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Thursday, November 28, 2024
Spring has arrived in New Zealand, and with it comes a fresh wave of exciting new stays and unforgettable experiences! Dive into the latest updates, discover hidden gems, and get ready to inspire your clients with unique adventures across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Spring brings change! Kaikōura achieves Dark Sky Sanctuary status, offering breathtaking stargazing, while Te Papa Wellington introduces new entry fees for this iconic museum.
Morero Marae, Taumarunui
Your clients can now go on an extraordinary journey with Ngāti Hauaroa (local tribe) at Morero Marae, in the beautiful Ruapehu region. From cultural immersion sessions to exploring significant sites or taking river and bush journeys, Morero Marae, has just opened its doors to manuhiri (visitors) offering private and group bookings year-round. A great way to embrace Aotearoa New Zealand's cultural heritage authentically and to give back to the local communities.
Expert tip: Add this unique experience to your itineraries, along with the Forgotten World Adventures and travel along an abandoned railway line by rail cart and learn about New Zealand's pioneering history.
Introducing, The Sky Tower's NEW Lookout observation deck, which has just opened on level 53, 186 metres / 610 feet above Auckland’s iconic skyline. Featuring:
◾ Panoramic 360˚ views over the city and Hauraki Gulf.
◾ Treats like Lewis Road Creamery ice cream.
◾ See the adventurous SkyWalkers and SkyJumpers as they prepare to take the plunge!
Expert tip: Pair your client’s Sky Tower experience with an overnight stay at SkyCity Hotel or the new 5-star Horizon Hotel and enjoy an evening of fine dining at Orbit 360˚, or cocktails and snacks at SkyBar.
Sky Tower, Sky City
Cathedral Cove
The popular Mautohe Cathedral Cove Track has reopened, allowing walkers to explore this iconic coastal gem by foot Known for turquoise waters, white sands, and pōhutukawa trees, it’s perfect for swimming, hiking, and snorkelling.
Expert tip: Manuhiri (visitors) should bring sturdy footwear, water, sun protection, and follow the Tiaki Promise by taking all rubbish with them. Parking is no longer available at the track’s start, so encourage your clients to park at Hahei Visitor Carpark and use the shuttle or walk to Grange Road for access.
Located on Wellington’s vibrant waterfront, Te Papa is New Zealand’s premier national museum. Visitors can explore a vast range of exhibits, from Māori and Pacific Island cultures to the nation’s natural history and art collections. As of September 17, 2024, international visitors aged 16 and over will need to pay $35 NZD for entry. (New Zealand residents continue to have free access).
Expert tip: Book your client’s tickets in advance for a smooth experience. You can also book guided tours at an additional cost to entry.
Te Papa Tongarewa
Kaikōura stargazing
Kaikoura has gained international recognition as a Dark Sky Sanctuary, joining Aotea Great Barrier Island and Rakiura Stewart Island as New Zealand's third sanctuary and the 22nd globally. The pristine skies of Kaikōura offer breathtaking views of the stars, unspoiled by light pollution. Essential information for a self-guided stargazing walk can be found on The Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust website(opens in new window).
Expert tip: Book your clients a stay at Hapuku Lodge, their luxury, eco, glass treehouses allow guests to enjoy uninterrupted views of the night skies, mountains and Pacific Ocean, from the comfort of their room.
Discover a new eco-friendly escape surrounded by nature in The Coromandel and an award-winning intimate restaurant with a ten course dining experience hidden in the heart of the North Island.
Ruru PurePod Coromandel
Tucked among mountains and farmland, Ruru PurePod in Coromandel offers an unforgettable escape into nature. This secluded glass eco-cabin boasts sweeping views of Mount Karangahake and provides the perfect sanctuary for clients seeking serenity. With a kitchenette for self-catering or pre-ordered regional hampers, it's a comfortable retreat surrounded by natural beauty. Nearby, clients can cycle the Hauraki Rail Trail, hike the Pinnacles Track, enjoy coastal walks, or simply relax to the sounds of native birds and stargaze from the privacy of the cabin.
Expert tip: Currently, there are 15 PurePods in different locations, allowing clients to 'Podhop' around the motu (country) from Kerikeri to Rakiura Stewart Island.
The Chef’s Table at Blue Duck Station has been named ‘Specialist Restaurant of the Year’ in the Cuisine Good Food Awards 24/25. This exclusive ten seat restaurant offers a ten course seasonal menu featuring ingredients farmed and foraged on-site. Accessible only by helicopter, horseback, or ATV, diners enjoy breathtaking views of Whanganui and Tongariro National Parks. For a full experience, book Blue Duck Station’s private lodges or luxury cabins.
Expert tip: The Chef’s Table operates for dinner Friday to Sunday, mid-September to early June.
The Chefs Table, at Blue Duck Station
This spring we are highlighting a new luxury cruise on Milford Sound, and celebrating the Hoiho yellow-eyed penguin, New Zealand’s Bird of the Year.
Altitude Tours Milford Sound
This new product is a collaboration between RealNZ and Altitude Tours and redefines luxury travel to this stunning fiord. Your clients will enjoy return transfers in custom glass-roof Mercedes vehicles designed for comfort and sightseeing. With panoramic windows, they’ll experience scenic stops along the way and a two hour small group cruise on the RealNZ Sinbad luxury vessel, featuring complimentary sparkling wine and locally sourced cuisine.
Expert tip: Launching in October 2025. Enhance your client’s return journey with a scenic plane or helicopter flight.
The hoiho yellow-eyed penguin has been named Te Manu Rongonui o Te Tau Bird of the Year 2024 and is well deserved as the world’s rarest penguin species, unique to Aotearoa New Zealand. The OPERA – Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance in Dunedin, offers a 90-minute guided experience to learn about the conservation and rehabilitation of the yellow-eyed penguin, including a nature walk to spot penguins, fur seals, sea lions, and various bird species.
Expert tip: The OPERA has partnered with Monarch Wildlife Cruises and The Royal Albatross Centre to offer a Triple Crown Combo tour allowing clients to enjoy all the wildlife on land and water.
Bird of the Year 2024 The Hoiho