when entering a home.
Drinks are generally offered to guests. It is polite to accept.

The right hand is always used when eating with one's hand or giving and receiving objects. The right forefinger is not used to point at places, objects or persons. Instead, the thumb of the right hand with four fingers folded under is the preferred usage.

Shoes must be removed when entering places of worship such as mosques and temples. Some mosques provide robes and scarves for female visitors.

Taking photographs at places of worship is usually permitted but always ask permission beforehand.

Toasting is not a common practice in. The country's large Muslim population does not drink alcohol.

TMII, Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature Park

2009-04-11T04:14:00.000-07:00

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature Park) is Indonesia's answer to every visitor's prayer to see the magnificent archipelago in just one day. An extensive park to get a glimpse of the diverseness of the Indonesian archipelago, it represents Indonesia's 27 provinces and their outstanding characteristics, reflected most strikingly in the exact regional architecture of the province. An extensive theme park set in over 100 hectares on the outskirts of Jakarta; the All Indonesian islands are realistically reproduced in miniature in a central lake and around the lakes, there are pavilions. Each pavilions is representative of each province firm the traditional architectural style in miniature to a wonderful display of cultural items and exhibits. The park's centrepiece is a beautiful artificial lake. The complex was the brainchild of Madam Tien Soeharto, the late Indonesian first lady.

It also has its own orchid garden in which hundreds of Indonesian orchid varieties are grown. There is also a bird park with a walk-in aviary, a fauna museum and recreational grounds with a swimming pool and restaurants. The special interest here at Taman Mini is the Museum Indonesia. A richly decorated building in Balinese architecture, it houses contemporary arts, crafts and traditional costumes from the different regions of the country.

Cultural performances, events, and even local delicacies from the provinces are prepared regularly, especially during weekends and holidays, to showcase Indonesia's rich cultural heritage. The park is open seven days a week, giving guests ample time to explore and enjoy the sights. And if a day tour is not enough, visitors can spend the night at the 'Desa Wisata' or 'Wisata Remaja' serviced accommodations.

JAKARTA, INDONESIA

2009-04-11T03:46:00.001-07:00

Jakarta is the capital city of the Republic of Indonesia. As the Capital City, Jakarta is a melting pot of representatives of more than 300 ethnic groups speaking 200 different languages. As one of 33 provinces in Indonesia, DKI Jakarta covers 637.44 square km area.

As the Capital City of Indonesia, Jakarta is one of Indonesia's designated tourist areas. It is a gateway to other tourist destinations in Indonesia, equipped with the modern transportation by air, sea, rail, or by land. As Indonesia's main gateway, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport that located in Kemayoran - Jakarta, serves a growing number of international airlines and domestic flights.

When you go to Jakarta, you can visit some of the popular tourist destinations in Jakarta such as :

- National Monument (Monas)
- TMII (Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature Park), Theater Imax Keong Emas (Golden Snail Theater)
- Jaya Ancol Dreamland (Taman Impian Jaya Ancol) : Sea World, Fantasy Land
- Pulau Seribu Thousand Island
- Sunda Kelapa Harbour
- T.I.M (Taman Ismail Marzuki) Art Center
- Ragunan Zoo
- Museums : Central Museum, National Museum, Jakarta History Museum, Shadow Puppets Museum, Ancient Inscription Museum, Fine Art and Ceramic Museum, 1945 Struggle for Freedom Museum, Maritime Museum.

ORIENTAL BAY BEACH

2009-04-10T00:10:00.000-07:00

Oriental Bay – Wellington’s favourite beach and waterfront walk – is a suburb of Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, located close to the Central Business District on Wellington Harbour. It has the closest beach to the centre of the city called Oriental Bay Beach. Just to the left of the bay is the Clyde Quay Marina and Freyberg Pool.

Oriental Bay and the surrounding shoreline has recently been renovated. In December 2002, the Wellington City Council began building a bigger beach at Oriental Bay. The project involved enlarging and enhancing the existing Freyberg and Oriental Bay beaches, and adding a new beach east of the Band Rotunda - an area that used to be covered by stones.

The upgrade involved over 27,000 tonnes of sand. The sand for the new beaches was imported from Takaka, near Golden Bay - Nelson in the South Island of New Zealand. The beach's total sand area is now four times larger than before and the Freyberg grass area is twice as large. This renovation has made the promenade along Oriental Bay an integral part of the seafront walk that extends all along Central Wellington. The shoreline is lined with numerous hotels and car park.

Along with the beach expansion, a pier, new toilet and changing facilities, playground have been built, better lighting put in, extra car parks have been created and new coastal structures built to hold the beach in place – all of which make Oriental Bay the perfect place to catch some sun and enjoy a day at the beach.

Oriental Bay Beach is also one of the best spots in the capital to catch the last of the sun’s rays in the evening. It’s where picnickers head with their sandwiches, fish ‘n chips and glasses of wine and where people from all over the city come to walk, swim, run, cycle or just sit and enjoy an ice cream in the evening sun.

CABLE CAR

2009-04-08T23:17:00.000-07:00

Have you ever took a cable car? Wellington have a cable car that located in Lambton Quay. The car leaves every 10 minutes to the top of the Botanic Garden.

The Wellington Cable Car is one of Wellington’s oldest & most popular tourist attractions. The cars run from Lambton Quay in the heart of the central business district and within 5 minutes they take you quickly to under the corporate towers of The Terrace, pass Kelburn Park and Victoria University to the top entrance of the Wellington Botanic Gardens with its magnificent scenery over the City and the Wellington Harbour. The Wellington Cable Car Museum is not far from there, it is located just a few metres from top of the cable car route, situated in the old cable car winding room. By taking a cable car, you may visit the cable car museum as well. So, don't forget to put a cable car in your itinerary!

THE WELLINGTON BOTANIC GARDEN

2009-04-08T23:10:00.000-07:00

One of interesting places to visit in New Zealand is Botanic Garden. The Botanic Garden is situated in Wellington and is easily accessed. it features 25 hectares of unique landscape, protected native forest, conifers, specialised plant collections, colourful floral displays, and views over Wellington city.

The Gardens feature a large Victorian-style glasshouse, the Begonia House, the Lady Norwood Rose Garden and the Treehouse Visitor Centre. There is a large children's play area, a duck pond. Large sculptures and carvings are located throughout the garden. Entry is free!

There are many entrances to the Garden including from Tinakori Road, Glenmore Street, Salamanca Road, Upland Road and the Cable Car. Also, There are several ways to get there :

- Cable Car - from Cable Car Lane, off Lambton Quay. Leaves every 10 minutes to the top of the Botanic Garden.
- Bus - catch the bus (No.3 Karori Park bus) at Lambton Quay and get off at the Centennial entrance on Tinakori Road and the Founders Gates on Glenmore Street.
- Walking - the most popular route is from The Terrace through Bolton Street Memorial Park, through the Lady Norwood Rose Garden to the Main Garden. This takes about 20 minutes.
- Car - the only public carpark in the garden is adjacent to the Lady Norwood Rose Garden.

Parking is limited to two hours if you take a car. Access is through Centennial Entrance on Tinakori Road. Parking is also available along Glenmore Street.

Open Hours :

Garden: Daily Dawn to dusk
Treehouse Visitor Centre: Monday - Friday 9.00am - 4.00pm
(Closed weekends and public holidays)

Begonia House Gift Shop:
October - March Daily 9.00am - 5.00pm
April - September Daily 9.00am - 4.00pm
(Closed 1-2 January, Good Friday : until 1.00pm, 25-26 December)

HAKA DANCE

2009-04-07T02:17:00.000-07:00

If we visit New Zealand, we might see a haka dance. A Haka is the traditional dance form of the Maori of New Zealand. It is a posture dance with shouted accompaniment, performed by a group. War haka were originally performed by warriors before a battle, proclaiming their strength and power in order to intimidate the opposition. Haka are not exclusively performed by men, but can be performed by women, mixed groups or by children. Today haka are performed for various reason, as integral part of formal or official welcome ceremonies for distinguished visitors, or to acknowledge great achievement or occasions. Various actions are employed such as the poking out of the tongue (as challenge), shouting, slapping the hands against the body and stamping of the feet to express courage, annoyance, joy or other feelings relevant to the purpose of the occasion.

Wanna know what the Haka dance is? These videos below represent the different performances of Haka by New Zealand sport team (rugby) to challenge the other team. Take a look the videos from utube, guys! (click here, here and here). Or just click the videos. It’s interesting, indeed!

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME

2009-04-07T02:02:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I met a friend. He informed me that New Zealand’s daylight saving time (DST) will come to an end on Sunday, April 5, 2009 and the clocks will move back by one hour from 3am (or 03:00) to 2am (or 02:00) local time. He reminded me also to put my clock back one hour on Saturday.

What is daylight saving? Daylight saving is used in many countries around the world (mostly Europe and America, but also New Zealand and some of Australia). In New Zealand, the whole country puts their clock forward one hour in spring time (September) and back one hour in autumn (April). click here. Why? They do this so that they have more daylight in the afternoon during summer, so they have time to go to the beach after work and school. See New Zealand Law - Time Act 1974 (With 2007 Changes)

If daylight saving ended on April 5, 2009, when will New Zealand’s next daylight saving time start again? New Zealand’s next daylight saving schedule will start on Sunday, September 27, 2009, and end on Sunday, April 4, 2010. The 2010–2011 daylight saving schedule will start on Sunday, September 26, 2010.

For your information, modern DST - they used water clock before - was first proposed by the New Zealand entomologist George Vernon Hudson. Since then, many countries have used it. Wanted to know more about daylight saving time? Click here and find out “Saving The Daylight”.