AA Directions Spring 2024

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In the Spring 2024 issue of AA Directions magazine we dive into stories of the sea, exploring Kiwi connections with the coast.

Also in this issue we look into what AA Members think about congestion charging, put New Zealand’s driver licensing system under the microscope and share top tips for towing a trailer.

Our travel stories take to the ocean with cruises through Fiordland, French Polynesia and from Hong Kong to Tokyo. We take a coastal road trip from Nelson to Kaikōura, visit a lighthouse-inspired crib in The Catlins and explain why talking about menopause is important.

Plus, be in to win great prizes including hi-fi speakers, a Wairarapa weekend and a luxury Fiordland cruise.

Stories of the sea: exploring Kiwi connections with the coast

We talk to seven New Zealanders who have interesting relationships with the ocean.
Discover the Austral Islands on a French Polynesian cruise

A magical cruise onboard the Aranui 5 explores the untouched Austral Islands.
Is New Zealand's driver licensing system up to scratch?

We investigate whether New Zealand's driver licensing system stacks up compared to overseas.
Win great prizes!

Be in to win great prizes in the Spring issue of AA Directions magazine.
Congestion charging: what do AA Members want?

Is congestion charging the best solution to the traffic woes plaguing New Zealand's major cities?
Marinekeeping: an underground aquarist

Jenna van Ginkel provides a behind-the-scenes gimpse of her job as an aquarist at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's.
What's on this spring

Things start to heat up on the events calendar this season.
Q&A: Project Jonah

We chat with Project Jonah's General Manager about the organisation designed to save whales and dolphins.
Road trip: Nelson to Kaikōura

A journey from Nelson, around the top of the South Island, to Kaikōura takes in unmissable attractions.
Wheel Love: Lynnette and her 1983 Honda CRX Ballade Sport

Design was the drawcard when it came to snagging this 1980s retro beauty.
Home Profile: a coastal crib in the Catlins

We talk to the owners and architect behind a lighthouse-inspired crib at remote Jacks Bay in The Catlins.
Sail away: The Spirit of Adventure

Spirit of Adventure CEO Bruce Pilbrow describes how 10 days at sea can change a life.
Cruise from Hong Kong to Tokyo

A 14-night cruise with Holland America sails from Hong Kong to Tokyo with many indulgences along the way.
e-Scooter safety

We explain the risks of riding e-scooters and the share the best ways to stay safe.
Money Matters: Perlina Lau, producer and actress

Perlina Lau, RNZ host, producer and star of Creamerie shares her top tips on money and finances.
A weekend in Wairarapa

We explore the secret attractions of the Wairarapa region and discover there is much more than just wine.
Fantasies fulfilled: mermaid diving

Professional mermaid Sacha Williamson shares her underwater adventures in Tutukākā, Northland.
Meet the maker: Tex Tone handmade speakers

Dunedin’s Tex Houston has made a business of hand building unique hi-fi speakers.
Top towing tips

We share expert tips on how to safely tow a trailer.
A Fiordland cruise: silence and serenity

A six night cruise takes in the scenic highlights and historic significance of coastal Fiordland.
Protecting Tangaroa: indigenous coastal connections

Ocean warrior and coastal kuia, Pauline Tangiora, explains the importance of protecting the sea.
Feeling the financial squeeze?

We investigate how the cost of living is impacting our insurance decisions.
AA News and Member updates

What's been going on at the AA? We share news from the Association and our Partners.
Sharing the bounty: The Kai Ika Project

Chris Jupp shows how fish waste can become a valued feed with The Kai Ika Project in Wellington.
Top Spot: Barbara Kendall

Windsurfer and Olympic medal winner Barbara Kendall shares her favourite New Zealand holiday destination.
Ocean inspiration: Art and surfing

Dunedin artist and surfer Simon Kaan reveals the pull of the ocean.
Blue business: Moananui, Nelson

Nelson-based Jodie Kuntzsch explains how an ocean-focused initiative is making waves.
Why menopause matters

Campaigner and advocate, Sarah Connnor, explains why menopause is a topic that deserves discussion.