Kia ora friends!
Let me start by saying that if Australia, New Zealand and the Cook Islands aren't on your bucket list, they darn well should be!
If you're looking for pristine secluded beaches and a laid back, welcoming Polynesia atmosphere with less resorts and less people, Aitutaki is the place for you. This island as well as Rarotonga (a larger version of Aitutaki) are surrounded by barrier reefs that keep the water calm and crystal clear. These are only two of the islands in the Cooks. Plus you can't forget Fiji, French Polynesia (Bora Bora), New Caledonia, Vanuatu and Tonga.
When I think of New Zealand, the scenery from Lord of the Rings is the first thing that comes to mind, but truly, there's so much more to the island. Auckland has 1.5 million people and is a bustling metropolitan harbor city. Wellington, the capital, boasts the Martinborough Wine Tour and is world renowned for its Pinot Noir. Christchurch (which has nearly recovered from the 2010 earthquake) is the gateway to the Southern Alps with the afore-mentioned stunning scenery as well as the famous Tranz-Alpine Train. Queenstown is known as the adventure capital with its vast wilderness, Fiords and breathtaking Alpine scenery. Check out the photos below.
Moving north and crossing the Tasman Sea, we arrive in Australia only to be graced by cities such as Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Brisbane where they say "its beautiful one day and perfect the next." Brisbane is also home to Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo. A quick trip to Tangalooma, also known as the Gold Coast, is where you can feed wild dolphins in the shallows of the beach. Moving south, you definitely need to hit Sydney--climb to the top of Harbor Bridge and visit the famous Sydney Opera House. Melbourne is the 2nd largest city in Australia and is a vibrant metropolis with a lively mix of cultures, the Great Ocean Road and the nightly Phillip Island Penguin Parade. End your trip to a visit to Adelaide near the southern end of Australia and visit Kangaroo Island. Or take in the quaintness of the town while enjoying wine from the regions Barossa Valley. Some call Adelaide "Australia's best kept secret."
Air New Zealand is a luxurious way to travel the vast Pacific Ocean and offers spacious seating and various classes to fit your budget and travel style.
Air NZ and I can help you ...
* create a custom itinerary
* take advantage of special pricing by packaging air and land
* include self-drive and motor home trips
* book pre- and post-cruise stays
* recommend fully escorted and group travel
* or arrange land only vacations
If the South Pacific is now on your list, then ask me how to make your dream vacation come true.
