Three Ways to Experience New Zealand

Wildlife Spotting

From penguins and kiwi birds to dolphins and whales, New Zealand’s spectacular scenery is home to a dazzling array of wildlife. Swim with New Zealand Fur Seals in the shallow waters of the Kaikoura Peninsula on the South Island. Spring is lamb season in New Zealand, so during a drive in the countryside you’re sure to see lots of cute and fluffy lambs!

Take to the water with playful dolphins in their natural environment at Paihia in the Bay of Islands on the North Island and head to Akaroa Harbour on the South Island to see New Zealand’s playful Hector’s dolphin. It’s the only place on the entire planet where you can get up close and personal with the world’s smallest and rarest species of dolphin.

Plus, no visit to New Zealand would be complete without a sighting of the native kiwi bird! Spring is the time when the baby kiwis hatch but during the autumn, Stewart Island turns into a hive of activity for birdlife and this is one of the best places to view this ever so shy nocturnal feathered friend in its natural environment.

Experience Maori Culture

New Zealand has always been worth crossing the world for, but 2022 saw the first-ever nationwide celebration of the Maori Matariki Festival fêting the rising of the star cluster of that name (also known as the Pleiades) in the midwinter skies, which marks the winter solstice and start of the Maori New Year.

In 2023, the bank holiday will take place on 14^th July but the festival will last for several weeks from late early June into July, with exact timings varying by region and local customs. A time for both gratitude and hope, the festival focuses on family, community, culture and end-of-harvest feasting, and many restaurants will serve Matariki menus featuring indigenous ingredients.

Stargazing

Between June and August, southern hemisphere nights are at their longest and skies at their clearest – perfect for stargazing (the ancestral Maori were gifted astronomers who navigated by the stars). Make stargazing part of your New Zealand itinerary – this is one of the finest places in the world to do it, not least in the Aoraki Mackenzie gold-rated dark sky reserve embracing Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, alpine villages and Mount John Observatory. There are also two dark sky island sanctuaries above Great Barrier Island and Stewart Island.

Celebrity Xcel is bringing a fresh take to European cruising

13 July 2026

Celebrity Xcel is making its European debut, pairing some of the continent's most-loved destinations with an onboard experience designed to be every bit as memorable as the places you'll visit. Whether you're wandering through ancient streets in Athens or soaking up the atmosphere along the French Riviera, this is a holiday that lets you enjoy Europe from a different perspective. Even better, with more than 40 overnight stays across 10 cities, there's more time to enjoy each destination after the daytime crowds have dispersed, whether that's lingering over dinner, taking an evening stroll, or simply seeing another side of the city.

Why Mare Ayia Napa Is a dream for food lovers

13 July 2026

For many travellers, great food is what turns a good holiday into a memorable one, and Mare Ayia Napa has made dining one of the standout parts of the experience. Set on Cyprus' south-east coast, just minutes from Cape Greco National Forest Park and the lively centre of Ayia Napa, this beachfront resort pairs relaxed Mediterranean living with an impressive variety of places to eat and drink. With eight restaurants, five bars, international branded beverages, and an all-inclusive package that goes well beyond the expected, there's always something different to look forward to. Even your arrival feels considered, thanks to a stocked mini fridge waiting in your room.

4 European destinations that deserve a place on your holiday wish list

13 July 2026

Europe is packed with iconic destinations, but some of its most rewarding holidays begin just beyond the well-trodden tourist trail. If you've already ticked off the big-name cities or simply fancy somewhere that feels a little different, there are plenty of places offering beautiful scenery, fascinating history, and memorable food without the queues. From medieval towns on the Adriatic coast to volcanic islands in the Atlantic, these lesser-known corners of Europe prove that sometimes the best trips are the ones you weren't expecting.