By Simon Kay, Regional General Manager, South Pacific
During your time in Rotorua, discover the region’s natural geysers and thermal pools.
One of the things I love most about living in the South Pacific is being among people with a joyful and resilient spirit—from the Maori who carry on the rich traditions of an ancient culture to the weathered ranch hands of the Outback. Those of you who have visited this part of the world have probably experienced this for yourself.
That’s why when Christchurch, New Zealand, suffered a devastating earthquake in February, I knew the spirit of the local people would persevere. And that’s exactly what I’m seeing unfold there now, as the city rebuilds and looks toward the future.
But rebuilding takes time, and while Christchurch recovers, we’re altering the itinerary of our Australia, New Zealand & Fiji Escorted Tour. With our new itinerary, we’re pleased to continue to offer great discoveries in the South Pacific—and we’re excited to showcase a part of New Zealand that we hadn’t before.
First, we’re now including an additional night in Sydney, Australia. The extra time at leisure allows you to get to know Australia’s largest and oldest city even better—from sprawling Hyde Park to the world-renowned Sydney Zoo.
Then, later in the itinerary, you’ll take an internal flight to New Zealand’s North Island, where you’ll spend two nights in Rotorua. Located on the shores of the lake that shares its name, Rotorua initially started as a small Maori settlement, and today, it has blossomed into a center of Maori culture—which you’ll discover during an included city tour and a visit to the Rotorua Museum. Mingle with the locals during an exclusive Discovery Series visit to a local Ohinemutu village and a Home-Hosted Dinner with a Rotorua family. And during your time at leisure, be sure to soak in Rotorua’s natural thermal pools.
While in Rotorua, you might even join an optional evening at the cultural center of Te Puia, featuring a visit to New Zealand’s national carving and weaving schools; a tour of natural geysers and thermal pools; and a traditional dinner with Maori storytelling and entertainment.
The rest of our popular South Pacific vacation stays the same, and features the great natural and cultural discoveries that we’ve always offered in this part of the world. I hope you’ll join us in exploring Australia, New Zealand & Fiji soon—and discover the enduring spirit of its people for yourself.
Encounter the wonders of the South Pacific—and the resilience of the locals—on our Australia, New Zealand & Fiji vacation.