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Jan 2021: Happy New Year from Memories Connection!

Hi!

Happy New Year! I hope you had a chance to switch off, even if it was just for a couple of days, and celebrate the end of 2020 with friends and family.

Over the break, I was able to tick off a few more destinations off my bucket list! We headed down to Te Anau – taking in the local sights that international tourists travel half way around the world to visit!  We visited Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and the Te Anau Glowworms – Wow. The weather was great, and the views spectacular.

We then ‘flew overseas’ over to Stewart Island, with 9 flights a day, we had one all to ourselves, our own Scenic flight!!  We talk about going to Canada/Alaska and seeing the Big 5 animals, bears, moose etc… On Stewart Island we called it the big 10.  Every day we saw up close amazing ‘just over there’ wildlife.  Highlights were Dolphins, seals, blue penguins, Tui, Kaka, Keruru (NZ Wood Pigeon), and a Kiwi!!  After the amazing weather, we got ‘stuck’ on the other side of Oamaru with the rain and swollen rivers, not being able to get ‘home’ to Timaru. All part of the adventure of travelling they say!!  

I have talked to many who are making the most of our New Zealand ‘tourist’ free hotspots. Do you have a bucket list New Zealand holiday that we can make the dream happen? We are still creating ‘domestic’ Travel Memories!

Here are a few photos of our ‘Overseas’ bucket list holiday. Or head to my Facebook page to see the whole story.  To keep up with the latest, like our Facebook page. 
As I mentioned before Christmas, New Year sales are a bit different this year, so I have compiled a few great domestic deals, and an incredible all-inclusive Antarctica cruise, below for you! If you have something else in mind, please let me know, so I can keep an eye out for you and we can start planning those incredible trips together as soon as possible! 

I have included another little update about what is going on in the travel industry, including some updates regarding the new entry requirements for travellers coming into New Zealand. 

Internationally there has been surge in popularity of the humble Campervan, RV, Motorhome (wording depends on what part of the world you come from!) holiday.

It is seen as a great way to explore the local areas, and stop and start where you like! With this popularity and the Covid19 impact on the local tourism industry, campervan deals have been coming across my desk over recent months. The deals are based on supply and demand – so the earlier you book, the better ‘earlybird’ deal available.

So do you have a Memories Connection Credit you wish to use, or are you thinking what ‘family fun’ you can have in the July school holidays, or maybe you’re hampering for a ‘different’ holiday; with a slower pace meeting the locals and setting your own itinerary is for you.  Contact me to talk more about Campervan possibilities to enjoy the beautiful North or South Islands of New Zealand. 

Finally, you may have seen that just before Christmas, Ponant Cruises were granted approval from the government to begin cruises around New Zealand, exclusively for New Zealanders, starting next month! The four cruises they have launched with have proved incredibly popular, being very close to sold out before they had even been officially granted approval. 

I have included their itineraries down below, if you are interested in trying to get one of the few remaining spaces on these sailings, or would like me to let you know when more sailings are announced, please let me know ASAP. 
Kind regards,

Brigitte,


phone: +64 3 688 8486
mob: +64 27 233 3027
travel@memoriesconnection.co.nz
www.memoriesconnection.co.nz

Travel Update

 

Travellers from the United Kingdom and the United States arriving in New Zealand after 11.59pm on 15 January, will be required to get a negative test result for COVID-19 before departing.

This pre-departure test requirement will soon expand to all countries and territories excluding Australia, Antarctica, and some Pacific Island nations.

This is becoming an increasingly popular requirement worldwide, with similar procedures put in place in Australia and the United Kingdom.

There is no further update on any of the travel bubbles, so fingers crossed there is still lots of hard work going on behind the scenes, to get the Cook Island and Australia travel bubbles up and running within the first quarter.

Finally, in some more positive news, the COVID-19 vaccines have begun to be distributed and administered worldwide! More than 30 million doses in 43 countries have been administered already, with that number growing daily. Hopefully, as these numbers rise, and cases begin to slow, we will be able to get back to safely travelling the world!

The Latest Travel Specials

3-Day Abel Tasman Family Fun

Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest national park, perfect for the family weekend away combining simple relaxation with coastal adventure. Spend two nights in a self-contained chalet, located 5-minutes' walk from the pristine waters of Abel Tasman. Explore the safe & sheltered waters by kayak as you paddle past golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, sea caves & native wildlife.
 
2 Nights From $1199* per family (2 Ad + 2 CH)

Includes
  • 2 nights at Abel Tasman Lodge in a comfortable 2 Bedroom Chalet
  • Unlimited Hotel WiFi
  • Half Day Guided Kayak Family Adventure
Travel Dates: 01 January 2021 - 31 March 2021 (For stays between 01 January - 28 February, price from $1,275 Per Family)
 
*Terms and Conditions Apply, Sale Ends 31 March 2021

3-Day Rotorua Family
Fun

Visit Rotorua and discover a destination with sparkling lakes, beautiful forests & geothermal landscapes. Immerse in New Zealand’s original geothermal bathing experience including a supervised family swimming pool. Explore the city by land & water aboard the iconic Rotorua Duck. Experience the world’s longest living treewalk located in the majestic Whakarewarewa Forest.
 
2 Nights From $860* per family (2 Ad + 2 CH)


Includes
  • 2 nights at Aura Accommodation Rotorua in a 2 Bedroom Unit
  • Rotorua City & Lakes Duck Tour
  • Family Admission to Polynesian Spa
  • Daytime Redwoods Treewalk Family Pass
Travel Dates: 01 January 2021 - 31 March 2021 
 
*Terms and Conditions Apply, Sale Ends 31 March 2021

Waiheke Wineries

 
Waiheke beachside accommodation located right on Onetangi Beach, the most beautiful beach in the Auckland region. Known as ‘New Zealand’s Island of Wine’, Waiheke has become home to a dedicated group of award-winning wine producers. With a unique micro-climate and the winemakers’ philosophy of “small is beautiful”, Waiheke has produced some of New Zealand’s most prestigious wines.
 
2 Nights From $457* per person, twin share

Includes
  • 2 nights accommodation at Onetangi Beach Apartments
  • Free unlimited Wi-Fi
  • Free use of beach towels and Courtyard Spa Pool
  • 5 hour Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour

Return ferry tickets are not included but may be added for an additional cost. Please enquire for pricing.


Travel Dates: 11 January - 31 March  2021
 
*Terms and Conditions Apply, Sale Ends 31 January 2021

Luxury on the Edge of Wilderness

Recharge on the edge of the wilderness of Fiordland National Park and Mt Aspiring National Park in these iconic eco properties. Enjoy two incredible nights at the commanding Fiordland Lodge overlooking Lake Te Anau and two nights at Camp Glenorchy, a property that aims to create a destination that educates, inspires, and delights its visitors.

 
4 Nights From $1129* per person, twin share

Includes
  • 2 nights at Camp Glenorchy with continental breakfast
  • Cheeseboard & bottle Pinot Noir 
  • NZ$100* voucher at Mrs Woolly’s General Store
  • 2 nights at Fiordland Lodge with full breakfast
  • Pre-dinner canapes each evening at Fiordland Lodge
  • Open pantry at Fiordland Lodge
  • Hot Tub Experience
  • Faith in Fiordland Exploration Cruise on Lake Te Anau
Travel Dates: 01 January 2021 - 30 April 2021
 
*Terms and Conditions Apply, Sale Ends 30 April 2021

Ponant Cruising in New Zealand


Following months of engagement with New Zealand's Ministry of Health, PONANT has received approval for its small luxury expedition vessel, Le Lapérouse to recommence operations exclusively in New Zealand waters, for New Zealanders from February 2021.

Their first four itineraries can be found below:
All Ponant Cruises Include: 
  • Cruise onboard a modern, luxury ship flying the French Flag
  • Luxurious small ship experience with a maximum of 100 New Zealand guests
  • Stylish staterooms decorated by French interior designers, with King-size or twin beds and a private balcony or terrace
  • Superb dining with all-inclusive Gastronomic and Grill Restaurant
  • Open bar¹ including French champagne, wine, beer, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages; includes your in-room minibar
  • Complimentary unlimited onboard Wi-Fi²
  • Captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner
  • Light entertainment including musicians
  • Room service 24hours (special selection)
  • Hermès® bath products
  • Access to Infinity pool, gymnasium, and scenic sauna
  • Zodiac outings and shore visits with your Expedition Team

If you would like to know more about these cruises, or their future cruises, contact me today!

Highlights of the Frozen Continent

Antarctica is a bucket list destination for many. It’s a once in a lifetime must-see destination due to its unique and untouched scenery of icebergs and glaciers. A frozen landscape teeming with fantastic wildlife: penguins, seals, whales, and birds.

Choose to sail onboard the world’s first hybrid-powered ships, Hurtigruten is the most sustainable choice with one of the lowest CO2- footprints of all expedition voyages to this region.

This classic Antarctica all-inclusive expedition cruise is the perfect way to experience spectacular wildlife and natural beauty. Enjoy five full days in Antarctica with landings and ice-boat cruising, as well as chances to kayak, hike, and much more. 
 
14 Days from 10,999* per person, twin share

Includes
  • International Economy Class flights from Auckland or Christchurch
  • Local charter flights
  • Extra Pre and Post Accommodation
  • All Transfers
  • Expedition jacket & environmentally friendly reusable water bottle
  • Free WIFI
  • Premium onboard inclusions
  • Mealtime drinks package
  • Book with Confidence offer* (only available for bookings made by 31 January 2021)
  • Landings, activities, and expedition boat cruising
  • Citizen Science Project participation and lectures
*Terms and Conditions Apply, Sale Ends 20 February 2021
Able Tasman Terms and Conditions: *Package price is based on 2 Adults & 2 Children (5-13 years), priced in New Zealand Dollars. Pricing is correct at the time of submission but is subject to change without notice. Valid for travel from 01 January 2021 - 31 March 2021. Abel Tasman Lodge high season surcharge of $76 applies to stays from 01 January to 28 Feb 2021 and not included in advertised price. Domestic Flights not included. Blackout periods and surcharges may apply over special event periods and over school holidays. Inclusions are subject to change based on supplier operational capabilities and weather conditions.

Rotorua Family Terms and Conditions: *Package price is based on 2 Adults & 2 Children (5-11 years), priced in New Zealand Dollars. Pricing is correct at the time of submission but is subject to change without notice. Valid for travel from 01 January 2021 - 31 March 2021. Domestic Flights not included. Blackout periods and surcharges may apply over special event periods and over school holidays. Inclusions are subject to change based on supplier operational capabilities and weather conditions.

Waiheke Wineries Terms and Conditions: *It is our policy to present the cost of our holidays inclusive of all airport and government charges. Please accept however that these charges are not within our control, therefore we reserve the right to pass on any increase. Travel agent professional service fees where charged, will be additional to the advertised prices. Closeout and blackout periods apply over school holidays and peak holiday periods & availability of seats & rooms is likely to be very limited over this time. Valid for sales to 31 Jan 2021. Valid for travel commenced and completed within the period 1 Jan 2021 to 31 Mar 2021 (unless otherwise specified). Accommodation Surcharges & Close outs may apply during Trade Fair periods / Special Events. For full terms and conditions and cancellation fees please contact your local travel agent for more information.

Luxury on the Edge Terms and Conditions: *Package price is based on 2 people and is priced in New Zealand Dollars. Pricing is correct at the time of submission but is subject to change without notice. Valid for travel from 01 January 2021 to 30 April 2021. Domestic Flights not included. Fiordland Lodge cancellation policy is as follows; within 31 days prior to arrival – 50% charge, within 15 days – 100% charge. Camp Glenorchy cancellation policy is as follows; within 30 days prior to arrival – 25% charge, within 2 days – 100% charge. For the following dates 01 January 2021 – 21 January 2021 a high season policy applies; within 30 days prior to arrival – 100% charge. Blackout periods may apply. Surcharges may apply over special event periods and over school holidays. *NZ$100 Voucher is based on total per room. No cash refund for any unused amount.

Ponant Terms and Conditions: *Open bar is for select alcoholic beverages, top shelf is not included. Internet access may be slower or in some situations interrupted, depending on certain geographic locations or other circumstances beyond our control

Antarctica All Inclusive Terms and Conditions: *Valid for departures between October 2021 to March 2023. ‘From’ price based on RS cabin on 7/3/22 departure. Book by 20 February 2021. Book With Confidence Policy applies for all bookings made by 31 January 2021. Departure Cities: AKL/CHC . Other departure cities available with a $300 per person supplement: WLG. Flight timings and routings only available approximately 10 to 11 months in advance. Standard Hurtigruten booking terms and conditions apply. Book with Confidence offer applies. Combinable with Ambassador, Covid-19 rebooking and back to back combination discounts. Transfers may be on a shared basis. International airfares based on economy class.

General Terms and Conditions: *Prices are correct at time of printing, subject to availability, currency fluctuation & may be amended or withdrawn at any time without notice. Amendment and cancellation fees apply. Travel Agent professional service fees may apply. Prices are in New Zealand dollars for payment by cash, cheque and eftpos only. We welcome all major credit cards however a credit card processing fee will apply. Whilst every care is taken to accurately present the information & pricing we reserve the right to correct any errors or omissions. Further terms and conditions apply. Contact us for further details.