Active Downunder

12/07/2024

Break up your journey to New Zealand or Australia with a stop in Fiji, where the strong USD stretches further. Discover pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and sailing, world-class surfing, and the famously warm hospitality of the Fijian people. Fiji offers a laid-back, unique vibe compared to Hawaii—less crowded, more affordable, and equally stunning. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Fiji is the perfect tropical escape to enrich your South Pacific travels.

12/04/2024

New Zealand boasts 10 stunning wine regions, each offering unique experiences for wine lovers. Stay at one of our luxury wine retreats, such as the Marlborough Lodge. Once an old convent, it has been transformed into a grand country estate nestled among the vineyards. Immerse yourself in unforgettable wine experiences, including:

* Cycling through picturesque vineyards.

* Sailing the pristine Marlborough Sounds.

* Enjoying fresh greenshell mussels straight from the water, perfectly paired with a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

* A private "meet the winemaker" experience for an insider's perspective.

Many vineyards also feature charming cellar doors and exquisite on-site restaurants, perfect for indulging in New Zealand's world-renowned wines and cuisine. Let us help you plan the ultimate wine escape!

10/30/2024

The Great Ocean Road was built by hand by Australian soldiers who returned from WWI and needed work during the Great Depression. It took 14 years to complete and is now one of the world's largest war memorials.

10/15/2024

Did you know the Great Barrier Reef is the only place in the world that you can swim with dwarf minke whales: an experience so exclusive it only happens for two months of the year and only in Cairns and Great Barrier Reef region.

09/27/2024

New Zealand: A Golfer's Dream Destination. Escape the winter, keep your game alive by heading downunder. Check out our golfing article
https://www.activedownunder.com/post/new-zealand-a-golfer-s-dream-destination

08/30/2024

Read our latest blog post https://wix.to/Z2ULwZl

Embark on a breathtaking adventure with the top 8 hiking trails in New Zealand. From volcanic terrains to coastal vistas, immerse yourself in nature.

07/24/2024

Our latest newsletter:

New Zealand - Cool-cation on the Fiords, Glaciers, Sailing & Tasmania

https://conta.cc/3XRMaV9

Travel to New Zealand, Australia, Fiji and afar Designing New Zealand, Australia & Island Vacations, One Trip at a time Kia Ora & G'day! New Zealand and Australia are flip flop seasons to the US, so

06/05/2024

You're invited to an amazing event on June 19th at the Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel, CA!

Enjoy an exclusive preview of The Fifth Avenue Club; learn about the South Pacific and Antarctica; hear the latest from Silversea Cruises and be in the draw to WIN 2 free tickets in Premium Economy to any South Pacific destination served by United Airlines. Champagne and lite bites served.

RSVP now!
https://adnz.wufoo.com/forms/rsvp-journeys-in-style/

05/21/2024

We just returned from exploring the West Coast of New Zealand including a heli hike on Fox Glacier (one of NZ's 3000 glaciers) where we explored a moulin (glacier mill). A moulin is a roughly circular, vertical (or nearly vertical) well-like shaft formed where the surface melt stream exploits a weakness in the ice. New Zealand is one of the only places in the world where the rainforest meets the glacier.

04/09/2024

Fiji epitomizes the perfect blend of adventure and romance, offering thrilling activities like snorkeling, rafting and zip-lining through lush rainforests for adventure seekers. Its secluded beaches, luxurious overwater bungalows, and sunset cruises create intimate moments for romance. Warm hospitality and rich cultural experiences, including traditional ceremonies and authentic cuisine, add to Fiji's allure. Whether diving into crystal-clear waters or enjoying private beach picnics, Fiji provides the ideal setting for unforgettable adventures and cherished romantic getaways in its stunning tropical paradise.

04/05/2024

Heart Reef in The Whitsundays is a stunning natural composition of coral in the perfect shape of a heart. It is located in Hardy Reef, part of The Whitsundays stretch of the Great Barrier Reef. Heart Reef has been the site of many proposals and declarations of love over the years. Because Heart Reef is in a protected reef, the only way to visit the Heart Reef is by air. A scenic flight by helicopter or seaplane provides the ultimate panoramic view of this special section of the reef. You will only soar over the reef, as you cannot land anywhere in this part of the reef. But you can book flights that land on nearby Whitehaven Beach.

02/14/2024

Bay of Islands is located approx 3.5hr drive north of Auckland. It encompasses more than 140 subtropical islands offering undeveloped beaches, big-game fishing, sheltered coves for sailing and calm waters for water activities. Ancient Kauri trees are found in nearby forests. Known for fabulous produce, you'll find plenty of local artisans. It's also home to the 19th-century whaling port of Russell, whose waterfront promenade is lined with remnants from its days as the country’s first colonial capital. (Many US visitors draw comparisons of Russell to Martha's Vineyard). It is considered the 'Birthplace of the Nation'. At Waitangi Treaty Grounds you can learn about NZ history and see Maori Cultural artefacts. Of note for golfers, Kauri Cliffs Golf Course (in picture) is located here and a highlight for avid golfers. It is a stunning region to start or finish your trip.

02/03/2024

Here's this months newsletter, including Switzerland - it's not just Federer, chocolate, fondue and watches - but, you can also enjoy those too! We'd love you to take our poll and tell us what's on your bucket list!

Travel to New Zealand, Australia, Fiji and afar Designing New Zealand, Australia & Island Vacations, One Trip at a time Kia Ora & G'day! It's no surprise Tasmania and New Zealand By Train both made t

01/17/2024

A unique and epic experience, explore the wonders of Australia’s vast interior with one of the world’s most renowned rail journeys – The Ghan Expedition from Darwin to Adelaide.

There’s nothing like putting down your suitcase and allowing your journey to simply unfold. Once you step aboard, you can relax, knowing everything has been considered and included in your fare.

Onboard you will find sumptuous dining, elegant private cabins, attentive service, and the camaraderie of your fellow travellers. And when the train stops, the adventures begin Enjoy a wide range of immersive off train experiences. The hardest decision you’ll need to make is what to have for lunch and which experience to join. Departs Wed-Sat, (Apr - Oct), 4 days/3 nights.

01/03/2024

Heron Island and the Great Barrier Reef are a significant nesting location for two threatened sea turtle species, the Green Turtle and the Loggerhead Turtle. Nesting season occurs from November to March each year, with hatchlings beginning to emerge in early January. Most nesting turtles will begin to come up on the beaches around the high tide of a night time, some turtles may still be on the beaches finishing the nesting process when the sun rises in the morning.

01/01/2024

I’m often asked which fiord to see and why we call it a fiord, when it’s named a sound? In this article I answer those questions and more.

Let us share our insight into the differences of Milford and Doubtful Sound - these dramatic glacial carved fiords in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand so you decide which to visit.

12/29/2023

Located at the top of the North Island (3.5hrs drive north of Auckland) the Bay of Islands is a New Zealand enclave encompassing more than 140 subtropical islands. It’s known for its undeveloped beaches, big-game fishing and Maori cultural artefacts. It's also home to the 19th-century whaling port of Russell, whose waterfront promenade is lined with remnants from its days as the country’s first colonial capital. Embark on a voyage of discovery and enjoy the beauty of this area when you join a daily cruise, charter a yacht or hire a sea kayak. Once you’re around Tapeka Point - just north of Russell - you’ll enter a maritime adventure playground with an abundance of wildlife including penguins, dolphins, marlin, whales, gannets and more. Many of the islands here have walking tracks.

12/26/2023

Early bird gets the worm! Start planning now for your trip downunder. Give us a call to chat about your ideal vacation. We will then work our magic and design a trip to match your travel style, budget and desires.