News

April 29, 2008

Down Under Tours Green Policy

With significant diversity in its natural resources, Australia is an environment where enormous opportunity exists for people to learn more about the area’s natural and cultural resources. The Down Under Tours Group of Companies has made a firm commitment to environmental sustainability through the support and participation of local studies, the implementation of staff accreditation and achieving nationally and internationally recognised company accreditation. Additionally, best practice operations management is a fundamental component of the Down Under Tours Group commitment to environmental sustainability. It includes the focus on energy management, waste management and contribution to conservation through all levels of the Company.

February 05, 2008

Announcing Platinum Service Due in Late 2008

This year will see the introduction of an exciting and new level of service aboard The Ghan named Platinum Service.

Platinum Service is a new luxury level of train travel, like no other Australian train accommodation. The new Platinum Service Cabins are currently being built by a luxury boat builder to a completely new floor plan inspired by the world’s most luxurious trains and are expected to be in service later in the year.

January 30, 2008

Impact of the December 2007 Fires

Background
In the afternoon of 06 December 2007 an intense storm passed over Kangaroo Island and the associated lightning strikes started 12 fires across the Island. Some of these were quickly contained or extinguished however 4 fires continued to burn, the largest of which was not contained until 15 December. The level of resources brought to the Island to fight these fires is unprecedented—12 aircraft for both fire bombing and observation, and over 700 mainland and interstate incident management and fire ground crew.

January 15, 2008

Qantas to Increase Services to Honolulu

Sydney, 15 January 2008: Qantas announced today that it would increase its Honolulu services from three to four per week from 5 April, 2008.

The Executive General Manager of Qantas, Mr John Borghetti, said the strong Australian dollar made Hawaii a very attractive destination for Australians and that the airline was seeing strong demand on the route.

October 26, 2007

Kiwi Encounter Hatches Milestone 500th Kiwi

Kiwi Encounter in Rotorua is today celebrating the safe arrival of the 500th Kiwi hatched there since they commenced participation in the kiwi recovery programme in 1995/6.

“Rimarau” (500 in Maori) hatched at 4.22pm today weighing a healthy 344.9 grams. The Kiwi Encounter kiwi husbandry team, customer service staff and some very lucky visitors from Germany and England were on hand to watch Rimarau’s entry into the world and commented on how well the kiwi adapted to the additional attention it was receiving. “The team here at Kiwi Encounter has been anxiously awaiting the arrival of the 500th chick with countdown badges being worn since there were 24 to go at the beginning of the season, generating a lot of public interest in the hatch,” commented Kiwi Husbandry Manager, Claire Travers.

July 24, 2007

The World’s Best Inflight Entertainment on Qantas Airbus A380

SYDNEY: Qantas today revealed the next generation inflight entertainment system to be installed onboard its new Airbus A380 aircraft, being delivered from August 2008.

Qantas Executive General Manager John Borghetti said the technologically advanced system, manufactured by Panasonic Avionics Corporation, would offer customers greater choice, wireless connectivity and in-seat access to email and the internet.

“There has never been anything like this onboard a commercial aircraft,” Mr Borghetti said.

He said wide screen digital monitors in all cabins and a state-of-the-art graphic user interface would allow passengers to easily navigate through a vast range of entertainment options, including on-demand video and audio programs and games.

“We have gone beyond the traditional movie and audio options to include Lonely Planet destination information, language tutorials, audio books, Deloitte business courses and PC style games.

“Customers in all classes will also be able to stay connected with in seat email and internet access or using their personal laptops to connect to a wireless network,” Mr Borghetti said.

July 24, 2007

Qantas - A New Domestic Experience

SYDNEY: Qantas said today it would introduce new, dedicated domestic Business class lounges at its key business airports – Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane – by mid-2008.

Qantas Executive General Manager John Borghetti said the new domestic Business lounges would offer a superior range of services to Business class travellers as well as top tier Qantas and oneworld Frequent Flyers.

“They will offer a range of services unmatched by competitors in the domestic market, with a more spacious layout, more private seating
arrangements, a wider selection of hot food and enhanced business services such as more private work suites and complimentary wireless internet access,” Mr Borghetti said.

July 24, 2007

Qantas Launches Premium Economy Cabin

SYDNEY: Qantas today revealed the new Premium Economy cabin and seating to be offered progressively on its international Boeing 747-400 aircraft from February 2008 and on its fleet of new A380 being delivered from August 2008.

“The Premium Economy seat was designed by Marc Newson – the designer of our award winning Skybed sleeper seat – and manufactured by Recaro, which makes seats for luxury auto brands such as Aston Martin, Audi and Porsche,” Mr Borghetti said.

“The seats offer extra width and recline, more legroom, and an in-arm digital wide screen television monitor, as well as laptop power connection.

“Premium Economy will also include a self-service bar offering a selection of refreshments throughout the flight, in addition to the regular choice of meals designed by Neil Perry’s Rockpool Group, premium wines, superior tableware and soft furnishings.”

“Premium Economy customers will also have a dedicated check-in area,” Mr Borghetti said.

He said the Premium Economy cabin would be available gradually on B747 services to London, Hong Kong and Johannesburg from February 2008 with further routes being added following the introduction of A380 aircraft.

Premium Economy will be located on the main deck of B747 aircraft with 32 seats in a two-four-two configuration. On the A380, the cabin will be located on the upper deck with 32 seats in a two-three-two configuration.

May 08, 2007

Current Bid for Qantas Purchase Will Not Proceed

News from Qantas: SYDNEY
The Board of Qantas Airways acknowledged Airline Partners Australia’s (APA) statement that its current bid for Qantas would not proceed. As a result, Qantas will lift the trading halt on its shares.

The Chairman of Qantas, Ms Margaret Jackson, said today that APA’s bid had failed and the Board and management would move forward. Ms Jackson said the Board and senior management wanted to make it clear that APA’s $5.45 offer could not be renewed, and any future offer would be
treated as a completely new matter.

“This has been an extremely difficult process since the Board decided to recommend APA’s bid to shareholders.”

Ms Jackson said the foremost priority of the Board and management now was the continuing successful operation of the company. She said continuity and stability were vital.

“The Board will meet again today and will also be meeting in the near future to discuss management’s three-year plan and strategies for growth.”

Further information: Qantas shares have been released from the offer accepted sub-position and are available to be traded. Qantas is undertaking a formal reconciliation of its foreign ownership, however in view of the heavy trading in Qantas shares this has been more difficult than usual. The process is being accelerated and Qantas will advise the market as necessary.

April 30, 2007

Down Under Answers Wins Tourism New Zealand’s Supreme Award…and more!

LOS ANGELES, CA
Press release from Tourism New Zealand:
Seattle-based Down Under Answers received the top award at this year’s New Zealand Tourism awards on Saturday April 28 at the LAX Hilton. Down Under Answers President, Kirk Demeter was at the ceremony to receive the coveted Supreme award, recognizing his company’s excellent overall performance and contribution to New Zealand tourism. The wholesaler also walked away with the Best New Zealand Online Content and Wholesaler of the Year Award (as voted by the Kiwi Specialist Travel Agents).

“Down Under Answers continues to set the standard for the presentation and marketing of New Zealand”, says George Hickton, CEO of Tourism New Zealand. “Congratulations for winning the Supreme award for the second successive year, a truly impressive performance. It is also evident that DUA provide exceptional levels of service to their retail partners.”

April 25, 2007

World Class Luxury Resort to Open on Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef

An exclusive world class luxury resort will open on Hamilton Island on the Great Barrier Reef at the end of August this year - 2007. To be named Qualia, the resort is an important addition to the premium end of the Australian accommodation market and will provide a new reason for international travelers to consider Australia for their next luxury getaway.
Only two to three hours non-stop flight time from Australia’s major east coast cities, Qualia is located on the secluded and breathtakingly beautiful northernmost point of the island and marks the latest commitment by owners, Bob Oatley and his family, to the revitalisation of this stunning Whitsundays destination.

In announcing the Resort, Bob and Sandy Oatley commented “Australia needs a new luxury resort of the highest quality to maintain this country’s competitive position in the international marketplace. Qualia will offer a distinctively Australian experience with the outstanding facilities and uncompromising service that guests expect from a premium five star resort -Australia’s highest official ranking. We are proud to say that the attention to detail in the design and construction and the scale and quality of the gardens, pools and public areas has never been seen before in this country.”

“We firmly believe the tranquil surroundings of the destination will be an opportunity for our guests – adults 18 years and over – to escape from their stressful everyday lives for a holiday and participate in some of the amazing tours that are being designed to take advantage of our location in one of the world’s most sought after destinations,“ they continued.

Qualia features 60 elegant private one bedroom pavilions accessible only to the Resort’s guests with interiors including purpose built hand crafted furniture by renowned designers, Freedman Rembel.

Each pavilion has been carefully designed by Australian architect Chris Beckingham to blend into the natural environment giving the Resort an unusual sense of space and harmony. The “Windward” Pavilions include their own plunge-pools and are over four times the size of an average hotel room. The “Leeward” Pavilions also will delight guests with their sense of space and meticulous design features.

March 25, 2007

MAST Honors Down Under Answers with “Best Reservations Department”

MAST presented more than 80 awards in six categories to nearly 50 member agencies and sponsors at the MAST Awards Night, held earlier this week. MAST’s highest sales award, the All Star Award was presented to 25 agencies for their 2006 preferred supplier sales.

MAST Travel Network, also known as MAST Vacation Partners, is the Midwest’s premier travel agency consortium and marketing network.

March 13, 2007

Qantas Flight Crew to Participate in Airbus A380 Test

Qantas Airways will play a major role in the historic first test flight in the US of the world’s largest passenger plane.

An Airbus A380 with Qantas flight crew aboard is scheduled to land at Los Angeles International Airport on March 19 in front of an expected crowd of 100,000 aviation enthusiasts.

February 23, 2007

Mirvac Hotels & Resorts Acquires Carlton Crest Chain in Australia

Mirvac Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its property portfolio with the acquisition of Carlton Crest’s Australian hotels in Brisbane, Sydney, Parramatta and Melbourne which will become part of the Mirvac group from 23 February 2007. The newly acquired 4 1⁄2 and 4 star properties will be re-branded under The Sebel and Citigate brands and will undergo an extensive refurbishment program bringing them in line with Mirvac’s range of brands.

January 30, 2007

BMW “Drive to Care” Sweepstakes Winner Announced

CONGRATULATIONS to Jeff and Cara Anthony of Redmond, Washington. By test driving a new Puget Sound BMW, Jeff and Cara won an 8-day trip for 2 to New Zealand through Sound BMW, Down Under Answers and Air New Zealand! They will fly Air New Zealand Business Premier Class, stay at the luxurious SkyCity Grand Hotel in Auckland, and tour New Zealand’s diverse scenery with the freedom of their own Budget rental car. Enjoy!

December 29, 2006

Jetstar Touches Down in Hawaii

New Jetstar Long Haul International Services, Australia to Hawaii - 5 Times Weekly

Jetstar commenced today inaugural services to Honolulu, its newest long haul international destination, flying direct from both Sydney and Melbourne. The 3 times weekly Sydney-Honolulu service will be followed on December 29 by Jetstar’s first direct Melbourne to Honolulu flight—operating two times weekly as a new international route for the Qantas Group.

December 01, 2006

Down Under Answers Launches Scholarship Reward Program

To help keep the Crocodile Hunter’s legacy alive, Down Under Answers (DUA) has created a special scholarship program to send a North American student who is studying biology or other relevant field to Australia to meet with University professors and visit Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo.

“We hope to keep the spirit of Steve Irwin alive for our younger generation through this scholarship program.” Kirk Demeter, President of Down Under Answers said. “It’s important that we do our part in sharing Steve’s passion and love of Australia and his desire to educate others.”

Registered students between the ages of 18 and 26 will have the chance to reward their hard work in the natural science field with an all-expense paid, educational trip down under. This is the opportunity of a lifetime for the nominated student to enhance their education and learn about the unique animals, flora and fauna of Australia.

DUA’s travel agent partners will be able to nominate a student in their community who exemplifies Irwin’s spirit and desire for wildlife education and conservation. Interested students should write an essay explaining what they have done to achieve this goal and return it to their Aussie Specialist travel agent. A panel of judges at Down Under Answers will then choose a winner from the qualified nominees.

The winner will receive an all-expenses paid 10-day trip to Australia including airfare from anywhere within the US, five days at the Australia Zoo with hands-on training from zoo biologists, and the opportunity to visit any other part of Australia to further their education.

October 12, 2006

NBC’S ‘Today’ Show’s Viewers Declare New Zealand the Ultimate Honeymoon Destination

Santa Monica, CA, October 12, 2006 - NBC’s “Today” Show has sustained an ongoing love affair with America for years - and the show’s seven million viewers love nothing more passionately than its annual “Today Throws a Wedding.” The annual series climaxed last Friday with an on-air wedding ceremony and unveiling of viewers’ pick for world’s top honeymoon destination: New Zealand.

“Today’s” audience of romantics overwhelmingly voted to send California newlyweds Molly and Jason Waggoner to New Zealand for the honeymoon experience dreams are made of - jet setting them off to “the land of the long white cloud” on business class with Qantas Airways for an intimate seven-night adventure of luxury, fine dining and an endless vista of dramatic landscapes and activities.

For the honeymoon of everyone’s dreams, no expense was spared - and for other lovebirds in search of comparable experiences in New Zealand, the “Ultimate Romance” package is now available.

Staying at two of New Zealand’s three Relais & Chateaux properties, Kauri Cliffs and Whare Kea Lodge, and the boutique Eichardt’s Private Hotel, member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Arriving at dawn, refreshed after a 12-hour nonstop overnight flight from Los Angeles - on Qantas’ lie-flat Skybeds - into Auckland, the largest Polynesian city in the world. A private helicopter transfer whisks you north to the Bay of Islands with 144 idyllic atolls. Retreat to Kauri Cliffs Lodge, one of New Zealand’s famed luxury lodges, situated on 6,000 acres with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The lodge’s 22 suites and cottages - each with private porch and open fireplace - provide honeymooners with an intimate and enchanting experience.

This romantic setting sets the stage for the beginnings of a truly memorable week. Sea kayak through secluded bays and isles in search of dolphins and whales, in this wildlife-rich marine park. Then take to the skies on a scenic helicopter flight to Omata Estate, one of Northland’s finest vineyard restaurants. For a spot of fun, hop on a quad bike for a thrilling beach ride or try surfing sand dunes on the coast’s Ninety Mile Beach. Don’t miss teeing off at Kauri Cliffs’ David Harman-designed par 72 championship course, and spend a full day in prime sailing waters onboard a luxury motor cruiser, exclusively chartered for a day of swimming, snorkeling, fishing, or simply sunbathing.

Picturesque glacial lakes, lush vineyards, and majestic mountains beckon in South Island’s Wanaka. Nestled in this alpine paradise, Whare Kea Lodge is a world-class hideaway located on 60 acres of pristine farmland, and offering just six suites. In the comforts of your master suite, relax on a private sundeck with panoramic views of the surrounding untouched landscape. The next day, fly to Whare Kea Alpine Chalet, reach-able only by helicopter, and tucked away on the edge of Mount Aspiring National Park. This remote, secluded and one-of-a-kind experience comes fully-catered with a gourmet picnic lunch and a guided stroll to hidden valleys and breathtaking lookout points.

Capping this South Pacific escape is Queenstown, a short helicopter flight southwest of Wanaka. Known as the “adventure capital of the world,” Queenstown offers an endless array of soft and active adventures for couples. Capture a bird-eye view of picture-postcard scenery by tandem paragliding at 2,500 feet, or weave along the Dart River on a jet-boating adventure. On your last day in New Zealand, experience first-hand the magnificence of Milford Sound on a customized helicopter excursion, that includes a glacier landing on the West Coast, and sharing a special toast of wine and cheese on a secret wilderness site deep in the fiords.

Eichardt’s Private Hotel is an intimate haven in the very heart of Queenstown, overlooking Lake Wakatipu. This historical landmark hotel features five opulent suites with contemporary elegant dcor. The warm and inviting Parlour restaurant and The House Bar with its open log fire is a favorite among Kiwis and visitors alike.

Currently in its seventh year, “Today Throws a Wedding” features a competition for one lucky couple to win a wedding of their dreams. Each element of the ceremony - wedding dress, cake, flowers, honeymoon, etc. - is voted online and determined by viewers. In this year’s competition, there were seven honeymoon destinations for consideration - Antarctica, France, Vietnam, Barbados, South Africa, Peru - with New Zealand winning out over these other destinations!

October 01, 2006

Qantas First Class Airport Lounges Run by Sofitel

QANTAS has signed a partnership with luxury hotel brand Sofitel to operate the airline’s new International First Class lounges in Sydney and Melbourne. QANTAS believes the lounges will set a new benchmark in both Service and product offerings, with restaurant style dining and waiter service throughout. Customers will be able to order from a wide selection of freshly prepared meals designed by leading Australian chef Neil Perry. Sofitel will lend its expertise to all areas within the lounge and all staff will be highly skilled industry professionals with Sofitel conducting specialist training though its Academie Accor hotel school. The new Melbourne International First class lounge is scheduled to open in February 2007 and Sydney in April 2007.

October 01, 2006

New Spa at Kauri Cliffs Lodge - opened December 2006

New Zealand North Island
Nestled in a native Totara forest and a short walk from the guest cottages, the Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is approached by three wooded paths which wind through the natural bush and converge at the entrance. Upon entering the antique honed marble foyer, bordered by an exotic orchid and fern garden, the eye is immediately drawn to the “Femme au balcon"(after Pablo Picasso), a superb 84 x 63 inch tapestry.

The newly opened spa has four treatment rooms each open on to their own relaxing private courtyard with fireplace (for those cool evenings), overlooking a garden and meandering stream and set within a beautiful stand of native trees and ferns. Treatments may be taken indoors or “al fresco”.

October 01, 2006

Towers of Chevron Renaissance, Surfers Paradise

Towers of Chevron Renaissance As of the 1st December 2006, Accor will take over the management of the Towers of Chevron Renaissance from S8. This luxury high rise apartment complex will be associated with the Grand Mercure branding. The 276 apartments Accor will manage will range from one bedroom through to penthouse apartments. There are extensive on-site facilities including private gardens, a BBQ area, resort style swimming pools, a gymnasium, sauna and a spa. The property is located in the heart of Surfers Paradise close to the beach, shopping, nightlife, theme parks, several world-championship golf courses and the casino.

October 01, 2006

Oceanic Princess becomes Oceanic Discoverer

Coral Princess Cruises has announced a name change of its flagship vessel, Oceanic Princess, to Oceanic Discoverer. This will be effective from 12 October 2006.

Captain Tony Briggs, managing director of Coral Princess Cruises, said that the change came about because of confusion in the marketplace with the number of other vessels bearing the name ‘princess’.

“The name Oceanic Discoverer better reflects our position in the small ship expedition-style cruise market and differentiates us from other vessels with similar names that offer a completely different product” said Captain Briggs.

“There are many other vessels operating in Australian and international waters with ‘princess’ in their titles, and we wanted to reposition ourselves and our new destinations as journeys of discovery and exploration rather than conventional cruises.

“Both the expedition-style cruise and ‘soft adventure’ markets have undergone rapid growth in Australia and internationally in the past 10 years, and all indications are that this trend will continue. We are well positioned to capitalize on this growth and the Oceanic Discoverer name more accurately reflects our style of product.”

Oceanic Discoverer is currently sailing to emerging destinations such as Papua New Guinea, and offers a different perspective on destinations in the Pacific such as New Caledonia, Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands and New Zealand.

“Our voyages are designed to enable people to fulfil their spirit of adventure and experience close encounters with the environment, wildlife and culture of a region, while still enjoying a level of comfort and good service. In true expedition style, our itineraries are flexible to take maximum advantage of opportunities to view wildlife, go snorkelling or diving, or visit local villages and attractions. Using the ship as a base, landings ashore are undertaken with our purpose built excursion vessel, Xplorer, and inflatable Zodiacs, often allowing us to reach areas inaccessible to larger vessels and away from usual tourist routes.

“On all our voyages a team of naturalists and experts guide and interpret the experience for our guests, so they leave with a better understanding and connection with the places they have visited.

“Coral Princess Cruises has been operating in the Australian marketplace for more than 20 years and pioneered the concept of expedition and adventure cruising on the Great Barrier Reef and Kimberley Coast. We will continue to be innovative in our style and choice of destinations, and add new and exciting experiences to our portfolio.”