Stephanie Holmes, Lifestyle and Travel Editor, Premium, for New Zealand's Herald, works as an editor, writer, and editorial leader, and as a presenter of videos and podcasts.
Stephanie Holmes has worked at New Zealand’s Herald since 2016, specialising in Travel and, more recently, Lifestyle and Entertainment, with her entire journalism career dedicated to these subjects. Under her editorship, the Herald’s weekly Travel magazine won the 2020 Voyager Media Award for Best Newspaper Magazine – a remarkable achievement considering New Zealand’s borders were closed due to the Coronavirus pandemic and Kiwis were unable to travel. In 2022, she was a finalist for the Voyagers’ Editorial Leader of the Year award. Born and raised in the UK, Holmes graduated with a BA (Hons) in Communication Studies from Anglia Ruskin University, followed by a post-graduate journalism diploma. She arrived in New Zealand in 2003 and has lived in Auckland ever since.
From safes to cellphones: 13 travel mistakes even experts make
Even seasoned travellers make silly mistakes. Learn from us so you don't have to.
Best Beach 2024: Nominations now open in our search for the country's finest
The search for NZ's best beach returns and we need your help.
On your way to Cape Town? This luxurious hotel is royally approved
Need a luxe Cape Town base? Queen Victoria Hotel is your plush pick.
What's it like flying Business Class from Johannesburg to Auckland with Singapore Airlines?
How does Singapore Airlines Business Class fare on the Johannesburg to Auckland route?
Why 16 hours inside an airport terminal was a joy not a bore
Why 16 hours inside an airport terminal was a joy not a bore.
Is this the best guided tour experience in the world? We think so
A motorbike-riding dog is just one of the highlights of a visit to Cape Town.
Face to face with a killer: The luxury safari better than winning the lottery
Between lion sightings and luxury suites, Sabi Sabi is the safari dream.
History, Game of Thrones, and cheese: The best reasons to visit Malta and Corsica
These Mediterranean gems are off the beaten track but well worth a visit.
Air NZ's luggage tracker vs Apple Airtag: Which should you use?
The national carrier rolled out its new luggage tracking service. But is it any good?
Should you upgrade your flight to Premium Economy? Comparing cabins on Singapore Airlines
Two cabin classes, one airline, and a long journey to South Africa.
Wander Waiheke's breathtaking trails, then dine in style – the ultimate island treat
Waiheke's hospitality takes any challenge head-on.
Celebrity Treasure Island Stars share their top camping tips
Matilda Green, Jayden Daniels, Eli Matthewson and more share their tent tips.
Want to find paradise without leaving Auckland? Try this island escape
And no, it's not Waiheke.
Review: Salerno's treasure - stay in an Airbnb built on 2nd century Roman ruins
The perfect base to explore Italy's southern region.
Oceania Vista: An insider's guide to the world's newest cruise ship
Creative cocktails to fine dining, to dancefloors and libraries, this ship has it all.
Something old, something new: An inside look at a freshly reopened Melbourne hotel
With restaurant, rooftop pool and luxe rooms, you should make a date with this hotel.
The luxury of alone time: Why you should stay in a grand lodge as a solo traveller
An opulent lodge isn't just for couples - you can enjoy it solo, too.
An inside look at Rome's newest luxury hotel, where old meets new
With gorgeous rooftop bar and luxurious Roman bath, Six Senses Rome is worth the splurge.
This hotel has the best views of Positano on the Amalfi Coast
Casa Angelina is a high-end stay, but is it worth the price tag?
To infinity, and beyond: What it's like to stay at the luxury hotel with the best pool in Sydney
See and be seen at this luxurious skyscraper at Barangaroo.
Exclusive: What it's like on board the world's newest cruise ship
The launch featured luxury of epic proportions.
The Gold Coast's surprise Timaru connection
Some of the hottest spots in the GC to fuel up and refresh.
Great Walk, better bunks: Routeburn's luxury route
Perfect blue skies and fine food greet Stephanie Holmes along the Routeburn Track.
Scenic surprises: The hidden gems to be found on the Gold Coast
This is the Gold Coast, but not as you might know it.
From safes to cellphones: 13 travel mistakes even experts make
Even seasoned travellers make silly mistakes. Learn from us so you don't have to.
QT on the GC: What it's like staying at a hip hotel in Surfers Paradise
What's it really like to stay at the QT Gold Coast?
Hidden gems with hot tubs, for a weekend escape in North Canterbury
Heading to Hurunui? Here are the lesser-known spots to check out.
8 reasons why there’s a cruise ship for everyone, including you
If you think you're not a cruiser, you just haven't found the right ship yet.
You get what you pay for with this low-cost airline
Herald's Travel editor reveals what it's like flying to Sydney on this budget carrier.
The Langham Gold Coast, a luxury beachside break
Modern skyscraper on the outside, classic elegance on the inside.
What it's like flying from Auckland International Airport after the floods
The international terminal saw chaos in the recent floods. But what's it like now?
Hotel review: Whales, walks, wines - why Kaikōura should be more than a pitstop
With a beachfront location and luxurious facilities, it's worth lingering longer.
New Zealand's best beaches, according to Liz from The Beths
Liz Stokes picks her favourite Kiwi beaches. Find out how to vote for yours.
Tourism Minister Stuart Nash on NZ’s best beaches - and his ultimate summer pick
From the East Coast to the top of the South, Nash says we're spoiled for choice.
Best Beach 2023: Bree Tomasel and Jayden Daniels' favourite summer spots
The Celebrity Treasure Island hosts share their most-loved Kiwi beaches.
Very Impressive, Perth: Eleven ways to find luxury on a Western Australian city break
From fancy hotels to fine-dining, Perth has luxury in spades.
Fiji holidays: Is this the world's best infinity pool?
This luxury island has something for everyone, whatever kind of holiday you're after.
Which beach is the best in the whole of New Zealand? Nominations are open now
The search for New Zealand's best beach returns - and we need your nominations.
Michael Palin on lockdown inspiration; travel to North Korea, Iraq
The Monty Python star talks to Herald Travel about his new book Into Iraq.
Natural beauty: An inside look at one of NZ's most exclusive luxury lodges
A weekend at The Lindis is a wonderful way to escape the real world, if only for a moment.
Sound of silence in Fiordland is the perfect break from busy lives
Experiencing peace and quiet - if only for a moment - in Fiordland’s Doubtful Sound.
2023 travel tips, advice and hottest destinations from experts and industry insiders
Need some advice and inspiration for your 2023 travels? Then ask the experts...
Inside New York's celebrity-studded castle hotel and other Long Island hot-spots
There's much more to Long Island what TV sitcoms have shown us.
Sir John Key reveals his favourite NZ hidden gems, love of Antarctic exploration
Former Prime Minister shares his favourite holiday memories.
'Many stories': Perth's best walking tours and museums
There's more to Perth than meets the eye but you might need a local to help you uncover it
Lady of the lake's birthday cruise: TSS Earnslaw turns 110
A birthday party for the grand old lady of the lake celebrated heritage and the future.
Michael Palin on lockdown inspiration; travel to North Korea, Iraq
The Monty Python star talks to Herald Travel about his new book Into Iraq.
Brooklyn's Ace card: The coolest hotel to stay in New York's coolest borough
Trendy hotel chain's Brooklyn outpost is the ideal spot for a breather from Manhattan.
'Keen to move on and rebuild': Why now is the perfect time to visit Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has been through a rough time and tourism plays a key role in its recovery.
Waking up in the city that never sleeps: What's new in New York?
New York is back and buzzier than ever, and now just one direct flight away from Auckland.
Watch: Six60 Rise Up for stunning Manhattan rooftop performance
The band performed at sunset to invited VIPs.
'Welcome to New York': Air NZ's inaugural direct flight touches down at JFK
The much-anticipated new direct service has landed in New York for the first time.
Next stop NYC: Air New Zealand's inaugural Auckland to JFK flight takes off
Celebrations were in full swing at Auckland Airport as NZ2 got ready for take off.
Review: A boutique hotel on a big scale in downtown Auckland
After spending time as an MIQ facility, this downtown luxe hotel is back in business.
Very Impressive, Perth: Eleven ways to find luxury on a Western Australian city break
From fancy hotels to fine-dining, Perth has luxury in spades.
'Hell of a ride': First cruise ship returns to Auckland since Covid pandemic
Pacific Explorer arrives in Auckland, marking the return of the valuable cruise sector.
Hotel review: Why this London hotel has the best location for foodies
With a world-famous food market on its doorstep, this hotel is a winner.
Life after MIQ: Christchurch's Chateau on the Park reopen and ready for next steps
Global brand, family-feel at this well-located central Christchurch hotel.
Fiji holidays: Is this the world's best infinity pool?
This luxury island has something for everyone, whatever kind of holiday you're after.
Hotel review: The affordable central London hotel tourists should have on their list
Close to museums, the Tube, Royal Parks, and restaurants - this hotel is a holiday winner.
Review: The Auckland hotel combining heritage with modern comfort
This art deco hotel has had a modern upgrade, without losing its classic style.
Where to find New Zealand's most exclusive whisky bar
On NZ's smallest high country station you'll find a tiny bar with a big personality.
Small and perfectly formed: Reviewing a luxury Airbnb in Waipū
It's small on the outside, sophisticated on the inside, with views to fall in love with.
Room for two, with a view: Reviewing a romantic getaway on Waiheke Island
Views to die for and a peaceful location make this Airbnb a winner.
Travelling to Fiji? A travel editor reveals what to expect
It's been a long time between visits, so what's it like to return to Fiji?
Have laptop, will travel: Here's how to have an Auckland workcation
Travel Editor Stephanie Holmes ditches WFH and tries out WFW - working from Waiheke.
Insider's guide: Four new cruise ships setting sail this year
Liners big and small are already back sailing, and new ships are joining their ranks.
Viral video of waterslide fail on cruise ship: 'It happened to me too'
The viral clip of a woman stuck in a waterslide hits close to home for our Travel Editor.
Natural beauty: An inside look at one of NZ's most exclusive luxury lodges
A weekend at The Lindis is a wonderful way to escape the real world, if only for a moment.
Kiwi celebs share their picks for the Herald's Best of Summer competition
Matty McLean, Brynley Stent, Peter Gordon and more share their Best of Summer picks.
Best of Summer: Your chance to vote for classic Kiwi favourites in our nationwide campaign
Vote for NZ's best campsite, fish and chips, playground, short walk, and ice cream shop.
2022 travel: Get the royal treatment in these British & Irish hotels
Take your next UK and Ireland holiday to the next level with these luxury hotels.
Penthouse suites and private islands: Once in a lifetime travel in NZ
An insider's guide to NZ's best travel experiences to add to your 2022 bucket list.
'I hadn't realised how long I had been holding my breath': The emotion around NZ's borders reopening
Why today's 1pm announcement has us crying tears of joy.
A dog's life: What it's really like to lose your dog in lockdown
'Working from home means every room holds a reminder of life before she left us.'
GO NZ: Huka Lodge: A taste of the luxury life
Champagne, fine-dining and fly-fishing - Huka Lodge has it all.
TVNZ's Daniel Faitaua: 'My advice for Kiwis in lockdown'
TVNZ Europe correspondent: 'It feels like everybody's moved on, even if the virus hasn't.'
Trip Notes: Can travel mend a broken heart?
The popular Herald Travel podcast is back for brand new episodes. Here's what's in store.