Hunter Valley Gardens Mega Creatures 2016 Giveaway

16/01/2016 By All Mum Said 6 Comments

Hunter Valley Gardens Mega Creatures 2016

As you have come to expect from the Hunter Valley Gardens, they get bigger and better every year. This year is no exception. The Christmas Lights Spectacular and Mega Creatures 2016 edition are an event not to be missed!!

Like I have mentioned previously on the blog, we attend the Christmas Lights Spectacular every year. It has become a family tradition and the kids love it. If your kids are anything like mine; they will absolutely love the Mega Creatures as well. You can take a journey through the gardens and see some amazing works of art (botanical art obviously), different themes/gardens and the Story Book area. This is one of my kids favourite parts of the whole Hunter Valley Gardens.

The Mega Creatures 2016 include all of the incredible giant bugs from last year. These include beetles, tarantula, bee, snail and so many more – see here for last years Mega Bugs review.

Much to the excitement of my kids; this year the Hunter Valley Gardens have added Dinosaurs to their Mega Creatures display. See favourites including: T-Rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus and many more! The giant animatronic creatures will have you and your children in awe and provide hours of discussions.

It was great watching the dinosaurs move and make noises. It really gave the kids a sense of what they were like before they became extinct. Each one had a different call and it was amazing seeing the kids get excited over learning. This experience is not only heaps of fun, it is also educational.

You can find out more here or enter below to win yourself 1 of 2 family passes!

2x WINNERS!!

Each prize includes: 1x Hunter Valley Gardens Mega Creatures family pass. RRP $134.00. Total prize pool: $268.00.

**As the winners are chosen based on skill and not chance; you will be sharing for 0 extra entries however I’d love you to share the giveaway with friends and family. Sharing is caring and karma loves kind people. **

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms & Conditions:
1. Australian residents only.
2. Judges decisions is final.
3. Winners must make contact within 72 hours.
4. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part!
Therefore no extra points are given for sharing however it is good karma!!
5. All Mum Said is not responsible for delivery of prize.
NOT endorsed by or have anything to do with facebook.

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received a family pass to review this experience. All opinions are my own.

Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular 2015

23/12/2015 By All Mum Said 4 Comments

To keep with tradition, we attended the Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular 2015 again this year. For the past three years the rain has also joined us!

Christmas Lights Spectacular 2015

Regardless of what is happening in our life or how busy we are, we never miss a year. Each year the lights spectacular gets bigger and better. The kids absolutely love seeing the different displays, including the story book garden, Cinderella, 12 days of Christmas, waterfall and so many other great themes.

Unfortunately the Ferris wheel didn’t return this year which was very disappointing to both me and my children. There was a games zone that offered jumping castles and arcade games.

This year saw the addition of the fairy garden, the music room and the new and improved candy land. As we walked through the entry gates we were greeted by a gorgeous Christmas caroller in a ‘princess dress’, well according my Miss 2 it ‘was’ a princess with a big beautiful dress. Her voice was magical and made the perfect start to the evening.

Christmas Lights Display: Open from 7:30pm – 10:00pm. To find out more information or to purchase prepaid tickets, visit the website now.

Prize includes: 1x family pass to Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular 2015. Valued at $85!

If you want to enter more giveaways click over here.

Disclosure: I received the above family pass for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.

Top 5 Family Portrait Hotspots Revealed – Greater Newcastle Area

02/10/2015 By All Mum Said Leave a Comment

Top 5 Family Portrait Hotspots Revealed

Greater Newcastle Area

The Morpeth Common

WHERE: Ray Lawler and Morpeth Common Wildfowl Reserve, Edward Street, Morpeth NSW 2321

Only a short drive north-east of Maitland is the historic and winsome river-side village of Morpeth. The Morpeth Common, a local Wildfowl Reserve, provides a stunning backdrop for family portraits. Old and stately trees give shade during the summer months and surrounding weathered wooden fences assist in creating a rustic feel. We love to work with the environment in a way that enhances the images rather than overpowering them.

Morpeth

WHERE: 37 km North-west of Newcastle and 5 km North-east of Maitland.

Only a matter of minutes from Maitland is the historic and winsome river-side village of Morpeth. There is no end to the possibilities for family portrait photography in this delightful town. Weathered sandstone buildings, old steps and cute doorways all help to make Morpeth well suited to rustic-style photography. The river-bank and the Morpeth Common are also wonderful places to let nature be your backdrop with twisted trees, long grass and secret pathways.

Old East Maitland Train Station

WHERE: Melbourne Street, East Maitland

Once known as Morpeth Junction, the Old East Maitland Train Station is one of our treasured spots to take families for their portraits. Grass covers most of the old platform now and a cute white picket fence lines either side of the little brick waiting room, providing a whimsical and quaint space for photos. Not only is the station itself a beauty, but the nearby park and even the pedestrian tunnel are also great areas for photos. We enjoy using locations in a variety of ways. You can find and create so many different looks simply by walking around and exploring the area fully.

Nobbys Beach

WHERE: Nobbys Beach, Newcastle East

We are very fortunate as photographers to have beaches as stunning as Nobbys so accessible. Perfect for panoramic shots, Nobbys Beach is a beloved location for family portraits. The lighthouse perched atop its hill, grassy dunes, the rolling ocean, big wide sandy shores…need we say more? You can also find some wonderful shots near the breakwall and the surf lifesaving building. Pick a day that isn’t too windy and you can’t go wrong really.

Merewether Ocean Baths

WHERE: Henderson Parade, Merewether NSW 2291

Much to our delight, the iconic Merewether Ocean Baths have been recently revamped and now provide an unconventional but awesome alternative to the classic beach family portrait. In particular, the diving blocks, the walkways and railings along-side the baths and even the nearby surf house are our highlights. If you fancy some more natural or interactive shots, only a short stroll away are some beautiful rockpools and sandy beach areas.

Valentine

WHERE: Green Point Foreshore Reserve, Valentine NSW 2280

Lake Macquarie in general has a number of fabulous areas for family portraits however we love Valentine! The Park at Green Point Foreshore Reserve has such lovely lake views and an incredible fig tree. There are numerous long winding pathways through the trees and bushland. Closer to the water the overturned boats and jetty give great perspective to our shots. Simple, but lovely in the right light.

If you want a fun, natural, creative photographer in the Newcastle, Maitland and Hunter Valley area, give Michelle-Leigh a call today!

This is an S2 POST.

Top 5 Things To Do In Hunter Valley With Kids

07/07/2015 By All Mum Said 8 Comments

Things To Do In Hunter Valley With Kids

Are you planning a trip to the Hunter Valley with your family? Before you book it all in, read this so you don’t miss out on the must see and do activities.

You have saved your money and can finally afford that family holiday; the Hunter Valley is full of excitement for both adults and children. Although the Hunter Valley is well-known for its gorgeous wines and delicious food, it has so much more to offer. Here are some of the top things to do in Hunter Valley with kids.

Hunter Valley Attractions

If you are looking for places to see and things to do in the Hunter Valley region, than you will not be disappointed. There is an abundance of options for you and your family to enjoy a weekend away, annual family holiday or even for locals to explore.

1. Hunter Valley Gardens

The Hunter Valley Gardens are more than just perfectly manicured grounds. Throughout the year they host some of the Valleys’ most exciting exhibits, extravaganzas and shows. Regardless what you and your family are interested in, the gardens will have something that takes your fancy.

In November – January they display the Christmas Lights Spectacular and New Year’s fireworks, Winter calls for Snow Time in the Gardens where families enjoy playing in the snow and ice skating, along with a many other exciting activities throughout the year.

Across the road from the Hunter Valley Gardens, there is an array of fun family activities. You can enjoy the children’s park, putt putt and aqua golf along with some of the Valley’s best hot chocolate.

Located: Broke Road, Pokolbin, New South Wales 2320, Australia.

2. Hunter Valley Zoo

Located just out of Cessnock and only 45 minutes from Newcastle, the Hunter Valley Zoo will have your kids learning, laughing and enjoying nature’s beauty and amazing animals. There is a vast range of animals located at the zoo so there is something to suit everyone.

With the option to participate in interactive encounters from farmyard animals, kangaroos, koalas, wombats, birds and much more your children will be talking about it for years to come.
Make a day of it and take time out to enjoy a picnic or BBQ lunch. The zoo offers families free BBQ facilities so you can bring your esky and feed the family whilst you are there.

Located: Lomas Lane, Nulkaba, Cessnock, New South Wales, Australia.
Open: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm – Open 6 days (closed Wednesday, excluding school holidays)
Cost: Family (2+2) – $65, Adult – $22, Child (3-15) – $13, Child (under 3) – FREE.

3. Speers Point Park

There will be no need for electronic devices; your children will have hours of fun at Speers Point Park. This well designed park has everything you and your kids could want in one vicinity, it is fun for the young and old. It features flying foxes, large slides, climbing equipment, water features, swings, age appropriate sections and so much more.

With plenty of free parking close by, toilets, shelter facilities and BBQs you can enjoy a cheap lunch and a great day out with the family.

Located: Park Road, Speers Point, Lake Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia.

4. Nobbys Beach

In the mood to relax and breathe in the fresh ocean air? You cannot go past the soft sanded Nobbys Beach. It is clean and the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some lunch and build sandcastles with the kids. If going for a swim is more your style than it is an ideal beach for the kids with amazing views for that walk to dry off.

On occasion you will be lucky enough to sight dolphins and whales coming in close.

Located: Nobbys Road, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.

5. Inflatable World

What could be more fun than a building jam packed full of bouncy, inflatable floors and walls? Inflatable World will keep you and your family entertained for hours on end with obstacles, activities and the ability to fly, jump and bounce.

Designed to have parents enjoying the fun, the whole family will leave exhausted after their two hour session.

Location: 1/10 Glenwood Drive, Thornton, NSW 2322, Australia.
Open: 7 days – 10am – 4pm.
Cost: Adults – $15.00, Child (5 years+) – $15.00, Child (4 years and Under) – $8.00, 1 Adult + 1 Child (4 Years and under) – $15.00, Spectators – Free.

Hungry?

We all get peckish and over-eat whilst on holidays and the Hunter Valley has that department covered. Don’t feel that just because you have children you cannot enjoy a nice meal in a beautiful location. There are plenty of family friendly restaurants, cafes and take-away stores at your convenience.

6. Beaumont Street

The alluring smells of food will have you coming back so you can try it all. Beaumont Street, Newcastle, is home to some of the most delicious and surprising cuisines.

Enjoy the flavours of Germany, China, Thailand, Itlay and much more. Just make sure you save room for the desserts, pastries and good coffee!

Located: Beaumont St, Newcastle, Hamilton, New South Wales, Australia.

The Hunter Valley is a well-known holiday destination not only by Australians but travellers worldwide. Having an insight into what you and your family can discover while visiting the region will not only maximise your time but will also save you money.

Want more information on what the region has to offer visit? Check it out here.

Enjoy your vacation and ensure your children do as well by considering these top 5 things to do in the Hunter Valley with kids.

What are your favourite things to do in the Hunter Valley with kids?

Cupz N’ Crepes

18/02/2015 By All Mum Said 4 Comments

My husband and I have been making an effort to spend more time together, to keep the love alive and all that. We have three children so the closest we get to being alone is when the boys are at school and we only have our daughter. One of the main interests we share is our passion for food and as we were both chefs prior to having our children we know what we like and we know the effort that goes into good food. We love sharing a moment over great coffee but thought we would expand our dining experiences and see what some of the local restaurants and cafes have to offer.

Our first stop was Cupz N’ Crepes in Morpeth, NSW. We walked up and down the street filled with dining options and decided on what looked like your standard little cafe. We only chose to dine their because they had a sign out the front saying cake and coffee, scones and crepes. There was something we all liked.

We took a seat out the front so we had room for the pram and was greeted with table service! It is not often you see that around these parts so Cupz N’ Crepes were already exceeding our expectations. We were handed menus and given time to peruse our options. We decided on something completely different than what we intended on and ordered the Eggs Benedict (Mr C) and the Canadian Stack (Me). Iced coffee with cream to drink.

As our meals were put down in front of us, we were far from disappointed! There was flavour in every bite and each component was cooked to perfection. We could not fault the food. It was reasonably prices with the average meal costing $15. The iced coffees we ordered were what we felt a tad expensive at $6 a pop but oh my goodness they were good!

If you are looking for somewhere to eat with great food and a relaxing environment in the Hunter Valley than Cupz N’ Crepes is definitely worth trying.

Have you been? What did you think?

Where do you recommend we try next?