4th October 2019

Have you ever thought about pinning a map to the wall and throwing a dart to choose your next holiday destination – A bit like a grown-up version of ‘pin the tail on the donkey’?! It might sound crazy, but just like the kid’s party favourite, this technique is full of fun and it’s a unique way to end up somewhere new and explore some of New Zealand’s beautiful regions that you might otherwise have disregarded. It’ll also give you a great dinner party story to tell about how you chose a minibreak destination….

With Labour weekend just around the corner, make the most of the spring weather, daylight savings and an extra day off work to take a minibreak wherever the dart lands – our team of experts can find your accommodation, and help with some fantastic experiences to ensure that you make the most of your time in each destination.

Whether it’s close to home, or a short plane journey to hop islands, domestic travel has never been easier, and Spring brings some fantastic savings and special offers to take advantage of. Wherever you end up, we have some very cool ideas to take the hassle away from your planning – all you have to worry about is throwing the dart hard enough to hit the map, and packing your bag! Here are our top choice favourite destinations to get you excited.

Bay of Islands

Think of the gorgeous climate and ocean breezes! Take a stroll along the promenade in Paihia, explore the local art galleries of Russell or indulge your tastebuds with a local market experience at The Old Packhouse Market in Keri Keri – taste local produce and listen to live music. On October 26th they are also hosting a night market event here.

There are plenty of gorgeous waterfront and seafood restaurants to choose from, but when we’re in the area we love to dine at Ake Ake Vineyard (tapas night on a Friday!), Alfrescos, or The Gables which is in a beautiful historic building.

Waiheke Island

Wander the aisles of vines at Waiheke’s wonderful wineries, or treat yourself to a long lazy Mediterranean inspired degustation menu at the fabulous Casita Miro (our favourite dining experience on the island). Relax on the beach, shop the designer boutiques, or challenge your family to some target practise with laser clay bird shooting at “wild on Waiheke” for the perfect long labour weekend minibreak!

For something special, Mudbrick and Cable bay offer great dining and views, for casual pub grub head to Oyster Inn. Casita Miro is an absolute must, but make sure you book in advance!

Hawke’s Bay

If you are an outdoor lover, why not hike Te Mata Peak for the stunning panoramic views (and a good workout) or grab your binoculars and spot the gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers. For a taste of the local community enjoy the quaint art deco architecture of Napier – Hawke’s Bay is a dream destination for foodies, art lovers and wine aficionados.

If it’s your first time in Hawke’s Bay head to Mission Estate Winery, but for something a little different we love MINT and Bistronomy in Napier.

Marlborough

A magical haven at the top of the South Island, enjoy award-winning wineries, coastal forest, beach coves and inlets and hiking. Take the e-bikes into the wineries, Get out on the water of the Marlborough Sounds by boat to collect an amazing array of fresh seafood to be cooked for your dinner or enjoy an unforgettable 72 hours is a day hike on Queen Charlotte walking track, serenaded by birdsong walk amongst native bush and fabulous views.

We love dining at Arbour for their beautiful plating and divine food, Scotch-Wine-Bar for scrummy sharing plates or Vines Village Café for a casual bite.

Wanaka

The fresh mountain air is calling – explore this lake side paradise, surrounded by some of New Zealand’s best short walks. If you are visiting over Labour weekend, there should still be some snow-capped mountains to offer a backdrop to the blossoming spring leaves which makes the vistas even more beautiful (if it’s possible).

For some casual bites, dine at Federal or Big Fig, and for a gorgeous dinner try Kika or Francesca’s. For a very special day our, why not book for lunch and a horse riding experience at Mahu Whenua.

Queenstown

Adrenaline junkie or nature lover, Queenstown has a lot to offer and is an ever evolving destination . With new restaurants and activities cropping up every day, it’s not hard for even the locals to find something new to explore, so even if you’ve been before, we invite you to re-visit and see what’s changed. Our new favourites include iFly indoor sky diving or the Nevis catapult (for the very “adventurous” amongst us). 

Dine at the newly opened Boardwalk, or try the new menu at The Stables in Arrowtown, which has recently changed ownership and offers a scrummy new menu.