Visit new destinations with these new flight routes and cruises Photo / 123rf
Visit new destinations with these new flight routes and cruises Photo / 123rf
Each week in Travel, we check out some of the latest happenings from Aotearoa and beyond to inspire your next adventure.
Airlines reveal several new transtasman routes
Qantas and Jetstar have been busy, announcing five new direct routes between Aotearoa and Australia.
Qantas has announced the launch of abrand-new international route between New Zealand and Australia, with direct flights from Auckland to Perth set to take off in December 2025. Qantas flies the Perth route three times a week.
Qantas has launched a new non-stop air service from Auckland to Adelaide, which will operate four times a week between October 31, 2025 and May 3, 2026. Then, in December 2025, Qantas will launch a brand-new direct route from Auckland to Perth, which will operate three times a week.
Meanwhile, getting to the Gold Coast just got cheaper for those in Hamilton and Dunedin as Jetstar announced new direct flights will operate from June 2025. Both new services will take off three times a week and it will be the first time Jetstar has flown to the city of Hamilton. Jetstar has also announced it will fly direct from Sydney to Hamilton from June 2025.
Qantas launched direct flights between Auckland and Adelaide.
All aboard the ship
PONANT’s 2025 Discovery Sessions are your gateway to upcoming adventures in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. With new and classic explorations for 2025, 2026, and 2027, you’ll get to explore the wild beauty of the Kimberley, the tranquil Mediterranean, and exhilarating polar regions, all aboard luxurious, intimate ships. With insights from expert Jude Cathcart, who has led expeditions across Europe, Australia, and Antarctica, you will get insider knowledge and inspiration for your next journeys. The first NZ show is on June 3 at Orakei Bay, Auckland at 11am-1pm or 6pm-8pm. Registration is essential. au.ponant.com
PONANT Explorations' just announced new expeditions for 2025, 2026 and 2027.
UN-endorsed coral restoration
The Soneva Foundation’s Coral Restoration Program in the Maldives has received a major international nod, earning official endorsement from the United Nations and a spot on the UNESCO Ocean Decade website. This recognition highlights the programme’s innovative and science-led approach to large-scale reef restoration in the Indian Ocean. Led by Dr Johanna Leonhardt, the team has developed the region’s largest coral restoration facility, featuring a Coral Spawning and Rearing Lab and micro-fragmentation tanks. The Unesco Ocean Decade platform showcases impactful ocean science projects worldwide, making this a significant milestone for marine conservation and a model for global reef recovery efforts. soneva.com/foundation
Soneva Foundation’s Coral Restoration Program has just been officially listed on the UNESCO Ocean Decade website.
PonsonBurger returns
PonsonBurger returns to Ponsonby from May 26 to June 8, bigger and better for its second year. Timed with International Burger Day on May 28, this two-week festival brings more than 30 local venues together to serve up limited-edition creations, juicy bundles, and pop-up specials. From iconic spots like Better Burger to fine-dining favourite Sidart, chefs are firing up their grills to wow burger lovers with sweet, savoury, and unexpected bites. Many of the venues joining this year are not typically known for slinging burgers, which brings even more surprises for foodies. Come hungry, bring your friends, and explore the full delicious line-up at ponsonburger.nz.
Ashworth High Country Station has launched a brand-new luxury hiking and 4WD experience just 20 minutes from Blenheim. Set on a private 2428-ha merino farm, the new exclusive three-day adventure includes guided walks with sweeping Marlborough views, two nights in wool-insulated glamping tents inspired by 1920s deer stalker huts, and gourmet meals from local favourites Kaiaka Catering. Guests enjoy lodge comforts, hot showers, wine by the fire, and full bag transfers. Walks can be tailored to suit all fitness levels, with highlights including Wards Peak and native bush trails. It’s a fresh, all-inclusive take on New Zealand’s high-country hiking. aschworth.co.nz
Indulge in New Zealand’s high-country luxury hiking. Photo / 123rf
