AA Directions Autumn 2024

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In the Autumn 2024 issue of AA Directions magazine we investigate unusual ways to make a living. For our main feature we talk to eight Kiwis who have unique, inspiring, adventurous and joyful jobs.

Also in this issue we look into the pros and cons of congestion charging, we sit down with legendary Formula 1 driving coach, Rob Wilson, and share tips on how to avoid road rage.

We take a road trip from Wellington to gorgeous Golden Bay, get up close with stingrays in Gisborne and take a train journey to discover a forgotten world in the North Island.

Plus, be in to win great prizes including a MeloYelo Superlite e-bike valued at over $5,000.

Working the dream

For our main feature we talk to eight Kiwis with unique, unusual, inspiring and joyful jobs.
Paying the price: congestion charging

Will we soon be paying to drive on certain roads in our major cities? We talk to fans and sceptics of congestion charging.
Road trip: Wellington to Golden Bay

Cross the Cook Strait to discover the top of the South Island - from artistic Nelson to gorgeous Golden Bay.
Macarena Carrascosa, Roller Skate Coach

Macarena Carrascosa has built a career as a professional roller skating coach in Auckland.
What's on this autumn

From renowned writers to steampunk extravaganzas, beautiful ballet, lights and laughs, there's plenty to keep you busy around Aotearoa this Autumn.
Interview: Simeon Brown, Minister of Transport

We talk to Simeon Brown, the new Minister of Transport about the importance of sorting out New Zealand's transport system.
Tropical Tonga

Experience authentic island life and see humpback whales in the Kingdom of Tonga.
How to avoid road rage

Driving while emotional can be distracting and even downright dangerous. We share tips on how to keep your cool behind the wheel.
Flossie Pallesen, Balloon and Bubble Artist

Flossie Pallesen is a Nelson-based children's entertainer, specialising in giant bubbles and balloon art
Win great prizes with AA Directions

We've got a trip for two to Gisborne, a luxury mohair throw, a Great Journeys NZ train experience and a MeloYelo e-bike worth over $5k up for grabs!
Q&A: Chris Tse, Poet Laureate

We talk to Chris Tse, New Zealand’s Poet Laureate, appointed for a two-year tenure by the National Library of New Zealand to promote and advocate for poetry.
City commuting: trialling the the Force EZ e-bike

Emily Draper test drives the Force EZ e-bike on an Auckland commute.
Northern Explorer: train journeys and forgotten worlds

Discover a forgotten world adventure via the Northern Explorer train.
Mark Harris, Stunt Performer

Mark Harris has been working as a stunt coordinator and stunt driver for film and television for 39 years.
Home profile: a former fish factory in Wellington

We visit a former Wellington fish factory that has been converted into a stylish home.
Gisborne: sunshine, surf and stingrays

We take a family-friendly East Coast escape to explore the best bits of Gisborne.
Martin Van Tiel, Pyrotechnic Expert

Dr Martin Van Tiel is responsible for creating some of New Zealand's biggest and best fireworks displays.
AA news and Member updates

What's been going on at the AA? We share news from the Association and our Partners.
Q&A: Rob Wilson, legendary F1 motorsport coach

We chat to Kiwi Rob Wilson, a renowned F1 motorsport coach in the UK.
True North: a luxury boat cruise in Western Australia

Explore Kimberley, Australia’s greatest wilderness area on a luxury cruise.
Sue Court, Equine Therapist

Sue Court is a counsellor who specialises in equine therapy, using horses to connect with people.
Meet the maker: Masterweave throws and blankets

We talk to Lindsay Cairns from Masterweave who has been making luxury mohair blankets and throws for 35 years.
Drew Stanton, Location Scout

Drew Stanton is a location scout who's job it is to find many of the spots that appear on our screens.
Getting lost: a journey with no destination

Hit the road with the Getting Lost card game to see where you end up.
Bri Woolnough and her 1986 Toyota Landcruiser, Sunny.

Bri Woolnough is a Wānaka-based photographer who takes frequent adventures in her converted Toyota Landcruiser.
Build to rent: changing New Zealand's housing model

We investigate the Simplicity scheme that’s revolutionising the housing sector.
Amanda Milne, Board Game Designer

Amanda Milne is a professional board game designer, who literally gets to play games for a living.
Top Spot: Jesse Mulligan

Radio host and restaurant reviewer Jesse Mulligan shares his favourite place to visit in New Zealand.
Money Matters: Emma Poole, Young Farmer of the Year

2023 Young Farmer of the Year Emma Poole shares advice on rural finances and money matters.
Emma Bean, Kiwi Whisperer

Emma Bean is the manager of the National Kiwi Hatchery in Rotorua and gets to work with kiwi chicks.
What are the best budgeting services available in New Zealand?

Feeling the pinch? How to manage your personal finances and increase your wealth.