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My Journeys is a customisable traffic alert service that provides information before you travel about road and driving conditions, incidents and road works taking place on New Zealand’s state highways.

Enter the address you are travelling from and where you are travelling to. Once you’ve saved a route, My Journeys can send you email alerts during the days and time periods you specify, to let you know if there’s a significant hold-up or need for caution on the route you're about to travel on.

You can set up regional alerts too. These will provide updates about all the state highways in your selected region(s) during the days and time periods you select.

It’s all about giving you a heads-up before you travel, regarding significant incidents along the state highway network, so you can make smart travel choices – perhaps delaying your journey or using an alternative route if it’s an option.

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Less work this Labour weekend with Waka Kotahi Holiday Journey Planner tool

20 October 2022 11:48 am | Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is encouraging people to make use of its Holiday Journey Planner tool to plan ahead to avoid traffic delays and have more time to enjoy the fruits of their Labour (weekend) with safer, more enjoyable travel this long weekend.

Video: Why are there so many roadworks during summer, and what does that mean for your holidays? Rob, from our maintenance and operations team, explains in the video above (link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ye4rFMlOaA4 (external link) ).

The Holiday Journey Planner shows predicted traffic conditions for popular routes over the Labour weekend period, based on travel patterns from previous years.

Labour Weekend Holiday Journey Planner (external link)

Regional Manager Maintenance and Operations Jaclyn Hankin says with Hawke’s Bay Anniversary also on Friday making for a particularly busy weekend on Central North Island roads, those hoping for a less laborious holiday weekend should consider visiting the Holiday Journey Planner and timing their travel for outside the predicted busy periods for traffic.

“In the Central North Island, people can expect delays on State Highway 1 between Taihape and Waiouru for northbound traffic on Friday between 11am and 3pm, and southbound on Monday from 11am until 4pm, with the heaviest traffic predicted between noon and 2.30pm.” “For those travelling to or from the Taranaki region, delays are predicted on State Highway 3 over Mt Messenger, particularly heading north toward the Waikato region on Friday afternoon between 2.30pm and 5.30pm, and again on Monday from 12.30pm to 5.30pm, with the worst delays expected between 3pm and 5pm.

“Delays are also expected on SH3 at Whanganui for eastbound traffic for much of Friday afternoon and into the early evening, and again early afternoon on Monday. Westbound traffic can expect some delays from mid-morning to mid-afternoon on Monday.

“State Highway 2 Norsewood is expected to be busy for southbound traffic on Friday afternoon, particularly between 3.30pm and 5pm, and again on Saturday between 10am and 12.30pm. Northbound travellers should expect delays on Friday morning and for much of the day on Sunday, particularly between 2pm and 5pm.

“In the Hawke’s Bay region, delays are expected on State Highway 5 at Te Pohue for eastbound traffic on Monday afternoon between 12.30pm and 4pm.”

Ms Hankin says while most work stops before busy holiday travel periods like the Labour Day long weekend to minimise disruption to people’s journeys, there is still a lot going on in certain parts of our state highway network.

SH3 north of New Plymouth has several sections down to one lane and/or under temporary speed limits due to dropouts, road repairs and sealing work. There are also two areas down to a single lane on State Highway 43, and another on State Highway 4, just north of Taumarunui.

SH2 north of Dannevirke, where the road has been reduced to one lane due to an underslip, will be reinstated to two lanes in time for the holiday weekend, with a 30km/h temporary speed limit in place. The temporary speed limit is likely to remain in place for some time, while the permanent fix is developed and then constructed.

There is also a truck convoy taking place between Palmerston North and Fielding on Saturday morning, with trucks leaving Palmerston North at 7.30am. The convoy is to celebrate 50 Years of Mack Trucks in New Zealand and is expected to include approximately 180 trucks. People travelling at that time are asked to allow extra time for their journeys and show patience.

In Hawke’s Bay, a temporary speed limit will remain in place through the SH2 College Road – Silverstream realignment project site between Hastings and Waipawa. There are also two sites down to one lane on SH2 north of Napier at Raupunga and Waikoau Hill, with traffic lights and priority give way in place, respectively.

In Gisborne, there are sections of unsealed road, temporary speed limits and one-way traffic systems in place at various locations on State Highway 35, following the significant weather events earlier this year.

“Traffic management, such as temporary speed limits, signs and cones, is used to alert road users to a change in the road conditions or to works ahead. Please take notice, adhere to the relevant speed limits and follow the directions of any traffic management staff and signs – it’s all there to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable Labour weekend.”

Because predicted peak times for travel may change based on traffic incidents, weather or driver behaviour, motorists are encouraged to visit the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website before they head off for the latest information on road works, road closures and delays.

“Allow plenty of time. You’re on holiday, there’s no need to rush.

“Congestion and delays are inevitable in peak times, but if everyone plans ahead before leaving home, leaves plenty of time for their journey, and drives to the conditions, the worst of the frustrations can be eased and everyone can concentrate on arriving safely at their destination," says Ms Hankin.

There are simple things we can all do to help keep everyone on the roads safe.

“Check your vehicle is safe to drive. Check your tyres, wipers, lights and indicators, and ensure you have a valid Warrant of Fitness before you leave.

“Drive to the conditions - whether it’s the weather, the road you’re on, the time of day or the volume of traffic on the roads. “Keep a safe following distance and take regular breaks to stay alert.

“We want to see everyone get where they’re going – and home again – safely this long weekend.”

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi works to create transport solutions for all New Zealanders – from helping new drivers earn their licences, to leading safety campaigns to investing in public transport, state highways and local roads.

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How to Create the Perfect New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary 🏔️ [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, the ultimate new zealand road trip planner.

Experience 10 holidays in one with a road trip around New Zealand ! New Zealand is a country packed with breathtaking landscapes, from snowcapped mountains to golden-sand beaches; jungle-like rainforests to fertile vineyards. On top of that, there’s a huge array of experiences to be had, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a foodie or a nature-lover. Exploring New Zealand on a self-guided road trip is one of the best ways to see the country independently, but the fun doesn’t start until you have planned the perfect New Zealand road trip itinerary. In this guide, we’ll show you how to create a New Zealand road trip yourself, as well as an alternative EASY option of using an online travel agent as your New Zealand road trip planner.

First, we’ll go through a step-by-step process of planning your own itinerary, with all the aspects you need to think about and book to make sure your trip is the one you’ve always dreamed about. Finally, we’ll show you a New Zealand road trip planner, First Light Travel , that just might make you think twice about going through the hassle of planning your own itinerary.

Plan it Yourself or Use a New Zealand Road Trip Planner?

Most of us would think that planning a self-guided tour means planning everything alone and hoping for the best. But there are two options to planning a self-guided trip around New Zealand while sticking to your budget: planning the full itinerary yourself or using a free online travel agent.

When to Plan a Trip Yourself?

• You’ve been to New Zealand before and have good knowledge of the country.
• You prefer spontaneous trips with no bookings – just seeing where the road takes you.
• You’re basing yourself in one place which makes deciding on activities and accommodations easier to do yourself.

When to Plan a Trip with a Travel Agent?

• You haven’t been to New Zealand before .
• You have a brief idea of what sort of experiences you want – you just need the logistics organised .
• You want a personalised itinerary planned and booked as quickly as possible .

In the article below, we’ll go through a step-by-step process on how to plan an awesome New Zealand road trip itinerary yourself, as well as how to use the alternative option of using a travel agent as your New Zealand road trip planner.

Step 1 – Choose the Best Time to Visit New Zealand

There are reasons to love New Zealand all year round! However, if you want to chase the sun, hit the ski slopes, or avoid the crowds, then you’re going to want to pick the right time of year to visit New Zealand. New Zealand experiences four distinct seasons which, due to being the Southern Hemisphere, may be very different from what you experience at home.

Summer (December-February)

December to February is when New Zealand experiences its warmest weather, with highs usually reaching 25°C (77°F). These months are also when New Zealand is at its peak season so get in quick with booking vehicle rentals, accommodation and activities.

Autumn (March-May)

During New Zealand’s autumn season, the temperatures are at a comfortable 6-20°C (43-68°F), depending on which parts of the country you are visiting. March to May is considered the shoulder season in New Zealand when rentals, accommodations and activities are easier to book.

Winter (June-August)

Temperatures can be anywhere between -3°C (27°F) in alpine areas or in the south of the South Island and 15°C (59°F) in the north of the North Island . While most of the country is quiet during the low season, ski field towns experience a busier season. Car and campervan rentals, accommodations and activities are generally easier to book and are at their lowest prices. However, some activities and accommodations may be closed for the low season.

Spring (September-November)

Temperatures rise again, yet prices are still pretty low during this shoulder season until November .

For more information on the New Zealand weather, see the What is the Weather Like in New Zealand?  and  When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand?

Step 2 – Plan Around the Time You Have in New Zealand

New Zealand’s activities and landscapes are diverse and spread across the country. For this reason, it’s a place that you will want to travel around! Although New Zealand is a small country, the winding roads and mountains make the travel times a little longer than you might be used to. You need to weigh up whether you want to see more attractions and spend more time driving, or make the most of fewer locations and keep the driving to a minimum. Everyone has their own unique travel style, so that’s where personal itinerary planners like First Light Travel can help you strike the right balance (more on that later in the article).

Here’s what most travellers like to do with limited time in New Zealand.

• 1-2 weeks in New Zealand – Choose three to four regions of one of the main islands, the North Island or South Island , to explore by car or campervan.
• 3-4 weeks in New Zealand – Choose to travel either just the North Island or South Island to have more time to do all-day activities and experiences, or travel both the North Island and South Island while doing shorter stops.
• Just over a month – This should give you enough time to see the highlights of both the North Island and South Island on a self-drive tour.
• 2 months+ – Consider buying a car or campervan, or using a rental company with a buy-back scheme, and travel both islands.

Step 3 – Check Out the Things to Do in New Zealand

New Zealand is certainly a country that knows how to give you a good time! Whether you’re into the great outdoors, experiencing intriguing cultures, or trying local cuisine, there’s something to suit in New Zealand. Start with taking a look at The Top 10 Things to Do in New Zealand (or, if you’re really adventurous, the 101 Things to Do in New Zealand ) for an idea of some of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences to be had.

The main New Zealand attractions include:

• Outdoors activities – think hiking, biking, kayaking, boating, fishing and more!
• Adventure activities – think bungy jumping, white water rafting, skydiving, canyoning and more!
• Wildlife activities – see marine wildlife like seals, whales and dolphins or New Zealand’s unique birdlife like the famous kiwi bird.
• Scenery – Mountains, beaches, forests and grassy plains can all be seen through hikes, scenic flights, boat trips or simply while you are driving.
• Maori cultural experiences – Maori are a Polynesian culture that called New Zealand home hundreds of years ago.
• Wine and craft beer – New Zealand is rich in fertile lands producing some of the most mouth-watering food, and local favourites, craft beer and wine.

Step 4 – Choose Where to Visit in New Zealand

While we also recommend getting off the beaten track if you can, some of the highlights include:

North Island

• Bay of Islands for its islands, beaches and getting out on the water
• Auckland for its volcanoes and city life
• Rotorua for the geothermal activity and Maori culture
• Tongariro National Park for volcanic landscapes and hikes
• Whanganui National Park for canoeing in the wilderness
• Taranaki for volcanoes and surf
• Wellington for capital city vibes and great food

South Island

• Picton for its water activities
• Abel Tasman National Park for beaches, forest, kayaking and walks
• Kaikoura for marine wildlife
• Franz Josef & Fox Glacier for glaciers, heli-hiking and hot pools
• Queenstown for adrenaline activities
• Fiordland National Park for untouched wilderness and Milford Sound
• Aoraki Mt Cook for mountains
• Stewart Island for remote wilderness and wildlife.

Step 5 – Choose How You are Going to Get Around New Zealand

Your next priority is choosing a vehicle to take you on your self-guided adventure! Renting or buying a car or campervan is the best way to experience ultimate freedom and flexibility when travelling around New Zealand. Choosing a good vehicle rental company with fair rates and reliable vehicles takes a bit of research, so you will need to put some time aside (or again, ask the advice of a free travel agent ). Alternatively, if you are buying a vehicle, time needs to be taken when you are in New Zealand to inspect vehicles, buy a vehicle and sell it at the end of your trip. Here’s more information on your options:

Renting a Car

There is a wide variety of rental companies in New Zealand to choose from, especially around the international airports of Auckland , Christchurch and Queenstown . Honestly, there is a real mixed bag of rental companies when it comes to the service they provide and their vehicles, so again, research is needed to separate the good from the not-so-good.

Also, take into consideration the type of vehicle you want to rent . While a small 2WD car may be a good budget option for a solo traveller or couple, it will make for an uncomfortable road trip for groups of friends or families. For more information, take a look at Travel By Car: How to Plan a Road Trip in New Zealand .

Renting a Campervan

Renting a campervan is an extremely convenient way to get around New Zealand while always staying in the same accommodation – no packing and unpacking in hotels; just more time to enjoy the important things.

Travelling by campervan or motorhome is another extremely popular way to get around New Zealand and there are enough rental companies to provide . The type of campervan you hire is extremely important for the comfort of the trip, as well as the ease of getting around. If you have never driven a campervan or a motorhome before, then you will want something smooth and easy to drive, while motorhome veterans may want to treat themselves to a luxury ride with all the bells and whistles.

In addition, don’t forget to add the cost of holiday parks and campgrounds to your budget, as parking up somewhere for free – known as freedom camping in New Zealand – is restricted in many parts of the country, which you can find out more about in our guide,  What it’s Really Like to Freedom Camp in New Zealand .

Buying a Car or Campervan

Are you lucky enough to be staying in New Zealand for two months or more? Then, buying a car or campervan usually works out much more cost-effective with the idea of selling the vehicle at the end of your trip. Remember to plan some time to buy and sell a vehicle at either end of your trip. Get more advice at our 10 Tips for Buying a Secondhand Car in New Zealand .

Step 6 – Choose Your Accommodations

There are accommodations in New Zealand to suit all styles, budgets and moods, from backpacker hostels to luxury hotels and lodges. There are hostels, motels, hotels and holiday parks in most of the large towns and cities around New Zealand, but there are some real hidden gems scattered around the country which are worth searching for.

Remember, if you are travelling during the busier seasons in New Zealand (see above) booking your accommodation in advance is a must! Especially in small but popular locations like Milford Sound and Lake Tekapo . Once you know what type of accommodation you want to stay in, it makes the search so much easier to find the experience for yourself or to describe what you want to a travel agent. Here’s a quick description of each accommodation type:

• Luxury hotels & boutique lodges – High-quality accommodation with restaurants or other forms of catering
• Apartments – self-contained accommodation with private rooms and kitchen facilities
• Backpacker hostels – cheap dorms and a selection of private rooms with all the essential communal facilities
• Motels & budget hotels – private or self-contained rooms at affordable prices
• Campervans – use your vehicle as accommodation
• Campsites – camp in a tent or vehicle for free or up to NZ$15 per night in a public campsite
• Holiday parks – a huge range of budget accommodations for camping to self-contained motel units
• Couchsurfing – sleep on a locals sofa or spare room for free
• Bed & breakfast – stay in a local’s home or cottage with breakfast provided
• WWOOFing – otherwise known as working for accommodation for those with a work visa
• Housesitting – stay in a local’s home for free for at least a week in exchange for looking after their pets
• House exchange – list your home on home exchange websites and stay in a New Zealand home for free.

Or, Skip All These Steps…

Just because you are travelling New Zealand independently, doesn’t mean you need to plan your road trip independently. Use the expertise of First Light Travel , a free online travel agent specialising in New Zealand and Australia. The 6-step process discussed above gets reduced to a 3-step process:

• Send First Light Travel your enquiry by completing their simple online form
• Get your personalised itinerary within 24 hours
• Review the itinerary, make any changes where you want, and First Light Travel will organise the rest including the bookings.

First Light Travel have access to more than 20,000 travel products at their fingertips, creating a well-catered itinerary to meet your needs while opening your eyes to dream travel experiences that you may have never heard of. What’s more, their service is free to use; they only receive a commission from the travel companies you decide to book with – keeping your costs to a minimum. What’s more, they only work with companies where their past clients have had a positive experience in the past.

Start planning your itinerary for FREE at firstlighttravel.com .

More About How to Create Your Own New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

That’s it for our guide on how to create your own New Zealand road trip itinerary. Need more travel-planning tips? Get your eyes on more of our helpful guides:

• New Zealand Travel Advice: How to Plan a Trip to New Zealand
• A Step-By-Step Guide to Renting Your First Motorhome
• Should You Travel the North Island or South Island ?

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in  The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD online platform - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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NZTA reveals their tips and tricks on avoiding holiday traffic this summer

• Melania Watson

The New Zealand Transport Agency has revealed its tips and tricks for a safe and stress-free summer on the road. 

With Kiwis already ditching the cities to hit the beach, NZTA is encouraging people to plan ahead for their summer road trips. 

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NZTA journey manager Kingston Brands said using the online holiday journeys traffic prediction tool, people can plan their trips and avoid the worst delays. 

"If you're heading north or south out of Auckland or Whangarei, it's worth checking before you get on the road so that you know what to expect," Brands said. 

"The busiest times heading south of Auckland will start from Friday until Wednesday with the heaviest traffic between 11am and 2pm." 

He said people heading north of Auckland can expect the same traffic rush from Friday until the following Friday between 9:30am and 3pm. 

"If you're planning on heading further north from Whangarei, it'll be busiest on Thursday and Friday between midday and 5pm," he said. 

He said there will be a significant increase in temporary traffic management and increased travel time due to the summer maintenance programme. 

"To get an understanding of what's happening on the network, and for real time updates, please use our Journey Planner tool and allow extra time for your journey," he said, 

"More cars on the road, tired drivers and people driving on unfamiliar roads can all add up to make holiday driving stressful and risky. But there are simple things we can all do to stay safe. 

"Plan ahead, drive sober, watch out for signs of fatigue, keep your speeds down and drive to the conditions. Everyone should check that their car is safe before heading off and think about sharing the driving on long trips," Brands said. 

Tips for safe driving on your summer holiday: 

• Drive to the conditions, allow plenty of time and take regular breaks to stay alert. 
• Be patient when driving this summer so everyone can relax and enjoy the holidays together. 
• Keep a safe following distance from vehicles in front so you can stop safely. 
• Drive to the conditions - whether it's the weather, the road you're on, the time of day or the volume of traffic on the roads. 
• Take regular breaks to stay alert. 
• Allow plenty of time. You're on holiday, no need to rush.  

NZTA also warns people should check their vehicle is safe to drive before setting off on their holiday. 

This includes checking the Warrant of Fitness or Certificate of Fitness is up-to-date on any vehicle you plan to drive, including rentals. 

How to check your vehicle yourself: 

• Tyres - minimum tread is 1.5mm but the more tread, the better the grip. 
• Lights - check that all lights work so your vehicle is visible in poor light. 
• Indicators - ensure all indicators work so people know which direction you are moving. 
• Windscreen and wipers - check for wear and tear so you can see the road safely.  

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North Korea plans to launch satellite between May 27 and June 4, Japan Coast Guard says

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South Korea released video footage on Tuesday that its military said showed the moment North Korea's latest attempt at launching a satellite ended in failure.

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China and Russia reaffirm their close ties as Moscow presses its offensive in Ukraine

China’s leader Xi Jinping has welcomed Russia’s President Vladimir Putin at an official ceremony Thursday on his state visit to China. Putin’s visit comes as Russia has become more economically dependent on China following Moscow’s military operation in Ukraine more than two years ago.

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude to Xi Jinping for China’s initiatives to resolve the Ukraine conflict at their Beijing summit Thursday where the Chinese leader said China hopes Europe will return to peace and stability soon and that China will play a constructive role.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has landed in Beijing as part of a two-day state visit to China. Putin’s visit comes as Russia has become more economically dependent on China following Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago. (AP Production Tracy Brown)

Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday, in which he stressed the two countries’ strong relations.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin landed on Thursday in Beijing for a two-day state visit to China. The Kremlin said this will be Putin’s first foreign trip since he was sworn in as president and began his fifth term in office.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and Russian President Vladimir Putin look toward each other as they shake hands prior to their talks in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin review the honor guard during an official welcome ceremony in Beijing, China, Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping attend a concert marking the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and China and opening of China-Russia Years of Culture at the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Guneyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin shake hands during their meeting in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a wreath laying ceremony at the Monument to the People’s Heroes in Tiananmen Square in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, center right, and Russian President Vladimir Putin walk during an official welcome ceremony in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and Russian President Vladimir Putin walk during an official welcome ceremony in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and Russian President Vladimir Putin pose for a photo prior to their talks in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Guneyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and Russian President Vladimir Putin attend an official welcome ceremony in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, walk during an official welcome ceremony in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, foreground right, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, foreground left, walk past members of Russian cabinet during an official welcome ceremony in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin review the honor guard during an official welcome ceremony in Beijing, China, Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, attends a wreath laying ceremony at the Monument to the People’s Heroes in Tiananmen Square in Beijing, China, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. (Sergei Bobylev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

BEIJING (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Thursday reaffirmed their “no-limits” partnership that has deepened as both countries face rising tensions with the West, and they criticized U.S. military alliances in Asia and the Pacific region.

At their summit in Beijing, Putin thanked Xi for China’s proposals for ending the war in Ukraine , which have been rejected by Ukraine and its Western supporters as largely following the Kremlin’s line.

Putin’s two-day state visit to one of his strongest allies and trading partners comes as Russian forces are pressing an offensive in northeastern Ukraine’s Kharkiv region in the most significant border incursion since the full-scale invasion began on Feb. 24, 2022.

China claims to take a neutral position in the conflict, but it has backed the Kremlin’s contentions that Russia was provoked into attacking Ukraine by the West, and it continues to supply key components needed by Moscow for weapons production.

China, which hasn’t criticized the invasion, proposed a broadly worded peace plan in 2023, calling for a cease-fire and for direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv. The plan was rejected by both Ukraine and the West for failing to call for Russia to leave occupied parts of Ukraine.

AP AUDIO: China and Russia reaffirm their close ties as Moscow presses its offensive in Ukraine

AP correspondent Karen Chammas reports on a summit between the leaders of China and Russia.

China also gave a rhetorical nod to Russia’s narrative about Nazism in Ukraine, with a joint statement Thursday that said Moscow and Beijing should defend the post-World War II order and “severely condemn the glorification of or even attempts to revive Nazism and militarism.”

Putin has cited the “denazification” of Ukraine as a main goal of the military action, falsely describing the government of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who is Jewish and lost relatives in the Holocaust, as neo-Nazis.

The largely symbolic and ceremonial visit stressed partnership between two countries who both face challenges in their relationship with the U.S. and Europe.

“Both sides want to show that despite what is happening globally, despite the pressure that both sides are facing from the U.S., both sides are not about to turn their backs on each other anytime soon,” said Hoo Tiang Boon, who researches Chinese foreign policy at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University.

While Putin and Xi said they were seeking an end to the war, they offered no new proposals in their public remarks.

“China hopes for the early return of Europe to peace and stability and will continue to play a constructive role toward this,” Xi said in prepared remarks to media in Beijing’s Great Hall of the People. His words echoed what China said when it offered a broad plan for peace .

Earlier, Putin was welcomed in Tiananmen Square with military pomp. After a day in Beijing, the Russian leader arrived in Harbin, where he was expected to attend a number of events on Friday.

On the eve of his visit, Putin said China’s proposal could “lay the groundwork for a political and diplomatic process that would take into account Russia’s security concerns and contribute to achieving a long-term and sustainable peace.”

Zelenskyy has said any negotiations must include a restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, the withdrawal of Russian troops, the release of all prisoners, a tribunal for those responsible for the aggression and security guarantees for Ukraine.

After Russia’s latest offensive in Ukraine last week, the war is in a critical stage as Ukraine’s depleted military waits for new supplies of anti-aircraft missiles and artillery shells from the United States after months of delay.

The joint statement from China and Russia also criticized U.S. foreign policy at length, hitting out at U.S.-formed alliances, which the statement called having a “Cold War mentality.”

China and Russia also accused the U.S. of deploying land-based intermediate range missile systems in the Asia-Pacific under the pretext of joint exercises with allies. They said that the U.S. actions in Asia were “changing the balance of power” and “endangering the security of all countries in the region.”

The joint statement demonstrated China’s support to Russia.

China is “falling over themselves to give Russia face and respect without saying anything specific, and without committing themselves to anything,” said Susan Thornton, a former diplomat and a senior fellow at the Paul Tsai China Center at Yale Law School.

The meeting was yet another affirmation of the friendly “no-limits” relationship China and Russia signed in 2022, just before Moscow invaded Ukraine.

Since then, Russia has become increasingly dependent economically on China as Western sanctions cut its access to much of the international trading system. China’s increased trade with Russia, totaling $240 billion last year, has helped the country mitigate some of the worst blowback from sanctions.

Moscow has diverted the bulk of its energy exports to China and relied on Chinese companies for importing high-tech components for Russian military industries to circumvent Western sanctions.

“I and President Putin agree we should actively look for convergence points of the interests of both countries, to develop each’s advantages, and deepen integration of interests, realizing each others’ achievements,” Xi said.

U.S. State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said that China can’t “have its cake and eat it too.

“You cannot want to have deepened relations with Europe … while simultaneously continuing to fuel the biggest threat to European security in a long time,” Patel said.

Xi congratulated Putin on starting his fifth term in office and celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the former Soviet Union and the People’s Republic of China, which was established following a civil war in 1949. Putin has eliminated all major political opponents and faced no real challenge in the March election.

“In a famous song of that time, 75 years ago — it is still performed today — there is a phrase that has become a catchphrase: ‘Russians and Chinese are brothers forever,’” Putin said.

Russia-China military ties have strengthened during the war. They have held a series of joint war games in recent years.

China remains a major market for Russian military, while also massively expanding its domestic defensive industries, including building aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines.

Putin has previously said that Russia has been sharing highly sensitive military technologies with China that helped significantly bolster its defense capability.

Huizhong Wu reported from Bangkok. Yu Bing and Wanqing Chen in Beijing, Christopher Bodeen in Taipei, Jim Heintz and Dasha Litvinova in Tallinn, Estonia, and Ellen Knickmeyer in Washington contributed to this report.

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A gentleman in moscow ending explained.

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A Gentleman In Moscow Cast & Character Guide

Ewan mcgregor's historical drama weirdly copies his 2022 star wars show, the deeper meaning behind a gentleman in moscow episode 3's bees.

Warning: Spoilers ahead for the finale of A Gentleman in Moscow.

• Count Rostov finds family, love, and purpose in his confinement at the Metropol Hotel, despite his initial imprisonment.
• The ending of A Gentleman in Moscow remains ambiguous, leaving Alexander's fate open to interpretation.
• Love and sacrifice are the central themes of the show, as Alexander risks everything to ensure the safety and happiness of his found family.

The ending of A Gentleman in Moscow brings with it the conclusion of Alexander Rostov's story, with his 35-year stretch of imprisonment inside Moscow's Metropol Hotel coming to a halt. After returning home from Paris in 1918 to save his grandmother from the violence of Russia's Bolshevik revolution , Count Rostov is sentenced to life imprisonment for his status as a member of the nation's ruling class. However, instead of being locked in a prison cell, Ewan McGregor's character is confined to the walls of a luxury hotel in the nation's capital.

Alexander's is spared execution, unlike so many of his other social peers. The reason for the leniency is Alexander being incorrectly credited with a poem titled "Where is our Purpose Now?" The literary work, actually written in 1913 by Alexander's old friend, Mishka, was partially credited as inciting the Revolution. The count manages to carve out some level of existence for himself at the Metropol , with the novelty of his situation quickly wearing off. Along the way, Alexander Rostov finds the family he'd never had before, giving a man who'd lost everything something else to lose.

The Paramount/Showtime limited series A Gentleman in Moscow is led by Golden Globe and Emmy winner Ewan McGregor and his wife Mary Elizabeth Winstead.

What Happens To Alexander Rostov After He Leaves The Metropol Hotel Explained

The post-escape fate of mcgregor's character is unknown.

At the end of A Gentleman in Moscow episode 8, "Adieu," Alexander dons his hat and strolls through the doors of the Metropol Hotel. After all the phones in the building ring at once as Richard Vanderwhile's signal that Sofia is safe, Alexander can depart while knowing his surrogate daughter is in trusted hands. While Alexander is shown successfully leaving the building , the other side of the door isn't shown, so it's impossible to confirm what happens to the Count after this scene. Even the show's narrator, an older Sofia, confirms that she never knew what her father did next.

"I discovered that Papa had escaped the hotel, but what happened after remains a mystery. I like to imagine [Alexander and Anna] finally free, living out the rest of their lives together. They gave me the greatest gift of life. I'll keep them in my heart. Always. "

The sequence that's shown of Alexander's reunion with Anna in "Adieu" is shot in the same 4:3 aspect ratio as A Gentleman in Moscow 's flashbacks sequences, which were often from Count Rostov's point of view. However, as Sofia confirms that she never saw her parents again , this particular scene can't be a memory. Instead, what's being shown is Sofia's imaginings, dreaming of the two people who risked so much to save her enjoying a well-deserved, peaceful life.

Alexander does still have his stolen Finnish passport when he leaves the hotel, so it is possible he was able to flee the country and reunite with Anna.

The black apples shown during this scene are another sign that it's nothing more than Sofia's fantasy . Earlier in the same episode, Alexander tells the Metropol staff of an old legend from when he was growing up. The story tells of a tree hidden deep in the woods, bearing " Apples as black as coal ." If a person found and ate the apples, they would have the chance to live their life anew. Alexander immediately adds that he wouldn't eat the apples if he were to find them today, as despite his tumultuous life, it's a journey he doesn't regret.

Alexander is never shown telling Sofia this same story, but the presence of the black apples in the story's closing sequence suggests that he did share the tale with her at some point.

How & Why Sofia Flees Russia At The End Of A Gentleman In Moscow

Sofia's one-way trip to america took careful planning.

Despite being a staunch patriot, Alexander is still of the opinion that Sofia would have a better life in America than she would if she were to stay in Russia. Thankfully, Alexander's spying on the country's top brass in A Gentleman in Moscow episode 7 , "An Assembly," also presents an opportunity for McGregor's character to send his daughter to safety. The scheme is carried out in collaboration with Alexander's American ally , Richard Vanderwhile, who plans the operation for them.

Only Sofia is granted asylum by the Americans, with Alexander telling his daughter that the request for himself and Anna to receive the same treatment was simply too much to ask.

With the recordings from the meeting in her possession, Sofia heads to Paris as part of a musical tour. After performing, she cuts her hair short and changes her clothes to blend in with the crowd and leaves without being spotted. The powers that be grow wise to her scheme, as they move her performance slot from before the interval to the penultimate position in the running order. Thankfully, Sofia still has just enough time and barely manages to avoid being detected. After arriving at the American embassy in Paris, Vanderwhile arranges for Sofia to be flown to the USA .

Where Alexander Rostov Stands With Osip Glebnikov At The End Of A Gentleman In Moscow

Alexander & osip exchange declarations of friendship.

Alexander's relationship with Osip Glebnikov is intentionally unclear throughout A Gentleman in Moscow . Although Osip is essentially responsible for making sure Alexander doesn't break the terms of his sentence by leaving the Metropol, Alexander's jailer chooses to spend more time with his prisoner than is necessary for him to perform his duties. They engage in etiquette lessons, debates about literature, and even start to watch movies together. However, it mostly seems as though Osip is forcing the interactions to take place. Despite the ambiguity of their arrangement, Osip admits in the finale that he values their relationship .

The story of Ewan McGregor's Alexander Rostov from A Gentleman in Moscow shares some strong parallels to that of the actor's Star Wars character.

While warning McGregor's character of the danger Sofia is in - and by extension, Alexander himself - Osip says, " I like you, Alexander. I think of you as a friend ." The count replies in his signature guarded style: " As do I you, in a manner of speaking ." Osip may not have been the most valued figure to Alexander in his day-to-day life, but their friendship offered both men a different perspective. In addition, Osip also assisted Alexander return to the Metropol undetected following Sofia's trip to the hospital - an act that could have had both characters severely punished, if not killed.

Osip is also instrumental in making sure Anna departs for Finland without Alexander. By the time of "Adieu," Osip's wife and daughter are dead. So, Osip wants to make sure Alexander's family doesn't suffer the same fate.

Did Alexander Leave Manager Leplevsky To Die?

Alexander finally takes the revenge he's been trying to avoid.

Leplevsky is the biggest villain throughout the story of A Gentleman in Moscow , with Alexander's life at the Metropol Hotel becoming more difficult as his nemesis rises through the ranks. With Alexander's planned departure from the hotel imminent, it initially seems as though he's willing to let bygones be bygones and spare Leplevsky any acts of revenge. Unfortunately for the hotel manager, his last-minute discovery of Alexander's plan to escape results in McGregor needing to take action .

After arming himself with the dueling pistols from the manager's office, Alexander chains up Leplevsky in the bowels of the Metropol Hotel.

After arming himself with the dueling pistols from the manager's office, Alexander chains up Leplevsky in the bowels of the Metropol Hotel. At the same time, he incinerates the files the manager had been collating about the hotel's staff - Alexander and Sofia included. Leplevsky begs to be set free as Alexander departs , with the exchange between the two adversaries suggesting it would be a while before anyone finds the trapped hotel boss. So, while Alexander doesn't directly murder Manager Leplevsky, he could still be responsible for his death.

How Alexander's Imprisonment In The Metropol Hotel Was The Beginning Of His Life (Not The End)

Alexander rostov's personal life somehow flourished at the metropol.

When Alexander was sentenced to life imprisonment, he was in his early thirties. His only surviving family member was his grandmother, whom he had helped escape the country four years previously. In addition, he was estranged from Mishka - his oldest friend. Alexander had never married, nor fathered any children. Despite his life of wealth and privilege that had preceded his incarceration, he was deeply alone. Somewhat surprisingly, Alexander's decades trapped in the Metropol led to some of the most important relationships in his life .

Despite the early trauma of seeing Prince Nikolai being dragged out of the hotel to be shot in the street in A Gentleman in Moscow episode 1 , Alexander went on to hit a rich vein of social bonds. His friendship with Nina was vital during the early stages of his sentence, and although the pair struggled to stay on the same political wavelengths at times, their special relationship weathered the storm. Alexander also eventually managed to build bridges with Mishka .

Eventually, Alexander's on-and-off romantic dynamic with Anna Urbanova solidified into a solid foundation of love and trust, with the pair essentially becoming joint parents to Sofia.

If Alexander was a father figure to Nina, then he was essentially a grandfather in his role as generational caretaker when Sofia was left in the count's care. Alexander raised Sofia as his own , while making sure she never forgot her birth mother. Eventually, Alexander's on-and-off romantic dynamic with Anna Urbanova solidified into a solid foundation of love and trust, with the pair essentially becoming joint parents to Sofia. As a result, Alexander hit several milestones during his imprisonment that he either neglected or failed to achieve while he was a free man.

The Real Meaning Of A Gentleman In Moscow's Ending

Alexander's unconfirmed destiny compounds the story of love and loss.

A Gentleman in Moscow , like so many other stories, is about love. However, the show's theme of love is also tied into the concept of loss, and how the two interact with one another. The love that Alexander Rostov has for Anna and Sofia results in him putting their safety first , ensuring they are away from the Metropol Hotel and safely on their respective ways to their new homes at the time of him making his escape attempt.

Alexander Rostov's journey in A Gentleman in Moscow has been full of twists and turns, but the bees in episode 3 serve as a brilliant metaphor.

Alexander is fully aware of the risks to himself, Anna, and Sofia that their plan presents. Still, the love he has for his found family makes him willing to put himself in harm's way if it means there's a chance of a better tomorrow for the daughter he cherishes and the woman he loves. Osip acts in a similar vein by helping Alexander. Despite losing his wife and daughter, Osip chooses not to let his grief turn him bitter and instead makes sure Alexander doesn't suffer the same heartbreak.

Sofia's fantasy of her parents living out their days together is about as perfect an ending as the show can expect, with the unconfirmed nature of the scenario contributing to the dark beauty of the story's conclusion.

Sofia's fantasy of her parents living out their days together is about as perfect an ending as the show can expect , with the unconfirmed nature of the scenario contributing to the dark beauty of the story's conclusion. The trio would never have had the life they'd wanted in the building that brought the three of them together. Knowing this, they give their best effort to free themselves of the restrictions imposed upon them by Alexander's prison sentence. A Gentleman in Moscow 's final episode perfectly encapsulates the tale's message of sacrifice in the name of love.

All episodes of A Gentleman in Moscow are available to stream on Paramount+.

A Gentleman in Moscow

Based on the novel by Amor Towles, A Gentleman in Moscow is a historical dramatic-thriller created by Ben Vanstone for Paramount+ and Showtime. Following the advent of the Russian Revolution, Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov is forced to spend several decades locked away in a hotel room and watch as the country around him transforms.