With school holidays behind us, and some grim weather passing through the country, thoughts turn to a change of scene, spring holidays and even something special for the Christmas and New Year holidays.
As we're all closely watching progress with international travel, it will come as no surprise that we are still waiting for guidance on an Australian or Pacific Island travel bubble (the Cook Islands may now be open for business before Australia).
Luxury lodges and premium properties reopening for spring
Prior to the border closures, spring and summer were the most popular seasons for New Zealand's luxury lodges and premium properties (during winter many properties traditionally closed for renovations and improvements). As properties re-open for Spring 2020, some of the special offers we have seen include:
Kauri Cliffs / Cape Kidnappers and Matakauri
These Robertson Group Properties are reknowned for their quality service (accommodation is managed by the Relais and Chateaux Brand) and spectacular golf courses. Spring specials include accommodation, meals, green fees, and spa treatment.
Split Apple Retreat
Wellbeing has potentially never been more front of mind, and Split Apple Retreat focuses on the mental and physical aspects. Hidden in the hills of Kaiterteri overlooking Tasman Bay, the Winter Wellness Package includes accommodation, exquisite meals, massage, yoga, meditation and an Abel Tasman Tour.
Treetops Lodge & Kinloch Manor
Generous bonus offers have been included for these sister properties in the Rotorua / Taupo region. A choice of two complementary activities (including golf at the famed Jack Nicklaus designed Kinloch course) makes this an enticing offer.
Our full range of special offers can be found on our Luxury Lodges Special Offers page. We work directly with the lodges, or through wholesale partners where they have negotiated something special. Feel free to drop me a note if you're looking for something specific or need some inspiration.
Birthdays, anniversaries, and special events
One aspect of working with New Zealand's Premium Properties is the care and attention that goes beyond a regular hotel or resort stay. For special events, like birthdays, anniversaries, engagements (or renewing vows), there is a commitment to the guest experience that our clients have described as world class.
If you have something special coming up and you're stuck for ideas, struggling to make the time to get the ball rolling, or procrastinating at the thought of sitting on the phone and calling a range or properties to find out when they can do, feel free to touch base with me. Through direct relationships with the properties and our industry relationships we can help you prepare something special.
Update on UK and Europe travel
The return of Singapore Airlines and Emirates to New Zealand skies was quickly overshadowed by the requirement to slow down arrival numbers and the spectre of having to contribute to the cost of managed isolation.
We are still helping clients (and their families and friends) who need help finding flights back to the UK and Europe, or to return to New Zealand. Our long-term relationships with the major airlines have allowed us to relieve some of the stress of repeatedly cancelled flights and schedule changes. If you or someone you know needs help booking a flight (Economy or Business Class), please do not hesitate to contact us.
Escorted coach, walking, and rail tours
We've previously shared that the major tour companies we work with have adapted their New Zealand itineraries to recognise that as New Zealanders, our domestic travel needs are different to the needs of international tourists. Well known travel brand APT Touring has now incorporating a Walking Tour in its portfolio of New Zealand itineraries.
Experience the Coastal Pacific train from Christchurch to Picton and walks through pristine locations including Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds) accompanied by a small group of up to 20 guests, an APT Walking Leader and local walking guides. Enjoy luxury stays in boutique lodges and city hotels and locally inspired gourmet dining.
Plan ahead for the Islands
There was a flurry of activity when the Cook Island's Deputy Prime Minister recently shared that he expected an announcement on quarantine free travel within a week - unfortunately the announcement was premature.
Taking advance bookings for the leading Cook Islands properties will be a challenge until we have a definitive start date from the New Zealand government and a flight schedule from Air New Zealand. If you are considering an island holiday, please let me know as we can take the time now to find the property that suits your needs (even if we hold off booking it).