Caught in the mid-year, New Zealand winter slump like us? Join us as we chat to some local celebs about their best and worst holiday experiences so that we can also live through their stories and use them to fuel our need to chase the summer sun.
Jenny Suo, 34
TVNZ 1News Sport reporter
Partner: Michael Walker
What’s a travel mishap you’ve had?
I had been so excited for our trip to Tonga, only to be told at check-in my passport had less than six months’ validity and I couldn’t travel. I remember I couldn’t feel my face! The Air New Zealand staff suggested an emergency passport, but I wouldn’t fly until at least the next day, which was useless as our trip was so tightly booked and the rest of our itinerary would fall like dominos.
The flight was in less than two hours. I stepped away from the counter and googled the Tongan embassy to find it was shut on Saturdays.
If this was a movie, the music would intensify, the room go dark and the camera would crash-zoom into my fingers while I delved deep into the web on my iPhone 3. From a five-year-old community newsletter, I fished out a mobile number for a man I believed worked at the embassy.
Surprisingly, he picked up. He said he could issue me a note of exemption on Monday. For 15 minutes, I worked on this man. I was just about to give up when he exhaled and said, “If you can get to the embassy in 20 minutes, I’ll write you an exemption. But I still think you’ll miss your flight.”
I bolted from the airport doors and into the first taxi I saw. We got to the embassy and because the man wasn’t there, we waited. I called Michael and the check-in woman said she’d wait five minutes. No more. From a distance, I spotted a man walk over. He was not in a rush.
He let me in an office and pulled out a document on a computer. The printer wouldn’t work. He turned it off and on at the wall. It printed, he signed it and handed it to me. I thanked him profusely and extended a sweaty hand that he was hesitant to shake.
The taxi driver finally sped me back to the airport as Michael live-tracked my location on Facebook Messenger for the woman at check-in, who was extending my deadline in five-minute increments.
I got to the airport 15 minutes before my flight was due to depart.
The staff at check-in had printed my boarding pass, I handed them the note and we legged it to security while they cheered for us.
What is your favourite travel memory from childhood?
We didn’t have a lot of money when we first moved to New Zealand from China when I was four. My parents bought a beaten-up black Mitsubishi and we went on roadies every weekend – East Coast, Northland, Coromandel. I remember sitting in the car, listening to Mum singing Take Me Home, Country Roads. We also learned a lot of English listening to the radio in the car.
What is a place that has taken your breath away?
Tonga during humpback whale season. We spent five days on an eco live-aboard run by a wonderful Australian family. I can’t describe how it feels to get in the water with such magnificent creatures. What a reminder that we are just specks in this world and there are such big, beautiful creatures that we must look after our planet for.
What place do you dream of visiting again and again?
I spent a few days living on a farm in Tuscany in my mid-twenties and felt so relaxed and fulfilled. Our dinner consisted of vegetables we’d harvested ourselves and lovingly prepared by a nonna [grandmother], who spoke no English but communicated through dish after dish of hot, unctuous food. We milked cows, and made cheese and yoghurt. In the afternoons, we sat under the sun and drank local red wine from a jug.
How do you choose your travel destinations?
Food. What kind of food do I want to explore next? The more unique, the better. I plan almost all of our overseas trips based on food. We’re planning a trip to Japan later this year, and the first to go on the itinerary will be restaurants and food vendors.
Have you ever travelled solo and what was it like?
I love solo hikes around New Zealand. Part of the reason why I enjoy tramping is to get away from the noise – literally and figuratively – of my city life. Being alone in the quiet of the bush is so restorative. I also enjoy moving at my own pace and making my own decisions. It feels super empowering.
Quick-fire
City or country retreat? Country.
Aeroplane or cruise? Plane.
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise.
Old ruins or modern all the way? Ruins.
Tight itinerary or go with the flow? Somewhere in the middle.
Ocean or mountains? Mountains.
Backpacking or glamping? Backpacking.
Ben Boyce
The Hits Breakfast with Jono and Ben
Wife Amanda and daughters Sienna, 14 and Indie, 12.
What’s a travel mishap you’ve had?
We were in Las Vegas for work and we decided to try the dice game Craps. It was our radio producer Dan’s turn to throw the dice and one accidentally hit a big dude in the face. He started yelling, “What kind of man throws a dice at another man’s face?!” as his nose started to bleed slightly. Poor Dan had casino security come take his details and he earned the nickname Vanilla Dice!
How do you keep track of your travelling adventures?
When my wife and I did our big OE together, we decided to buy a small fridge magnet from every place we visited as a small keepsake that didn’t take up too much room. These days, the kids and I buy a [shoe brand]Croc Charm – yeah, I’m unashamedly a Crocs fan!
Tell us about a memorable person/people you have met on holiday?
Jono and I were lucky enough to meet Graham Norton and go on his iconic Red Chair. Graham was so lovely – even when he should have been hanging out with the celebs like Tom Cruise and Coldplay, who were on his show that night. I told a story about accidentally putting Super Glue in my granddad’s eye on the Red Chair, which shocked everyone.
What are your top travel hacks?
If you are in America and your name is Ben, they might have a hard time understanding you with a New Zealand accent. When ordering at Starbucks, I’ve been called Pin, Bin, Ian, Dean, Bean and somehow Pete!
What is the most romantic place you have ever visited?
My wife and I got engaged in Rome on our OE. I took the ring secretly over there and proposed by the beautiful Trevi Fountain. It was super- romantic until a guy selling roses to tourists saw me do it and thought he would be in for a huge payday – he wouldn’t leave us alone!
Quick-fire
City or country retreat? City. I’m a terrible relaxer, so I love to have lots to do.
Aeroplane or cruise? Cruise. We did a Disney Cruise last year and it was incredible for me being a big kid!
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise. Get up and make the most of the day – much to my family’s horror!
Old ruins or modern all the way? Tough choice, but let’s go modern.
Tight itinerary or go with the flow? Tight. I love a busy schedule!
Ocean or mountains? Ocean. Beer in hand at the end of a busy day.
Backpacking or glamping? Glamping. The rural people in the Wairarapa may disown me for changing, but it’s glamping all the way now if I have the choice!
Jane Wills, 28
Shortland Street
Partner: Leo Maggs
What is your dream destination during a New Zealand winter and why?
For me, it’s Fiji. I’ve been fortunate enough to go three years in a row and it’s the perfect winter escape. The warmth envelops you in a cosy hug as soon as you arrive – you instantly relax.
Where have you been that has changed your life perspective and why?
I went to India five years ago, and it really changed me for the better. I witnessed people who have so little yet possess immense gratitude for having less. They taught me gratitude in the most profound way possible.
Where have you never visited but would love to?
I have never been to Disneyland, but it is on the bucket list. I love Disney, so I know I would have a great time.
What is your favourite travel memory from childhood?
I’m originally from the South Island, so every holiday we would go to our family bach in Wānaka and soak in the beautiful countryside. After travelling around the world, I can still say with certainty that Wānaka is one of the most beautiful places in the world. You can’t beat those alpine vistas.
What is a place that has taken your breath away?
The islands in Fiji hold a special place in my heart. Nothing says paradise like swimming and snorkelling in the calm, crystal-clear waters, gazing back at the beach and also spotting your next fresh coconut on a palm tree.
What is your favourite festival or event you’ve been to?
The Edinburgh Fringe was a memorable experience. It was incredible to wander around the beautiful city and witness its vibrant culture. We also attended amazing shows and I definitely plan to return.
What place do you dream of visiting again and again?
Sicily was beautiful and I would love to travel back there. It offers the perfect mix of stunning old architecture and charming towns, set against the backdrop of the bluest of oceans.
Quick-fire
City or country retreat? Country retreat.
Aeroplane or cruise? Cruise.
Sunrise or sunset? Sunset.
Old ruins or modern all the way? Old ruins.
Tight itinerary or go with the flow? Tight itinerary.
Ocean or mountains? Ocean.
Backpacking or glamping? Glamping.
Michèle A’Court, 63
Weekly columnist & comedian
Husband: Jeremy Elwood
What is the first thing you do when you arrive at a new destination?
Go for a swim because immersing yourself in water is the most glorious and effective reset. It washes off where you were before and how you were feeling, and gets you ready to experience the new place. It’s also an excellent antidote for jet lag after a long-haul flight.
Where have you been that has changed your life perspective and why?
Every place you visit makes you a slightly different person – that’s the goal of travel. New Orleans is my favourite place on the planet. From jazz and food, to especially their attitude about celebrating at every opportunity and accepting that difficult stuff happens but you survive – to celebrate another day… with jazz and food! I think that place has made me more accepting of the challenges life throws at you.
How do you keep track of your travelling adventures?
Photos and little notes to myself in a notebook. I totally love scrolling through a bunch of travel photos on a grey day at home. From time to time, Jeremy and I have made each other photo albums – like actual prints in a book – from our travels and those are precious.
What is your favourite travel memory from childhood?
Every time our little family ended up in Napier at my great-aunt Ruth and great-uncle Frank’s place. Jasmine growing along the fence line, oranges on the trees, my brother and I swinging from a rope tied to the big old gnarled peppertree in the back garden, and Ruth and Frank being so thrilled to see us.
Have you ever travelled solo and what was it like?
I travel solo all the time for work, and also tack on days here and there for pleasure. It’s a really great way of immersing yourself in a place and learning to say yes to adventures. People can get weird about women dining alone, I find. Take a book or pretend to be busy with your phone. Or just act super-weird so people give you a wide berth.
Quick-fire
City or country retreat? City.
Aeroplane or cruise? Aeroplane.
Sunrise or sunset? Sunset.
Old ruins or modern all the way? Old ruins.
Tight itinerary or go with the flow? Flow.
Ocean or mountains? Ocean.
Backpacking or glamping? Glamping.
Madison Reidy, 28
Host of Markets with Madison
Partner: Liam Malone
0
What’s a travel mishap you’ve had?
Almost being stranded in Heathrow Airport was a mishap I’d like to forget! It was when Heathrow was forced to put caps on passenger numbers in the tail of Covid in mid-2022. Airlines had to boot people off flights in the queue. Despite checking in early, they took my bags and told me to go to the gate, not knowing if I’d actually be allowed to board! Luckily, I did and finally made it home, with high cortisol.
Where have you been that has changed your life perspective and why?
As the hub of finance, New York has always been top of my list to visit. I expected it to be chaotic and fast-paced, but I found it to be surprisingly relaxed and its residents laid-back. It changed my perspective of home, to realise that New Zealand actually has a bit of pace after all!
The best meal you’ve ever had while travelling?
Seafood arroz al horno [baked rice] in Formentera, a small Spanish island near Ibiza, also paired with red wine sangria, with my older sister. We were nursing a serious hangover from a Calvin Harris concert the night before, but it was such a beautiful day that I’ll remember it forever.
Do you have any packing tips?
Packing cubes are a game-changer for a notorious over-packer like myself. If you’re travelling to multiple destinations, pack your outfits for each place into a dedicated cube, because you’ll minimise all stress on the other end. I did this last year when our US trip included the Hawaii sun and wind chill of New York. I know people say to save your money for shopping wherever you’re going, but I prefer to buy what I need before I get there! It means you have holiday outfits ready to show off the second you arrive.
Tell us about a memorable person/people you have met on holiday?
Waiting for a flight to Las Vegas I got chatting to a man seated next to me. He was a camera operator heading to film the Ryan Garcia v Gervonta Davis boxing fight. We had an awesome conversation because he spent decades producing mega US TV sporting events.
Quick-fire
City or country retreat? City.
Aeroplane or cruise? Air, for efficiency.
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise! Specifically, paddle boarding at Hawaii’s Waikiki Beach with dolphins.
Old ruins or modern all the way? Any European old town.
Tight itinerary or go with the flow? I like a mix of both – having a restaurant booking locked in but the rest of the day to mooch around is ideal.
Ocean or mountains? Ocean.
Backpacking or glamping? Hotel! Although, I do love camping in New Zealand summer.
Cristina Ionda
The Brokenwood Mysteries
What is your dream destination during a New Zealand winter and why?
I dream of Rarotonga. I mean, who wouldn’t want to sip cocktails under the island sun while pretending to look for rare birds?
What is the first thing you do when you arrive at a new destination?
Every time I touch down, I take a deep breath and then walk around trying to absorb as much as I can.
Where have you never visited but you would love to?
Iceland! Funnily enough, I’m not a winter fan, but hey, volcanoes and hot springs sound like my kind of icy adventure.
Do you have any packing tips?
I’ve mastered the art of packing light – just enough clothes for the days I’m gone, plus also a sneaky hoodie for unexpected polar vortexes. You never know when you might need to blend in with the penguins!
Top three places you have never been to, but would love to?
Machu Picchu, Grand Canyon and Lapland – because nothing says “bucket list” like ancient ruins, massive canyons and reindeer sleigh rides, right?
How do you choose your travel destinations?
I have a scientifically proven method – I close my eyes, throw a dart at a map and wherever it lands, I blame it on fate. It’s like playing travel roulette, but with less risk!
What is your favourite travel app, website, book or other tool?
My go-to travel tool is my trusty “Where Should I Go Next?” wheel. It’s like Wheel of Fortune, but instead of winning cash, I win epic adventures! Though sometimes it lands on “Stay Home and Eat Ice Cream,” which is also a win in my book.
3Have you ever travelled solo and what was it like?
I’m not the biggest fan of solo travel, but once in London, I wandered around pretending I was in a spy thriller. It turned out surprisingly well – I found Big Ben without a GPS and only got lost twice in the Underground. Good times!
What is your favourite book or movie that inspires your wanderlust?
My wanderlust anthem? Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. Because who hasn’t dreamed of eating pizza in Italy, finding inner peace in India and loving life in Bali? It’s like a roadmap to my future vacations.
Quick-fire
City or country retreat? City.
Aeroplane or cruise? Both!
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise.
Old ruins or modern all the way? Old ruins.
Tight itinerary or go with the flow? Go with the flow.
4Ocean or mountains? Ocean and mountains.
Backpacking or glamping? Glamping.
Looking to book your next getaway? Head to Flight Centre for the best deals!
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