20 March 2026, Issue 1302
Fungi fest fun! Fungi Fest returns to Tauranga next week, inviting the community to celebrate the strange and fascinating world of mushrooms. Envirohub Bay of Plenty is hosting the family-friendly event that blends science, art, food and creativity on Sunday, March 29, from 10am-2pm at its Glasgow St
base. Fungi Fest coordinator Te Ara Dirkse and director Bobbi Summers, pictured, welcome visitors to explore the festival’s interactive exhibits, including an education hub led by a leading mycologist, and the immersive Biolume Space, where glowing fungi-inspired artworks light up a darkened room.
Other activities include pottery, colouring competitions, a themed tattoo room and a giant fungi photo wall. Food stalls will offer mushroom-inspired treats, while market vendors showcase unique fungi products. “Come dressed in your best fungiinspired costume for the chance to win
Discover North Queensland, from outback and bush to reef and rails
Travel by private train to locations such as Tokoroa/Rotorua, Tauranga, Ohakune, New Plymouth, Napier and much more! Discover the magic of your own backyard aboard a private heritage train as it winds through New Zealand’s stunning North Island. Sit back and watch the diverse landscapes roll by towering mountains, sparkling coastlines, and lush countryside, while we take care of every detail.
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$9490* per person twin share
Travelling by road, rail and river, we wind through Tasmania’s hidden rail routes. Reveal dramatic coastlines, alpine highlands, and historic towns along the way. This fully escorted journey takes in the very best of the Australia's 'Holiday State' with exclusive experiences and handpicked stays that showcase the island’s natural wonders and rich heritage.
Glenbrook/Pukekohe Hamilton
Rotorua
New Plymouth
Ohakune
per person twin share
11 Day Tour
28 Sep - 11 Oct 2026 | Australian Rail Safari: Tasmania
Join us - and discover the Spirit of the Antipodes
$7890*
Step aboard the Australian Rail Safari: North Queensland, an unforgettable 11-day rail adventure from 1–11 August 2026, hosted by the Glenbrook Vintage Railway. This carefully curated journey showcases some of Australia’s most iconic and rarely experienced railways, including the legendary Gulflander, Savannahlander, and Kuranda Scenic Railway. Travel through tropical Cairns, the rugged Gulf Savannah and ancient World Heritage rainforest, enjoying spectacular scenery, fascinating rail history and warm outback hospitality. With premium accommodation, most meals, guided excursions and expert tour hosts included, this small-group tour offers a relaxed, immersive way to experience North Queensland. Limited places ensure a personalised experience - secure your seat and discover the romance of rail in Australia’s far north.
11 Day Fully escorted tour of North Queensland - Incl. Activities, meals, 4 Star plus accommodation
includes steam hauled days
11 Day Rail Tour
Photo / Kelly O’Hara
1 - 11 August 2026 | Australian Rail Safari: Queensland
31 Oct - 10 Nov 2026 | 11 Day Rail TOur by private train
Enjoy comfortable accommodation, delicious meals, paired with thoughtfully planned off-train experiences, explore vibrant cities and historic towns, scenic river cruises and spectacular wildlife. With our friendly team ensuring every moment is effortless, immersive, and uniquely Kiwi. An unforgettable adventure through the heart of Aotearoa, where the journey is as important as the destination.
a cool prize – plus spot prizes for anyone who joins the fun,” said Dirkse. The festival would celebrate community connection and the vital, often overlooked role fungi play in our ecosystem, she said. Entry is by koha, making the event accessible to all. Read more on page 7.
Palmerston North Wellington Option 2
Find out morE www.GVR.org.nz | OFFICE@gvr.org.nzz | +64 64 9 236 3546
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Highlights include the untamed beauty of the West Coast, a magical Gordon River Cruise through ancient rainforest and mirrored waterways. Marvel at the dramatic alpine scenery of Cradle Mountain, relax in the coastal charm of Devonport, and soak in the heritage and elegance of Launceston. Our journey continues along the spectacular East Coast, where we unwind amidst the white sands and turquoise waters of Freycinet a perfect base to explore the world-famous Wineglass Bay.
14 Day Tour
$7990* per person twin share
14 Day Fully escorted tour of Tasmania - Incl. Activities, meals, 4 Star plus accommodation Find out morE www.GVR.org.nz | Railtours@gvr.org.nz | 09 236 3546