New Zealand And Cook Islands Blog

A group of intrepid New Zealanders are undertaking an amazing and some say perilous journey across the Pacific Ocean to Easter Island. They are sailing in a traditional waka hourua (double-hulled sailing canoes) without GPS or modern navigational tools, in a bid to retrace and revitalise the steps of their ancestors in Maori history; the crew are using only the stars and moon with ocean currents to guide them. Traditional methods of navigation waned soon after European settlement in the Pacific.

Deep in the South Seas, the most southerly of the Cook Islands has the distinction of being the oldest island in the Pacific. Analysis of its geology shows it dates from 18 million years ago Steeped with legends and myths, its age, structure and ancient artifacts have for decades meant this unique tropical island has become a Mecca for archaeologists and anthropologists... Mangaia’s remarkable natural beauty and serenity are only part of its fascination…

One good thing about heading our way for the festive season. We never have a white Christmas and the majority of our New Years Eve Parties are on a beach! 

For those planning a holiday in the South Pacific between December 2011 and March 2012 it’s going to be a great time to be here for a summer holiday.

A long, hot, dry summer is on the way thanks to a returning La Nina weather pattern. Scientists say this year's La Nina is weaker than last year's so temperatures may not quite reach the highs of last summer which is probably a good thing….

In New Zealand Last summer was a record-breaker with heatwaves creating the hottest February on record for Auckland and Nelson.

PAYING by PLASTIC in NEW ZEALAND - There is plenty of advice on exchange fee’s, effective concealment when on the road etc… But here are three situations that can really derail your holiday and leave you up that proverbial creek or billabong.