AA Directions Spring 2023
For this issue’s main feature we talk to survivors. Three everyday Kiwis who had near-death experiences and lived to tell the tale. We also delve into some of the best bits about being alive, living to the fullest with indulgent wellbeing experiences.
Also in this issue we share expert advice on how to avoid a head-on car crash, take a trip to the golden shores of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and explain what you should never do when attempting DIY jobs at home. We explore New Zealand, from an urban getaway in Auckland, to a short road trip from Christchurch to Akaroa, a family-friendly weekend in Dunedin, a wellness-infused break in Canterbury's Hurunui District and an incredible Subantarctic Islands cruise.
Read the interesting results of AA Research into older drivers on our roads, and whether reducing speed limits actually works. We also outline the AA's 2023 election calls for transport.
-
Main feature: survive and thrive
We share three incredible Kiwi survival stories and explore ways to live life to its fullest.
-
We investigate the issues around New Zealand’s ageing driving population.
-
Discover the remote wilderness of New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands on the cruise of a lifetime.
-
Our pick of some of the highlights from this season's events calendar.
-
Wheel Love: the cutest Metropolitan
Sally Bridgman bought her 1956 Nash Metropolitan for jaunts with identical twin sister Vicki Turfrey and their dogs, Bob.
-
Survival story: a near-death kite surfing experience
Nigel Marsden shares his experience of getting caught in a freak gust of wind while kite surfing.
-
Home profile: an accessible Waikato house
We visit a new build in Matamata designed with the accessibility needs of its occupants in mind.
-
Soak up some rays on Australia’s Sunshine Coast
We take an indulgent trip to explore the highlights of Mooloolaba and Noosa on the Sunshine Coast.
-
e-scooters are a practical, fast and cost-effective way of commuting in cities. But what do you need to know before buying one?
-
Live well: a Cape South retreat, Hawke’s Bay
A wellness weekend at Cape South in Hawke’s Bay is all about slowing down, trying new things and learning to nurture yourself.
-
What's been going on at the AA? We share news from the Association and our Partners.
-
How to stay safe when tackling DIY jobs around your home.
-
A short city getaway in Auckland is the perfect break before welcoming a new baby.
-
Does reducing speed limits actually work?
AA research looks at the impact of reduced speed limits on main highways.
-
Survival story: caught in a volcanic eruption
William Pike tells his story of being injured and trapped when Mount Ruapehu erupted.
-
Road Trip: Christchurch to Akaroa
A short but sweet road trip to explores the interesting bits of Christchurch’s Banks Peninsula.
-
Whether you’re swimming, boating or playing, we share top tips for water safety.
-
Q&A: Eva Håkansson, motorcycle engineer and speed racer
We talk to mechanical engineer Eva Håkansson about building electric motorbikes and winning land speed records.
-
Live well: forest bathing in Auckland
Immerse yourself in the benefits of nature with a guided, mindful forest bathing experience.
-
Downlights: luxury candles with a difference
We meet the talented team behind Downlights – an Auckland company making luxury soy candles.
-
Explore the Hurunui District in North Canterbury
From wineries to hot tubs, glamping, forest bathing and stunning scenery, there’s a lot to discover in the Hurunui District.
-
Survival story: lost in the bush
Jacquie Walters talks about her experience of accidentally spending the night in the wilderness of St Arnaud.
-
Which transport issues should be prioritised by New Zealand’s leaders?
-
Live well: Wai Ariki spa in Rotorua
The brand new day spa and hot pools at Wai Ariki are the perfect way to spend a luxurious day in Rotorua.
-
Top Spot: Cool Wakushima, snowboarder
We chat to Kiwi snow sports athlete Cool Wakushima about her snowboarding success and her favourite place to spend time in New Zealand.
-
A family getaway in Ōtepoti Dunedin
We explore family-friendly things to do on a weekend in Dunedin.
-
How to learn search and rescue skills
Youth Search and Rescue is a course designed to teach teenagers important search and survival skills.
-
Money Matters: chef Sid Sahrawat
Chef and restaurateur Sid Sahrawat shares financial tips that he’s learnt from his years in the hospitality industry.
-
How to avoid a head-on car crash
We share important safety advice about what to do if you’re facing a head-on collision.
-
From a 12-day cruise to some of the most remote islands in Aotearoa to an indulgent Rotorua spa experience, luxe fragrant candles, or a wellness retreat in Hawke’s Bay – find out how you can be in to win!
What's on this spring
Things are starting to heat up on the events calendar – from glorious garden festivals to art exhibitions featuring local and international talents. And don’t miss the return of Wairarapa’s most famous aerobatic event in November.
Q&A: Eva Håkansson, speed racer
We talk to mechanical engineer Eva Håkansson about building electric motorbikes and winning land speed records.
How to avoid a head-on car crash
We share important safety advice about what to do if you’re facing a head-on collision.
News bites
Does reducing speed limits actually work?Read more - AA research on lower speed limits.
What are the most pressing issues for transport in New Zealand?Read more - The AA's 2023 election calls.
Are older drivers more at risk on our roads?Read more - AA research on our ageing driving population.
What's been going on at the Association?Read more - AA Member news and updates
