Australia were distraught after their ignominious World Cup exit in 2007. Can this skilful bunch make amends? Australia's 2007 World Cup experience was akin to inflating a beautiful balloon. Initial…

NZ map

By Herb Christophers IF YOU’RE heading to New Zealand this autumn for the World Cup, we have plenty of ideas for how you can keep busy and see the countryside…

Bellbird

INVERCARGILL Pre-match jaunt – Waituna Lagoon/Awarua Wetland This is an internationally recognised wetland site frequented by diverse migrating and wading bird species. Relatively unspoiled compared to similar waterways in other…

Purakanui

DUNEDIN Pre-match jaunt – Otago Rail Trail A unique walking, cycling and horse riding track following the route of an historic railway line. It’s 150km long in total but you…

Nelson Lakes Kerr Bay Rotoiti

NELSON A pre-match jaunt – Nelson Lakes Bellbird Walk and Honeydew Walk are part of the stunning Lake Rotoiti Nature Recovery project where bellbirds and tui welcome you to their…

Orongorongo Valley

WELLINGTON Pre-match jaunt – Orongorongo Track This walk goes through authentic New Zealand forest, packed with palms, ferns, huge rata trees, fantastic views and good swimming holes in the river.…

Australasian Gannet

NAPIER Pre-match jaunt – Cape Kidnappers Spectacular geological cliff formations on the coast to Cape Kidnappers Gannet colony makes a trip there memorable. The Saddle and Black Reef gannet colonies…