Teal Motor Lodge Gisborne New Zealand

Still First to See the Light

2012-01-03T17:26:00.000-08:00

Good to see that in spite of some Pacific Island trickery, Gisborne has maintained the mantle of "First to See the Light."

Witnessing the day's first sunlight rays peeking out from the curvature of the earth is a magical event.

"Gisborne is still the first city to see the light of the new year, despite Samoa and Tokelau shifting to the New Zealand side of the dateline.

Thanks to planet Earth being tilted, the New Year sunrise still falls on the East Coast first.

Later in the year Apia will take bragging rights - the sun will rise further north as New Zealand moves into autumn and winter.

The Gisborne district used to brand itself as First to See the Light but Eastland Tourism marketing manager Kerry Taggart said the phrase is no longer used in promotional material.

"First to See the Light is subject to interpretation and argument, and we want to avoid that. Our new thrust is Out East as this conveys more of the imagery that we and our stakeholders want."

Samoa and Tokelau skipped a day on December 30 to synchronise with New Zealand and Australia, which are their main trading partners."

Source: NZ Herald

Great start to the first day of the year!

2011-12-31T19:50:00.000-08:00

Matawhero Wines Gig Guide

2011-12-08T18:36:00.000-08:00

Matawhero Wines is located close to town, at 189 Riverpoint Road in Gisborne and are now open Thursday – Monday, 11am to 5pm.

Relax with family and friends and enjoy gourmet platters and great wine.

There is a great line-up of fantastic live music coming up over the next month.

Sunday December 11 – Ukes on Utes

Sunday December 18 – Kitt Higgins with Ann Maree on Violin

Saturday December 24 – Acoustic sounds with Muri Kiri Kiri

Sunday January 1 – Acoustic music with Skydog – “old and new, wild or blue”

(All live music is from 1.30-3.30pm)

Saturday January 7^th – Paul Ubana Jones from 3pm, tickets are $20 and limited. Available now from the cellar door

Sunday January 8^th- Live music from the eNNs.

Saturday January 13^th – Shaken Not Stirred from 3pm, tickets are $10 and limited. Available now from the cellar door

Matawhero Wines

189 Riverpoint Road

RD1 GISBORNE

Ph 06 867 6140 or Mob 021 222 5007

www.matawhero.co.nz

Join them on Facebook

New Qualmark Branding For Motels

2011-12-07T17:46:00.000-08:00

We see that our accommodation marketing chain, Host Accommodation is supporting New Zealand tourism's official quality agency, Qualmark NZ with the introduction of the "new" Motel sector.

Of course we've always had a motel sector, however motels were officially under the "Serviced and Self Contained sector along with Apartments.

Qualmark reckon that "Motel" and "Apartment" are two distinct sectors and have decided to impose a split with new branding to assist the traveling public.

Expect to see Qualmark's distinctive silver brand start to appear on the nation's motel signage next year.

"MEDIA RELEASE
HOST ACCOMMODATION SUPPORTS QUALMARK'S NEW DIRECTION

Qualmark’s decision to split the Self Contained & Serviced sector into two separate sectors (Motels & Apartments) is supported by Host Accommodation Group’s, General Manager, Chris Lee. He said that having consumer relevance within the Motel sector, with the name Motel just made sense and he was looking forward to the launch of the new logo and sector in the New Year.

Chris Lee said that it is pleasing that all properties in the Host Group continue to commit to being independently assessed by Qualmark and play their part in enhancing New Zealand’s reputation as a world class visitor destination.

Mr Lee points out that all Host Accommodation properties are required to go through a rigorous inspection before they are awarded a star-rating by New Zealand tourism’s official quality agency.

In addition, a growing number of Host Accommodation’s network of Hotels, Motor Lodges & Motels have been awarded Enviro certification along with a number of properties also increasing their Qualmark rating over the last 12 months."

For more Information: Click HERE

Host Accommodation QR Codes

2011-11-25T14:44:00.000-08:00

Have you seen those nifty QR Codes appearing in all sorts of unlikely places?

If you are a smart phone user, you will often find that curiousity will get the better of you and you will find yourself scanning these codes to see what digital information can be unlocked.

It looks like these QR Codes will be making appearances at Host Accommodation properties throughout New Zealand:

25 Nov 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HOST ACCOMMODATION LAUNCHES QR CODE

Host Accommodation has announced the launch of its new QR code across its network of nearly 90 properties throughout New Zealand.

Quick Response codes (QR codes) are being used more and more by innovative tourism businesses - and for good reason. Consumers want immediate access to what’s relevant and QR codes are being used to make that possible.

“The major theme at the Host Accommodation annual conference in Wellington this year was digital innovation and the launch of our QR code is a component of Host’s response to new media channels”, said Chris Lee, General Manager of Host Accommodation.

Host’s customers will now find its QR code promoted on the Host Directory and in Host accommodation reception areas. The QR code can be scanned with an iPhone, Android or other camera-enabled Smartphone, and links directly back to Host’s digital content on the web.

“Our ongoing research is driving a better understanding of the needs of our customers ”, said Chris Lee, General Manager of Host Accommodation “It’s a challenging marketplace and Host needs to ensure its messaging is relevant, timely and adding value”, he said.

Host Accommodation has embarked on additional digital marketing activity including a range of seasonal customer offers powered by online video. Focus has been placed on added customer connection and Host’s genuine and welcoming ‘authentic kiwi’ positioning.

Host’s recent Spring Break campaign successfully used online video streamed from a variety of media channels including the Host Facebook competition page, You Tube Channel and website. The tactical offer included $500 worth of accommodation vouchers, breakfasts plus a TomTom GPS Navigation kit.

Host Accommodation Group has a network of nearly 90 hotels, motor lodges & motels conveniently located throughout New Zealand.

More information:
Chris Lee - General Manager 027-253-7185

Matawhero Wines

2011-11-25T14:15:00.000-08:00

Matawhero Wines is located close to town, at 189 Riverpoint Road in Gisborne and it's fast becoming a quintessential Gizzy hangout over those long balmy Summer days.

It's a good bet that the sun will be shining when you head out to relax with family and friends at the Matawhero Wines cellar door and enjoy great wine, gourmet platters and weekend live music.

WIN with Host Accommodation

2011-11-21T15:46:00.000-08:00

Summer is finally here and Host Accommodation are giving you a chance to win a well deserved break!

Up for grabs is $500 worth of accommodation vouchers, plus $100 towards your daily breakfast for use at any Host Accommodation property of your choice (including Teal Motor Lodge in Gisborne).

Click HERE to be in to win

VIP Visitor From Hawkes Bay

2011-10-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

We had the pleasure of hosting a couple of brand new HSVs overnight that were on their way to be displayed at the 2011 Gisborne A&P Spring Show.

Our favourite was the GTS...

Txt2Check Our Room Availability

2011-10-01T15:36:00.000-07:00

(Click for a bigger picture)

At the beginning of this month we subscribed to Txt2Check, a cool text messaging service provided by Jasons Travel.

This means that our guests can instantly check-out our room availability on-the-go by texting GIS067 to shortcode, 244.

Why not give it a go!

Teal Movie Star?

2011-09-16T15:02:00.000-07:00

So why was the reception at Teal Motor Lodge taken over by a film crew last week?

We are unable to say now...but all will be revealed soon.

Win A Spring Break with Host Accommodation

2011-09-11T23:04:00.000-07:00

Be in the draw to win $500 worth of accommodation vouchers plus $100 towards your daily breakfast for use at any Host Accommodation property of your choice.

Prize also includes your very own TomTom GPS navigation touchscreen kit for your car.

Drawn 18th November 2011.

Gisborne Snow

2011-08-18T19:26:00.000-07:00

OK, so Gisborne may have missed out on the snowfall that fell in some unfamiliar inner-city locations around the country this week, however the high country surrounding us got more than a sprinkle of Jack Frost.

This "cool" video is courtesy of our friends at the Gisborne Herald:

Gisborne To East Cape

2011-08-17T22:13:00.000-07:00

A great video showcasing the Gisborne region that includes a chat with our celebrity, multilingual Mayor, a look around town and beaches, a coffee at Verve Cafe before an idyllic cruise "up the coast" on SH35 to East Cape.

A weekend in gorgeous Gisborne

2011-07-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

By Nici Wickes

There's nothing quite like a weekend of incredible food and wine to wash away the blues and the East Cape proved the perfect place to do it.

The only thing worse than a broken heart, is one that's slowly breaking. I needed cheering up and knew just what would help - a mini break spent comfort eating. Actually, not just comfort eating but comfort drinking, comfort dancing, comfort surfing.

So, I drove to Auckland airport, went up in the air for 55 minutes and came back down again, in Gisborne. Gorgeous Gisborne. Where better to escape to than the East Cape?

I didn't have much of a plan, other than to spend my first day seeking out some of the fabulous food producers I'd been hearing about and the second, redeeming the ticket a kind friend had offered me in my hour of despair, to the annual Gisborne Wine and Food Festival.

There's so much talk these days about sourcing produce locally, which is all very well, but when you're seeking variety, it can become problematic if your local growing conditions won't oblige. Fortunately, with its long stretches of alluvial river plains and boasting one of the highest number of sunshine hours in NZ, the hills and valleys in the Gisborne region are alive with artisan producers of great food and wine.

I decided that my first stop, even before checking into my accommodation, was to be the local Saturday morning farmers' market to give me a sense of what was on offer.

The man from the rental car company, a man of few words and a clipboard, had given me only one piece of advice about the market.

"Find Bad Boy Pickles first, for the mussel fritters."

Was this some kind of code? I'd soon find out.

Negotiating my way from airport to town centre was easy, as Gisborne is more like a large town than a small city and everything seems to be within 10 minutes drive.

The farmers' market was already in full swing by the time I arrived. I was desperate for a coffee but I couldn't get rental car man's words out of my head. When I spied the sign over the other side of the busy marketplace that read "Bad Boy Pickles" I all but ran towards the stall.

A handlebar moustache greeted me.

"I'm here for a mussel fritter," I said.

"Too late, they're all gone," the man belonging to the moustache bellowed.

I guessed the fact that this town sees the sun first means everyone is used to getting up early, especially if fresh mussel and karengo fritters are the reward.

Not to be deterred, I took in the other items "Bad Boy Pickle" was offering - golden fried vegetable fritters and rows and rows of pickles and sauces, relishes and chutneys. I settled on a vege fritter and a huge bottle of strawberry and chilli sauce to take away. A plush red, it had the sweetness of strawberries mingled with the hard hit of fiery chillies.

I swear Bad Boy Pickle's eyes gleamed as mine watered with the heat of his sauce.

Somewhat sustained, I was then free to walk around the rest of the market at a more leisurely pace. Wow, what plentiful bounty and all of it on the doorstep of, ironically named it now seemed to me, Poverty Bay.
Before I knew it, I had bought lamb racks from Pam and Darcy's Kaikino Hill Country station farm and had a great discussion with Pam about the best way to cook them (a few minutes in an oven-pan, then straight into a hot oven for 20 minutes maximum, then a rest).

Pam then sent me across the market to the good people at Wrights Winery and Vineyard, where I found a chardonnay verjuice that rivalled any I've tasted. Somewhat controversially (as it's more often paired with salads and whiter meats) I like to add a splash of this juice from unripe grapes, to the gravy when I'm cooking lamb. I find its bite nips at the fattiness nicely.

From there it was on to munch my way through freshly toasted macadamias from Torere Macadamias, purchase large tubs of Knapdale liquid honey and discover a soft drink like no other I'd tasted.
Lottie makes her own special carbonated mix of aloe vera and kawakawa, mixed with ginger and honey, to form what can only be described as an elixir. She calls it "Divine" and I couldn't agree more.

I refuelled with an almond, strawberry and pistachio tart from Morells Artisan Bakery and grabbed a loaf of their organic bread for later while I was at it.

Next was Waimata cheeses and who knew that this popular supermarket brand came from Gisborne? I selected a couple in the range that are less likely to be found on the super shelves, an ash-coated Taepo and a farmhouse blue. Dazzling.

My final two purchases included three bottles of capsicum sauce from Sunrise Orchard - red, orange and yellow - that I swear tasted like you'd imagine bottled sunshine to taste, and, from Millton Vineyards & Winery, a bottle of one of their latest organic products, a grape juice they're calling Amrita - Nectar of the Gods. I can never understand how grapes that are capable of producing such magic in the form of wine, as grape juice, almost uniformly fail to impress. Not so with Amrita.

The owners of New Zealand's original and most well-known biodynamic vineyard, Anne and James Millton, make their Amrita by hand-picking and gently pressing them, to extract the juice from the grapes, on just one day of the year. The result is simply heavenly...

FURTHER INFORMATION
* The Gisborne Farmers' market is heldevery Saturday morning.
* For wineries see gisbornewine.co.nz.
* For food stockists - like I said, they're local so you'll have to go to Gisborne to enjoy them!
* Tickets go on sale on Friday July 15 for this year's Gisborne Wine & Food Festival. The event date is October 23 and the headlining act is Fat Freddy's Drop, followed by a giant screen that will show the final of the Rugby World Cup. Tickets will be available from ticketek.co.nz and at the Gisborne Wine Centre, phone (06) 867 4085 or email info@gisbornewine.co.nz.

Source: Click HERE

Host Wellywood Awards

2011-06-29T20:13:00.000-07:00

Try to recognise Host Accommodation moteliers as they arrive wearing their finery at the Wellywood Awards evening last weekend.

Our new arrival...

2011-06-11T01:59:00.001-07:00

Teal's New Promotional Video

2011-05-20T16:32:00.000-07:00

We decided to add video to our online media marketing mixand after some investigation we decided to use Hamish from Hawkes' Bay media company, Quest Video & Media.

Initially we wanted a video that simply methodically listed all the attributes of our motel using moving pictures and a voice-over, however Hamish thought we should do something a little bit different and we were happy to give him creative license.

We reckon we are reasonably cool, calm and collected folk most of the time however as we soon found-out, when a camera is pointed at us, we go into panic mode! Hamish made the whole process fairly painless and we are very proud what he produced for us.

Check it out and tell us what you think...

Video produced by: Quest Video and Media

Austin Healey Rescue

2011-04-25T20:52:00.000-07:00

Gisborne is the place to be this long Easter weekend!

2011-04-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

It should come as no surprise that Gisborne being the first city in the world to greet the sun each day is one of the hot-spots to be this long Easter weekend according to the MetService.

"A cold front is expected to move slowly up the country, bringing rain to the South Island throughout the weekend, before weakening as it reaches the North Island.

The North Island will get increasingly cloudy as the weekend progresses with rain forecast to arrive late Saturday for the lower North Island.

The rain should arrive at Northland, Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula and the Bay of Plenty late Sunday, MetService forecaster Geoff Sanders said.

Mr Sanders said the east of the North Island could have long, reasonably fine spells this weekend, with highs in the low 20s expected.

"Gisborne and Hawkes Bay are the places to be this Easter Weekend," he said."

Source: Click HERE

New Media Comming Soon!

2011-04-12T23:44:00.000-07:00

We've had a busy week at the Teal updating our media.

Here's a small snippet poolside behind the scenes featuring Hamish Lowry producing some moving imagery and Jayson Kingsbeer getting down with some static shots.

Thanks to our models: Kirsty, Wayne, Ebba and Kerre.

We'll be updating our media with some fresh new images real soon...

Teal Sunset

2011-04-12T23:09:00.000-07:00

Booking on-line has never been easier

2011-03-29T02:20:00.000-07:00

We've just updated our website with a new simpler to use booking engine.

Jump-in and check it out HERE. We hope to be adding a few suprisises over the next few weeks;-)

Gisborne Rush Hour

2011-03-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

Gisborne Cold Water Classic

2011-03-23T15:51:00.000-07:00

Join us on Foursquare!

2011-03-03T12:30:00.000-08:00

For a limited time we have decided to reward our connected guests that check-in with Foursquare two very special offers.

Saturday Smiles

2010-08-27T19:40:00.000-07:00

One of our dear guests sent us this newspaper clipping via email.

Is this true or an urban legend?

Well done!

2010-08-15T14:38:00.000-07:00

The Gisborne Branch of the Motel Association of NZ gathered last night at the World Cafe for their Annual General Meeting.

The highlight of the evening was to honour branch Secretary/Treasurer, John Haynes with a prestigious Life Membership of the branch.

John Haynes has been associated with the motel industry for over 30 years and purchased Teal Motor Lodge in Gisborne with Valmai in 1979.

Soon after starting a new career as a motelier, John was elected on to the Branch Executive and served two separate terms as President 1982 – 83 and 1992 – 94.

John has been continually involved with the local branch Executive since 1981 and is currently the branch Secretary / Treasurer; a position he has held since 1999.

John has served as a board member, Vice-President and President of the Golden Chain motel group over a turbulent period of time that included overseeing a new centralised reservation system. He has also served on the local regional tourism executive.

In recognition of John’s significant contribution and perseverance in the motel industry, the Gisborne East Coast Branch proudly nominated John for the “Jack Hopkins Memorial Award” that he was awarded by MANZ in 2003.

John has always made him self available to his fellow industry members and willingly shares his vast experience and empathy with others.

John has always been a keen supporter of technology and innovation and over his career has enthusiastically embraced a range of advancements from the telex machine to the Internet.

John has always been a staunch supporter of MANZ and leads by example.

Branch member and national MANZ Board member, Peter Nash was one of three branch members that nominated John for Life Membership of the branch and this was enthusiastically endorsed by the other branch members on the night. It was also resolved that the branch has recommended that the MANZ Board consider John for life membership of the national association at their next general meeting.

Peter Nash presented John Life Membership of the East Coast Branch Motel Association of NZ with a commemorative award and certificate and thanked Valmai Haynes for her support.

Gisborne Wine and Food Festival

2010-07-28T18:27:00.000-07:00

Baxter's Bath

2010-07-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

Our wee nephew Baxter aged 3-weeks and weighing-in at 1.8kg takes a bath.

More Mad Moteliers!

2010-07-16T21:48:00.000-07:00

Last month, HOST Accommodation providers gathered for their annual conference in Christchurch.

So what really goes on behind the scenes?

We have uncovered a secret video of some of the activities featuring normally mild-mannered moteliers!

Check it out and see if you recognise anyone ;-)

SH2 Matahorua Gorge Project

2010-07-15T21:44:00.000-07:00

Motorists enjoying the journey on SH2 between Napier and Wairoa on their way to Gisborne will be briefly diverted from the main highway as work gets underway this weekend on the Matahorua Gorge.

It's worth pausing and looking at some spectacular scenery while marveling at the engineering feat of constructing a new bridge. This is one of the largest projects on this stretch of highway for many years.

The gorge will be closed this weekend and subsequent weekends for the realignment project to be done, however the diversion will only add a few minutes to the usual journey.

The entire project should be finished by next year.

Interactive Wine and Food

2010-07-12T03:20:00.000-07:00

Check out the interactive e-card by clicking on the graphic below. This has been released to promote Gisborne's 2010 Wine and Food Festival that will be taking place this Labour Weekend:

Motel For Sale

2010-07-07T17:47:00.000-07:00

We see that the New Zealand Herald has featured a motel property lease for sale in Gisborne.

No it's NOT the Teal - It's property is well located, just across the road from us!

We reckon it's a great time to exit the housing market and purchase a motel business....but we may be biased;-)

Gisborne's White Heron could fly higher
By Colin Taylor
NZ Herald Saturday 3 July 2010

The lease for the popular White Heron Motor Lodge in Gladstone Rd, Gisborne, is being offered for sale by Karen Raureti and Colin McNab of Bayleys Gisborne who are marketing the property with an asking price of $880,000 plus GST if any.

"This presents a real opportunity for savvy owner-operators to pick up the reins and take a hands-on approach to elevate this successful business to a new level," says McNab.

"The term of the standard motel lease was recently extended to September 30, 2034, but after 16 years as working moteliers, the current holders of the lease are now looking to exit Gisborne to be closer to their children."

McNab says the motor lodge at 474 Gladstone Rd, the city's main arterial route, has been operated under management for the past four years.

"The motor lodge has 24 units, giving an operator economies of scale to allow the option of contracting staff and relieving management in order to maintain a lifestyle.

"The 2010 financial accounts for the business show continued strong comparable trading and occupancy levels. However, an owner-operator model of business management could clearly improve the bottom line as costs can be substantially reduced. Staff costs and maintenance work that is at present contracted out can be brought back 'in house', for example."

Built in late 1994, the single-level White Heron Motor Lodge is set on a large 3036sq m site with excellent profile to busy Gladstone Rd and good accessibility.

The building configuration provides a U-shaped access/egress area with well-established plantings, cobblestone paving and lawns. The manager's residence and motel reception/service areas are located to the front and centre of the site with an L-shaped accommodation building to the western and southern boundaries and five more units on the eastern boundary.

The units comprise an accommodation mix of 17 studios, plus four 1-bedroom and three 2-bedroom units. A three-bedroom manager's residence has an adjoining reception/office area, commercial kitchen, motel laundry with commercial washers and dryers, storage area plus a separately accessed staff room, guest laundry and storeroom.

Raureti says the units have proved popular with families, commercial travellers, sports and conference groups and travellers with the larger of the two 2-bedroom units often used as a compact conference facility or training room adding another dimension.

"Gisborne has always enjoyed good accommodation trade from company reps in particular as it's not a city they can just pass through if they're on business," Raureti says.

The studios are 34.5sq m in size, making them larger-than-average for motel complexes and they include combined living/sleeping space, kitchen facilities and spa baths or separate showers. Two of these studios are wheelchair-friendly with bathrooms having curtained shower areas.

The one-bedroom units have an internal area of approximately 47sq m - again larger than average - with a double bedroom and bathroom with spa bath while the three 2-bedroom units have two separate bedrooms and one has a spa bath.

"The units are all presented well but there are funds put aside in a maintenance account for a new owner to refurbish the interiors should they feel it necessary," says McNab. "The exterior of the buildings were recently repainted and will require only modest upkeep over coming years."

The property holds a liquor licence to allow in-room mini bars and to cater for on-site conferences.
The present owners plan to remain in Gisborne for the short-term, so will be on hand to offer assistance to a new owner.

The Gisborne region has a number of large events planned over the next couple of years. "Gisborne will be hosting Namibia during the 2011 Rugby World Cup and with the French team playing in Napier it is hoped that Gisborne will be on the travel itinerary of many supporters spending time on the East Coast," says McNab.

The Te Matatini National Kapa Haka Festival will be held in Gisborne in February 2011 and January is usually busy thanks to the general summer influx of holidaymakers and the increasingly popular Rhythm and Vines festival.

For further information: Click HERE

Gisborne Event Calendar

2010-06-30T03:28:00.000-07:00

Keep up with the latest Gisborne events:

Hosting is our business

2010-06-20T19:59:00.000-07:00

The following video was released at the 2010 HOST Accommodation conference and outlines the values of New Zealand's leading accommodation marketing group.

The video stars HOST's General Manager, Chris Lee and Chairperson/working motelier, Debs Suisted:

Hollie Smith signed for Wine and Food Festival

2010-05-04T21:05:00.000-07:00

CHART-topping soul singer Hollie Smith will headline this year's new-look Gisborne Wine and Food Festival, alongside kiwi favourites The Black Seeds and Sola Rosa.

The line-up is matched by a high-profile MC - TV3 media personality John Campbell.

Wines of Gisborne marketing manager Simon Gardiner said now the festival was at a single venue, the wineries had been able to pool resources to book several big acts.

"We're developing a whole day filled with incredible music that will enhance the whole experience."

Some of Gisborne's finest musicians also feature, including singer/ songwriter Dion Whaanga - formerly of Skankamelia — who will perform some of his new solo material.

Guitarist Daniel Walker will share the stage with vocalist Ariana Henare to perform a series of covers and originals that organisers say will match the relaxed atmosphere of the day.

Hollie Smith received critical acclaim in 2007 when she was named best female solo artist and breakthrough artist of the year at the Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards. More recently she released her second album, Humour and the Misfortune of Others.

Smith has performed in Gisborne at Rhythm and Vines and always had a great time here.

"I'm really looking forward to playing at the festival. The venue looks amazing and I know it will be a fantastic event."

The Black Seeds and Sola Rosa are no strangers to Gisborne either. Both have performed at R & V and BW Camping Festival and have attracted a strong following here with their high-energy shows.

There has been unprecedented buy-in from wineries and, in a first for the festival, corporate wineries that source fruit from this region will participate.

Many of Gisborne's cafes, restaurants and caterers will be involved, offering dishes to complement wines.

"With the calibre of entertainment, range of quality Gisborne wines, food from top chefs and workshops with Simon Gault and Al Brown, the festival will be one of the biggest events in Gisborne this year," said Mr Gardiner.

"As well as providing something quite special for Gisborne people, it will attract several thousand visitors to our region over Labour Weekend."

Source: Click HERE

Gisborne Adventure

2010-04-12T03:57:00.000-07:00

We had the pleasure of hosting Nicquel Rhoden and her handler, Amanda for the "Entirely World Famous" 2-day Gisborne Stopover over the weekend.

Nicquel is an extremely keen and energetic young lady that is an excellent ambassador for showing off the best of New Zealand.

The Gisborne itinerary unceremoniously cut and pasted from their blog HERE went something like this:

Teal Motor Lodge

This four star motel consists of 20 self contained motel apartments and is situated within walking distance to the city centre. The centrally located motel has everything you could possibly want, including a large salt-water swimming pool, liquor licensed premises (a vending machine which serves alcohol!), PlayStation hire, Baby sitting services, high-speed wireless Internet, cooked and continental breakfast and scooter hire.

I took advantage of their scooters and cruised all over Gisborne in style. After Stewart gave me the low down on how to work the scooter and I did a few practice rides around the motel, I set off on my adventure. It really is a great way to see the town.

There is a range of accommodation available from studio units to a two bedroom apartment. Our one bedroom spacious and modern apartment featured a fully self-contained kitchen, stylish bathroom, a dinning table with chairs, a lounge and a plasma screen TV.

Stewart was a great host, extremely friendly and helpful. Teal Motor Lodge provides an ideal platform to enjoy Gisborne's diverse landscape and other natural attractions, including renowned surfing breaks.

Prices start from $125. For more information visit their website: www.teal.co.nz
Dive Tatapouri

The base is situated on the water front at Tatapouri in Gisborne and features magnificent views across the Tatapouri Reef. Dive Tatapouri offers a range of marine experiences including, the Reef Ecology Tour, Shark Cage Diving, and the Rere Rockslide, Fishing Charters, Dive Charters, and Snorkel Tours. They also provide backpacker style accommodation, which is popular with kiwi experience and magic buses. The activities can be packaged in with the accommodation.

Reef Ecology Tour

The half an hour drive from Gisborne to Tatapouri is along some of the best surfing beaches in New Zealand. After we met everyone else who was doing the tour and had some complimentary tea, our guide Steve provided us with waders and a a large bamboo stick. Waders are boots and waterproof pants sewn together and miraculously keep you completely dry underneath! These stylish pants are sure to be seen on the Victoria Secret runway very soon.

Steve gave a run through on the safety breach and explained the types of species we will be encountering on our reef experience. He also told us that the species of sting rays we will be feeding is the species that killed Steve Irwin- GREAT.

Before we walked out across the reef at low tide, Johan waded out and brought in the stingrays using bait fish. By the time we got out their and formed our guard with the bamboo poles there was about 3 eagle ray stingrays (the smaller ones). The bamboo poles are used to stop the sting rays crawling up your legs, quite a daunting concept but it didn't happen to anyone on my tour.

After everyone felt a bit more comfortable with the eagle stingrays it was our turn to feed them. Just as it was my turn to feed the stingrays Steve announced “OO here come the big ones”. Just my luck. As I hesitantly held the frozen fish away from my body, a stingray that was at least 2 metres wide glided onto my arm and sucked up the fish.

Shark Cage Diving

An early start for myself and Amanda, we arrived at Dive Tatapouri at 6.30am. Complimentary breakfast, tea and coffee were provided as we all relaxed and watched the sunrise. Our guide today was Dean who is the creator of Dive Tatapouri with his partner Chris. We put our wetsuits and booties on and then boarded the boat.

For the more adventurous people, this was the ultimate adventure. On the way out to the sharks take in the marine wildlife, observe the albatross and other bird species flying over head, and breathe in the fresh salt air of the ocean.

We anchored a few miles out from the shore. Once Dean put the bait buckets and a couple of fish heads out, he cranked up the radio and put out a few fishing lines for us to use. This is not only for entertainment but also helps attract the predators down below. After about an hour of fishing, singing along to the music and soaking in the sun our first shark arrived- time to get into the cage.

The ability to view wild sharks so close but from the safety of an underwater enclosure is seriously cool. You feel utterly safe yet the shark is eye level with you and less than a metre away. It really was an amazing experience.

For more information on the activities and tours with Dive Tatapouri please visit their website at: www.divetatapouri.com

If you want to join in the adventures and follow Nicquel, click on one of the links below!

Entirely World Famous...In Gisborne

2010-04-09T20:38:00.000-07:00

After a busy morning being hosted by Dive Tatapouri Nicquel Rhoden hits Gisborne streets on a scooter supplied by ScooterHire.co.nz.

Entirely World Famous in Gisborne!

2010-04-06T17:52:00.000-07:00

We are busy preparing to host Nicquel Rhoden for her 2-day Gisborne Stopover this week.

Nicquel was chosen from a cast of thousands for the "job of a lifetime" to tour and promote New Zealand for three months. If you want to join in the adventures follow Nicquel on one of the links below!

Here's her latest video from Queenstown and Wanaka:

Boy - The Movie

2010-04-01T21:03:00.000-07:00

A must-see Kiwi movie that is set "just up the road" on the East Coast.

We reckon that Boy is now THE iconic Kiwi movie of all time. Stunning scenery, great humour with surprisingly superb acting that sells a down to earth, believable story. In a subtle way the film touches on serious social dysfunction, but this is not in-your-face like Once Were Warriors.

We suggest you go along to a screening to check it out for yourself:

Easter Events In Gisborne

2010-03-22T18:05:00.000-07:00

This Easter promises to be a wonderful opportunity to participate in some great events in Gisborne, or you can simply relax and enjoy the positive vibe.

Here's a selection of some of the events:

NZ Surfing Nationals Gisborne 1-5 April. Official function Sunday 4th April at Shed 3.
Eastwoodhill Centennial - 2- 4th April
Steam Train WA 165 Beach Loop Excursion - 3 April
Shona Laing - Bushmere Estate Wines - 3 April
Silver Fern Railcar - Arrive Sat 3 April - Depart Sun 4 April

For further information visit The Gisborne i-Site www.gisbornenz.com

For your accommodation requirements, please visit us online www.teal.co.nz where you can check-out room availability in real-time and book on-line.

Gisborne’s Famous Eastwoodhill Arboretum

2010-03-16T12:54:00.000-07:00

John (from Tourism and Travel Directory ONZAMAP) and a film crew visited Gisborne’s famous Eastwoodhill Arboretum on what looks like a particularly gorgeous day for a garden ramble.

The clip’s a bit out of date, though, so just remember that the arboretum celebrates its centenary THIS year Easter April 2 - 4, 2010.

You can buy tickets to one or any of the events below by filling in a centennial registration form. There will be no door/gate sales for any ticketed events.

Ticket sales close on March 24.

Entirely World Famous NZ Tour! Part 2

2010-03-07T02:24:00.000-08:00

We have been following the exploits of Nicquel Rhoden on her Entirely World Famous NZ Tour.

So far, she has made it to Dunedin after starting from Christchurch. So it's day-16 of an epic 90-day New Zealand tour.

The pace of the tour is hectic with the schedule allowing to showcase beautiful Kiwi scenery, tourism activities and accommodation in very quick succession.

The tour has made the Otago Daily Times and Nicquel's folks back home managed to catch up with her adventures in an article in the Australian, Gold Cost Mail. Social media is being used along the way for up to the minute news and views (see links below).

The first videos have been released with the first covering Wilowbank, Fox II Sailing, Full On and Terrace Downs:

The second video covers Aoraki Balloon Safaris and Peel Forest:

Continue to follow Nicquel on: myspace, facebook, twitter, blogspot and wordpress.

Gisborne Tsunami

2010-02-27T13:31:00.000-08:00

A tranquil scene this morning as 20cm waves lash Gisborne's Waikanae Beach after a Tsunami alert.

Entirely World Famous NZ Tour!

2010-02-22T12:04:00.000-08:00

The winner of the “Entirely World Famous in New Zealand Competion," Nicquel Rhoden will be traveling the length of New Zealand for 3-months, participating in different activities and visiting beautiful destinations - basically just being a tourist. This vivacious Ozzie looks to be a worthy winner and her adventures will be interesting to follow.

In exchange for traveling throughout New Zealand, Nicquel will use social media to share her experiences that will hopefully generate a buzz motivating others to start their own Kiwi adventure.

We are supporting Nicquel in the campaign that is promoting travel in New Zealand and will be hosting her and her possie when they arrive in Gisborne from 9 April 2010.

Follow Nicquel on: myspace, facebook, twitter, blogspot and wordpress.

Check-out Our Website

2010-02-09T18:41:00.000-08:00

Our website is constantly evolving and recently we've made it easier to check availability and book accommodation with us on-line.

Our website has been upgraded to allow our guests to easily check the guest rooms available at any time in the future. A full description of each room type and inclusions are given, you are now able to view room photos and compare tariff.

Check out the "Book Accommodation Now" button on every page of our website, www.teal.co.nz.

If you like what you see you are able to make an instant on-line reservation with us and even add extras such as breakfasts or scooter hire.

Surfing with Frank

2010-01-09T14:38:00.000-08:00

On another glorious sunny Gisborne day, our kids went "Surfing with Frank"

Hotspots tackled after Gisborne scrub fire

2010-01-07T13:11:00.000-08:00

TVNZ
8 January 2010

Firefighters are still dampening down hotspots after a major scrub fire on Thursday night forced the evacuation of several Gisborne properties.

The blaze off Awapuni Street in central Gisborne was reported about 6pm after nearly two hectares of scrub went up in flames.

Residents from about 100 houses, up to two blocks from the scene, were evacuated from their houses.
It took firefighters using 10 appliances and three helicopters two hours to contain the flames.

Crews are still at the scene on Friday morning dampening down hotspots and are expected to be there for quite some time, central fire communications shift manager Andrew Tollison says.

"We've got a digger in there turning soil over and dampening it down now," he says.

The cause of the blaze is not yet known and fire safety are investigating, Tollison says.

The fire spread quickly in dry, windy conditions but no buildings and homes were damaged.

Residents were able to return to their homes later on Thursday night.

Source: Click HERE

Gisborne Fire

2010-01-06T23:02:00.000-08:00

New Year's Day In Gisborne

2010-01-01T00:49:00.000-08:00

Gisborne's Lone Ranger Stops Off For Makas

2009-12-24T11:15:00.000-08:00

It is sometimes difficult to put on a postcard what makes Gisborne unique.

At 8 on Sunday morning, an unknown Gisborne man with a hankering for fast food after a night out was seen casually riding his horse through McDonald's drive-thru. He told the staff he lived 30km away and was on his way home.

Source: Click HERE

Where's the place to be for Xmas?

2009-12-20T21:06:00.000-08:00

Head East!

So where's the best place to be on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day?

Gisborne of course! The Dominion Post thinks so too.

The forecast for Gisborne on Christmas Eve is: Fine with light winds. Min 10 deg / Max 23 Deg.

AND for Chistmas Day is: Fine and warm. Northwesterly developing. Min 12 deg / Max 25 Deg.

Better get to Gisborne then!

Please contact us at Teal Motor Lodge as we recently have had some rooms become available.

Airplane Seat-Mate from Hell!

2009-12-18T19:45:00.000-08:00

We love the irony of trying to take a break....while all those annoying people you are trying to escape from take their holidays at the same time.

We like this latest promotion from TripAdvisor.com that asks you to rate your worst seat-mate nightmare, someone you hope NOT to sit with on your next flight.

Why not rate for your worst nightmare by clicking: HERE (we have).

Gisborne To Host Rugby World Cup Team

2009-12-18T15:23:00.000-08:00

It has been announced that Gisborne will host African qualifiers Namibia for the Rugby World Cup in September 2011.

The team will stay in Gisborne from September 1 to September 7 while preparing for their match against Fiji in Rotorua on September 1.

Namibia will return to Gisborne from September 15 to September 19 to prepare for their African derby match against neighbours and current world champions South Africa at North Harbour Stadium on September 22.

They will use Gisborne's Rugby Park as their training venue.

Gisborne will be worthy hosts and this will be an opportunity to showcase Gisborne / East Coast hospitality.

Footrot Flats comming to life on Gisborne's streets

2009-11-23T11:16:00.000-08:00

By MARTY SHARPE
The Dominion Post

24 November 2009

Wal and Dog will be immortalised on Gisborne's streets in a plan to go before the council tomorrow.
Mayor Meng Foon came up with the idea of erecting full-sized bronze statues of the Footrot Flats characters around the city's streets, parks and beaches.

Cartoonist Murray Ball created the famous Footrot Flats characters of Wal and Dog in 1975 in Gisborne. He and wife Pam have lived in the district for 35 years.

The comic strip ran until 1994 in newspapers around the world. The cartoon was based on the life of Wal Footrot's sheepdog Dog on their farm Footrot Flats, and the other humans and animals that came into their lives.

Mr Foon met the Balls last month and put his idea to them. They indicated they were interested and Mr Foon's proposal will go before council tomorrow.

He said the proposal could lead to Footrot Flats-themed events and merchandise.

The statues will cost several hundred thousand dollars to make and erect over several years. If approved, the earliest they could start appearing on the streets was late next year, Mr Foon said.

The number of bronze statues and costs would need to be discussed, but he believes there would be minimal cost to ratepayers as funds could be gained through charitable grants and trusts.

"I think it's a marvellous idea," Mr Foon told The Dominion Post yesterday. "I was thinking about what made our region special and I thought of Murray Ball.

"He's published worldwide and Footrot Flats is very well known and very visible. It's very complementary to our region with its rural, farming, horticultural and small-town scene," Mr Foon said.

Statues could include "a flock of sheep with Dog sticking his head out, Wal fishing in a river, it could be a horse with Dog sitting on top of it", Mr Foon said.

The concept would create income for the region and he believed the idea would find favour with councillors and ratepayers.
Mr Ball, 70, said the proposal "was still in the airy-fairy stages, but it would be good if it came off".

"I hope people like the idea. I do wonder how well known the characters are. It is a cartoon. It doesn't last forever," Mr Ball said.

He stopped drawing Footrot Flats cartoons in 1994.

FOOTROT FLATS
* The Footrot Flats cartoon ran from 1975–1994 in newspapers around the world.
* There were more than 40 books of Footrot Flats cartoons published.
* The cartoon was the subject of a stage musical and the animated film Footrot Flats: The Dog's Tale.
* The cartoon is based on the life of Wal Footrot's border collie named Dog, on their farm, Footrot Flats. Other characters include Socrates "Cooch" Windgrass, Darlene "Cheeky" Hobson, and Dolores Monrovia Godwit "Aunt Dolly" Footrot.
* Murray Ball became an officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2002.
* His other cartoons include Stanley the Paleolithic Hero (the longest-running cartoon in Punch magazine), Bruce the Barbarian, and All the King's Comrades.

Source: Click HERE

Gisborne - The only region to beat recession

2009-11-22T20:28:00.000-08:00

The Gisborne Herald

By Marianne Gillingham

Against all odds and despite several major setbacks, the local economy fared better than all others during the September quarter, according to regional economic indicators just released by the National Bank.

The Gisborne regional economy was the only one in the country that did not fall into negative territory in the year-on-year growth figures, according to the nationwide survey.

Year-on-year growth in this district went from 0.3 percent in June, to 0.6 percent in September. Three other regions to improve in the September quarter (Auckland, Manawatu-Wanganui and Nelson-Marlborough) merely recorded a smaller rate of decline, the bank said.

“Confounding the rest of the country, Gisborne’s annual economic growth rate has remained positive throughout the recent economic downturn and has risen to its highest rate of increase since 2007,” said economist Steve Edwards.

But at the same time Gisborne topped the table for regional unemployment, which grew to 11.6 percent, the highest in the country.

Meanwhile, Gisborne reported the largest rise in commercial construction consents across the nation. The number was up by a third from June to record its highest level since mid-2008. Residential building permits increased 12 percent to the highest level in a year. But after a 33 percent surge in June, the number of house sales retraced to a more typical level in September.

These indicators are likely to rise even further over the coming quarter, with council building consent staff expecting consent applications for the new Warehouse store, a large format retail development in Customhouse Street, a $1.8 million extension to the St John building, the restoration of the burned-out Adair building and the last of the major earthquake repair contracts coming through. Also in the pipeline are Ryman’s new retirement village planned for Lytton West Village, and the council’s $40m wastewater treatment plant.

Consent staff are expecting a resurgence in house building to follow, as sections in the new Sponge Bay subdivision are sold.

Likewise, real estate agents are experiencing increased inquiry and sales of homes at a higher price level than they have seen over the past year, indicating consumer confidence is returning to the local market as people take advantage of lower interest rates.

Despite poor returns to the pastoral sector resulting from the high New Zealand dollar and lower meat prices, new tractor registrations were up 55% (-9% nationwide).
Electronic transactions were up 1.0% (0.8% for NZ) but the retail trade was down -1.2% (0.1% for NZ), which might have reflected higher food prices.

Despite that, new car registrations here were up 8% (11% for NZ).

The survey does not include export activity, so excludes the huge increase in export volumes this year from logs — which are expected to reach an all time of 1.4 million cubic metres this year.

Source: Click HERE

Extra Gisborne Excursion Demanded

2009-11-17T19:31:00.000-08:00

18 November 2009
Press Release: Steam Incorporated

An excellent booking response for the “Endeavour Express” scenic train excursion from Napier to Gisborne and return on Saturday 21st November has forced the heritage train operator, Steam Incorporated, to run a second train on Sunday 22nd November.

Excursion Organiser, John Bovis said they “were thrilled with the response”. There were still eighty seats left on the extra Sunday train, but he expected that it would be near full by the weekend. The Saturday train only had a handful of seats left.

He hoped that the excursions would showcase to the local community what a great rail asset they had. There was tremendous potential for scenic tourist trains in New Zealand as demonstrated by the highly successful “Tranz Alpine” and “Taieri Gorge Limited” trains in the South Island. The Tranz Alpine now carries half a million passengers a year. The scenery on the Napier Gisborne line rivaled that of the South Island train routes.

When making bookings many passengers had commented “that travelling over this line was something they had wanted to do for years”. A significant number were travelling to Napier specifically to travel on the train.

Mr Bovis commented that they already had some excursions planned for the Napier to Gisborne line for next year and based on the interest shown would be evaluating running more regular trips on the line.

Planned trips on the Napier to Gisborne line already included the shorter steam hauled excursions to Wairoa and Waikoau as part of the annual Art Deco Weekend activities, a special steam train for an overseas tour group and a run to Gisborne featuring a newly restored vintage diesel locomotive.

On Saturday and Sunday the “Endeavour Express” departs Napier for Gisborne at 8am and arrives back just after 9pm. The train will use heritage carriages and be hauled by a KiwiRail diesel locomotive.

Steam Incorporated was one of the first rail preservation organisations to operate its own trains on the main line from the early 1980’s, and is now a fully licensed main line operator, using primarily heritage equipment.

For more information: http://www.steaminc.org.nz

Source: Click HERE

The More FM Winery Tour 2010

2009-11-16T00:39:00.000-08:00

Tickets are now on sale for The More FM Winery Tour 2010.

Don't miss Bic Runga, Tim Finn and Dave Dobbyn together in concert supported by Boh Runga featuring Che Fu.

Early-bird tickets are available now until 30 November for $70.00 from our cellar door in Riverpoint Road or through Liquorland Gisborne for $70.00 + booking fee.

The Winery Tour will play at our Brunton Road vineyard on Thursday 18 February, 2010 from 5pm.

Check-out www.winerytour.co.nz for more information.

The end of another perfect day in Gisborne

2009-11-08T22:55:00.000-08:00

We can give no guarantees, however you have a better than even chance of experiencing some great weather when visiting Gisborne :-)

Mo-teliers supporting Movember

2009-10-31T23:55:00.000-07:00

We will be again raising funds for Movember this year.

Movember is about raising much needed funds and awareness for men’s health – specifically prostate cancer and depression in men.

Important when you learn that close to 600 men die of prostate cancer each year in New Zealand and one in ten men will experience depression in their lifetime.

...So, we are have joined fellow Mo-teliers and signed up to "Team Motella" (It's not compulsory to be a motelier - by joining our fund raising team you will be granted "honorary-mo-telier" status).

The more people we can get board, the more awareness and money will be raised and so we are asking you to join our team and either grow a moustache as a Mo Bro, or sign on as a Mo Sista and help out with raising funds.

To join our Movember team click HERE and follow the simple steps.

Moko takes his tricks to town

2009-10-23T20:42:00.000-07:00

So far Labour Weekend has lived up to its promise with the sun out and throngs of happy holiday makers enjoying some well deserved time-out.

Many visitors have descended upon Gisborne to take part in events such as the annual Wine & Food Festival, the New Zealand Amateur Rock’n’Roll Senior Championships and the 204 kilometre Gwaloop Cycling Challenge.

For most, however, Labour weekend is a time to chill-out and relax with friends and family.

We see that Moko the friendly dolphin has made the national papers again and for many of our guests his antics has been the highlight of their stay.

We hope that Moko will be spending his Summer holidays in Gisborne.

The Dominion Post
By STACEY WOOD
24 October 2009

Moko the friendly dolphin is going to great lengths to keep his playmates – leaving a couple of surf ski riders up the river without a paddle.

Gisborne man John Allen snapped Moko making off with the paddle yesterday and said he was amazed at the mammal's dexterity.

"Every time they managed to get hold of it he'd start trying to knock them off their skis till they let go of it, then he'd grab it and disappear under the water for about 30 seconds, and then you'd see it come up on its end like that.

"He's obviously very intelligent."

Moko had been spending his time further up the East Coast in Tolaga Bay, but returned to Gisborne in the past week.

Mr Allen said he had seen Moko hanging out about a kilometre up the Waipaoa River, near the centre of town.

Mahia resident Bill Shortt said the dolphin's latest antics were totally in character. "He's got a brain very similar to ours, he can anticipate every move if you're reaching for a ball or a paddle, and if you get there before him he gets quite pippy."

One week when Moko was still lurking in Mahia, Mr Shortt had rescued three broken boogie boards, a rugby ball and three beach balls from his clutches.

Mr Shortt said there was no telling where Moko would spend the summer holidays, but he hoped to see him again. "I do miss him, we used to sit here at night, and there's a big yellow marker buoy ... and when everyone took off from the beach he'd come down outside our place and he'd clear it, he'd jump five, six metres in the air."

Conservation Department officials have warned people against playing with Moko now he is fully-grown, but that has not dulled public fascination.

This week Moko delivered a near record-weight snapper to a pair of Gisborne boaties, Mr Allen said. "It was a trophy fish, like a 12-kilogram snapper – the club record is 13kg. "They took it home and ate it."

Source: Click HERE

Big Gisborne weekend, better weather

2009-10-23T03:17:00.000-07:00

23 October 2009

The Gisborne Herald

THOUSANDS of visitors from all over the country will start to descend upon Gisborne today for events hosted here this Labour Weekend.

The biggest event of the is the annual Wine & Food Festival, to be held at five venues around Gisborne. More than 3000 people are expected to attend the festival, which showcases the best of Gisborne’s boutique wines and culinary delights.

Millton Winery is holding their own event tomorrow called Muskats at Millton, to celebrate the release of their spring, featuring live music, fine wine and gourmet food stalls.

Similarly, Matawhero Wines is celebrating their relaunch and cellar door opening with an outdoor jazz event featuring the Nairobi Trio and The Grand Central Band.

The New Zealand Amateur Rock’n’Roll Senior Championships at Showground Park and Events Centre is another major event for Gisborne, attracting around 600 people from all over the country and even a small contingent from Australia.

The first national contest was held in Gisborne in 1984, so it was only appropriate the 25th anniversary competition be held here, organiser Wendy Cossgrove said.

The competition involves two days of non-stop dancing heats, with couples, triples and team events.

Around 150 people will put pedal to the metal in the 204 kilometre Gwaloop Cycling Challenge from Gisborne to Wairoa and back on SH2 and the Tiniroto Road. The third annual edition of the race, the country’s longest one-dayer, features a wide variety of competitors — from those who just want to complete it, to team professionals including national time trial champion Jeremy Vennell.

It begins at 7am tomorrow, soloists first then teams a few minutes later. Competitors will return to the finish line late into the afternoon.

With the influx of visitors coming to the region, accommodation is filling up fast but there are still a few options left.

A lot of people stay with family and friends, but there is still accommodation available either at bed and breakfasts or motels, the iSite Visitor Information Centre says.

While the weather is certainly not looking festival friendly today, things are set to improve by tomorrow.
The showers will begin to clear today by early evening and by tomorrow morning, sunny spells will increase, as the southerly winds die down.

Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 16 degrees and an overnight low of five degrees.
Meanwhile, Sunday is likely to be a cracker of a day with nothing but sun on the forecast, predicted to reach a high of 19 degrees.

Source: Click HERE

Countdown to labour weekend wine festival

2009-10-20T16:26:00.000-07:00

Gisborne Herald

By Christine McCafferty

GISBORNE Wine and Food Festival organisers are expecting the usual last-minute rush for tickets in the final days before the Labour Weekend event.

Already well over 2000 tickets have been sold for the event, with the majority bought by people from outside of the district and as far afield as Dunedin.

Event organiser Prue Younger said online ticket sales data showed they were moving plenty around the country, but not so many here in Gisborne.
“Now we’re just waiting for Gisborne people to get their tickets. We’ve had plenty of calls asking if they have sold out, but people should just buy one if they want one.”

Last year there were around 4000 people at the festival but a large percentage of the tickets were not bought until just before the event.

This year’s event is shaping up to be a good one, with five venues including the new Stonebridge Winery.
A shared boutique venue at Showgrounds Park will feature nine wineries and five food stalls.

Georgina Dunlop of Express PR said they had ironed out any issues from previous years and this year festival-goers could look forward to having a nice, easy day out.

“I think having Go Bus come on board as the transport providers has made things a lot easier for us.
They have the experience of doing big events like Rhythm & Vines, so things should run smoothly this year,” she said.

Another change from last year’s event is the ticket transfer process. This year, people can exchange their tickets for festival packs starting from Friday at the Poverty Bay Club’s dome room.
People have until Sunday to collect their packs.

Out-of-town visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to planning things to do over the weekend, with several wineries and venues on board the wine week celebrations.

TW, The Millton Vineyard and Matawhero Wines are each holding their own individual events, while restaurants including The Marina, The Wharf and The Winemakers Daughters are contributing with degustation menus, live music and champagne breakfasts.

The official shared after-party for the festival is at Shed 3 and Soho, with acts including The Checks and Dick Johnson on the line up.

“We’re really pleased that everyone has come on board with the wine week concept and that people from out of town will have plenty to do while they’re here,” said Ms Younger.

Tickets for the festival are available online or from the i-Site Visitor Information Centre.

Source: Click HERE

Gisborne's friendly dolphin gives away his catch

2009-10-20T00:10:00.000-07:00

Moko’s antics come close to breaking records in Gisborne . . . Brent Wooster was amazed when the friendly dolphin dropped this huge snapper beside his small boat while he was testing a new propeller in the river.

20 October 2009

www.gisborneherald.co.nz
By Debbie Gregory

A 12.6kg snapper caught by Moko the friendly bottlenose dolphin and given to two fishermen in a small boat near the river mouth at Gisborne’s Waikanae Beach would easily take the prize for the heaviest snapper of the season.

The gift of a the snapper from Moko totally amazed the two men and others who witnessed and heard about the encounter.

“We didn’t realise the size of it until we had it on the boat. It was still alive and flapping and we were like ‘Yee-haa!’,” said boat owner Brent Wooster.

Gisborne Tatapouri Sports Fishing Club’s all-time record for the heaviest snapper is 13.5kg and most years Moko’s snapper would easily take the heaviest snapper of the season, says club president Roger Faber.

“Any angler would be rapt to catch a fish like that.”

Mr Wooster and his friend Oliver Davies took a 14 foot aluminium boat for a run up the river to test a new propeller on Sunday afternoon when they came across Moko playing near the mouth of the river at Waikanae.

“We could see he was playing with something and it looked like a fish. He started bringing it over to us in the boat.

“When we reached out for it he turned it into a game of cat and mouse.

“He pulled it away then came back.”

After a while a person on a jet ski came along and he dropped the fish by the boat and took off to chase the jet ski.

“I leaned over with the gaff and pulled it into the boat.

“I have done a lot of fishing and never caught a snapper that size, and I didn’t even have a fishing line on the boat,” he said.

“It was great playing around with Moko and getting to know him and then have him give this gift to us.”

The fish was offered to the fishing club to mount on the wall but, after the club turned it down, it was smoked for dinner.

After about a month touring the East Coast, Moko turned up at Tatapouri, then the harbour late last week.

On Saturday night he spent about six hours playing in the shallows of the Waimata and Turanganui rivers and at Waikanae Beach on Sunday.

He has not been spotted since but Mahia residents are keeping their fingers crossed that he is on a return journey back to the area where he lived for two-and-a-half years.

Source: Click HERE

Matawhero Wines relaunch in Gisborne

2009-10-07T15:04:00.000-07:00

Come and celebrate at the historic Matawhero Wines relaunch in Gisborne on Saturday 24 October.

Enjoy the new released Matawhero white wines with sumputous local cuisine and top class music all afternoon at our cellar door in Riverpoint Road.

A selection of the fantastic wine and food matches from Zest catering include - Panfried scallops with a rockmelon and pineapple salsa perfect with the Matawhero Chardonnay and seared eye fillet of beef on an Asian rostii matched with the Matawhero Viognier.

Tickets are $30.00 and are on sale now from Tourism Eastland I-Site Information Centre.

They are selling fast so don't miss out!!

Gisborne Octoberfest Events

2009-10-07T14:27:00.000-07:00

The folks at Tourism Eastland have renamed the month of October to "Octoberfest"

There may have been a sudden cold-snap throughout the country, but the days are warming up here on the East Coast.

The following Octoberfest Events have been compiled to encourage hibernating Kiwis to jump in their car and embark on a road trip to Gisborne to check-out some authentic laid back provincial action.

For further information go to the Tourism Eastland website: www.gisbornenz.com.

1 Oct 2009 - Poverty Bay Golf Open - Phone: 06 867 4402 | Email: info@gisbornegolf.co.nz | Web: www.gisbornegolf.co.nz

2 Oct - 22 Nov - Exhibition - Tairawhiti Museum - Introduced and Naturalized / - Lina Marsh. A collection of invasive weeds throughout the Pacific. Embroidery and handcrafts
Phone: 06 867 3832 | Fax: 06 867 2728 | Web: www.tairawhitimuseum.org.nz

10 Oct 2009 - Te Unga Mai - The Arrival Acknowledging our voyaging traditions and commemorating the first formal meeting between the tangata whenua of Turanganui a Kiwa, and the Endeavour crew. Phone: (06) 863 3560 | Email: teungamai@gmail.com | Web: www.teungamai.com

16 & 17 Oct 2009 - Agricultural & Pastoral Show - Cost: $10 Ad, $5 Ch 15 and under, $25 Family. Phone: 06 868 6084 | Web: www.gisborneshow.co.nz

24 Oct 2009 - New Zealand Senior Amateur Rock n Roll National Competition - For ages 18 and over.
Starts: 9:00am | Location: Gisborne Events Centre, Showgrounds

Contact: Wendy Cossgrove (Surf City Rock n Roll Club Gisborne / NZARRA) Phone: 06 867 2533 | Email: lbbwitch@actrix.co.nz | Web: www.rocknroll.org.nz

24 - 25 Oct - Muskats @ Millton - Celebrate the new release of Muskats @ Dawn 2009 - 11am - 7pm. Back from their overseas tour "Cut off your hands". Other 2009 Spring release wines from The Millton Vineyard available on the day. As well as Gisborne Gold beer and great food. On Sunday bring a picnic to enjoy tastings, sales and enjoy the jazz band performing throughout the day. Tickets available from the millton website. Cost: $45 Web: www.millton.co.nz

24 Oct 2009 - GWALoop Cycle Challenge - Possibly New Zealand's largest one day cycle challenge - 204kms. Open to individuals and teams of 2-4. www.tmssport.co.nz. Contact: Terry and Kathy Sheldrake Phone: 06 868 5200 | Fax: 06 868 5208 | Email: terry@tmssport.co.nz | Web: www.gwaloop.co.nz

24 Oct 2009 - Matawhero Wines - Wine/ Cuisine/ Jazz - Top class national jazz acts The Grand Central Band and Nairobi Trio. Tickets on sale from Monday 24 August from the Gisborne i-SITE Visitor Centre 209 Grey St. Shuttle bus service also available for $10 return. BYO picnic. Starts: Noon. Cost: $30
Contact: Kirsten Searle (Matawhero Wines) Phone: 06 867 6140 | Email: info@matawhero.co.nz |

24 Oct 2009 - Bushmere Estate Winery - Art and Craft Market Day - arts & crafts - live music - wine tasting and light lunches. Phone: 06 8689317 | Web: www.bushmere.com

25 Oct 2009 Gisborne Wine and Food Festival - This year is the 13th anniversary of this successful event. Amor Bendall Wines, Bushmere Estate, TW Wines, Stone Bridge Wines and a Boutique Venue with a collecton of wine labels. Tickets from The Gisborne i-SITE Visitor Centre. 06 868 6139 or 0800 447 267.
Starts: 10:00am. Cost: $60 Web: www.gisbornewine.co.nz

31 Oct 2009 - The Gisborne Speedway Club - Fireworks Display -

5 Nov 2009 - NZ International Film Festival - Gisborne- Web: www.nzff.co.nz

Gisborne Wine and Food Festival

2009-10-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

The Gisborne Wine and Food Festival will be held on Sunday, October 25 (Labour Weekend).

This is an iconic event that has its own unique Gisborne style. Four wineries will supply a selection of their own wines, food and entertainment, and a boutique venue will feature a collection of producers.

Tickets at $60 include an all-day bus pass.

Check out further details on the web: www.gisbornewine.co.nz

We still have a few rooms available over Labour weekend, so go to our website www.teal.co.nz to check-out what is still available.

New Teal Motor Lodge Website

2009-08-23T00:52:00.000-07:00

Catch a sneak preview of our new web page, www.teal.co.nz

Our guests can now more easily check availability and book on-line using Jasons Web Two technology.

Go to our new links page to check out our Facebook and Twitter networking sites and our favorite blog, "Motella" an independent blog that discusses issues of interest to the motel industry.

Our webpage is a work in progress, so we encourage you to check back often.

East Coast Museum of Technology is sensational

2009-08-20T21:35:00.000-07:00

One unexpected treasure that visitors will find when visiting Gisborne is the East Coast Museum of Technology. Here you will not find orderly exhibits that have been roped off or behind glass. Quite frankly the place is ... er ... a sprawling mess, but all items are extremely accessible and chances are that you will be able to get up close and interactive.

Once family were so delighted with their experience, they wrote the following letter to The Gisborne Herald:

Congratulations to the people who have created the East Coast Museum of Technology. What a sensational place to visit with kids.

Only five kilometres out of Gisborne, this treasure trove of interesting gadgets, vehicles and machinery is a must for inquisitive kids.

We had no idea it was so GOOD!

Rain or sunshine, the Museum can be enjoyed by families any time of year as most exhibits are housed indoors.

It’s rambly-jambly layout is a delight and each corner turned, revealed a new surprise.

Last week when our boys went into a shed filled entirely with fire engines, AND they were allowed to play on them, they were in heaven.

We cannot recommend the museum enough to other parents and caregivers who want a very inexpensive way to entertain the kids and themselves for an afternoon.

Thank you to all those involved in the collection and restoration of so much of Gisborne’s eclectic history.

We’ll be back with visitors from outside the district and a picnic lunch some time soon.

Hayley Redpath and family

Source: Click HERE

We are now on FaceBook!

2009-08-20T05:17:00.001-07:00

Teal Motor Lodge | Create your badge

Moko the dolphin is getting frisky

2009-08-10T22:13:00.000-07:00

11 August 2009

The Gisborne Herald

By Jessica Wauchop

WOMEN swimming with Moko the dolphin are urged to be careful as the teenager takes a growing fancy to the fairer sex.

The Department of Conservation is strongly advising people not to swim or interact with Moko. The dolphin is more aggressive now he has grown out of playful childhood into adolescence.

However, Mahia fisherman Bill Shortt, who regularly spends time with Moko, says he is “absolutely harmless” but warns women swimming in winter to be careful.

“He did the same thing last winter. He is bored and like a big overgrown kid who just wants attention,” says Mr Shortt.

“What amazes me is we still have a sign saying Moko is female. Women come and read it and head for the water and don’t think anything of it.

“But he is a big powerful bloke, gets very boisterous in winter and always goes for the women.”

The warning comes after a woman needed to be rescued when Moko kept her from returning to shore last month.

The Department of Conservation says Moko needs the chance to seek companions from his own species.

“Even playing in the shallows with the dolphin has the potential to cause serious injury, especially to children, and there are also significant risks to the dolphin,” says DoC biodiversity programme manager John Adams.

However, Mr Shortt says when Moko has many playmates in summer he is as “safe as ever”.

“We can’t forget he did the same thing to a woman last winter in Taylor’s Bay — she was kayaking and Moko wouldn’t let her come back in.

“It will be the same next winter too, but as soon as the crowd comes when the water gets warmer he is absolutely harmless. He just wants to play.

“For goodness sake, how many people have swum with him now? Thousands? Just don’t go swimming with him if you’re a female on your own.

“He likes women, but what man doesn’t, we can’t blame him for that.”

Moko is one of about 50 solitary dolphins recorded worldwide. A female dolphin in Ireland, named Dusty by locals, has been around for eight years and her habits are the same.

Source Click: HERE

Moko, the Lonely New Zealand Dolphin

2009-07-28T15:38:00.000-07:00

Moko the dolphin is still delighting the locals and tourists at Mahia.

We have had numerous guests arrive with tales of seeing Moko's antics, with many saying that this was an unexpected highlight of their travels so far.

Good to see that Moko has made worldwide headlines with his latest naughty activity ;-)

www.animaltourism.blogspot.com
27 July 2009

Moko, a bottlenose dolphin who lives off Mahia Beach, New Zealand, is famous for being friendly to people in the water. But Sunday, she nearly loved a visitor to death. "We were playing around for a while but then when I wanted to go back in, he just wanted to keep playing. I became exhausted and started to panic," the woman told the BBC. When she screamed, a local bar owner came out in a dinghy to rescue her.

Moko is what's known as a "lone dolphin," a rare but well-documented kind of dolphin that seems to want to hang out with people. Since it's winter in New Zealand now, speculation is that she just got lonely because there aren't as many people in the water.

The standard criticism of people swimming with wild dolphins is that dolphins get annoyed or injured. But, even Project Jonah chief executive Kimberly Muncaster, who has warned people to keep their distance from the chummy 3-year-old dolphin, acknowledged that Moko actively seeks out people's attention. "Moko has undoubtedly captured the hearts of Kiwis, but she is in danger of getting hurt if she isn't treated with respect, and those seeking to get close to her are also putting themselves at risk," Muncaster warned last year.

The woman, who was too embarrassed to give her name, says Moko wasn't trying to hurt her. "I've spent quite a bit of time swimming with Moko and I'm a strong swimmer so I wasn't worried at first," she said.

Moko has been hanging around Mahia Beach for about a year and half, dragging in tourists--whiles sometimes dragging buoys out to sea for sport. "She follows boats in and out of the bay and plays havoc with my cray pots. She bunts the buoys and drags the pots together, tangling them," says Mahia local Bill Shortt. Moko also gives people presents of fish. She gained worldwide fame for saving two pygmy sperm whales.

Marine Biologist Ingrid Visser says Moko has scars from a boat propeller and fish hook and that has been the demise of many other "lone dolphins." “In some areas of the world these ‘lone’ dolphins have inhabited the area for many years," he told the Gisborne Herald. "However, it is sad to note that of the nearly 30 individual ‘lone’ dolphins which have been well documented from around the world, at least 14 have been injured or even killed as a result of interacting closely with humans."

Seems like Moko would stand a better chance against boats and fishing lines in the harbor she knows so well. I hope this incident gets more people to spend some time with her so she doesn't get lonely. It seems like a wonderful animal tourism opportunity: come see Moko, the friendly dolphin, in the low season, when she really, really wants your company.

Source: Click HERE

Gisborne wines make a splash

2009-07-16T21:35:00.000-07:00

Hey, it's good to know that Gisborne wines travel well. The following except is from a newpaper article published recently in the UK:

"Gisborne is another formidable wine producing region and lies on the north eastern tip of north island. The region is sheltered by high country to the west and has a dry, sunny climate with long sunshine hours, perfect for grape growing.

Montana is a name well known by wine buffs, the company having started production of wine during the 1970s boom in Marlborough. It produces a Gisborne Chardonnay and the unoaked 2007/08 is presently available at Waitrose for £5.59, a 20 per cent saving on the normal retail price of £6.99.

Gisborne is noted for its fine chardonnays and gewurztraminer - it also has the world’s most easerly vineyard. The deep gravelly soils and long sunshine hours result in healthy ripe grapes with good flavour. There are tones of ripe citrus fruit and a nice round texture and body.

HOST Accommodation shrugs off recession

2009-06-25T20:42:00.001-07:00

As part of the preparation for the HOST Accommodation conference, Chris Lee - HOST Business Development Manager prepares himself to be launched from a ledge 175 metres above Mokai Gravity Canyon before racing down a 1-kilometre zip-line at speeds up to 160 kilometres per hour!

Group bonding at Mokai Gravity Canyon and interacting with the Tui Girls at the Tui Brewery at Mangatainoka were a few activities that were enjoyed by HOST moteliers at the HOST Conference last weekend.

HOST has cemented itself as New Zealand's most successful accommodation referral group. To attract over 50% of their members to a conference in Palmerston North in recessionary times AND in the middle of Winter is a remarkable feat.

Press Release
HOST Accommodation Group
25/06/09

HOST Accommodation shrugs off recession

While we are aware that other Hotel and Motel marketing groups are cutting back on annual gatherings, a record number of HOST Accommodation members gathered in Palmerston North for their annual conference.

Host Accommodation has a network of 80 member properties throughout New Zealand and it was remarkable that over half the membership made the journey to gather in Palmerston North for a weekend of networking, education and fun!

Organiser and Business Development Manager of Host Accommodation said "This was fantastic conference with some excellent guest speakers and enthusiasm created by the group. The future for Host Accommodation is very positive with the successful 12th Night Free Bonus programme continuing to drive business to our member properties. The momentum created and positive discussions held will no doubt generate more referrals and business throughout the group.

The Host Accommodation Group with its proactive marketing strategies and passionate membership are shrugging off the recession and looking forward to the future."

For further information, contact:
Chris Lee
Business Development Manager
Host Accommodation Group Inc.
P.O. Box 22
Hastings 4156
New Zealand
Freephone: 0508 91 92 93
Website: www.hostaccommodation.co.nz

World Champion Surfers Hang Out At Gisborne's Wainui Beach

2009-06-12T20:48:00.000-07:00

Australians Joel Parkinson and Mark "Occy" Occhilupo enjoy a free-surf at Gisborne's iconic Wainui Beach.

Parkinson is currently ranked No 1 on the ASP World Championship Tour ratings, having won the opening two rounds - the Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast at Kirra and the Rip Curl Pro at Australia's famous Bells Beach.

Occhilupo is among the legends of the sport after joining the world tour at the age of 17. Known as Occy, he won the world title in 1999.

Gisborne: Nudist's dream laid bare

2009-05-14T17:33:00.000-07:00

15 May 2008
By Jim Eagles
www.nzherald.co.nz

I reckon they should erect a statue at the entrance to the Eastwoodhill Arboretum in Gisborne featuring a fit old gentleman clad only in a straw hat and a single gumboot. Oh, yes, and he probably should be brandishing a sherry bottle.

If that sounds a little strange, well, William Cook who founded the arboretum was a little eccentric. An enthusiastic nudist, he often did his gardening unimpeded by clothes, apart from the boot he wore to help with digging holes, and visitors soon learned that it was a good idea to phone for an appointment.

But, then again, it probably does take someone outside the ordinary to establish such a remarkable institution, spending all his money buying trees and shrubs, and most of his time planting them on the farm at Ngatapa he won in a government settlement ballot in 1910.

The plant collection he started nearly a century ago now comprises more than 4000 species and more than 15,000 individual plants, covers 135ha with 25km of walking tracks, holds the largest collection of northern hemisphere trees in the southern hemisphere, and is officially recognised as both the national arboretum and a garden of national significance.

It's a wonderful place to spend a day strolling around, enjoying the colourful flowers and foliage, marvelling at the amazing variety of plants (some of them quite unusual), resting in the many leafy glades, contemplating the meaning of life in the cathedral-like groves and admiring the wonderful views from the high points around the property.

But, I have to confess, I arrived late and in a hurry and did none of that. Instead I took the motorised tour, in a cut-down four-wheel drive donated by a local supporter, which allows you to whiz around the highlights in an hour.

Our driver, Ross Gaukrodger, who manages the farm associated with the arboretum, was a fund of entertaining stories, as well as knowing all the most interesting plants, beautiful glades and spectacular viewing points.

One minute he was showing us the newly planted glade with about 50 varieties of New Zealand flax. The next he was letting slip that another of Cook's little quirks was to take a break from showing round a tour party, pluck a bottle of sherry from under a bush and enjoy a reviving swig, or line up two trees, dig in the ground and extract a bottle of wine (though I notice the park history suggests: "It is more likely he did this to amuse the visitors than it being a regular habit").

Gaukrodger thought that my idea of erecting a statue of the gumbooted nudist at the entrance to the arboretum was very amusing but I was actually quite serious.

Anyway, Gisborne has a bit of a history of putting up eccentric statues of people called Cook. Up on Kaiti Hill, beside a spectacular coastal lookout, is a bronze figure erected in 1969 in the belief it was Captain James Cook but later turned out to be some little-known Italian admiral. It's worth the climb or the drive just to enjoy the joke ... and when you've finished chuckling there are some fabulous views over Poverty Bay to be savoured.

Another statue of the great navigator, apparently showing what he did look like, was erected in 1995 on the city's waterfront.

The city council has recently completed a great new walkway which allowed us to stroll alongside the three waterways which meet at the heart of the business area - the Waimata, Taruheru and Turanganui Rivers - past the statue of Cook, which sits opposite the port, and down to the rolling surf of Waikanae Beach.
It's a delightful walk, past busy boats and amateur anglers, and there are plenty of good spots to eat a lunch from one of the city's many nice cafes.

Halfway along, just in case you hadn't got the message that this is where Cook made his first New Zealand landfall in 1769, is another statue, this time of Nicholas Young, the 12-year-old cabin boy credited with making the first sighting of land, pointing out towards the headland named after him, Young Nick's Head.

In fact, historians now think Young Nick almost certainly sighted another headland further south, but the peninsula that bears his name still gets all the publicity, it does look impressive, its white cliffs gleaming in the sun, and it's another reminder of the whimsical approach to life in this part of the world.

Source: Click HERE

Moko the Dolphin

2009-05-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

Moko the dolphin has continued her reign of happy mischief in Mahia.

We have had many guests stop off in Mahia and have been amazed by Moko's antics. For some this has been an unplanned surprise and the highlight of their trip to Gisborne.

7 May 2009
By Jessica Wauchop
The Gisborne Herald

AFTER two years at Mahia Beach, Moko the dolphin is repaying locals for their hospitality by gifting them some of his greatest treasures.

Last week Rosana Ratapu was given a huge, freshly-caught snapper by Moko while she was swimming.

It is not the first incident of this kind, with many people receiving seahorses, gurnard, kahawai and sea dragons.

Ms Ratapu said receiving the snapper from Moko was "the most amazing experience".

"Moko was coming towards me and he had something on his nose. From a distance I didn't realise it was a fish, but he got closer and closer and nudged it into me," said Ms Ratapu.

"He was awesome, it was just amazing. I was so excited it was like getting a whole lot of Christmas presents all in one hit.

"I was playing with Moko and the fish for about an hour, pushing it between us. After a while I thought I would try to take it, to see if he meant me to take it home.

"He blocked me off and I threw it back in case he wanted it and then we played again for another hour . . . after that he nudged it to me again and let me take it home."

Moko has been in the bay since Easter 2007. During this time, he has saved a whale and her calf, stolen body boards from children, gifted fish and seaweed to his friends and entertained thousands of visitors.

"He is absolutely beautiful. I was just the lucky one who happened to be around to receive his present."

The snapper was "delicious", said Ms Ratapu.

"The fish wasn't just meant for me I don't think so I gave most of it away to our koroua and koia (older people), but it was beautiful, nice big steaks.

"When I filleted the fish, inside its puku was a whole seahorse. The snapper must have only just finished eating it when Moko got to it."

Mahia resident Doi Ormond saw the whole event unfold but still struggles to believe it.

"It was amazing. She was so privileged to get that," said Mrs Ormond.

"I was watching her play with Moko and then saw her lifting something out of the water. I couldn't believe it, I thought it was a towel.

"When I realised it was a fish I was shocked. I was telling people at the golf club later in the day and one man said he had seen Moko do something similar with a kingfish."

With school back in full swing and winter setting in, Moko has been short of playmates, said Ms Ratapu.

"There is no doubt he would be getting lonely. He was lavished all summer - he had all this company but that has dwindled right down now."

Source: Click HERE

The Saffron Milkcap Mushroom

2009-04-29T18:17:00.000-07:00

Gisborne has many fantastic restaurants and cafes, with access to quality fresh produce.

A special delicacy is now grown and available only in Gisborne. The saffron milk cap is a gourmet mushroom so prized in the Northern Hemisphere; it sells for around 50 dollars a kilo.

Until now, it has largely been found in the wild, but a Gisborne company has found a way to grow them commercially, giving New Zealand the chance to take a bite out of a global mushroom market worth five billion US dollars.

The misty hills behind Gisborne are the perfect spot for a romance, a love affair between the humble pine tree and the exotic saffron cap mushroom.

“They kind of grow a relationship with the tree, we call it a symbiotic relationship, so the mushroom helps the tree and the tree helps the mushroom,” says Sheldon Drummond, of the First Light Mushroom Company.

The 400 hectare plantation has become a laboratory for First Light Mushrooms and the Government's science institute, Crop and Food Research. Together, they have developed the science for a million dollar export industry. Saffron caps will be available in restaurants here, but Europe and Asia are the target.

As a boy, chef Stephane Dussau collected saffron mushrooms in a forest in France. Now half a world away at his Gisborne restaurant, the mushrooms have come to him.

“It's fantastic. When you pan fry it you get all the goodness from the forest will come to your nose and you cook mushroom with other ingredients, they need a little bit of something with it, so I usually cook with garlic and flat leaf parsley,” says Dussau.

The Marina Restaurant in Gisborne is the only place in New Zealand that you can sample this rare delicacy. The restaurant will be hosting a 4 course Degustation menu in association with First Light Mushroom Company on Saturday the 2nd May 2009.

Places are extremely limited and bookings are absolutely essential.

Telephone them on: 8685919 to secure your seat to taste this wild mushroom delicacy.

May Events in Gisborne

2009-04-28T21:10:00.000-07:00

"Eastwoodhill - looking stunning in its autumn colours"

GISBORNE MAY EVENTS

5 BUCK A DUCK RACE - [3 May 2009]
Proceeds to the Life Education Trust. Tickets from the Gisborne i -SITE Information Centre

Mahia Seaside Markets - [3 May 2009]

Gisborne Canoe and Tramping Club - Hihiroroa Station - [3 May 2009]
Ramble over farmland.

John Rowles - [7 May 2009]
The Singer & The Songs Live in Concert. Tickets from Stephens Photo Plus

Embalmers Conference [12 May 2009] Emerald Hotel

Sport Gisborne Tairawhiti Schools Gymnastic Festival - [12 May 2009]
Website: www.sportgisborne.org.nz

Centre Stage Presents - Beyond the Magic Moon [15 -17 May 2009] The story of the lost sacred sword of serenity. A magical musical comedy

Gisborne Canoe & Tramping Club - Mahaki Station - [17 May 2009] Mahaki Station - Waihuka Rd.

CBAFF - 13th Annual Conference [20 - 22 May 2009]
Website: www.cbaff.org.nz

The International Chardonnay Challenge 2009 - [27 May 2009]
Website: www.gisbornewine.co.nz

Kelvin Cruickshank - Soul Food Show [28 May 2009] NZ Medium, with the outstanding success and popularity of TV2's award winning series "Sensing Murder". Tickets available from Stephens Photo Plus.

International Chardonnay Challenge - ICC Business Lunch and Tasting - [29 May 2009] Take the opportunity to taste over 500 wine entries from the international Chardonnay Challenge 2009. Website: www.internationalchardonnaychallenge.com

International Chardonnay Challenge - Nissan New Zealand Gala Awards Dinner - [29 May 2009] Website: www.internationalchardonnaychallenge.com

Viognier Workshop - [29 May 2009]
Website: www.gisbornewine.co.nz

More Information on these events see www.gisbornenz.com

Tolaga Bay Wharf

2009-04-15T23:06:00.000-07:00

Tolaga Bay is a sleepy historic township located a leisurely 40 minutes drive, North of Gisborne.

The drive to Tolaga bay from Gisborne is along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway that gives glimpses of a fantastic coastline with beautiful secluded sandy beaches and rocky foreshore.

Tolaga Bay's 660 metre long wharf has been given national recognition as an "outstanding historical significance."

We suggest that visitors take a step back in time and make a day trip to Tolaga Bay from their base in Gisborne to:

Buy an ice cream
Take a walk along the Cooks Cove Walkway, a five kilometres walk over farmland and through bush of Eastland to Cook's Cove, where Captain Cook halted to repair the Endeavour and take on fresh supplies
Stroll along Tolaga Bay's newly crowned significant historical iconic wharf - We suggest that visitors take a fishing line to discover what the locals know - the wharf is an excellent fishing spot!

15 April 2009
Press Release: Historic Places Trust

The Tolaga Bay Wharf north of Gisborne has just had a promotion.

The New Zealand Historic Places Trust – the country’s lead heritage agency – recently upgraded the 660m-long wharf to a Category I historic place, denoting it as a place of outstanding historical significance.

“The upgrade of the registration from Category II is a direct reflection of the historic importance of the Tolaga Bay Wharf,” says the Historic Places Trust’s Lower Northern Area Manager, Gail Henry.

“This extraordinary structure – widely regarded as the longest concrete wharf in the Southern Hemisphere – played an integral part in the growth and development of the East Coast, and is one of the great icons of the area.”

First registered as the equivalent of a Category II historic place by the Trust in 1984, the wharf’s increase in heritage status is a reflection of a change in people’s appreciation of heritage.

“People’s perception of what constitutes a heritage structure – and their understanding of what heritage actually means – has changed hugely in 25 years,” says Gail.

“Today, the Tolaga Bay Wharf is appreciated for its aesthetic value and the genius of its construction – as well as for less tangible qualities that somehow elevate a functional structure like this into something truly evocative.”

Save the Tolaga Bay Wharf funding director, Clive Bibby, is pleased that the wharf’s heritage status has been upgraded.

“The Category I classification is a true reflection of the wharf’s heritage significance,” says Clive.

“It is one of the great East Coast icons, as well as the most visited and photographed taonga in the area.

More than that, the scale of this structure, and what it meant to the region and country as a whole makes it a place of national significance. It’s a monument to the halcyon days of the great pastoral economy.”

Today, the wharf is still used – though not for its original purpose. It’s a great recreational facility with people fishing from it and using it as a favourite picnic spot. Local Maori see it as a mahinga kai [garden] for gathering sea food – particularly mussels and crayfish hiding in the debris at the base of the wharf end.

People agree that the wharf is definitely worth preserving – despite its steady deterioration over the course of its 80-year life.

“The aggregate used in the wharf’s construction included local beach sand. The salts in the resulting concrete have attacked the reinforcing, which has expanded with the result that bits of concrete are dropping away,” says Clive.

Years of hard work and fundraising by Save the Tolaga Bay Wharf have seen two phases of the wharf restoration completed. A $1.2 million contract for phase three has been let with work beginning this month.
There is still much to be done, however, with deterioration still a problem.

“We’ve had great support in the past from the community as well as Gisborne District Council, the Historic Places Trust’s Tairawhiti Branch Committee, the Ministry of Tourism and Sport and the New Zealand Lotteries Board, but probably our greatest individual benefactor has been the Williams Family Trusts who have come to our aid time and time again. We are very grateful to all these groups,” says Clive.

For more information on the Tolaga Bay Wharf, people can go to www.gisborne.co.nz/tolagabay

Source: Click HERE

Waikaremoana tramp ranked greatest walk

2009-03-21T17:12:00.000-07:00

The Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk, located near Gisborne is a 46 kilometre 3 to 4 day tramping track which follows the shore of the lake for most of its length. It is one of a network of great walks managed by DOC throughout New Zealand.

20 March 2009
Gisborne Herald
By Martin Gibson

Lake Waikaremoana has been ranked as the best multi-day tramp in New Zealand, and a guided walk around the lake was third-best guided walk, in the latest "Wilderness" magazine.

The Waikaremoana Great Walk, which rarely appears on New Zealand's international tourism marketing, edged out Milford Track - often rated as one of the world's best walks.

Whakatane guides Rob Franklin and Hilary Sheaff, who own and operate Walking Legends, also beat companies operating in Milford Sound.

The couple put their success down to having worked hard over the past six years to run their hikes as smoothly, safely and enjoyably for their guests as possible.

People's enjoyment came to a large extent from the quality of the walk itself, said Mr Franklin.

"The track circumnavigates pristine Lake Waikaremoana, nestled amongst the rugged mountains of Te Urewera, and boasts secluded bays, some of the most impressive native forest in the country, breath-taking views over the lake, mountains and Pacific Ocean, and a fascinating and at times stormy history."

Following the success of their venture at the lake, the Whakatane couple extended their range of walking packages in 2007 to include a four-day excursion amid the volcanoes of Tongariro National Park.

The 46km Lake Waikaremoana track is situated in Te Urewera National Park, approximately 150km from Whakatane. The park contains the largest tract of untouched indigenous forest remaining in the North Island, and is one of the most diverse botanical regions in the country with over 650 different plant species. Rare native bird species, such as the brown kiwi, blue duck and kokako, are found in the park.

The Lake Waikaremoana track and Tongariro Alpine Crossing are two of New Zealand's nine Great Walks, and the only two in the North Island.

People who would like to tramp around Lake Waikaremoana will be pleased to know the Department of Conservation (DoC) has frozen fees for huts and campgrounds on public conservation land this year.

"In these challenging economic times it is common sense to ensure that people can continue to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about increased charges," said Al Morrison, the director general of conservation.

"The family-friendly policy of the Great Walks being free to under 18s will be retained."

Source: Click HERE

Birthday Celebration!

2009-03-19T14:13:00.000-07:00

What's the best way to celebrate your 71st birthday when visiting Gisborne.

At Teal Motor Lodge we arranged with scooterhire.co.nz a FUN way!

This dapper gentleman will be tooling around town and enjoying a bit of inner city culture, before embarking on an East Coast adventure.

Tolaga Bay is the planned destination, a 55km ride where our intrepid traveler will stroll along the historic Tolaga Bay Wharf that is 660m long and is said to be the longest in the southern hemisphere.

Another attraction at Tolaga Bay is the Cooks Cove Walkway, a five kilometres walk over farmland and through bush of Eastland to Cook's Cove, where Captain Cook halted to repair the Endeavour and take on fresh supplies.

After a leisurely look around the Tolaga Bay township and a spot of lunch it's homeward bond for a well deserved rest and perhaps a celebratory drink!

Surf city marks 50 years

2009-03-10T13:19:00.000-07:00

Gisborne is also known as "Surf City" from its numerous quality surf beaches and established surf culture.

10 March 2009
By Marianne Gillingham
The Gisborne Herald

The grommets of yesteryear are on a tidal wave of nostalgia heading towards their Easter weekend reunion, which celebrates 50 years of surfing in Gisborne.

Among them are John Logan, Peter Goodwin, Darryl Heighway, David Swann and Kevin Pritchard that were the first board riders to surf the waves at Makorori Point, in the early '60s.

This weekend the famous five were reunited as a group for the first time since the '60s, on the occasion of David Swann's 70th birthday, and were persuaded to head out to the beach to re-enact the photo that has become an icon of Gisborne's surfing history.

All five are planning to attend The 50 Years of Surfing in Gisborne reunion at Easter weekend, to catch up with numerous other long-time legends like Alan Byrne, Doug Hislop, Bob Davies and Roger Jenkins.

Registrations have come in from as far away as Canada and USA, along with a large contingent from various parts of Australia. Rumour also has it that 1970s board-maker Jim Carney is coming from San Diego, along with a big number of "younger" surfers such as Wayne "Smokey" Fairlie, Merv Goodley, Ian "Proto" Steed, Russell Jones, the Rothchild boys, Kit "The Chief" Bullivant, Mike Cade, Marty Brame and Nigel "Notorious" Dwyer.

Then, off course, there is the wave of "grommets" from the '80s. They include Ronnie and Ruth Amann, Chris Berge, James "Jimmy" Croskery, The Drummond boys, Jane Borrie and Mike Spence, with a collection of his photos from the era.

Also coming are the beach babes of yesteryear, including Dawney Parker,Jonette Meade, Cathy Steed, Yvonne Smith and "Gogo Girl" Lynne Jones.

The Patty twins will be united when Joan comes to join Patty for the occasion.

Althoughmany of the "surfies" of the '60s and '70s were regarded as scruffyrebels who surfed and partied hard, most of them grew up to becomepillars of society.

Among those gathering for the Easter reunionare several millionaires, and a large number of highly-successfulprofessionals and business people, not to mention members of the firstwave having retired to go on surfing trips in their Audi, Rover andChrysler surf mobiles.

Highlights of the weekend will be the meet and greet session on Friday evening, and the '60s-style party on Saturday night.

Linedup for the music is one of the most popular musicians from the oldMakaraka Hall, Sandown and DB era, Peter Kingi from Crazy Urge, who isbringing a five-piece band down from Auckland.

On the menu forSunday night is a pictorial treat from signwriting surfer John "Ducky"Duckworth, who has scanned old photos and images on to an enormousscrolling screen.

There is also a movie of local 35mm surfing footage, guaranteed to cause some hoots of mirth.

Subject to wave conditions, organisers are also hoping for an open surfing session on Monday.

Recording it all will be surf journalists and photographers from Australasia's leading surf magazines, including Tracks and Waves.

Time is running out for local people to register, although organiser Gail Patty does not expect to turn anyone away on the day.

Source: Click HERE

Follow us on Twitter!

2009-02-27T19:21:00.000-08:00

Click on the following graphic to follow us on Twitter!

Teal Guest Internet

2009-02-27T17:58:00.000-08:00

At Teal Motor Lodge in Gisborne, we can appreciate that our guests wish to stay connected during their stay with us.

We use the popular and easy to use "Voila" wireless internet system that have a network of motels throughout the country.

We have just upgraded our broadband connection to make our upload and download speeds even faster. Our guests can now surf the web from the comfort of their rooms or anywhere on our property at speeds that are 3 x faster than the average broadband connection!

Gisborne bakes as mercury hits 40

2009-02-01T20:29:00.001-08:00

As Gisborne enjoys another "Endless Summer" the guests at Teal Motor Lodge are keeping cool around the large salt water swimming pool.

2 February 2009
The Gisborne Herald

Sweltering temperatures around the district over the weekend had people flocking to beaches, the Olympic Pool complex and wherever else they could find respite from the heat.

The official high at Gisborne Airport was 35 degrees at 3pm yesterday but elsewhere around the region it got into the 40s.

In Gisborne the 35 degree maximum was close to the record high of 36.6 degrees set on February 7, 1973, and well above the mean daily maximum for February of 24.2.

Inland from Manutuke, Gisborne district councillor Graeme Thomson said he recorded 43 degrees in the shade at his home, where the aluminium handle of his ranchslider door was too hot to touch.

At Waerenga-o-Kuri, 1100 feet above sea level, it reached a similar level, topping the 40-degree mark in the shade. Temperatures in the 40s were also recorded at Onenui Station on the northern side of the Mahia Peninsula.

At Tokomaru Bay it was so hot that people could not bear to be on the beach, said Hine Wilcox. "Everyone was bobbing around in the water," she said. It got so hot in her beachfront home that the Formica lifted off its base on her kitchen benchtop and the phone was hot."We don't have a thermometer but I reckon it was a record. I have never seen the kitchen benchtop lift before." Miraculously, after cooling down overnight, the Formica settled back into place.

At Whangara, power lines heating in the sun are believed to have started a fire in nearby manuka tree. It was quickly brought under control. It is not known whether a vehicle which exploded into flames near Ngatapa yesterday was heat-related. All occupants of the car got out safely and firefighters from Patutahi and Te Karaka dealt with the blaze.

Beaches around the city were crowded, as was the Olympic Pool. Complex manager Hendrik Geyer said the place was packed as droves of people flocked in search of water, shade and iceblocks to cool off. The complex had already had record months in December and January, and with the hot weather continuing over February, this was likely to continue. Although staff were sometimes stretched, it was great to see the facilities being so well enjoyed, he said.

A southerly breeze cooled things down overnight, but it is expected to be short-lived, with a predicted return to warm north westerlies again tomorrow.

Source: Click HERE

Las Vagas comes to Gisborne!

2009-01-07T20:11:00.000-08:00

Ex-Gisborne boxing hero, Shane Cameron is to fight Detroit toughie and former prisoner Leo Paco Nolan in Gisborne for the WBO Asia Pacific and Oriental heavyweight titles.

Cameron's home homecoming fight promises to be the most significant boxing event that New Zealand has hosted for many years and to bring it to Gisborne will make this a special must see occasion.

Cameron's manager Ken Reinsfield is rapt with the match-up.

Nolan is a former USBO champion with good wins over recent Holyfield opponents Lou Savarese and Jeremy Bates.

"Just like Shane's last opponent, Terry Smith (who Cameron beat by unanimous decision), Nolan has never been stopped," Reinsfield said.

Nolan, like Cameron, is six-foot-two tall, boasts a record of 28 fights for 27 wins and just one loss

"Our US-based matchmaker Sampson Lewkowicz has done another great job with this one. Nolan is an opponent with an outstanding record."

The crowd, however, will have only one name on their lips when Nolan gets into the ring with one of Gisborne's favourite sons.

Nolan, 36, rates his jab as his best punch. While not a lot is known about him, his career was "delayed" in the late 1990s when he spent four years in prison after an incident in which he was shot five times by an off-duty police officer.

He last fought in October after nearly two years out of the ring, coming back with a unanimous eighth-round decision.

Cameron's 22 wins - 19 by KO - and just one loss have him ranked sixth on the World Boxing Organisation's heavyweight list and 15th by the International Boxing Federation.

He has long hankered for a homecoming fight, as have plenty of his fans around the district.

"He's back in training and getting ready for the fight," says Reinsfield. "Shane is so excited about bringing this to Gisborne. It's going to be awesome."

Reinsfield and Tourism Eastland want "The Homecoming Fight" to be a family affair and have priced tickets accordingly.

Tickets for schoolchildren are $15, adults $35, a family pass for two adults and three children $100, a grandstand seat $55, a ringside seat $85 and corporate tables $3000 for 10.

It will be a daytime event, starting at 3pm, with an exciting undercard featuring some of the district's top rising stars alongside the likes of New Zealand champion Daniella Smith, Lee Oti, Steve Heremaia and Auckland-based American Chauncy Welliver.

A large LCD screen will be set up but Reinsfield said there would be good views from everywhere.

There will be food and bar stalls around the grounds and hopes are high the fight will attract around 10,000 people.

Seating plans can be seen on Tourism Eastland's website - www.gisbornenz.com - or at the i-Site information office in Grey Street.

Tourism Eastland events co-ordinator Karl Geiseler said while there had been no advertising, they had been fielding calls from all over the country.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see a world-class fight live. People understand that and just don't want to miss out."

He urges anyone keen for allocated seating to get in early.

Source: Click HERE

First to see the light 1 January 2009

2009-01-02T22:17:00.000-08:00

The first sunrise of 2009!

Taken from Wainui Beach Gisborne New Zealand

Often, our guests that stay at Teal Motor Lodge get up early to catch the sunrise.

Several of our guests were treated to a special sunrise on the first day of 2009.

Movember - the last days

2008-11-22T01:47:00.000-08:00

The month formally known as November has now become "Movember" and it's almost over!

My newly sprouted growth will thankfully come off on the first morning of December.

The "trucker"and "soul patch" have almost taken on a life of their own. The reaction of our motel guests has been extremely supportive and positive. It's a beautiful man moment when a fellow Mo-bro gives a nod and a wry grin in salute.

Movember is a great fundraiser. It's about men having fun, celebrating manliness and breaking the ice to talk man to man about men's health issues. The funds raised will go to two beneficiaries:

The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand will use the funds raised by Movember for their "Out of the Blue" campaign to encourage men to take action, provide men with information to know what they can do for themselves and where they might go for help when experiencing depression.

The Cancer Society of New Zealand will use the funds raised by Movember to research into the causes, detection, diagnosis and improved treatment of prostate cancer. They will also raise community awareness of issues affecting men's health and provide support services for those affected with cancer.

I urge you to show your support. To donate click here

The Guardian rates us No. 2 New Year hotspot

2008-11-19T00:40:00.000-08:00

We think that Gisborne is a special place. It's good to see that others think so too...

The Gisborne Herald
19 November 2008

ICONIC British newspaper The Guardian has compiled a list of the ultimate new year getaways - and right there, second only to Paris, is Gisborne.

The liberal newspaper describes Gisborne as being the first place on Earth to see in the New Year.

"This year, the Rhythm & Vines festival on the Waiohika estate will see performances from the Kooks, Franz Ferdinand and Carl Cox. There are 120 performances over four stages and, with a beach (nearby), you'll also find surf competitions, volleyball and more than a smattering of VW campervans.

"It's surrounded by vineyards, so the wine is guaranteed never to run out and Southern Hemisphere sunshine should also be on tap."

Other spots in the world to celebrate the beginning of 2009 follow the glowing review. Tignes, a French ski resort, and Edinburgh for Hogmanay, trail Gisborne in the list, as does Krakow in Poland.

http://www.gisborneherald.co.nz/Default.aspx?s=3&s1=2&id=7286

Eastwoodhill Arboretum

2008-11-10T00:31:00.000-08:00

Visitors to Gisborne enjoy discoving Eastwoodhill Arboretum - a beautiful 135 hectare nature reserve, situated a leisurely 30 minute drive from Gisborne. This attraction has been recognised as a Garden of National Significance by the NZ Gardens Trust and is renowned as the the "National Arboretum of New Zealand".

Movember is upon us!

2008-11-01T23:57:00.000-07:00

It's finally here! The month formally known as November has now become "Movember".

After much thought and deliberation I have decided that the mo-style this year will be the "trucker" with the addition of a "soul patch" I have updated my aviator for inspiration.

I urge all men to join me and celebrate being a man by allowing your upper lip region to go feral. You will enter an exclusive support network of fellow men that are having fun, celebrating their manliness and are supporting a worthy cause.

Remember Movember's men's health benefactors, The Cancer Society of New Zealand and The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand. The funds raised will enabe some great projects and assist change the face of men's health.

To donate click here

Movember 2008!

2008-10-01T14:03:00.000-07:00

It's October! That means one more month until Movember (the month formerly known as November). This is a great cause tackling men's health issues and being proactive in the fight against men's depression and prostate cancer.

We will be again joining a few select moteliers that will be cultivating the upper lip region. I urge all motel men to become a Mo Bro and support this worthy cause.

Celebrate being a man for Movember and enjoy the fellowship of like-minded men. To donate to my Mo click here www.movember.com and donate online using your credit card.

Win a Must-Do Weekend

2008-08-24T13:16:00.000-07:00

Thanks to AA Travel, The New Zealand Herald and Herald on Sunday, 16 Must-Do Weekends are to be given away. That's 4 Weekend Experiences to be won every week for four weeks.

Purchase The New Zealand Herald and Herald on Sunday between Monday, August 25 and Sunday, September 21, 2008 for your chance to win. Each amazing AA Must-Do weekend experience.

There are two ways to enter:

Web: Go to www.winaweekend.co.nz and enter the daily keywords printed in the Herald along with your details.
Postal: Fill out the daily entry form printed in the Herald and send it to "NZ Herald Win a Weekend, PO Box 37774, Parnell, Auckland 1151.

Each week you could win one of 16 Must-Do Weekends.

We may be biased, but we think that the best weekend offer is:

Must-Do “Enrich Your Soul” Eastland Weekend

Open from Monday, 15.09.08 to Wednesday 24.09.08

Prize is for 4 adults and includes:

Two nights accommodation at Teal Motor Lodge, Gisborne
3-days Budget Rent a Car hire
TomTom navigation unit for each of the winners to keep
Winners will receive a Canon PowerShot A580 Digital Still Camera
Winners will be provided with either return flights or $200 petrol vouchers to be used with the rental car
A reef experience with Dive Tatapouri
A five-hour tour with Go Gisborne
A $200 dinner voucher to The Marina Restaurant and Bar, Gisborne
A cultural experience with Waka Toa
Free scooter rental for one person to travel around the city for two days including insurance and unlimited kilometres

For full details of all prizes and terms & conditions, click: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/promotion/story.cfm?c_id=500848&objectid=10528470

Tasman Empire Airways Memorabilia

2008-08-20T19:07:00.000-07:00

From time to time we are contacted by airline enthusiasts about Tasman Empire Airways Ltd (T.E.A.L) history.

Refer to our website www.teal.co.nz/teal about how we got our name.

We received the following email from the UK today and wondered if anyone can assist by identifying the photo?

"I found this photo in a junk shop in Brighton (UK). It appears to feature a Short Solent landing somewhere exotic. Any idea where it might be? The rectangular pool seems a curious feature".

UPDATE 1

We received an email suggesting that the location is Lake Nyasa taken from Cape Maclear Hotel towards Elephant Island.

"This seems to be likely; however I am unable to confirm this. Lake Nyasa was used by the Imperial Airways to land their flying boat service on the Johannesburg to Southampton route. Apparently there was a hotel built there to service passengers etc, but fell into a state of disrepair years later."

UPDATE 2

We have received a further email that appears to have cleared this exotic mystery:

"The picture was taken in Cape Maclear, probably from the old Golden Sands Hotel owned by Mrs Wynne-Jones who used to sleep with 3 or 4 civet cats on her four poster, there is no sign of the hotel,or the pool or the Madam for that matter. What appears to be hills in the background are islands on the left Tumbi (east) and on the right Domwe Island in the distance you can just make out a faint blotch on the horizon above the tail of the solent that is Zimbawe Rock which used to have a light tower.

As far as I know the service was not viable as Cape Maclear is 18km from a main road which in those days could take hours, and there was not much going on in those days for another 70km. Tourism in the area had not even really begun.

UPDATE 3

We have received yet another email that appears to be the definitive answer to our original post query

"Should like to correct some of the statements in update 2.

This photo was almost definitely taken from the original Cape Maclear Hotel, overlooking the swimming-pool (in which one of my school-friends remembers bathing as a young girl!). The date must be either 1950 or 51 as the service to Nyasaland only lasted 2 years.

The hotel was dismantled in the early 50s and moved around the lakeshore to Senga Bay, being reborn as the present day 'Livingstonia Beach'. Mrs Wynne-Jones (the mother of another school-friend!) owned and ran the 'Glengarry Hotel', which was further round the bay, and only opened in the late 1950s. When she sold it in 1970, it was renamed 'Golden Sands'.

I believe that's Elephant Island (now Thumbi) on the left, but think it's the western arm of Cape Maclear on the right. There is still a light tower on Zimbawe rock (photo below) I'm also attaching a photo from Flight magazine (poor quality unfortunately) showing a Solent taxiing past Elephant Island - I believe the shape of the hill confirms that your photo was taken at the same place.

Thanks for keeping memories of TEAL alive. As a five-year-old I flew from Sydney to Auckland on one of their Solents, before my family moved to Malawi (Nyasaland)!

Best wishes, Tony Richardson"

Solent taxiing past Elephant Island

Light tower on Zimbawe Rock

Enquire or book on-line

2008-08-14T16:16:00.000-07:00

Did you know that you can check availability or book on-line by using on-line reservation service at the top of this blog or from our motel website: www.teal.co.nz ?

It is simple and easy. Enter your arrival and departure date, the number of people staying. You can then view all available room-types with full descriptions and photos for the day you wish to stay.

You can use our on-line reservation service to simply check what is available for a particular night in the future. There is no obligation to make a reservation.

If you like what you see, you can proceed and make an instant reservation. To make it easy for you, your credit card details are required as confirmation. Your details will be held as confirmation only and you can pay upon departure.

Our reservation service uses 128 bit Encryption Technology - Secure Socket Layer (SSL). What does this mean? Well... This means that everything that you enter into your computer, such as credit card details, name and address etc is encrypted (scrambled). Because it is encrypted, other computers are unable to make sense of it, therefore keeping your information private. This security means that you can enter your personal information with the confidence that your details are securely protected.

You will be pleased to know that unlike most other on-line reservation services we do not charge a reservation fee.

After you make a reservation with us, you will instantly receive a confirmation via email confirming arrangements.

Too simple!

Where did the name TEAL come from?

2008-08-14T15:59:00.000-07:00

Does our "Teal Motor Lodge" logo look familiar to you?

Where did the name TEAL come from?

Here's a clue - Tasman Empire Airways Ltd was formed in 1940, in an era when passengers flying on commercial aircraft were revered and envied. Back in the 1940's and 50's air travel was eagerly anticipated by the few that were lucky enough to afford this luxury.

Take a nostalgic journey, back to a more regal time of travel in New Zealand and click on: www.teal.co.nz/teal

Book a room, order a breakfast AND Rent a scooter!

2008-08-14T15:23:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read it right!

Stay at Teal Motor Lodge in Gisborne and zip around Gisborne on a sporty and funky 50cc scooter!

Our scooters are a simple and FUN way to discover all that Gisborne has to offer; Beaches, cafes, urban culture, wineries and country sightseeing.

Feel the freedom of riding a scooter. With the wind in your face and the sun on your skin, travel the winding roads around Gisborne, looking for adventures.

For more information, click on www.scooterhire.co.nz

Guest Wireless Broadband

2008-08-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

What is "Voilà?"

Noun pronounced: vwä’lä. Origin: French. Meaning: Hey presto!, there you have it!...

Voilà® is a Kiwi owned company that is operated by French pizazz that happens to provide our Guest Wireless Broadband at Teal Motor Lodge.

The easy to use system has been designed for travellers, by travellers.

You can use your Wi-Fi capable laptop, PDA, and portable game console, whether it runs Microsoft Windows, Apple OS X, Linux.
All our locations are compatible with the legacy Wi-Fi standard (802.11b) – you don’t need the latest bells and whistles to go on the Internet with us.
You validate once your code via our web page and you’re away for the duration of your coupon: overnight, hour, week.
No log-outs, no log-ins, no hidden features to hinder your stay. You can go on the Internet freely without any hassle. Just like at home!

For more information, click on: www.voila.org.nz

Host Accommodation Group

2008-08-14T14:38:00.000-07:00

Teal Motor Lodge in Gisborne are a long time and enthusiastic member of the Host Accommodation Group.

This is a fantastic chain of Hotels, Motor Lodges and Motels located throughout New Zealand. From the top of the North Island, to the tip of the South—there’s a Host Accommodation property nearby. So, whether you’re planning a short break or a road trip from one end of the country to the other, the Host Accommodation Group has you covered.

We offer a 12th Night 'Free Bonus'. Stay 11 nights with Host Accommodation in New Zealand or Country Haven Motels in Australia and save up to $100 off your 12th night stay.

All New Zealand Host Accommodation properties are Qualmark rated. This is an independent rating that has been set up to guide you about just what to expect. The Qualmark system operates on a 1-star to 5-star scale. Each star level represents a combined range of facilities and service quality and standards.

Click on their website for further information: www.hostaccommodation.co.nz

Teal Motor Lodge Gisborne New Zealand

Still First to See the Light

Great start to the first day of the year!

Matawhero Wines Gig Guide

New Qualmark Branding For Motels

Host Accommodation QR Codes

Matawhero Wines

WIN with Host Accommodation

VIP Visitor From Hawkes Bay

Txt2Check Our Room Availability

Teal Movie Star?

Win A Spring Break with Host Accommodation

Gisborne Snow

Gisborne To East Cape

A weekend in gorgeous Gisborne

Host Wellywood Awards

Our new arrival...

Teal's New Promotional Video

Austin Healey Rescue

Gisborne is the place to be this long Easter weekend!

New Media Comming Soon!

Teal Sunset

Booking on-line has never been easier

Gisborne Rush Hour

Gisborne Cold Water Classic

Join us on Foursquare!

Saturday Smiles

Well done!

Gisborne Wine and Food Festival

Baxter's Bath

More Mad Moteliers!

SH2 Matahorua Gorge Project

Interactive Wine and Food

Motel For Sale

Gisborne Event Calendar

Hosting is our business

Hollie Smith signed for Wine and Food Festival

Gisborne Adventure

Entirely World Famous...In Gisborne

Entirely World Famous in Gisborne!

Boy - The Movie

Easter Events In Gisborne

Gisborne’s Famous Eastwoodhill Arboretum

Entirely World Famous NZ Tour! Part 2

Gisborne Tsunami

Entirely World Famous NZ Tour!

Check-out Our Website

Surfing with Frank

Hotspots tackled after Gisborne scrub fire

Gisborne Fire

New Year's Day In Gisborne

Gisborne's Lone Ranger Stops Off For Makas

Where's the place to be for Xmas?

Airplane Seat-Mate from Hell!

Gisborne To Host Rugby World Cup Team

Footrot Flats comming to life on Gisborne's streets

Gisborne - The only region to beat recession

Extra Gisborne Excursion Demanded

The More FM Winery Tour 2010

The end of another perfect day in Gisborne

Mo-teliers supporting Movember

Moko takes his tricks to town

Big Gisborne weekend, better weather

Countdown to labour weekend wine festival

Gisborne's friendly dolphin gives away his catch

Matawhero Wines relaunch in Gisborne

Gisborne Octoberfest Events

Gisborne Wine and Food Festival

New Teal Motor Lodge Website

East Coast Museum of Technology is sensational

We are now on FaceBook!

Moko the dolphin is getting frisky

Moko, the Lonely New Zealand Dolphin

Gisborne wines make a splash

HOST Accommodation shrugs off recession

World Champion Surfers Hang Out At Gisborne's Wainui Beach

Gisborne: Nudist's dream laid bare

Moko the Dolphin

The Saffron Milkcap Mushroom

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