Passion in Australia

Australian holidays can cover Outback breaks to city escapes. Photo / Getty Images

Donna McIntyre introduces the Herald's new focus on our transtasman neighbours.

What's your idea of the perfect holiday? Odds on it will involve exploring your favourite activity or interest. Indulging in our passions makes us feel good, it nourishes the soul.

On holiday we have more time, more energy. New surroundings heighten the senses. We're looking at things with fresh eyes and are open to experiences. A fulfilling holiday experience makes for something to brag about to the folks back home.

Australia, just a short flight across the Tasman, is the perfect destination to indulge your travel-related passion.

To help you plan your next visit to Australia, we're sending four advocates across the Tasman to indulge in their passions, going beyond the obvious gateway cities and taking time to explore our mates across the ditch, immersing themselves in the land and the culture.

The advocates are all familiar faces ... and they'll be reporting back on their experiences.

Follow them as they share their stories of exploring Australia, how they feel energised, entertained, relaxed, inspired and that little bit more knowledgeable.

Judy Bailey is embracing her passion for nature as she laces up her hiking boots to tell us about the great outdoors. Mike Van de Elzen is wining and dining and cycling to report back on great culinary treats, some tried and tested, others more off the beaten track. Jon Bridges will be finding out about Australia's heritage and culture, and Colin Mathura-Jeffree will be shopping until he drops, pausing only for coffee before he heads out to find what Australia's vibrant arts community offers as entertainment.

It's a great line-up and all our advocates have a zest for life and adventure. Some will research the web and read up the facts ahead of their visits, others want to go with the flow, talk to the locals and find out where they go for a great coffee, and hear about what being an Australian in the 21st century means.

IF YOU GO

Getting there: Fly there with Air New Zealand.

Find out more at: Australia.com.