Down Under Answers
News
News
March 09, 2010
Virgin Blue Announces Flights to Ayers Rock (Uluru)
Monday 8 March 2010: Virgin Blue has announced plans to launch flights to one of Australia’s most iconic and revered tourist destinations.
January 29, 2010
Queensland Rail Launches New Explorer Rail Pass
Queensland Rail has launched a rail pass that allows 3 or 6 months unlimited travel in an economy seat across the Queensland Rail long distance services.
January 12, 2010
The Southern Spirit Prepares to Set Sail
The Southern Spirit, Australia’s first ‘rail cruise’, is set to begin its maiden voyage today (12 January) beginning the rail adventure of a lifetime for the 45 guests on board.
January 11, 2010
V Australia & Delta Airlines Ink Frequent Flyer Agreement
Virgin Blue Airlines Group’s new boutique international long-haul airline, V Australia, and the world’s largest airline, US-based, Delta Air Lines, are pleased to announce that from today members of each carrier’s frequent flyer programmes will enjoy reciprocal points accrual for travel with both airlines and reciprocal lounge access within Australia and the US. Click here for more information.
January 08, 2010
Yasawa Island Resort Temporary Closure
Please be advised that Yasawa Island Resort is closed for several months to allow for the construction of a new Main Complex.
December 29, 2009
Ipipiri Offers Overnight Cruises on the Bay of Islands
Experience the wonders of the Bay of Islands with an overnight cruise showcasing the beautiful natural surrounds and fascinating history of this region. This overnight cruise through the historic Bay of Islands is a unique journey into the birthplace of the youngest country on earth. The Bay of Islands is the epicentre of New Zealand for Maori and Pakeha (non Maori) alike. This two day, one night cruise will showcase the past and the present of New Zealand’s finest sub tropical and maritime destination.
Click here for more information.
December 28, 2009
In This Season of Giving, DUA gave the Gift of Travel Down Under
SEATTLE, WA: December 28, 2009 – Seattle wholesaler, Down Under Answers proves that tourism to Australia is not only affordable but in high demand as the “I Love Aussie Campaign” closes with a 56% passenger increase to Australia over last year. The unbeatable value of the campaign and uncomplicated packages were aimed at first time visitors to Australia. Packages included four nights in three different regions within Australia, airfare on V Australia from Los Angeles, and all flights within Australia, from $1,299 per person, based on double occupancy. With savings like these it seems the recession is still affording travelers their once in a lifetime dreams.
President of Down Under Answers Kirk Demeter states “Australia offers a high satisfaction rate for travelers and the ‘I Love Aussie’ campaign helped to showcase that Australia offers unbelievable value.” These sentiments were echoed by Vito Anzelmi, Regional Director for V Australia - “We are delighted with the success of Down Under Answers’ ‘I Love Aussie’ campaign. Both teams did an outstanding job of coordinating some fabulous itineraries which the traveling public were clearly compelled to purchase.”
These packages have sparked a new way of traveling by offering simplified vacations to once in a lifetime destinations that make traveling down under a more than once in a lifetime destination.
Based in Seattle, Down Under Answers is the leading travel wholesaler to the South Pacific. Specializing in personalized itineraries and authentic local experiences in each destination, Down Under Answers leads travelers to Eco resorts in World Heritage-listed areas, off-the-beaten path tours with experienced guides—from Sydney’s resplendent harbor to the outback, and the Great Barrier Reef. The Down Under Answers team of destination specialists, either hails from Australia, or has traveled extensively throughout the country. Down Under Answers caters to every traveler and offers unbeatable prices and tailor-made customization through Aussie specialist travel professionals.
December 22, 2009
APT Offer Discounts on all 2010 Tours
APT have announced reductions of up to 10% on several escorted tours in New Zealand & Australia for 2010. Any new bookings received before January 31, 2010 qualify for the savings. For more information of tours and discounts, please click here.
December 01, 2009
Sonaisali Island Resort offers FREE Wedding Packages
For couples wishing to get married between now and 15th June 2010 Sonaisali Island Resort has just released a package where they could get their wedding for FREE!
October 29, 2009
Tahiti Announces Legal Wedding Ceremony
**** Ia Orana ! You have all heard about it and were waiting for the details! Today, it is our greatest pleasure to inform you that Tahiti Nui Travel is now able to organize Legal Wedding Ceremonies in Tahiti and Her Islands for American Citizens.
October 27, 2009
Deal Alert - Free Three-Day Attractions Pass
Until December 31, 2009, North Americans will receive a free, three-day See Tasmania Smartvisit Card, when purchasing the Down Under Answers Highlights of Tasmania package for travel through June 30, 2010. Travelers can save as much as US$772 taking advantage of this promotion.
October 27, 2009
Voyages Welcomes New Dawn on Uluru Experience
Visitors to Australia’s Red Centre are set to see a new side of the rock with the official opening of Talingru Nyakunytjaku, the new sunrise viewing area at Uluru.
October 26, 2009
Additional Information Now by Department of Homeland Security.
Important requirements for passengers traveling on all flights operating to, from, within or over the United States from 31 October 2009.
October 15, 2009
Special 12-night packages to iconic destinations make a trip to Australia.
Down Under Answers and their travel partners provides hassle free Australia dream vacations.
September 30, 2009
Blue Mountains High Country Eco Tour
An update from Grant Charlesworth, Director of Sales, Australian Wild Escapes
August 31, 2009
Has Online Booking Lost its Lustre?
The days of do-it-yourself online travel booking may be on the wane, according to a new study by a well-known research firm.
August 24, 2009
TSA Implements New Secure Flight Initiative,
This program is now being publicized by the TSA to streamline the terrorist watch list matching process and insure the protection of the air traveling public. This new program will affect the commercial airline industry within the United States and International airlines that fly into or over the United States.
August 24, 2009
Virgin America Launches Services to Fort Lauderdale
Virgin America, the California-based airline that is reinventing domestic travel, today announced it will serve Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) with daily non-stop flights from the West Coast beginning Nov. 18, 2009.
August 18, 2009
Stella Hospitality Group Announces New Corporate Identity
One of Australia and New Zealand’s largest accommodation providers, Stella Hospitality Group, announced today it had changed its name to Mantra Group.
August 03, 2009
Voyages Announces Further Sales of Resort Properties
The GPT Group has now formally entered into contracts to sell the following Resorts to Delaware North Companies Australia (an affiliate of the Delaware North Group of companies):
July 26, 2009
Matt Knowles acknowledges Down Under Answers after being Awarded Kiwi Specialist of the Year 2009
July 23, 2009
Delta Airlines & Virgin Blue Airlines Group Announces Plans to Form a Joint Venture
July 9, 2009 - ATLANTA & BRISBANE Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) and the Virgin Blue Airlines Group (ASX: VBA) announced today they plan to seek regulatory approval to form a joint venture that will expand both carriers’ reach between the U.S. and Australia and the South Pacific.
July 22, 2009
V Australia to Offer Limo Transfers for Business Class Guests
Friday, July, 10, 2009 V Australia has become the first Australian airline to offer chauffeured limousine door to door transport for top tier Business Flexi fare paying Guests traveling in International Business Class.
July 22, 2009
V Australia & Virgin Atlantic Announce Partnership
Monday, July 13, 2009 Virgin Blue’s long-haul airline, V Australia and Virgin Atlantic have joined forces in a new loyalty program agreement which allows travelers to earn Miles when flying on the networks of both airlines.
July 21, 2009
Voyages Sells Resort Islands to Geneva Based Group
Geneva based philanthropic group, the McCall MacBain Foundation has acquired two of the Voyages properties, Dunk and Bedarra Islands off Queensland’s Coast.
June 16, 2009
Qantas Announces Pre-Purchase of Exit Row Seating
From 16 June 2009, economy travellers seeking extra legroom will be able to purchase Exit Row Seats on select Qantas operated international flights. Exit Row seating is available to all passengers booked on a Qantas operated International flight, travelling in the economy cabin, excluding Tasman/Noumea flights and any other flights operated by a narrow body aircraft (B737-400 and B737-800). All passengers requesting and purchasing an Exit Row seat will need to comply with current Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) guidelines.
May 22, 2009
Qantas Introduces Premium Economy on Brisbane & Auckland Flights
April 20, 2009
Air New Zealand Increases Capacity to the Cook Islands
Cook Islands Tourism CEO, John Dean is delighted by Air New Zealand’s announcement to increase capacity on their direct, non-stop flight from Los Angeles International Airport to the Cook Islands from $998 USD roundtrip.
April 20, 2009
Air Pacific Guarantees Peace of Mind
Travelers can receive a full refund on Air Pacific Flights if they lose their jobs
March 18, 2009
New Zealand Offers Golf Enthusiasts More Than Just Great Courses!
Combine Rounds of Golf with Wine Tours, Soft Adventure Activities and Much More.
March 13, 2009
APT Launches New Touring to Ayers Rock as a Result of Customer Feedback
Thinking of traveling to Uluru (Ayers Rock)? Some intersting suggestions from clients who have traveled.
March 13, 2009
Budget & Avis Support Air NZ Environment Trust
Car rental companies rally to support the environment
March 11, 2009
The Ghan & Indian Pacific Amended Services
Please check the following for updated schedules.
The Ghan & Indian Pacific Timetable reflecting cancelled services
March 11, 2009
The Ghan’s 80th Birthday
2009: The year to celebrate The Ghan
February 27, 2009
DUA Contributes to the Australian Bushfires Red Cross Appeal
Down Unders Answers Supports the Australian Red Cross Bushfire Appeal
February 16, 2009
Victorian Bushfires
Australian Eco Adventures proudly support the Red Cross with tour donations.
February 16, 2009
Queensland Flooding & Victoria Bushfires
Update on the fires and flooding that are affecting Australia.
February 09, 2009
V Australia Anounces 3rd Trans-Pacific Route
Direct Los Angeles to Melbourne Flights! From the “City of Angels” to the “Paris of the South!”
October 17, 2008
Minister Welcomes New Tourism Australia Campaign
Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson AM MP, welcomes Tourism Australia’s fresh direction in global marketing created by acclaimed Australian film director, screenwriter, and producer, Baz Luhrmann.
October 12, 2008
Boeing Strike Delays V Australia Launch
Virgin Blue Airlines Group announced today that an ongoing strike at The Boeing Company’s Seattle plant has forced a delay to the planned 15 December, 2008 launch of its long haul international airline V Australia.
October 12, 2008
BridgeClimb Sydney Celebrates its 10 Year Anniversary
To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of BridgeClimb Sydney, on Wednesday 1st October 2008, 137 Climbers each carried a flag onto the arch of the world famous Sydney Harbour Bridge to represent every part of the world that Climbers have hailed from since BridgeClimb opened ten years ago.
October 12, 2008
Air Pacific Withdraws Vancouver Services
Air Pacific has advised that effective Friday, November 28, 2008, they will withdraw its twice weekly B737 services from Vancouver via Honolulu to Nadi, Fiji.
October 12, 2008
Sydney Mardi Gras to Remain World’s Number One After New Deal!
Large investment for Sydney’s Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras
SEATTLE, WA – (October 12, 2008) Sydney’s Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras will reinforce its position as the world’s leading gay and lesbian festival after securing a significan investment from Events NSW.
August 27, 2008
“Gold Medal” From Tourism Australia Goes to Down Under Answers
Wholesaler Receives Multiple Honors at 2008 Opal Awards
SEATTLE, WA – (August 25, 2008) Annual North American travel industry event Corroboree gathered over 300 attendees this month in Malibu, California to celebrate the best Australian travel professionals on the continent. Seattle’s Down Under Answers proudly announces “gold” in the event’s prestigious Opal Awards, taking the Best Wholesaler overall award - marking the fifth accolade garnered for this specialized Wholesaler in this category at the Opal Awards.
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
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
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
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.”