Your next holiday could be already paid for. Photo / Supplied
Your next holiday could be already paid for. Photo / Supplied
Many of us collect air miles and other rewards through our credit cards - but sometimes, we forget about spending them.
New research from American Express has revealed that almost a third of New Zealand's 1.5 million credit card holders have $499 or more worth of rewards sitting on theircard, unused.
If you're squirreling away your rewards, here are five fabulous escapes that could be awaiting you without spending a dime on flights.
Queenstown (One way flights to Queenstown from $99)
The Skyline Gondola in Queenstown. Photo / Supplied
Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand where exciting (and, at times, terrifying) activities abound, framed by a beautiful backdrop anywhere you care to look. You can ski or snowboard through pristine powder or opt for aerial thrills on your choice of Queenstown's famous bungy, swing or zipline. If you need a break from the adventure, there's a surplus of postcard-perfect places to snap the ultimate selfie such as Milford Sound, Lake Wanaka, or Coronet Peak. If you get thirsty stop by the Valley of Vines winery and sip on the best Pinot Noir in the country.
Rarotonga (One way flights to Rarotonga from $307)
Muri Lagoon, Rarotonga. Photo / 123RF
Water activities and relaxation are the key ingredients to the ultimate Rarotongan experience. Dive or snorkel along the beautiful reef at the island's legendary blue lagoon. Or put your feet up and sip a cocktail on the beach as you watch the sunset. Edgewater Resort and Spa is an affordable family friendly resort to make the most of your stay and the on-site kids' club is sure to come in handy when the adults are ready for some quiet time.
Gold Coast (One way flights to Gold Coast from $199)
The Gold Coast is the place to be for family fun and golden beaches. Home to Australia's most popular theme parks, the kids will be in their element coming face to face with their favourite characters at Movie World, splashing through Wet'n'Wild and WhiteWater World, or seeing the spectacular wildlife at Dreamworld and SeaWorld.
If you need of a day off after exploring the action-packed theme parks, try some surf lessons along Surfers Paradise with one of the Coast's plethora of expert instructors. And for a unique dining experience, check out De Vito waterfront restaurant which combines entertainment with Italian food as esteemed chef David De Vito puts on a memorable show.
Norfolk Island (One way flights from $458 – via Sydney)
Emily Bay, Norfolk Island. Photo / Supplied
For travellers looking for a slower pace, Norfolk Island has multiple tours to take the curious mind on an adventure. This tiny, isolated Australian island has volumes of history and culture to share with visitors. Tours include an in-depth journey through the stories of past convicts, and even a spooky ghost tour for you particularly brave travellers through a (supposedly haunted) graveyard. For the faint of heart, no drama, simply spend your days on the stunning beaches and snorkelling in the unforgettable blue waters.
Melbourne (One way flights from $432)
Shop as much as your heart desires with an amazing range of fashion and shopping along the buzzing streets of Melbourne. Whether you want to dress down or dress up in edgy high-end fashion, you'll find it in Melbourne.
Bursting with creativity, you'll be confronted by one surprise after the next as you wind your way through the city's storied laneways. Take a walk through the inner-city and you will be surrounded by choice; bars with never ending cocktail lists and restaurants full of delicious discoveries. Make sure to visit Attica on your visit, it is one of the world's 50 best restaurants, with a Kiwi chef to boot.
