Podcast appearances and mentions of mike yardley

Who doesn't love a great roadie? Self-drive adventures rank highly in my pantheon of golden travel experiences and Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast touring route is a show-stopper. Bookended by Derry~Londonderry and Belfast Lough, this sublime 185km drive threads together a stirring mosaic of fishing villages, secluded beaches, wondrous rock formations, rugged coastlines, crumbling castles, storied history and mouth-watering scenery. Pointing the car northeast from Derry~Londonderry, I began tracing the nooks and crannies of Northern Ireland's theatrical coastline by stopping off at Mussenden Temple. Dramatically perched on a cliff lording over Downhill Beach, this flamboyant folly was constructed in 1785 - inspired by the Temple of Vesta, near Rome. This circular stone temple served as a library and retreat for the eccentric Earl of Bristol who was also the Bishop of Derry (Earl Bishop), along with enormous views over the Atlantic Ocean. The setting is lip-smacking, wrapped in glorious estate gardens which you can explore on the cliff-edge walk, along with the ruins of the Earl Bishop's mansion, Downhill House. Fancy a beach layover? The neighbouring seaside resort towns of Portstewart and Portrush are blessed with sprawling blonde-sand beaches, backed my muscular limestone cliffs. Portrush is the bigger, brasher resort with an abundance of souvenir shops and amusement arcades like Curry's Fun Park. There's a faded glory feel to this seaside spot, exuding a retro appeal, in a similar vein to Blackpool or Bournemouth. But it's those drop-dead-gorgeous beaches and turquoise waters that really steal the show. Liberally strung along the Causeway Coast, strategically located look-out points cater to roadtrippers eager to get snap-happy and drink in the panoramic views. Few spots command greater affection than the Dunluce Castle look-out. It's a riveting perch to dreamily gaze across the crumbling castle ruins, clinging to the cliff, high above the churning ocean on a wind-walloped basalt outcrop. This medieval stronghold of the MacDonnell clan featured regularly on Game of Thrones. The MacDonnell Clan of Antrim still technically own it, even though the castle fell into disrepair 300 years ago. You can access it via the bridge which connects it to the mainland. Like many Irish castles, Dunluce has a fine bit of legend attached to it. It's said that on a stormy night back in 1639, part of the castle's kitchen fell into the icy water below. Apparently, only the kitchen boy survived, as he managed to tuck himself away in a safe corner of the room. If set-jetting is your bag, there's a host of fantastical shooting locations for Thrones fans to scout out in Northern Ireland, around the Causeway Coast. Just inland in Ballymoney, I jaunted to The Dark Hedges. Falling victim to over-tourism, stringent traffic and parking restrictions are now in place. Go early in the morning to dodge the hordes. Nor did I see The Dark Hedges. Photo / Mike Yardley The legendary ghost, the Grey Lady, a spectral figure said to drift silently between the ancient beech trees. This iconic avenue of gnarly, intertwined beech trees was planted in the 18th century by the Stuart family to create a grand entrance to their estate, Gracehill House. It's an ethereal landscape which of course became globally famed after appearing as Kingsroad on Game of Thrones. Sadly, over a dozen of these trees have been lost in recent storms and a heritage trust has been formed to try and keep the remaining 80 trees alive, given they are reaching the end of their natural lives. Heading back to the ocean, the Causeway Coast earns its name from a primordial geological marvel that may well prove to be your road-tripping highlight. Yes, the Giant's Causeway. Forged 60 million years ago when molten lava cooled quickly in the ocean water and contracted into crystallised basalt pillars, it is a head-spinning volcanic formation. The spectacle is compelling, a procession of 40,000 basalt hexagonal blocks and columns, reaching out into the ocean, like primal pistons thrusting out of the earth. You can take your chances and hop-scotch or clamber your way across these inter-locking formations, as crashing waves thunder in. The spectacle is best enjoyed at low-tide, revealing more and more of these basalt columns. Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. Photo / Mike Yardley I enjoyed a night in the charismatic village of Bushmills, just minutes from the Giant's Causeway. Sip on a dram from the world's oldest licensed distillery. Old Bushmills Distillery started manufacturing after a grant from King James 1 in 1608. Over 400 years later, they're still making single-malt whiskey here, using Irish barley and the unique water from their own stream too, spilling out of the River Bush which flows over basalt rock. Jamesons is the No.1 selling Irish whiskey. Like Jamesons, Bushmills is triple-distilled for smoothness, but distinctly individual in character. If you prefer gentle vanilla sweetness with subtle fruitiness, reach for Jameson. If malty richness with honey and spice appeals more, Bushmills will hit the sweet spot. Take a distillery tour to fully revel in the magic. Just around the corner, enjoy a night at the Bushmills Inn Hotel. Sharing the same pedigree as the distillery, the oldest part of the Inn, which is now home to the restaurant, was the original coach house and stables, circa 1608. Blending historic character with modern luxury, this award-winning hotel, backed by the River Burn, is an evocative place to rest and savour the legendary drama and beauty of the Causeway Coast. Space and luxury are the hallmark of the 41 guest rooms and suites, individually designed with stylish, traditional furnishings. After enjoying a dram by the cracking peat fire, tuck into some seriously good gourmet dining, steeped in local produce like treacle-cured salmon and seabass fillets with seared scallops. After a great night's sleep and a hearty full Irish breakfast, I headed back on the Causeway route, passing through picturesque Ballintoy Harbour (another Thrones filming site) to reach the remarkable Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Suspended and swaying 30 metres above the roiling Atlantic, this catch-your-breath rope bridge is cared for by the National Trust. Clinging to the cliffs off the mainland and the outcrop Carrick Island, this gnarly rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen over 250 years ago. Crossing the bridge is a thrilling experience with sublime views across to Rathlin Island and the Scottish Islands, along with encountering the original salmon fishery. Blow out the cobwebs and sway with the bracing wind. Fishermen first constructed a single handrail rope bridge to transport boxes of their prized salmon, caught off the island. There would be have been tens of thousands of crossings, over time. Ever since its construction in 1755, not a single report of anyone losing their from slipping off the bridge has been recorded. I didn't want to blot that copybook. As I tentatively crossed over, my guide thoughtfully informed me that the current model can withstand the weight of a double-decker bus. After reflecting on the gluttonous size of my full Irish breakfast, that was quite reassuring. I was lucky enough to get a glimpse of the historic fisherman's cottage, where they would store their nets and take shelter while awaiting their catch of migrating salmon. It's a magnificent, elemental nugget of coastal pride and seafaring heritage. Carnlough Harbour. Photo / Mike Yardley For a complete of scenery, I headed south to take in the Glens of Antrim that jut in from the coast like verdant wonderlands for outdoorsy adventures. These nine dramatic, forest-filled valleys in County Antrim, spill forth with folklore, spectacular hiking trails, bucolic splendour and truly charming villages like Glenariff. If you're after a scenic medley of deep valleys, rolling hills, lush forests and thundering waterfalls, you'll be in seventh heaven. Don't rush the Glens, they're best savoured at an easy, meditative and relaxed pace. For one final night of Causeway magic, before driving back to Belfast and onto Dublin, I luxuriated in the picturesque seaside village of Carnlough. Located at the foothills of Glencoy – one of the nine Glens of Antrim, edged by the shores of Carnlough Bay, this sheltered and compact harbour is the focal point of Carnlough village. Carnlough Harbour is another Thrones location to add to you tick-list. Fans will recognise the stony staircase leading down to the sea, filmed as part of the Free City of Braavos Canal. With its storybook good looks, this sweetheart stone harbour was first constructed in 1854 by the Marchioness of Londonderry (Winston Churchill's great grandmother), to help develop the limestone export trade. It's also home to the Harbourview Hotel. Formerly known as the Londonderry Arms, this gorgeous main street institution, beckoning like a country house hotel, has been refreshed into Ireland's first destination whiskey hotel. The Harbourview's focus is on Irish spirits, rare tastings, and events, blending its rich 1848 history with modern coastal luxury on the scenic Causeway Coast. I delved into the hotel's Whiskey Chamber, brimming with over 200 Irish whiskeys, where sublime tastings, distillery dinners, and whiskey-themed events take place, led by co-owner and master distiller Darryl McNally. Darryl and his fellow hotel owners also own Outwalker and Limavady Whiskey. Great drops! Old Bushmills Distillery. Photo / Mike Yardley Retaining stunning features including open fires and original terrazzo flooring, the new hotel features a newly refurbished bar, lounge and restaurant, offering the perfect blend of timeless charm and modern Irish hospitality. Each of the 35 elegantly appointed bedrooms have been completely redecorated and revamped, blending contemporary luxury with timeless style, and where the emphasis centred squarely on comfort. Hearty hospitality and a homely atmosphere is just the start of the Harbourview's seduction. A fitting place to raise a celebratory glass to the conveyer belt of treasures, underpinning the siren-like pull of the Causeway Coast. Fill your heart with Ireland in the enchanting Emerald Isle. For more touring insights and inspiration, head to the official website www.ireland.com I flew to Dublin with Qatar Airways, recently crowned the 2025 World's Best Airline by Skytrax, scooping the supreme honours for the ninth consecutive year. Qatar Airways flies non-stop between Doha and Auckland daily, with onward connections to 170 destinations, including daily flights to Dublin. I flew in Economy and you'll notice the difference with one of the widest seats in the industry, complete with adjustable headrests. Lap up generous dining, complimentary Wi-Fi and over 8000 on-demand entertainment offerings in the Oryx One system. For best fares and seats to suit, www.qatarairways.com Mike Yardley is Newstalk ZB's resident traveller and talks travel every week on Saturday mornings with Jack Tame.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Fuelled by popular culture and history's long shadow, Derry~Londonderry is enjoying its moment in the sun. The Walled City in Northern Ireland has stamped its mark on the tourist map, appealing to a broad band of visitors. On my recent swing through the island of Ireland, Derry~Londonderry certainly didn't fail to impress, serving up a heady cocktail of colour, culture, and the echoes of extreme conflict." "The official name of this border town has long been the subject of a naming dispute between Irish nationalists and unionists. Generally, although not always, nationalists favour using the name Derry, and unionists favour Londonderry. On my approach to the city, I noticed most highway signs have had the Londonderry name scratched or painted over. And while I was in the “hyphenated city”, most locals I spoke to resolutely called the city simply Derry." Read Mike's full article. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"It's been eleven years since I last filled my heart with Ireland – a shamefully long break in transmission. On my latest visit to this most enchanting of destinations, my road trip began with a jaunt through Ireland's “Hidden Heartlands.” Far beyond the heavily trafficked haunts like Dublin, Galway, or Killarney, this interior patchwork of counties beats to a slower pace across Ireland's central plains. Steeped in nature, resolute village life, and bucket loads of history, it is quite the revelation to get off the beaten track and dabble with the authentic charm, artisanal verve, pastoral beauty and homely hospitality that underpins this lesser-known realm." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"The great New Zealand summer calendar is generously sprinkled with some sure-fire seasonal hits to add a bucketload of fun to your family holiday. I've rounded up a selection of signature events and exhibitions, strung across the nation, that you may well want to thread into your domestic summer holiday plans." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast for Saturday 29 November 2025, 80 years on from the Nuremberg trials, writer and director James Vanderbilt joins Jack to discuss a brand-new film that tells a lesser-known side of the story. Jack draws attention to an issue affecting tens of thousands of Kiwis and considers who should be responsible for the fallout. Margo Flanagan does her best to convince Jack avocados have a place in desserts. Mike Yardley lists the best NZ holiday hits for the summer. And Kevin Milne highlights a local Kiwi business doing good things. Get the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast every Saturday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Beckoning as a homeland to incredible food, world-class wine, iconic cultural landmarks, and infused with a bohemian spirit, Paris is the epitome of a tourist mecca. Home to over 140 museums and 30,000 bakeries, you've got so many alluring visitor experiences to weigh up than you can poke a baguette at." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"As a quick hit to recharge when travelling to or from Europe, Doha makes for an eye-opening stopover in the heart of the Middle East. The capital of Qatar pulses with all the flamboyant bling of Dubai, overlaid with deep pockets of old world Doha, where tradition, heritage and culture abound. Doha seems to have nailed the sense of urban intermingling – the fusion of cutting-edge modernity and traditional vibes." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Singapore never fails to serve up an electrifying experience, constantly refreshing and enhancing its enticements. After paying my respects to Singapore's beloved water-spout mascot, the Merlion, overlooking Marina Bay, I ventured over to the jaw-dropping botanical blockbuster of Gardens by the Bay, armed with my Go City Explorer Pass. "Take a stroll through Kampong Glam. Once the seat of Singapore's first sultan, the neighbourhood's colourful shophouses are home to a jumble of cafes and boutiques wedged among decades-old perfumeries and fabric merchants." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the capital of the world's largest democracy, Delhi embodies the essence of modern India – a vivid paradox of old and new, rich and poor, foreign and familiar. It's been fourteen years since my last visit and the economic transformation is ever-present. High rises, swanky malls and residential colonies housing the booming middle-class are mushrooming everywhere. As my engaging Wendy Wu Tours guide Girish remarked, as we were whisked into the city from the airport, “Delhi is more than a mere city, it has morphed into the national capital region.” With the metropolitan population now nudging 30 million, Delhi is a megalopolis and on-track to becoming the world's most populous city in three years' time. Our hotel was in New Delhi, the more modern, planned city within a city, that was built by the British in 1911 and replaced Kolkata as the national capital, twenty years later. In a city notorious for its air pollution, which is supposedly steadily improving, one of the great paradoxes of New Delhi is that it's also swathed in a sprawling green canopy. It's arguably the greatest legacy from British rule, because the new city was deliberately, meticulously planned to be nestled within a vast green cover, fanning out from Connaught Place on those broad long avenues. Large-canopy trees like banyans, mango, and pilkhans were selected by the British, while indigenous trees ideally suited to the climate have added to the canopy in recent decades. That sprawling tree cover is certainly a godsend from the fierce Delhi heat. Delhi's contradictions abound. You'll still see working elephants trudging along traffic-clogged roads, as fire-engine red Ferraris zip by. Handwritten posters singing out, “Customs confiscated goods sold here,” still compete next to glossy fashion billboards for Gucci and Prada. It's all part of Delhi's curious fabric. The city is littered with so many crumbling tombs and ruins, most of them are not even on the tourist map. But if you are a first-timer to the city, signature sights include marvelling at the sheer grace of the soaring Qutb Minar Tower. It was built 800 years ago by the Turkish Slave King Qutb-ud-din Aibak to celebrate his victory over the Hindu Rajputs. Wander through the sculptural Jantar Mantar, a huge, open-air astronomy observatory built in 1725 by Jai Singh, creator and ruler of Jaipur. Admire the 16th-century garden tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun, precursor to the Taj Mahal, which was built by Humayun's great-grandson. Over in Old Delhi, two Mughal-era masterpieces, the imposing Red Fort (which was the Mughal seat of power for 200 years) and Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque. Both sandstone show-stoppers are definitely worth exploring. The mosque was commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1656 and it took 5000 labourers 6 years to complete. Within its hallowed walls lie sacred relics like Prophet Muhammad's hair. Beyond ticking-off the capital's great monuments, heading to Old Delhi is like a journey back in time. The beating, chaotic, carnival-like heart of Old Delhi is Chandni Chowk, Delhi's 400 year old marketplace that was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The market has been redeveloped to tame some of the chaos, including some fully pedestrianised streets and non-motorised transport lanes. But as I gazed at the spaghetti-like tangle of street wiring that garlands the crowded market lanes, there's no denying the ramshackle, faded glory feels amid this pulsating hot-spot of old-school commerce. Be sure to get your fill of jalebis from a street food vendor. Made from a deep-fried spiral-shaped wheat flour batter, which is then soaked in a sugar syrup, a plate of piping hot, crispy, sticky jalebis is a very satisfying sugar hit. We enjoyed a classic rickshaw ride through the throng of traders, shoppers and wandering cows, all heaving in those pencil-thin lanes. Girish also led us through the Khari Baoli Spice Market in Chandni Chowk, positively bulging with so many spices, nuts, herbs, pickles, preserves, rice and teas. Renowned as Asia's largest wholesale spice market, it's an aromatic head-blast. Shops and stalls bulge with heaping mounds and baskets of over a hundred different spices, headlined by turmeric, cardamom, coriander, star anise, ginger and cumin. Just as they have for hundreds of years, shoppers, dealers and chefs converge here every day to haggle and hustle. Many vendors have been peddling their wares for generations. Dawdle too long in front of a stall, and traders with huge sacks of chilis or cardamom pods will soon bump you out of their way. One of the oldest and tidiest shops is Mehar Chand and Sons. They've been in business since Queen Victoria ruled over them. And it's a great place to stock up on packaged spices, tea and saffron. Anshu Kumar, who is part of the family that has owned the shop since its inception, tells me that one of their biggest sellers with international visitors is turmeric, powered by the world's booming love-affair with this powerful superfood and supplement. (Their packaged products are allowed in New Zealand – just be sure to declare them.) Heading back to the hotel, we also stopped by the Indian parliament and sized up the monolithic might of India Gate. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, this monstrous landmark is more than just a stunning feat of architecture—it's a poignant memorial to the 70,000 Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Beautifully illuminated after sunset, street food vendors and ice cream carts line the area, swathed in sprawling lush gardens. The great thing about a Wendy Wu Tours private holiday is that you have complete flexibility over how much temple-touring and sightseeing you want to do. Equipped with your own driver and guide, it's a stress-free way to tackle Delhi. The itinerary can be as active or as laid back as you are, with full flexibility over included meals and excursions. You'll be in the best of hands with Wendy Wu Tours. www.wendywutours.co.nz/india Nothing beats retreating to a leafy oasis of eminent comfort and style after a hot, sticky day intrepidly gorging on the city sights. Nestled along the tree-lined boulevards of Connaught Place, Shangri-La Eros New Delhi, is a five-star hotel with serious wow-factor. From the moment you step inside the grand art-filled lobby, you know you are somewhere special. Service is swift, sparkling, flawless and convivial. It's the epitome of affordable luxury, with sharply-priced room rates that won't blow your budget. Push the boat out and lock in a Horizon Club room or suite. That will give you access to the hotel's cherry on top, the 19th floor Horizon Club lounge, allowing you a quick check-in, breakfast, evening cocktails and light bites. Plus panoramic views of the city's skyline. The hotel's arsenal of dining venues is very impressive. Head to Mister Chai for some authentic Indian street food coupled with flavoured tea and coffee. There is Tamra serving European, Japanese, Indian, Thai and Southeast Asian fare from live kitchens. “Lavish” doesn't do justice to the expansive array of buffet options at Tamra for breakfast. Sorrento specialises in Italian food with a contemporary twist and Shang Palace offers flavours of Sichuan, Cantonese and Yunnan cuisines. This is a signature dining venue in Shangri-La hotels and Shang Palace is widely feted as the world's most loved Chinese specialty restaurant. Dining here was divine, noshing on prawn dumplings with caviar; Xinjiang spice twice cooked baby lamb ribs; and the Cantonese BBQ platter. Shang Palace is a must. Celebrating it's 20th birthday this year, Shangri-La Eros is not the sort of hotel to rest on its laurels. And with wellness offerings continuing to be increasingly sought after, the hotel recently unveiled a wealth of enticing new amenities. The Wellness Club boasts offers over 4,000 square feet of world-class fitness space, advanced recovery therapies, a 100-feet outdoor swimming pool, salon, spa, and a calming hydrothermal zone featuring a cold plunge, Himalayan salt sauna, whirlpool, and steam. What more could you want for personal pampering? The Wellness Club seamlessly blends conscious luxury with modern wellness. Designed by Dubai's Stickman Tribe, Dubai, the interior is bathed in natural hues and hand-painted art. Calming music sets the tone for a serene escape with gilded details and reflective surfaces lending a touch of grandeur to the venue. The Spa has become a runaway hit with custom-crafted amenities to indulge the senses. Signature rituals include the Taste of India Retreat, Signature Indulgence, and a Couple's Serenity Bath, crafted to nourish the body and calm the mind. But my favourite hotel feature is the enormous new pool. Tranquil corridors lead you outdoors to the gloriously leafy green space, crowned with that magnificent pool and elegant sun loungers. As black kites circled high above in the sky, and mischievous rhesus macaques swung between the trees – much to the annoyance of nesting rose-ringed parakeets, marinating myself in the hotel's glorious pool became a rinse-and-repeat prize draw. www.shangri-la.com From New Zealand, it's just a one-stop connection to a multitude of destinations in India, including New Delhi, with Singapore Airlines, on their various daily services from Auckland and Christchurch to Singapore. Enjoy well-timed connections for an easy transit in Singapore. Across all classes of travel, the award-winning carrier has not only fostered a world-beating reputation for its exceptional customer service and in-flight product, but also its innovation. Become a KrisFlyer member and enjoy complimentary in-flight WiFi. For best fares and seats to suit head to https://www.singaporeair.com Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to grand gestures, painting your entire city in the one colour is quite something. So much for painting the town red. How about pink? Jaipur beckons as one of India's most enchanting destinations, where the Old City is harmoniously bathed in the same pink hue. The elegant capital of Rajasthan was painted in pink stucco in 1876 to welcome Albert Edward, the Prince of Wales, who was the son of Queen Victoria and later became King Edward VII. Jaipur's Maharaja chose the colour because pink symbolises hospitality in Rajput culture, and the gesture impressed the Prince so much that he nicknamed the city the "Pink City." The name – and the stucco - has stuck ever since. A year later, a law mandated that all future buildings in the Old City must be painted pink. As I swept into Jaipur on a private holiday Wendy Wu Tours, there's no denying how that welcoming palette sweetly seduces even the most jaded of travellers. Jaipur effortlessly casts you under its spell, as you delve into its rich history and treasury of enticements. There is an unmistakeable magic about the place. Nearly 300 years ago, an enlightened maharajah with a penchant for jewels and a keen eye for architecture built this planned city, wedged between the arid hills of northwest India. Built in the form of a rectangle, Jaipur was divided into nine blocks, seven for public use and two reserved for the state's most prestigious palaces and buildings. The entire city was girdled by a formidable protective wall. Called Jaipur after the city's founder, Jai Singh II, the planned city soon gave rise to astonishing royal palaces and vast workshops of artisans recruited to establish a new commercial hub. These days, gem cutters, jewellery designers and garment-makers are still doing a flourishing trade in Jaipur. And the royals still occupy a wing of the majestic City Palace, while gleaming mid-rise towers and a new subway system anchor Jaipur's forward march. But for all the contemporary progress, it's the architectural grandeur, proud sense of place and thriving craftwork traditions that make this destination so infectious. Street markets are splashed in colour and handicrafts, and Hindu temples can be found nearly every 100 metres. Though the streets heave with beeping and belching traffic, aimless tourists and dung-dropping cows, there is a charm and charisma to the carnival of commotion. Close to City Palace, my wonderful Wendy Wu Tours guide Vipin treated us to some sizzling old-school retail therapy. We walked under the peeling pink porticos of the roadside bazaars which were emblazoned with everything from puppets to pyjama pants; passing by carts of fried chickpea cakes, and marble-lined shrines with statues of Hindu gods. Garment-hunting was high on the agenda, for gifts to take home. Vipin led us to his favourite shop, where an explosion of colourful fabrics heaped in piles and stacked to the ceiling soon greeted us, as attentive staff served us Masala chai. Whether you're after local, authentic t-shirts, shirts, trousers, scarfs, saris, rugs, cushion covers, towels or table-cloths…this is textile and garment-shopping heaven. As my sister snapped up some sensational saris, I haggled down the price on a sublime tablecloth with block-printed red elephants. The other boom retail business is jewellery, because Jaipur is a global centre for cutting and polishing precious and semiprecious gems. Head to Jewels Emporium's stately white building and take a tour of the workshops, where cutters shape facets, and men at workbenches adorn gold settings with jewels, and rinse the gold dust from their hands in wash basins. That water is later sold to extraction companies. The quality of the workmanship is second to none, true Rajasthan's abiding legacy. Jaipur's Pink City bragging rights is best epitomised by the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. We stopped by to pose in front of this five-story palace façade, constructed from pink sandstone. Built in 1799, its iconic facade features 953 small windows which allowed royal women of the court to observe street processions without being seen while also creating a natural cooling effect. The palace's architecture is a blend of Rajput and Mughal styles, ornately designed with protruding bays of lattice stonework and cupolas mimicking Krishna's crown. Could there be a more glorious façade in the world? City Palace is a stirring complex to leisurely explore, peppered with mouth-watering architecture, tranquil courtyards and lush gardens. The prize draw is the Palace of the Breeze, a triumph in building design, whereby the air circulates so efficiently that it keeps the occupants cool even in the extreme summer months, when the mercury can nudge 50 degrees. The on-site museum is studded with royal treasures, costumes and curiosities. Out in the courtyard, I admired some massive silver vessels that carried the Maharaja's drinking water from the Ganges River to London in 1902 for Edward VII's coronation. You can see the royal reception rooms that are still in use, where Jaipur's royal family entertain guests in an ornate dining room and parlour, where chairs have silver lions for armrests. The walls are painted with gold dust and extracts of rubies and emeralds. Yipin pointed out where the royal family reside. There's a lot of tabloid tattle about Jaipur's current Maharaja, Pacho Singh. He's only 27, quite the polo-playing playboy and is currently living in the palace with his French girlfriend. But it's fully expected he cannot marry her, in deference to royal tradition and Rajasthan's adherence to arranged marriages and astrological alignment. Beyond the Old City, no visit to Jaipur is complete without savouring the sky-piercing magnificence of the four-hundred-year-old Amber Fort. (Pronounced Ah-meer.) Sprawling across the upper reaches of a hillside like a scene out Return of the Jedi, this fortress was previously the seat of power for the Rajput kings from 1599, before relocating to Jaipur's Old City just over a century later. En-route to the fort, Vipin led us to the most dreamy viewpoint, on the shores of Lake Maotha, where we gazed up in awe at this hilltop colossus. Brightly dressed elephants lumbered by, readying to carry visitors up the slope to the fortress. I had previously taken an elephant ride up to Amber Fort, but I've put weight on since then and am more mindful of animal welfare. We opted for a jeep ride through the skinny lanes snaking their way up to Sun Gate. From here, we marvelled over the China Wall-esque fortifications, the Amber Wall, riding across the ridgelines as far as the eye can see. ( It's 12km in length.) But this Rajput stronghold hooks in the tourist hordes principally for its gobsmacking array of palatial buildings and extravagant ornamental gardens. In shades of honey and rose stone, white marble and gilt decor, it's a frothy fusion of ornate Hindu and Islamic design. Amber Fort's exquisite craftsmanship is best exemplified by the Mirror Palace, or Sheesh Mahal. Candlelight dinners would have been next-level. A single lit candle spangles the beautifully cut Belgian glass panels and mirror mosaics that festoon the walls of the banquet room, transforming the space into a night-sky kaleidoscope across the walls and ceiling. Apparently, this room was made by the Maharaja so that the Maharani (queen) could see the stars at night, as she was not allowed to sleep in the open. Other highlights include the many-pillared Diwan-i-Am, the Hall of Public Audience; the Jal Mandir, or Hall of Victory, which features carved marble panels, a mirrored ceiling, and expansive views over the ramparts of the fort. The Sukh Niwas, the Hall of Pleasure, is another drop-dead-gorgeous marble room that was cleverly cooled with water. Here, the Maharaja reportedly relaxed with his ladies. Amber Fort is a resplendent blockbuster, reverberating with the glory days of Rajput rule in Rajasthan. Jaipur residents are rightly proud of their architectural showstoppers. One of the signature attributes to the city is the fact that some historic palaces, no longer required for the affairs of state, have been reimagined as beacons of hospitality. But I stayed at a brand-new luxury build that is a grand triumph of contemporary construction, fully inspired by Jaipur's landmarks and Rajasthani finesse. Introducing Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur. Whether it's for a big bling-bling Bollywood wedding or for immersive luxury experiences away from the heaving throng of Jaipur's tourist spots, this hotel delivers a tour de force in lavish Rajasthani living, with a contemporary take. It is splendour defined. As our Wendy Wu Tours driver pulled into the entrance, a troupe of Rajasthani dancers and costumed drummers serenaded our arrival in spectacular, effervescent style. Unfurling over 5.5 lush acres, the grand hotel's money shot is its sensational main façade, drawing rich inspiration from Amber Fort and Rajasthan's royal palaces. Features include majestic arches, intricately designed jharokhas (bay windows), and graceful chhajjas (overhanging eaves) and detailed carvings. It was thoughtfully painted in the same colours as Amber Fort's walls during golden hour. Rajputana history and heritage permeates the hotel. You'll notice it in the materials—yellowstone from Jaisalmer, marble from Banswara and Makrana, and locally sourced timbered. There's the treasury of sublime artworks, notably including portraits of Rajput warriors and royalty. Peek inside the Rang Mahal ballroom, where the walls are completely covered with celebratory nods to the state's heritage. It was handpainted over two-and-a-half years by third-generation artists. Delicate thikri glasswork, hand-carved wood accents, and intricate gold leaf detailing abound across the hotel. Amer Bagh garden venue unfurls like a verdant blanket at the base of the hotel – and is a stirring outdoor venue. Jai Bagh (victory garden is the main outdoor space for guest and I was absolutely enthralled delving into the daily bazaar that is staged here in the afternoon, complete with puppeteers, block printers, bangle makers and astrologers. Anantara's core DNA is to create hotels steeped in local elements and the Jaipur addition excels at delivering exactly that. You can even go chowk-hopping, vegetable shopping and cooking with local women. The hotel boasts 150 rooms and suites, layered across five categories, with most overlooking the inner courtyard or Jai Bagh. We stayed in the Anantara One-Bedroom Terrace Suite, which is kitted out with its own outdoor Jacuzzi and expansive terrace. I was transfixed here watching muscular monsoon thunderstorms tear up the sky and soak the land! Guestrooms do not skimp on celebrating the sense of place, with sumptuous comforts and artful design elements, from the zardozi on the pillows, thikri work on the headboards, wooden jharokas by the window nooks, and Mughal miniature art on the walls. If that's not enough to tempt you, Anantara's first outpost in India will enchant you with its gastronomic verve. Led by Executive Chef Sunil Jajoria, Sheesh Mahal is a pinch-yourself jewel box of a venue, to experience the true essence of Rajasthan with exquisitely fitted out with glittering mirror mosaics, dressed in 350,000 pieces of glass, inspired by the legendary Mirror Palace. Coud there be a more wondrous place to savour the true essence of Rajasthan's culinary brilliance? The menu marries traditional Rajasthani delicacies with global influences, paired with signature cocktails like the Jewel of Jaipur. Jajoria, a Rajasthan native, has been researching local cuisine for the last seven years. Perfected over 20 trials, his menu dives deep into how maharajas entertained. His tasting menu kicks off with hummus that tastes like Bikaneri bhujia, moving on to ker sangri kebabs, besan kebabs mimicking paneer (as there was no paneer in the history of Rajasthan, says the chef), and Shekhawati maas tacos. The menu is handwritten by the chef himself, on vintage paper he has been collecting since his he was a boy. Pair this menu with the ‘Echoes of Distillation' spirit tasting of heritage liquor from the royal family of Mahansar. It's mixology at its finest, with no shortage of artful theatre thrown in. Another cracking experience is Amrit Mahal, the vibrant all-day dining venue, which presents a diverse array of international and Indian specialties. There were too many highlights to recount, but the lamb baos, edamame truffle dimsums, lotus root on fire, Cantonese buttermilk prawns, soba noodles, and Japanese caramel cheesecake were all pleasurably devoured. The buffet breakfast here is like a royal banquet! The spa experience is a signature feature pillar of any Anantara property, and resident experts were brought in from Thailand to train the Jaipur team. The treatment repertoire remains consistent with their global spa menus—a mix of Ayurveda, Thai massages, and western therapies. I deployed my sister to the spa for some personal panel-beating and she is still buzzing about the deep tissue massage she savoured. She rates it as the best massage of her life, “life-affirming, age-reducing and liberating.” Another starring attribute of the hotel is its genuine sense of connection with the community. As a part of their grassroots outreach, the hotel works with local women to make the rotis on their menu on a chulha or traditional clay stove. You can take an early morning trip to the flower market or a guided farming experience. Even better, take a private visit to Hathi Gaon, which is a community of rescue elephants residing in their natural habitat. Or partake in a local culinary class. I was particularly impressed that the hotel takes care of their staff's accommodation needs, building nearby apartments to ensure they are well-housed. Hospitality is as sparkling as the palace-like hotel itself - faultless, ultra-attentive, charismatic and truly unforgettable. Treat yourself to a remarkable Jaipur escape at Anantara Jewel Bagh. You'll be royally treated from the moment you arrive. You will not want to leave. www.anantara.com Delve into India and the Golden Triangle with the award-winning tour specialists across Asia and beyond. I chose a tailor-made Classic India private holiday, that enables you optimise your itinerary and accommodation preferences, as much as you wish. The itinerary can be as active or as laid back as you are, with full flexibility over included meals and excursions. You'll be in the best of hands with Wendy Wu Tours. www.wendywutours.co.nz/india From New Zealand, it's just a one-stop connection to a multitude of destinations in India, including New Delhi, with Singapore Airlines, on their various daily services from Auckland and Christchurch to Singapore. Enjoy well-timed connections for an easy transit in Singapore. Across all classes of travel, the award-winning carrier has not only fostered a world-beating reputation for its exceptional customer service and in-flight product, but also its innovation. Become a KrisFlyer member and enjoy complimentary in-flight WiFi. For best fares and seats to suit head to https://www.singaporeair.com Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iconic. Few world landmarks exemplify the full meaning of that word quite like the Taj Mahal. I've just enjoyed freshly communing with the wondrous masterpiece in Agra, as part of a private tour of Classic India with Wendy Wu Tours. Four hours drive from New Delhi, Agra is rough and ready in places, much like the driving standards on India's roads. As my delightful Wendy Wu Tours driver Mr Singh observed, “There are three golden rules when driving in India. You need a good horn, good brakes and good luck.” Before savouring the gleaming Taj, my Wendy Wu Tours guide Nadeem led us on an enlightening tour around Agra Fort. En-route, we passed a decrepit sandstone building that Nadeem remarked had become nicknamed the “Monkey House” by locals. Apparently a vast tribe of 200 Rhesus macaques inhabit the crumbling building, running riot on the adjoining road when they head out to find food. Agra Fort is a marvel, a mighty red sandstone fortress overlooking the Yamuna River. It was established by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century, who was a descendant of Genghis Khan. The sprawling fort served as a military base and a royal residence, as well as the seat of government when Agra was the capital of the Mughal Empire. The complex is a delight to explore, radiantly reflecting the architectural grandeur of the Mughal reign – a fusion of Persian and Indian design flourishes. Highlights include the Pearl Mosque, constructed by Shah Jahan. This tranquil and perfectly proportioned structure is made entirely of white marble. The splendid Palace of Mirrors (Sheesh Mahal), had its walls and ceilings inlaid with thousands of small mirrors. The fort also served as a prison and Nadeem led us to gaze at where Shah Jahān sadly spent the last eight years of life, in his gilded cage. Aurangzeb, his son and successor as emperor, incarcerated him there in 1658. At least Jahan could gaze across to his finest triumph, his sublime Taj Mahal, rising proudly on the horizon, around the river bend. Another headline sight at Agra Fort is the Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah in Agra, India. Nicknamed the baby Taj, it's considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal. It was built 30 years earlier, for the father of the Mughal Empress Nur Jahan. The alarm clock was set for an early wake-up the following morning, to witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise. The last time I visited the Taj fourteen years ago, we timed it for sunset – but the crowd crush detracted from the experience. Wendy Wu Tours strongly recommended a sunrise visit – and they weren't wrong. There were barely a hundred people on site for the dawn of a new day and the absence of crowds enhances the encounter immeasurably. (Nor will you battling extreme heat.) After duly posing for photos on the marble bench immortalised by Princess Diana's visit, it was positively soothing to size up this colossal marble mausoleum from every angle and vantage point, as a yolky sunrise stamped its presence on proceedings. I felt lost in awe-inspired reflection in the ornamental gardens. Built as a memorial by Shah Jahan for his third wife, who died giving birth to their 14th child, it is arguably the world's greatest monument to love. The emperor was apparently so heartbroken by her death, his hair turned grey overnight. Construction of the monument began within 12 months, with the bulk of the building taking 8 years to complete. 20,000 people from India and Central Asia worked on the building, while specialists from Europe were brought in to produce the exquisite marble screens and inlay work. Much of the gold and precious stones were later looted by British soldiers. Following his death, Shah Jahan was buried here, alongside his third wife. There are so many touches to his masterpiece to admire. Look closely and you'll notice that the four soaring minarets are all subtly tilted away from the main building, so that they won't fall on it, in the event of a major earthquake. I love how the building was purposefully positioned pointing north, so that it is bathed in maximum sunlight from dawn to dusk, heightening the creamy lustre of the marble. And nothing detracts in the background. Built on a raised platform with its back to the river, the backdrop is only sky – a masterstroke in design, which adds to its timeless enchantment. It was striking how serious they are taking the threat of air pollution around the Taj mahal, with an enormous perimeter area, clamping down on vehicle use and the forced closure of factories in proximity to the monument. Previously, the Taj Mahal has been spruced up with an ancient face-pack recipe known as multani mitti. This blend of soil, cereal, milk and lime beautifies the skin. I must try it. They're very proud of all things Mughal in Agra so why not tuck into some Mughlai cuisine? This rich, meaty and aromatic culinary style blends Indian flavours with Persian, Turkish, and Central Asian influences. It is known for its creamy, rich gravies, elaborate dishes, and the liberal use of aromatic spices, almonds, cashews, dried fruits, and dairy products. Famous dishes chicken biryani, chicken korma and rogan josh. A decadent dessert steeped in Mughal Empire tradition is Shahi Tukda. Translating as royal bread, this version of bread pudding consists of crisp, fried bread slices soaked in sugar syrup and adorned with a creamy blend of milk, cornflour, spices, and nuts. Delicious! Great street snacks include peitha, a square sweet made from pumpkin and glucose and flavoured with rosewater, coconut or saffron. Also try gajak, a slightly spicy sesame-seed biscuit strip. I sampled some great local dining while staying at the Grand Imperial Hotel, in the heart of Agra. Standing proud since the early 1900s, this British colonial-era property with its soothing arches and colonnades and sprawling garden is a haven of elegant heritage and affordable luxury. It was built for the British as the Colonial Hotel and the property is steeped in period furnishings. This heritage gem gracefully merges historical charm with contemporary comfort. Every corner of the property reverberates with history's echoes and nods to ancient royalty, adorned with plush Lahori bricks, regal arches, and exquisite paintings. The sparkling swimming pool and lush gardens are a serene sanctuary to unwind the body, after a hot, sticky day of sightseeing. Hospitality is flawless and you'll be pleasantly surprised at the bargain accommodation rates. Strike it lucky and the hotel may well be hosting a bling-bling Indian wedding, while you're in-house. That is quite the spectacle! Delve into India with the award-winning tour specialists across Asia and beyond. Choose a tailor-made private holiday to optimise your itinerary and accommodation preferences, as much as you wish. The itinerary can be as active or as laid back as you are, with full flexibility over included meals and excursions. You'll be in the best of hands with Wendy Wu Tours. www.wendywutours.co.nz/india From New Zealand, it's just a one-stop connection to a multitude of destinations in India, including New Delhi, with Singapore Airlines, on their various daily services from Auckland and Christchurch to Singapore. Enjoy well-timed connections for an easy transit in Singapore. Across all classes of travel, the award-winning carrier has not only fostered a world-beating reputation for its exceptional customer service and in-flight product, but also its innovation. Become a KrisFlyer member and enjoy complimentary in-flight WiFi. For best fares and seats to suit head to https://www.singaporeair.com Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"For even the most intrepid of travellers, India can be a sensory assault – confronting and riveting in equal measure. If you're a first-timer to the subcontinent, the Golden Triangle which threads together New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur offers the best crash-course in getting to grips with India. I first tripped around the Golden Triangle fourteen years ago and I've recently completed a return visit with Wendy Wu Tours. It was fascinating to discover the remarkable changes and dramatic swing in living standards, while many aspects to the allure of the Golden Triangle remained unchanged." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast for Saturday 11 October 2025, rising Kiwi musician Sam Cullen joins Jack in studio for a live performance and to chat about the upcoming release of his debut album. Jack considers the lack of rules around treatment of referees in football. Tara Ward shares details on the brand-new series of The Celebrity Traitors UK, starring Stephen Fry, Alan Carr, and Celia Imrie. If you're considering your first trip to India, Mike Yardley has his top tips on navigating the sensory contrast. And Dougal Sutherland discusses Mental Health Awareness Week. Get the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast every Saturday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Whether you're looking for a beachfront break in Southeast Asia or a flavourful side-trip to enrich your adventures, Penang is a getaway that sure hits the sweet spot. Just a few hours drive from Kuala Lumpur, or a one hour flight from Singapore, the island of Penang is pinned to the Malay Peninsula by some seriously impressive bridges, spanning the Strait of Malacca. One of the bridges includes a 17km stretch over the water! "Blending the best of Penang's allure, I savoured the stirring cuisine and cultural heritage of Georgetown, while basing myself at one of Malaysia's best beaches. Gracing the northern shores of the island, Batu Ferringhi is Penang's premier beach destination, edged by a vast 7km-long sweep of blonde sand, beloved for its luxury resorts, water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing, and bustling night market." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Yardley is a seasoned traveller. He's been all around the globe, experiencing nearly everything you can imagine, and as a result, is quite familiar with scams and swindlers. He joined Jack Tame to delve into a couple of the most common scams affecting travellers – plus tips on keeping yourself safe from theft. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been an extraordinary week in Nepal – going from protests and revolution to a new government and peace in a flash. Mike Yardley arrived in Kathmandu a few days into the upheaval and can assure that he's had no issues during his time in the area. He joined Jack Tame to delve into what his experience has been like and the highlights of his trip. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Magical, golden, and steeped in mystique, “The City of a Hundred Spires' is one of my favourite European capitals. Prague lays on a smorgasbord of stunning architecture, from Gothic, Renaissance and baroque to neoclassical and cubist. Unshackled from the claws of Communism, the capital of the Czech Republic's rock-solid status as a powerhouse tourist destination continues to shine." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Pint-sized Bratislava has the unique distinction of being the only capital city in the world wedged by three countries. Just inside the border of Slovakia, the city is also sandwiched by Austria and Hungary. You can lay your eyes on those three countries from various perches around town." "Bratislava's old town is a little bon-bon, a perfectly formed tangle of twisting cobbled streets, studded with pastel-hued 18th century buildings. But far from simply being an urban relic from a bygone age, the Slovakian capital has an unmistakably cosmopolitan, contemporary feel and quirky personality, best exemplified by its infatuating public art installations." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast for Saturday 30 August 2025, the grand dame of crime fiction, Lynda La Plante joins Jack to discuss how her characters fit in the modern world of publishing and her new book ‘Scene of the Crime'. Jack weighs up the balance between transparency, trust, and the public service. As thoughts turn towards summer, travel correspondent Mike Yardley explores Hamilton Island and the Whitsundays. Tech expert Paul Stenhouse explains the use of AI in the US's 911 call centres. And are pets as good for our wellbeing as we like to think? Clinical psychologist Dougal Sutherland explores life satisfaction as a pet owner. Get the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast every Saturday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Bobbing about on my bucket list for far too long, I've finally just enjoyed my first foray to heart-stealing Hamilton Island. Glamourous and gorgeous in equal measure this holiday jewel in the Whitsundays archipelago completely smashed my expectations. With an embarrassing surfeit of island vacay options in Queensland, I had assumed Hamilton Island, or Hamo as the locals call it, might just be another pleasant dime-a-dozen speck of palm-fringed sand, edging warm ocean water. "But Hamo is so much more." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"The Sunshine Coast's sparkling reputation as a powerhouse of premium local produce continues to raise the bar. Brimming with over 900 food and drink producers, grazing from this constantly replenished larder of goodness helps underpin the region's bragging rights as holiday heaven. I'm just back from a fresh dip with the Sunshine Coast, after indulgently noshing and sipping my way around her beachfront and hinterland hotspots." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Beyond the seductive necklace of balmy beaches studding the Sunshine Coast, elevate your playground to the host of treats and treasures tucked away in the hinterland." "My hinterland base was the leafy township of Yandina, staying at the namesake hotel which has been serving up yarns and coldies since 1889. Built by Australian pioneers as a staging depot on the route between Brisbane and the Gympie goldfields, this venerable wooden pile, with wrapround balcony, is one of the Sunshine Coast's oldest watering holes." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Brooding, imposing, ruggedly beautiful and spilling with forth with a storied history, Edinburgh stirs the senses of even the most jaded traveller. I've just reacquainted myself with the striking Scottish capital, as part of a riveting romp around the UK on Trafalgar's Real Britain tour." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UKTerrorismThreat #Immigration #UKPolitics #MikeYardley #JonGaunt #FreeSpeech Security and terrorism expert Mike Yardley joins broadcaster Jon Gaunt to reveal the real threats facing Britain in 2025.  From the growing UK terrorism threat to the small boat migrant crisis in the English Channel, Yardley delivers blunt insights on security, politics, and the state of our nation.  In this hard‑hitting interview, they discuss: Are we safer now than after the 7/7 London bombings? Could economic collapse in the UK happen this summer?  Is Britain on the verge of political unrest, riots or revolution?  Why aren't military facilities being used to house asylum seekers?  The hidden dangers: criminals and military‑age men arriving on small boats from France  The fight for free speech and free expression in Britain  Is Nigel Farage the political answer Britain needs?  What happens when politicians ignore the people? If you want the truth about UK immigration, terrorism threats, and Britain's future, watch this unfiltered conversation now.  #Britain #Terrorism #UKTerrorismThreat #Immigration #UKPolitics #MikeYardley #JonGaunt #FreeSpeech #NigelFarage #EconomicCrisis #ChannelCrossings #SmallBoats #IllegalImmigration #UKBorders #MigrantCrisis #BritishSecurity #7JulyBombings #PoliticalUnrestUK  Britain on the brink, UK terrorism threat 2025, small boat migrant crisis UK, UK immigration crisis, channel crossings migrants, 7/7 London bombings anniversary, economic collapse UK 2025, riots in Britain, Nigel Farage UK politics, free speech in Britain, UK asylum seeker policy, military facilities for migrants UK, criminals among migrants UK, migrant crime in Britain, Britain revolution 2025, UK political unrest, terrorism and immigration UK, migrant boats English Channel, illegal immigration Britain, Mike Yardley interview  

"Tucked between North Wales and the serene good looks of the Lake District, gritty, vital Liverpool provides an indelible and grounded dose of "real" urban England. It proved to be one of my favourite destinations on my whistle-stop romp with Trafalgar's Real Britain tour. Yes, Beatles fans flock to Liverpool to learn about the Fab Four's early days, but the city's appeal extends far beyond those towering music legends." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast for Saturday 26 July 2025, a man with up close and personal access to Tour de France, Kiwi bike mechanic Craig Geater joins the show to discuss his 21 years of experience on the Tour, his former years as Lance Armstrong's personal mechanic, and what it's like to travel behind his Jayco Ulula crew as they ride the mountains. Jack considers the unstoppable force of a viral moment. Francesca Rudkin gives her thoughts on whether the new Fantastic Four film meets expectations. Mike Yardley shares the sights and sounds of ancient British city York. And Estelle Clifford shares her favourite tracks from Yorkshire-born musician Billie Marten's new album Dog Eared. Get the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast every Saturday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Few British cities can match eye-catching York and its wondrous layers of history. Northern England's walled city was founded by the ancient Romans, was conquered by the Vikings and also boasts a trove of medieval riches. The city's storied history is woven into virtually every brick and beam. All these ingredients underpin York's star-power, serving up a stirring sense of Ye Olde England, when tripping the UK. But it's so much more than just a living museum." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"It's undoubtedly Britain's equivalent to our Queenstown Lakes district. Windermere and the Lake District is England's favourite national park, a sprawling tourist honeypot that stretches across hundreds of square kilometres of rugged Cumbrian countryside, woodland valleys, shimmering tarns and lakes – all backed by strikingly craggy mountains. It was the 18th century Romantic poets who captured the world's imagination, igniting the region's first tourism wave. Since then, the stature of the Lake District has only grown as a getaway destination, the wave has never crested, culminating in the district securing World Heritage status just eight years ago." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Steeped in Roman heritage and swooned over as Britain's premier spa destination, Bath's architectural flourishes and all-encompassing grandeur underpins my love affair with the city. I recently reacquainted myself with its atmospheric charm in a whistle-stop romp around Blighty with Trafalgar's Real Britain tour. Adeptly helmed by travel director Selene, this is Trafalgar's fastest-paced UK tour, delivering a whistle-stop experience with some of Britain's most desirable destinations. If you're short on time but want to tick-off a swag of top-billing icons, it's a cracking option." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast for Saturday 5th of July 2025, Theo David and Phoebe McKellar join Jack as stars of ATC's fast-paced 60s twist on the original tale of star-crossed lovers, Romeo & Juliet. Jack considers his French sporting viewing picks for this weekend. Mike Yardley shares his favourite apps for anything you may need while travelling. And how does the latest Jurassic franchise instalment rate? Francesca Rudkin dishes on the latest on the big screen. Get the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast every Saturday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Yardley travels a lot. He's the resident traveller on Saturday Morning with Jack Tame, always trying something or some place new. As a result, he's tried out many of the apps available for travellers, and has a few he would call his favourites. Read his full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Don't downplay Quito as merely a stepping stone to the rainforest or the Galapagos. It is a superlative destination in its own right. The crowning jewel is Quito's 17th-century Old Town, a heaving historical quarter so impeccably preserved that it was the first city in the world to be accorded UNESCO World Heritage Status." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast for Saturday 21 June 2025, Captain Kerry of the hit tv show Below Deck joins Jack to discuss antics aboard the St David superyacht and his three decades in the boating industry. Jack travels with a baby for the first time... Mike Yardley continues his adventures in the Galapagos Islands. And Estelle Clifford shares her Matariki playlist picks for the long weekend. Get the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast every Saturday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"After revelling in my 4-night cruise in the Galapagos Islands with Viva Expeditions, my dreamscape experience aboard La Pinta concluded with one final port call at Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island. Viva Expeditions highly recommends you combine a dreamy cruise with a land-based stay and Santa Cruz Island is the incomparable choice." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Do the Galapagos sea lions know how good they have got it? Sprawled across the pristine beaches, they wallow, snooze, and frolic across the powder-white stretches of sand, blissfully unconcerned by curious passers-by entering their slice of paradise on a goggle-eyed shore excursion. In fact, some of the sea lions waddled up to greet us into their realm of unrivalled wonder. The Galapagos grips you good, and doesn't let go. I'm fresh back from my maiden visit to this extraordinary group of islands with Viva Expeditions, enjoying a four-night cruise aboard the magnificent La Pinta." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Nestled on the western flank of the Andes, three hours northwest of Quito, I was swathed in the finery of the Chocó rainforest. Mashpi Lodge is an eco-tourism jewel, a five-star oasis within the wider Mashpi Reserve that serves up a resplendent rainforest encounter with the mighty Chocó. Truth be told, because the reserve traverses a wide altitude range, from 550 metres to 1400m, there's the rainforest and the cloud forest. There's a high level of endemism here, by the separation through the Andes. The forests on the western side of the Andes evolved entirely differently to the Amazon rainforest on the eastern side. To really make my head spin, geological history testifies that prior to the seismic uplift of the Andes, this was all one sprawling forest." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast for Saturday 7 June 2025, Nadia Lim celebrates the 10th anniversary of her bestselling cookbook, Easy Weeknight Meals. Jack considers who will come out on top in the battle between Trump and Musk. Nici Wickes drops a delicious cookie recipe – with a secret ingredient to keep you satiated. Mike Yardley has a crush on Ecuador, and joins Jack to discuss savouring the country's Cloud Forests. And Britpop legends Pulp are back with their first album in 24 years – Estelle Clifford shares her thoughts and favourite tracks. Get the Saturday Morning with Jack Tame Full Show Podcast every Saturday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"As Arrowtown glowed in its golden, fiery blaze of autumnal hues, it was a thrill to be back in this treasure-chest township, cradled by nature's splendour. It's one of my all-time favourite holiday playgrounds and I was eager for a fresh dip from its glorious offerings." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Mike Yardley opened up about Glenorchy's brand of eco-concious tourism, and revealed why it's a must-visit for fans of jet-boating, nature and Middle Earth. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Stitching Central Otago to the wonders of South Westland, the Haast Pass Highway is what epic roadies are all about. The Haast region is the centrepiece of Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage area. As the last mountain pass to be constructed over the Southern Alps and only fully chip-sealed in 1995, this 140km-long panoramic alpine pass still exudes a “final frontier” sense of escapism as it threads its way through South Westland's primeval forests. The route had long been used by Māori warriors and greenstone (pounamu) gatherers, as they traversed the Main Divide." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Yardley's on an adventure in London, experiencing luxury hotels and five star dining experiences. He joined Jack Tame to delve into some of his top destination dining picks. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Budapest has long been a punching bag for invading powers and battled over by a litany of imperial bullies. But the legacy is a city stacked with historic layer upon layer of intrigue and faded glory, some layers still decaying while others have been ambitiously restored. I was back in the Hungarian capital with Trafalgar, one of the headline stops on their splendidly curated 10-day Imperial Europe tour." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Few cities in the world enjoy the stature of being a music mecca quite like Salzburg. It's one of my favourite European destinations and I recently ventured back to this Austrian jewel with Trafalgar, as part of their magnificent 10-day Imperial Europe tour. It's like a tasting plate of some of Central Europe's most glittering destinations, steeped in history and spilling with scenic finery. And it's all spectacularly brought to life with specialist local guides who live and breathe these destinations, with unbridled passion and pride." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"You could spill vast rivers of blue Danube ink try to encapsulate the enduring brilliance of Vienna and all that it has lavished on the world. It's the city that vaulted Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, Strauss and his waltz into the world's consciousness. The city that unleashed the genius of Freud, published the world's first newspaper, conceived the delicious Torte, and was the powerbase for the imperial Hapsburgs. Vienna remains a city of culture, class and beauty; of churches, castles and concert halls." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"As spring began to bud and bloom in Munich, I embraced the season of renewal by joining Trafalgar on their riveting 10 day Imperial Europe guided coach tour, which strings together a necklace of enchanting destinations. It's a cracking introduction to the richness of Central Europe – kind of like a glorified greatest hits tour." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The great Swiss city of Zurich is one of the more picturesque, pixel-burning European gateway destinations. Within minutes of exiting Zurich Airport, armed with my trusty Eurail Pass, I was blissfully whizzing into the city centre on a 10 minute train ride. Strolling across the cobbles of this time-honoured city in the crisp spring air, there's so much urban eye-candy to lift the spirit. I sized up the largest clock face in Europe, on the edge of the Limmat River. It's bigger than Big Ben. Riding the skyline, the historic tower of St Peter Church is imbued with a trusty timepiece, as are the oh-so punctual church bells that loudly reverberate across the Old Town from the four historic churches, including mighty Grossmunster Cathedral. No wonder everything runs to time in Switzerland. According to legend, Zurich's 13th-century landmark cathedral was founded by Charlemagne, built on the graves of the city's patron saints, Felix and Regula. It was also the starting place of the Protestant Reformation in Zurich. Culture is writ large in Zurich's Old Town, where the narrow-cobbled streets gave rise to the Dada art movement just over a century ago. I popped into Cabaret Voltaire, at Spiegelgasse 1, which was the birthplace of Dada and the avant-garde artistic movement in 1916. Absinthe is the drink of choice here, among Dada's ghosts. Strolling along Bahnhofstrasse, flanked by chic designer boutiques and swanky department stores, Café Sprungli deserves a pit-stop. This prized Zurich institution is rightly lauded for its heavenly macaroons and hand-crafted chocolates. They are like exquisite works of art – as were the Easter chocolate displays. It's like a bespoke art gallery in chocolate. Don't mind if I do. Further down the street, if feeling a little decadent, make a date with Teuscher for its famed champagne truffles. In a city of water and stone bridges, a top vantage point to survey the elemental landscape, above the twisting lanes of the Old Town, is the Lindenhof. This was the site of a former Roman customs house and fourth-century fort, perched above the water. Alongside soaking up the city vistas, this elevated park with its Linden trees and giant chess sets is the pitch-perfect spot for a cheeky picnic. The vast assortment of guildhalls is core to Zurich's backstory, and they're great fun to explore. In 1336, Zurich's first independent mayor, Rudolf Brun, established the guild laws, effectively shifting power from the abbeys to the merchant nobility. The handsome guildhalls, with all their intricate decorative features, lend themselves to a leisurely inspection. I started at the bakers' guild, in Oberdorfstrasse, before heading over the river's east bank to Niederdorf, to admire the guilds of the carpenters, builders, the food and wine dealers, the textiles and spice merchants, all along Limmatquai. Then, on Munsterhof, you've got mansions of the weavers, saddlemakers, painters and winemakers. In German-speaking Zurich, the street food tradition of wurst remains wildly popular – particularly for lunch. In the Old Town, tuck into some great sausage at Wursteria by Hinz and Kunz. This part-butcher shop and part deli serves up super spicy bratwurst in a fluffy bun. So good! As its name suggests, Cafe Conditorei 1842, on Napfgasse, is an old-school establishment, chock-full of sweet indulgence. Spanning four floors, food lovers can enjoy patisserie, cakes and hot drinking chocolate – they claim to be Zurich's best. On the ground floor of this historic confectioner's store, impressively decorated in neo-baroque style, you'll struggle to find a finer array of patisserie, cakes and tarts. I could have stayed there all day. And yes – the steaming mug of hot chocolate with whipped cream was magnificent. Speaking of chocolate, the Lindt and Sprungli factory has called Zurich home, since 1899. Seven years in the making, Lindt Home of Chocolate, was designed to complement the historic building and serve as a beacon to chocolate lovers everywhere. From cultivation to production, the interactive museum does a sterling job telling the story of Swiss chocolate making, not only about Lindt, but its predecessors. While the maze of white, milk, and dark chocolates is impressive, the Lindt Home of Chocolate also boasts another record: the world's largest chocolate fountain. Standing at about 30 feet tall, even Willy Wonka would be impressed by this show-stopper. Zurich is home to FIFA's world headquarters and in a bid to stop pesky football fans from loitering in the lobby, the FIFA Museum was created nine years ago, in the heart of town. Spread over three floors and loaded with interactive exhibitions, the FIFA Museum examines all aspects of the global game and how it passionately stirs people's emotions. Football is the great equaliser. Along with the original FIFA World Cup Trophy, the museum displays over 1,000 items of exclusive memorabilia and apparel, including the national shirts of all FIFA member associations. The original trophy, which features a gold statuette of Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, holding a cup, was permanently awarded to Brazil after they won the cup for the third time, in 1970. The current trophy contains 5kg of pure gold and its estimated value is over NZ$30m. A highlight amongst the interactive games gallery is the gigantic pinball machine, where you can test your own ball kicking skills. With the next World Cup just a year away and featuring the All Whites for just the third time, add this museum to your check-list. Creating quite a buzz in recent years, Zurich-West has been spectacularly transformed from a once scruffy industrial district. Emerging as a vibrant cultural quarter of trendy eateries and edgy art, factories have been repurposed as theatres and shipyards reimagined as art galleries. Viadukt is an exemplary example of the makeover, with a host of eateries, pop-up shops and art spaces housed inside the arches of the disused, 550-feet long railway viaduct. You'll also find Prime Tower here, a 35-storey skyscraper (Switzerland's tallest), serving up a panoramic treat across Zurich's rooftops, gleaming lake and snow-coated peaks beyond. Take in the sweeping scenery over a drink or two at Clouds Bar – and salute your return to Europe. The locals are very proud of the city's brilliant and bizarre festivals. In August Zurich hosts Street Parade, one of Europe's biggest celebrations of peace, love and electronic music, attended by millions of people. In a couple of weeks, the city grinds to a halt for Seschselauten. This annual April spectacle involves setting on fire a giant straw snowman called the Boogg. The time it takes for the Boogg's head to explode indicates whether it will be a good summer, apparently. The word is Zurich is in for a long, warm summer. Perfectly poised overlooking Paradeplatz, the city's most prestigious address, the Mandarin Oriental Savoy Hotel offers a stylish stay to remember, when in Zurich. Just steps from the city's iconic shopping sweep of Bahnhofstrasse, it's been just over a year since the Mandarin Oriental revitalised what has been Zurich's oldest grand hotel, reaching back to 1838. Elegantly and artfully refreshed, with a boutique hotel vibe, the 80 impeccably redesigned rooms and suites raise the bar on luxury and indulgence. There's four distinctive dining venues including the Michelin-starred Orsini, where the Italian fine dining experience is helmed by acclaimed two-Michelin starred Italian Consultant Chef Antonio Guida. Then there's 1838, the effervescent rooftop bar with its spell-binding panoramic vistas of the city, lake and serrated Swiss Alps. Plus Savoy Brasserie & Bar is a sure-bet for a stupendous breakfast, with an delightfully presented buffet selection, in addition to a la carte menu items. Accommodations take their design cues from the natural palette of Zurich, headlined by the artisanal hand-painted silk wallpapers, inspired by the aqua green and blue hues of the lake and sky, to the mist of the surrounding mountains. Meticulously crafted design elements and materials adorn the rooms. Accents of colour are also reflected in custom furniture and carpets. Principal materials include walnut as a common thread, touches of bronze and brass and enamelled lava together with the comfort of luxurious textiles. Throughout the hotel, I loved admiring the multitude of sculptural lighting fixtures and lamps. I stayed in the Munsterhof Suite, accentuating the sumptuous sense of comfort, glamour and space, loaded with indulgent touches. There's a personal cocktail bar, built-in headboards, sublime marble-clad bathrooms and expansive walk-in dressing areas. As is the case with all Mandarin Oriental properties, you'll soon get a sense of the strong local connection the hotel has with the city. Local artists are proudly showcased with numerous pieces of art to admire, throughout the hotel. Grab a peek at the storied meeting room on the second floor, which is still home to the Guild of Tanners and Shoemakers. These traditional Swiss craftsmen have been meeting here for over a century. Service personifies whip-smart Swiss efficiency and the charismatic staff are highly personable, outgoing and engaging. You'll struggle to find fault with this gorgeous hotel which has mastered the art of fusing contemporary comforts with timeless opulence and celebrating a deep respect for history, tradition and proud sense of place. www.mandarinoriental.com Grab a ticket to ride on the European railway network with a Eurail Pass. For over 65 years, Eurail Passes have enabled flexible borderless rail travel across Europe. 7000 Kiwis purchased such a pass last year, which gives you access to 30,000 destinations across 33 countries, allowing you to chart your own amazing rail adventure. On popular rail routes, it certainly pays to make a seat reservation in advance. Lock in your rail plans ahead of your trip, by booking tickets or a rail pass to suit with Eurail direct. The mobile pass is the way to go. The Eurail app is easy to navigate, packed with helpful information and benefits, network disruption notifications, and enabling you to check timetables, lock in bookings and seat reservations on the go, via your mobile. www.eurail.com Fly to Zurich with Cathay Pacific who operate ultra-contemporary A350-1000s, from Auckland via Hong Kong. The cabin air quality is decidedly better, the aircraft are noticeably quieter and I experienced minimal jet-lag. The extensive CX Entertainment system kept me suitably engaged with excellent movie and box-set selections, live news channels - all in vivid 4K, plus in-flight WiFi is available. www.cathaypacific.com Mike Yardley is our resident traveller and can be heard every Saturday with Jack Tame on Newstalk ZB. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're tripping your way around Europe independently, travelling by train is the incomparable transport mode of choice. It's the fast, efficient and faff-free way to travel, with the added bonus of depositing you in the absolute heart of dream European destinations. But across Europe, their grand and venerable railway stations also house some remarkable restaurant experiences – the real hidden treasures housed within these grand-scale transport hubs. So why settle for an underwhelming grab-and-go sandwich when Europe's busiest stations host some brilliant trackside brasseries and bistros? They're also a great way to herald your arrival or departure from some glittering destinations. More and more of these station restaurants have really upped their culinary game in recent years. So where should you go to sample some of the best in class? Starting in London, Booking Office 1869 is located within St. Pancras Station. As the name suggests, it was originally the vast ticket office for the station. Four years ago, the space was redesigned as a Victorian-style winter garden, with towering palm trees and plant-themed chandeliers. Each one of features 275 hand-cut brass leaves! Backed by exposed brickwork, a superb 22-metre-long bar, carved from marble and walnut. Dining? Expect British classics alongside nods to far-flung destinations. The Scottish charcuterie board is perfect for lunch. It's also a great spot for high tea. Paris? You cannot beat Le Train Bleu at Gare de Lyon. Dating back to 1901, this explosion of Belle Époque grandeur fast became a meeting place for artists, poets and playwrights, and the decor was inspired by the Mediterranean coast's most glamorous destinations. The walls are lined with priceless watercolour paintings, while chandeliers, gilt-framed mirrors, frescos and leather banquettes ramp up the luxury. Headlining the delectable menu, Provençal-style octopus stew and the roast leg of lamb, carved tableside. You may recall this is the restaurant from the Bean Movie, where Mr Bean had some trouble trying to swallow the king prawns. For a memorable first-class dining experience in Amsterdam, the Grand Café Restaurant 1e Klas is located by Platform 2 of the Centraal Station. It also embodies the timeless romance of rail travel, with the restaurant preserving its original look and elegant style of the 19th century. It was originally the first-class waiting hall. The extensive menu offers quick turnarounds, while the croquette and bitterbal tasting is very popular. True to the weird and eclectic Dutch sense of humour, a rather talkative cockatoo called Elvis, perched by the bar. Tripping to Spain? Estación Barcelona-Sants station is home to La Mundana. This recent Bib Gourmand recipient serves up masterful takes on Spanish, Japanese and French classics, tapas-style. Artistically plated, it's a stirring dining experience, but also sharply-priced and unpretentious. For steeply-priced posh nosh in Brussels, La Brasserie de la Gare Brussels Midi has earned the Michelin Guide's stamp of approval. But aside from the cuisine, it's the décor that is the big draw, with antique train lanterns, train timetables and railway workers' hats richly adorning the restaurant. For a bite that won't weigh too heavily on your wallet, whistle up some shrimp croquettes. If you're Itay-bound and find yourself at Stazione Centrale in Milan, check out All'AnticoVinaio. This exuberantly decorated eatery and its owner has become a Tik Tok sensation, with videos galore of him constructing his double-decker Italian subs. Made using the freshest schiacciata bread, sink your teeth into the ‘Favolosa' sandwich, which is stacked with salami, pecorino cheese, artichoke spread and spicy eggplants. If you're after a Golden Arches experience to blow your hair back, Nyugati Railway Station in Budapest, Hungary, is home to what is claimed to be the world's most beautiful McDonald's. It has just reopened after a tip-to-toe restoration to the 150 year old building. The antique lamps and painted stucco ceilings have been refreshed, keeping the vintage designs in place, including the huge glass windows that go around the entire building, as well as copper-covered light fixtures. Amid all the neo-Classical glory from the Hapsburg empire, the touch-screen ordering kiosks look curiously out of place. Finally, a newcomer to the star-factor scene of railway restaurants can be found in Athens at Rouf Station. Greek actress Tatiana Ligari founded Wagon Restaurant restoring several vintage train carriages - including the original dining car from the 1926 Simplon Orient Express. A century later, the carriage is a fabulous restaurant and bar once again. The evocative romance of rail lives on. Spending some time in some of these restaurants is virtually worth missing your train for. Grab a ticket to ride on the European railway network with a Eurail Pass. On popular rail routes, it certainly pays to make a seat reservation in advance. Lock in your rail plans ahead of your trip, by booking tickets or a rail pass to suit with Eurail direct. The mobile pass is the way to go. The Eurail app is easy to navigate, packed with helpful information and benefits, network disruption notifications, and enabling you to check timetables, lock-in and change bookings on the go, via your phone. www.eurail.com Mike Yardley is Newstalk ZB's resident traveller and can be heard every week on Saturday Mornings with Jack Tame.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"As much as hospitality can be a fluid and fickle industry with a lot of churn, it's fair to say that Wellington has been buffeted by some tough times lately. Business closures have been tough on the capital's self-confidence over the past 12 months, particularly when some legendary establishments have also ended up closing their doors. "But I was encouraged to detect a clear upswing in morale amongst a swag of bar and restaurant operators, as I struck out on an urban food safari recently. With over 400 restaurants competing for your affection, the treasury of culinary temptations is phenomenal." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"In a city awash with world-class hiking and biking trails, plus geothermal spectacles, it doesn't take long to work up an appetite amid the sizzle of Rotorua. There are dining temptations aplenty, but here's some tried-and-true belly-pleasers that I'd strongly suggest you reserve some stomach room for." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The wondrous Ruapehu region never ceases to amaze me at its capacity to stir all senses, from its expansive platter of leisurely outdoorsy pursuits. It easily ranks as one of my all-time favourite playgrounds in New Zealand and I have revelled in its glories via a multitude of modes in recent years. I have savoured exceptional mountain bike trails, jet boating, quad biking and world-class hiking. Not to mention skiing. But in the autumn months, why not head to the heart of Tongariro National Park and take a ride to the summit of Ruapehu from Whakapapa village? The radiant Sky Waka, New Zealand's longest gondola ride, fully warrants the stature as a signature Kiwi experience. I've always been in awe of the alpine engineering audacity of the Swiss – and the Sky Waka absolutely projects that same sense of spine-tingling prowess. Spanning 1.8km from the base station and zipping you up 390m, Whakapapa's dramatically serrated volcanic landscape sweeps you up, as you gawp in wonder out of the glasshouse-like cabin, luxuriously appointed with heated leather seating! Situated at 2,020m above sea level, the cherry on top is Whakapapa Ski Area's Knoll Ridge Chalet which is New Zealand's highest café. As you gush superlatives over the horizon-searching views, it's a novel perch to enjoy coffee from Pātaka, drinks in The Back Bar, or nosh in style while marvelling at the skyline from Knoll Ridge's giant floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking The Pinnacles. I highly recommend “Tea at 2020m”, Whakapapa's stirring take on traditional high tea. It's actually considered the highest high tea on the planet, with a delectable tiered stand of sandwiches, savouries and cakes to work your way through. It's currently available until the end of April, prior to the mountain's seasonal switch to winter activities. After feasting on far too many tasty morsels, the mountain trails were calling. There are over 10km of marked trails to strike out on, ranging from 20 minute strolls to 3 hours return alpine hikes. Without its snow-coat, it's a compelling way to admire the dramatic terrain and its mash-up of volcanic rock, pumice, scoria and sand. Close to Chateau Tongariro, there's a stack of tasty wee tracks. The Tawhai Falls walk is a heart-stealer, leading you through mountain toatoa and beech forest to a waterfall tumbling over the edge of an ancient lava flow. It's one of two waterfalls used in Lord of the Rings that depicted Gollum fishing, hence its nickname is Gollum's Pool. (Mangawhero Falls, very close to Waitonga Falls, is the other location that was cast as Gollum's Pool.) It was sad to see the sorry sight of the moth-balled Chateau Tongariro, although the local rumour mill suggests a wealthy Irish businessman is a hot prospect to breathe new life into the grand lady. Just behind the Chateau, Taranaki Falls is a return walk for even grander waterworks. Passing through a mix of tussock, alpine shrublands and beech forest, the track wraps around the lower slopes of Ruapehu, with vintage views of Ngauruhoe's symmetrical cone. A flock of native birds, including whiteheads and grey warblers, serenaded my stroll all the way to Taranaki Falls, tumbling 20 metres over the edge of a large andesite lava flow which erupted from Ruapehu 15,000 years ago. If you're up for a half-day advanced hike, I definitely recommend the Tupapakura Falls walk. It starts just out of National Park village, on Fishers Road. The track has been upgraded by the local community in partnership with the Department of Conservation. It begins with an easy 20 minute walk to the Taranaki Lookout, serving up panoramic wide-range perspectives of Mt Taranaki and Mt Ruapehu. Beyond this point, the trail becomes a back country adventure track, which will test your stamina in the Erua Forest. The track follows a ridge and then descends steeply to a stream. There are good stands of tawa, mature rimu, miro and totara to see along the way. Climbing from the stream, the track winds its way around bluffs to a sparkling lookout point with views of the long-drop falls. You'll need at least four hours to knock off this 11km long track. Refuel? Reward yourself with a thirst-quencher at Schnapps Bar & Restaurant in National Park Village. Heading south? Synonymous with Ohakune as much as carrots, the famed main-street Chocolate Éclair Shop is worth the trip alone. Sinking your teeth into one of their celebrated giant cream-filled, chocolate-topped pastries is one of life's great pleasures. Just north of town, a curious diversion is Horopito Motors. It's featured in two classic Kiwi flicks, Smash Palace and Goodbye Pork Pie. Nicknamed Smash Palace, for a gold coin donation, you can see some film memorabilia and have a look around the yard. It's quite a yard – more like a vast car graveyard because Smash Palace are the biggest vintage car dismantlers in Australasia. It's like an enormous op-shop for old cars. They sell parts around the world for cars made between the 1920s-1970s and also for some early models that were built before WW1. The on-site museum also includes owner Colin Fredricksen's favourite car restorations on display. Back in my Ezi Car Rental vehicle, I was bound for Taumarunui, but I also enjoyed a short layover in the pint-sized village of Owhango, to reacquaint myself with Ohinetonga Scenic Reserve. Just over a decade ago a group of passionate local residents banded together to bring the birdlife back to this unlogged native podocarp forest, mercifully spared from the ravages of historic milling. This glorious slice of wilderness is on the boundary of Tongariro Forest Park and is now one of our national kiwi sanctuaries. It's also home to a vast flock native bird species including the whio (blue duck), dabchick, whitehead, North Island robin and kereru. Take a stroll on the 3.8km loop track around the reserve for some seriously soothing forest-bathing. I gave a massive 600 year old totara tree a fresh hug, after first marvelling over this mighty specimen four years ago. Yes, I'm still a happy little tree-hugger. I romped my way around the Ruapehu region in a trusty hybrid Ford Puma, courtesy of Ezi Car Rental. I thoroughly enjoyed the Ezi experience, where excellent vehicles, super sharp prices and fast & friendly service are all part of the package. Ezi Car Rental operates an extensive network from 24 locations across the country. They're everywhere you want to be with vehicles to suit your specific needs. Head to www.ezicarrental.co.nz The drama and grandeur of Ruapehu is power-packed as a year-round wonderland for outdoorsy adventure. Crowned by the triple volcanoes of the central plateau and the majestic Tongariro National Park, make tracks to the wide open spaces and hospitality charms of Ruapehu. www.visitruapehu.com Mike Yardley is our Travel Correspondent on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.