Southern World Vacations

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Southern World Vacations

Southern World Vacations Premier inbound tourism operator for Australia, New Zealand and Fiji Islands

Southern World is a highly regarded and industry recognised provider of a wide range of inbound services across the three major South Pacific destinations. Our dedication to service and quality is combined with destination knowledge second to none. The Southern World team are carefully selected for their destination passion, product knowledge and industry experience, with on-going training and edu

cational style famils to ensure the full team keep pace with changing quality and new opportunities within the market. We are proud to have a focused and loyal team who take pride in using their wealth of knowledge to showcase the best of their country and ensure your clients have an unforgettable South Pacific experience. Southern World's dedicated Customer Service Managers ensure superior levels of customer support and welfare whilst in destination. We spend the time to ensure your clients feel welcomed and have the facilities available to contact any of our offices 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year should the need arise. Southern World does not promote services direct to the consumer, our focus is support to travel industry partners through a full range of ground services and products, with 24 hours personalised service to ensure complete satisfaction for their travelling clients. Southern World is privately owned with all company directors involved and working in the business on a daily basis. We remain one of the very few commonly owned and branded Inbound Tour Operators that have full service operations in New Zealand, Australia and Fiji as well as Sales Teams in North American and UK/Europe. We are full members and active participants in our respective inbound associations and have representatives on the Australia & New Zealand national boards.

27/02/2025

After months of careful restoration, Huka Lodge, Taupo is welcoming guests once again come March 01. One of our New Zealand Directors, Tim Reid is currently on site to mark the occasion and experience the refreshed spaces firsthand. The essence of Huka Lodge remains unchanged—tranquil riverside beauty, warm hospitality, and thoughtful details at every turn—now with a renewed sense of style. With new interiors in the main lodge and restaurant. As well as the Huka Spa wellness grounds offering two treatment rooms, sauna, gym, exhilarating ice contrast shower and a steaming hot plunge pool.

20/02/2025

Larissa in our Australian FIT Department recently stayed at Bay Breeze Boutique Accommodation (in a Premium Waterfront Room) at Batemans Bay on the stunning New South Wales South Coast.

Her opinion of the property was “absolutely a must property to stay at for anyone visiting this area and/or doing the Sydney to Melbourne (or vice versa) Coastal Route. It is lovely, great location, clean, large room and great view.”

This 4 star retro motel style property is located in the centre of Batemans Bay, on the quiet coastal promenade away from the traffic, and has direct access to a selection of restaurants and cafés. There is a shopping centre and cinema 500 metres away. The exterior of the property features breezeblocks, archways, terracotta tones and prickly pear plantings. The 13 x light filled guest rooms feature tasteful designer finishes and touches, restful colour schemes, superior white linens, and exotic wooden furniture. Some room types have a private balcony (including the one Larissa stayed in).

06/02/2025

Our Australian Product Manager, Anna, recently visited Paperbark Camp on the New South Wales South Coast. This property is located 4 kilometres from Huskisson, where the Currrambene Creek meets Jervis Bay. It is set amongst soaring eucalypts and intriguing paperbark trees, the canvas safari style tents offer privacy and comfort whilst providing a truly unique bush ‘camping’ experience. The tents are built off the ground on their own timber platform, providing natural ventilation and the perfect spot to read a book, a massage or just watching the local birdlife. Solar-powered lighting, insect screens, and your own indoor/outdoor ensuite with hot shower ensure this will be a holiday like no other! For the ultimate in luxury camping, spoil yourself in one of the two deluxe tents tucked away from the main camp and featuring a large private verandah with lounge, outdoor ensuite with free standing bath-with-a-view and the latest in contemporary furnishings.

Anna discovered that the property has some easy walking trails that meander through paperbark, gum, and mangrove forests, perfect for a stroll before breakfast—a great time for spotting kangaroos. Bikes are also available and are an eco-friendly way to explore the local are. Although Anna didn’t have time, for those seeking a bit of soft adventure they can take the Paperbark Challenge and canoe to Huskisson and back, stopping off for a picnic and a swim on the banks of the Currambene Creek.

30/01/2025

Autumn in New Zealand is the perfect time to explore as its stunning landscapes turn golden. The scenery transforms with vibrant red, orange, and gold hues, particularly in regions like Queenstown, Arrowtown, and Central Otago. Without the summer visitors, popular attractions and scenic trails offer a different serene experience. The mild temperatures provide suitable conditions for activities like hiking, kayaking, and vineyard tours. Whether it’s a scenic road trip or a relaxing escape, autumn in New Zealand is a truly magical time to visit.

15/01/2025

Southern World is delighted to announce the appointment of Hadyn Fitzpatrick as Vice President of Sales for North America, effective March 2025.

Hadyn will join Southern World’s respected US sales team, working alongside Peter Askin and Aidan Askin, and brings a wealth of experience and industry knowledge to this key leadership role. Aidan’s role also recently elevated to Sales Manager North America to underscore the importance of this market to Southern World.

Hadyn joins Southern World from 100% Pure New Zealand where he has served as Premium Trade Manager – North America since 2014.

Hadyn’s extensive industry experience also includes pivotal roles with AJ Hackett Bungy Queenstown, Saffire Freycinet Tasmania, and Over The Top Helicopters Queenstown. Hadyn’s expertise and deep understanding of the premium travel market position him well to represent Southern World’s inbound businesses to Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji.

Southern World’s in-market representation across the Americas and UK/Europe has been a cornerstone of our growth and success in delivering exceptional inbound travel experiences on behalf of our clients. Hadyn’s appointment reinforces our commitment to excellence and innovation in destination management services for Premium FIT, FIT, Group, Special Interest, and incentive travellers.

Commenting on his new role, Hadyn said: ‘I have greatly enjoyed working with Southern World in multiple roles over the years and excited to join their talented team to deliver unforgettable experiences for travellers exploring Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji.’

Hadyn and his family will remain based in the US, where he will work closely with Southern World’s operational teams in Sydney, Auckland, and Nadi to further strengthen our market-leading position.

Please join us in warmly welcoming Hadyn to the Southern World team. From March 5, 2025, Hadyn can be reached at [email protected]

14/01/2025

This month Shannon one of our Senior Destination Specialist’s enjoyed a couple of nights at Solitaire Lodge in Rotorua. This luxury property sits on the shores of Lake Tarawera with captivating views. This is the perfect location for relaxation or an active escape with activities available from the lodge. Shannon enjoyed kayaking, the thermal springs and the Tarawera Falls hike along with plenty of good food.

18/12/2024

As the Pohutukawa (New Zealand Christmas Tree) blooms, signalling the start of another New Zealand summer, the team at Southern World New Zealand would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and thank you for your support. Without the support of our loyal agents around the world and our amazing suppliers based throughout New Zealand, we wouldn’t be able to do what we love doing in making clients dreams come true with their New Zealand itineraries.

13/12/2024

Merry Christmas from the Southern World Australia Team 🎄🎅🏻🎄🎅🏻

First 📷 :
Top Row L to R: Rafael, Leslie, Derek, Yoshi, David, & Larissa
Middle Row L to R: Kathy, Maria, Nicole, Kim, Kasia, Helen, Donna, Anna, & Ruben
Bottom Row L to R: Tania, Sian, Carolina, Merinda, Sue, Yumi, Elsa, & Kanako

06/12/2024

Last week, Daniel traveled to Hawke’s Bay to explore the region on a famil, hosted by Hawke’s Bay Tourism. The visit showcased Hawke’s Bay’s unique attractions—staying in luxury lodges, indulging in world-class wine and cuisine, immersing in rich Māori culture, encountering unique wildlife, enjoying scenic e-biking trails, and stepping back in time with an Art Deco vintage car tour. A highlight of the trip was attending Taste Hastings, the award-winning event recently recognized as the Best Food, Beverage, or Lifestyle Event at the 2024 New Zealand Event Association Awards.

28/11/2024

Our Australian Product Manager, Anna, recently experienced within the South-East pylon of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.

This GROUP only product is an exclusive after-hours culinary adventure, which pairs highly acclaimed Australian chef Luke Mangan’s signature cuisine with breathtaking harbour views - North over the bridge, to the East the Sydney Opera House and Harbour, to the South Circular Quay and the city centre, and to the West the setting sun.

The 1.5 hour dinner experience begins with a welcome cocktail before guests ascend 200 steps to discover the Bridge’s fascinating story.

The dining experience is located 87 metres above sea level, with dinner featuring a curated 3 course menu for up to 20 guests seated on a communal table.

Alternatively, breakfast is also available for group bookings up to 50 guests.

For bookings, please contact our Sydney Groups Team.

15/11/2024

Recently our Australian Product Manager, Anna, and Denise from FIT Team, attended the Australian Tourism Export Council’s Meeting Place on the Gold Coast. It was a great opportunity for both of them to have an update from our existing suppliers and learn about some new export ready suppliers.

08/11/2024

While the Humpridge Track has made waves as New Zealand’s newest Great Walk, have you heard about the Hollyford Wilderness Experience? Nestled in Fiordland National Park, the Hollyford is a team favourite—a top multi-day guided walk that offers an unmatched blend of rugged beauty, rich Māori heritage, and pristine wilderness.

This 4-day, 3-night guided journey through the Hollyford Valley is ideal for clients seeking a unique, immersive experience. The track leads through ancient forests, along glacier-fed rivers, and out to the stunning coastline of Martins Bay. With experienced guides, cozy accommodations, and hearty meals, this all-inclusive adventure provides a true wilderness experience with a touch of luxury. Plus, new hot tubs at Waitai Lodge offer the perfect way to unwind after a day of tramping! Alongside breathtaking tramping trails, clients will also enjoy a thrilling jet boat ride and a scenic helicopter flight over Milford Sound.

With group sizes capped at 16 (compared to 50 on the Milford Track), guests can expect a more intimate, personalized adventure. There’s still space available this summer—reach out to learn more about why the Hollyford is the perfect choice for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers!

29/10/2024

Proudly supported by Destination NSW, Belgian surrealist René Magritte (1898–1967) has taken centre stage at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. David and Sian attended the official opening last Friday, which is exclusive to Sydney. Magritte features more than 100 works mainly from private collections, with the majority never been seen in Australia. It journeys from the artist’s first avant-garde explorations and commercial works in the 1920’s, to his groundbreaking contributions to surrealism, his surprising provocations of the 1940’s, and the renowned paintings of his final years, before his death in 1967. The amazing collection of works is showing until Sunday 9 February 2025. Contact our Reservations Team for more information.

17/10/2024

David and Sian recently stayed at the stunning 5 star adults only located just 20 minutes from Adelaide and only 30 minutes from Adelaide Airport.

The Lodge sits on the side of Mount Lofty, high above the Piccadilly Valley in the Adelaide Hills, and has been designed as a private sanctuary with many exclusive amenities and bespoke onsite and personalised offsite activities. Part of the Lodge’s philosophy is to connect you with the land and its people through a range of intimate and curated on-site experiences that are included in your stay. As part of these daily and seasonally changing experiences, guests can listen to ancient dreamtime stories, savour and learn from artisan winemakers, enjoy a sunrise yoga session or join a guided nature walk of the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden, or simply sit back and relax in one of our artesian spring-fed hot pools overlooking the breathtaking Piccadilly Valley.

The 14 suites curve graciously along the ridgeline and have been brought to life by local suppliers, craftsmen and artisans, creating a tranquil oasis with a calming colour palette punctuated by warm accents of wood and stone. They exude a refined elegance with a sunken lounge room with stone-clad gas fireplace, and an East facing panoramic balcony with expansive daybed, perfect for a allowing the 180-degree valley views to take centre stage.

The three chef’s hatted Fine Dining Restaurant, Hardy’s Verandah, is less than a 100 metres stroll from the guests suites. David and Sian indulgenced in the degustation menu and explored the wines from the Adelaide Hills, Barossa and McLaren Vale wine regions, curated by the in-house Sommelier. Afterall, nowhere else in the world are there four world-class wine regions found within a 50 kilometre radius.

This is a property that should be in your client’s itineraries, when they are visiting South Australia.

09/10/2024

In September, one of our Destination Specialist’s Olivia, was fortunate enough to partake in the West Coast Little Luxuries Famil hosted by Development West Coast. The week began with a hosted dinner at The George hotel in Christchurch, a good opportunity for the group to get to know one another before the hectic week ahead! They visited properties and key stops throughout the week: Punakaiki, Hokitika, Greymouth, Franz Josef, Fox Glacier and Haast. The true nature of the West Coast put on a show for the group as they were immersed in the untamed weather of the rainforest; rain, sun, wind, rainbows and snow.

03/10/2024

In case you missed The Kelly Clarkson Show last week, something BIG is opening in Bluey's home town of Visit Brisbane in November! Wackadoo!

The voice of Bluey's Mum Chilli, Melanie Zanetti, has been shouting it from the rooftops of New York !

24/09/2024

The Auckland office has been busy the last couple of weeks with hotel site inspections. Pictured at Nesuto Stadium: Rie, Sherry, Nathan, Yaelle and Sue.

The groups department also had a site visit at JW Marriott, pictured: Ange, Ian and Manuela.

Meanwhile over in Chicago Pete and Aidan welcomed some Kiwi RTO’s (Regional Tourism Organizations) for a visit!

18/09/2024

The Southern World Sydney office has been out and about recently undertaking a hosted breakfast site inspection at Swissotel Sydney. This 5 star property is located in the heart of Sydney’s city centre, surrounded by the city’s finest shopping destinations, the Queen Victoria Building and the State Theatre as well as being a short distance from the Light rail Station. The 369 guest rooms are generous in size, with large windows to let in the natural light, blackout curtains and optimal sound-proofing.

Address

38 Ireland Street
Auckland
1011

Website

http://www.southernworld.com/

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Videos

Rush hour on the West Coast of the South Island… Many of you will remember Geoff Marks from his days at Lake Wanaka Tourism… Geoff recently joined Development West Coast and encountered these Tawaki (Fiordland Crested Penguins) on his commute. You can spot Tawaki at Munro Beach, near Lake Moeraki 30km north of Haast on the West Coast. A walking track leads from Lake Moeraki to the beach, and guided tours are conducted from Wilderness Lodges of New Zealand (the Lake Moeraki property). Tawaki can also be seen at Jackson Bay, further south. The best time of year to see Tawaki is during the breeding season from July to November. They can sometimes be seen during the moulting season from mid-January to early March. Tawaki are very timid, so do not approach birds, nests or areas of beach where penguin tracks are common. Photo/video credit: Geoff Marks

Emma in our New Zealand team made the most of the sunny weather last weekend and headed to Waiheke Island for some zip lining high above the vineyards and ancient forest canopies with stunning views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. Emma’s clip shows a snipped of the full experience. Not only does EcoZip Flying Fox Adventures offer an award winning, adventurous, state-of-the-art flying fox experience (three separate twin cable ziplines allow two people to fly side by side). Conservation is at the heart of their visitor experience and EcoZip Flying Fox Adventures contributes a portion of each visitor fee directly to the preservation and protection of the rainforest beneath their ziplines. Ziplining is followed by a guided nature walk through the said forest with commentary on the its restoration and preservation. A great activity for nature lovers, adventure-seekers, families and couples alike.

Waterfalls in Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory: March 2021

The stunning beauty of waterfalls in Litchfield National Park

DartRiverAdventures and Funyaks

We’re absolutely stoked that Dart River Adventures and Funyaks will both resume operations from early summer – an exhilarating and spectacular journey from Glenorchy deep into the heart of world-renowned Mount Aspiring National Park.

Can’t get enough of these winter sunsets at Crowne Plaza Coogee Beach in Sydney’s eastern suburbs 📷 @tracy_g07 @cpcoogeebeach

Welcoming in the New Year on stunning Sydney Harbour ! 🎉🎉

Discover Aboriginal Experiences - An Australian Signature Experience

Discover Aboriginal Experiences is a collective of quality, authentic Aboriginal guided tourism offerings. This collective is part of Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences of Australia Program that packages and promotes Australia’s outstanding Aboriginal tourism products. Aboriginal guides are warm, welcoming and extremely generous of spirit. They are keen to share their stories, provide insight into their culture and bring the landscape to life allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation of Australia.

Great Golf Courses of Australia

Great Golf Courses of Australia, is a collaborative marketing partnership between Tourism Australia and the Golf Industry. Boasting a rich golf tradition, Australia’s spectacular golf tracks include seven courses that are listed in the top 100 in the world, works by acclaimed golf architects – including Dr Alister MacKenzie, Tom Doak, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw – coastal links courses and the championship routes of the prestigious Melbourne Sandbelt.

Great Walks of Australia

Great Walks of Australia is an exclusive collection of independently owned, multiday guided hiking experiences, highlighting the best walks that Australia offers. All walk operators deliver unparalleled opportunities to experience the Australian landscape up close, in depth, and on foot with the utmost in comfort and style.