Looking for a refreshing way to reward your hardworking team this season? Bethells Beach Cottages, nestled along the beautiful West Coast, provides the perfect setting for a corporate retreat. Whether you’re hosting a team-building getaway or simply treating your team to a well-earned break, these secluded cottages offer a peaceful space to unwind and reconnect.
Start the retreat with a morning yoga session on the beach, where the calming sound of the ocean helps your team relax. For those who enjoy the outdoors, an energising swim or surf at Bethells Beach or nearby O’Neills Beach is a great way to start the day, with local surf lifesavers ensuring safety.
The spacious grounds at Bethells Beach Cottages encourage both bonding and relaxation. Your team can enjoy lawn games such as petanque, chess, and croquet, providing a fun and laid-back atmosphere to connect in a casual setting.
When it’s time to unwind, your staff can soak in the luxurious Scandinavian hot tub, or for more privacy, hire the portable Kiwi hot tub on your deck, surrounded by beautiful gardens. It’s the perfect way to release tension while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
According to Trude, owner of Bethells Beach Cottages, “We love seeing people leave feeling more connected, refreshed, and ready to take on new challenges. Our peaceful setting really helps guests switch off from the hustle and bustle of work life.”
For a more immersive experience, consider a digital detox during your retreat. The natural surroundings provide an ideal environment for your team to disconnect and recharge, leaving them ready to return to work with a renewed sense of focus.
With stunning views, comfortable accommodation, and a range of activities, it’s the perfect destination for corporate groups seeking both relaxation and team bonding. Reward your staff with a memorable experience at Bethells Beach Cottages. Book your group retreat today!
Cruising offers a unique way to travel, blending the excitement of discovering new places with the luxury of world-class amenities. Champion Travel, under the expert guidance of Maxwell Burns, provides an array of cruise options to suit every traveller’s dream, from river cruises that glide through Europe’s most scenic regions to ocean voyages exploring remote shores.
Viking Cruises
For travellers who enjoy a slower pace and cultural immersion, river cruises are an ideal option. These cruises allow passengers to navigate famous rivers such as the Danube or Rhine, stopping at charming towns and historic cities along the way. The experience of stepping off the ship into local markets, exploring centuries-old architecture, and enjoying local cuisine gives river cruises a perfect balance of comfort and adventure. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views while experiencing some of the world’s most culturally rich destinations.
For those seeking a grander scale of exploration, ocean cruises offer the chance to visit multiple countries or islands in one journey. Whether sailing through the Mediterranean, exploring the Caribbean, or venturing through the Pacific, ocean cruises offer a diverse itinerary filled with adventures. Onboard, travellers can enjoy world-class entertainment, dining, and spa treatments, ensuring their time at sea is as luxurious as their time ashore.
Closer to home, Champion Travel also offers fantastic cruise options for those who prefer exploring New Zealand’s stunning coastline or the neighbouring Pacific islands. These cruises are perfect for discovering hidden coves, beautiful beaches, and vibrant coastal towns, all within the comfort of a luxurious ship.
Maxwell Burns at Champion Travel ensures each cruise experience is tailored to the traveller’s desires. With Champion Travel’s expertise, you can be assured that your cruise will be a seamless, memorable journey from start to finish, tailored to exceed your expectations. Contact them today to explore your options!
Pacific Resort Hotel Group is thrilled to announce that its properties have been honoured once again at the prestigious World Culinary Awards 2024. This renowned event celebrates the finest brands in the culinary world, and we are proud to share that our properties have achieved exceptional accolades.
Pacific Resort Hotel Group is delighted to reveal its latest honours:
Cook Islands’ Best Restaurant 2024: Rapae Bay, Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Cook Islands’ Best Hotel Restaurant 2024: Little Polynesian Restaurant, Little Polynesian
These awards underscore our ongoing commitment to excellence and the outstanding dining experiences we offer. Voted for by culinary professionals, media, and consumers worldwide, these accolades affirm our dedication to providing unforgettable culinary journeys.
Awards Overview:
Cook Islands’ Best Restaurant 2024:Rapae Bay, Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Rapae Bay, located within Pacific Resort Aitutaki, has been named the Cook Islands’ Best Restaurant for 2024. This accolade highlights the restaurant’s dedication to delivering an exceptional dining experience, with a creative fusion of local and international flavours set against the breath-taking backdrop of Aitutaki’s pristine lagoon. This recognition builds on Rapae Bay’s previous wins as Cook Islands’ Best Restaurant in 2023 and 2022, reflecting its sustained excellence.
Cook Islands’ Best Hotel Restaurant 2024: Little Polynesian Restaurant, Little Polynesian
Little Polynesian Restaurant at Little Polynesian Resort has been honoured as the Cook Islands’ Best Hotel Restaurant for 2024. This award celebrates the restaurant’s culinary prowess and innovative Pacific-inspired dishes, complemented by its warm Polynesian hospitality and inviting atmosphere. This recognition follows Little Polynesian Restaurant’s accolades as Cook Islands’ Best Hotel Restaurant in 2023 and 2022.
These achievements further cement Pacific Resort Hotel Group’s reputation for culinary excellence and dedication to providing extraordinary experiences for our guests.
For more information about Pacific Resort Hotel Group and our award-winning properties, please visit here.
By Fiona Stephen Looking for the perfect getaway this holiday season? Nestled along the stunning West Coast, Bethells Beach Cottages offers an unforgettable escape for those seeking tranquillity, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic retreat, or a peaceful solo getaway, these charming cottages provide the ideal base for your summer break or Christmas escape.
Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves and taking a morning stroll along the secluded Bethells Beach. With panoramic ocean views, lush greenery, and private surroundings, Bethells Beach Cottages are a hidden gem, perfect for anyone looking to recharge during the festive season.
Start your day with a refreshing swim or surf at Bethells Beach or nearby O’Neills, where the Bethells Beach Surf Life Savers are on hand to ensure safety while you enjoy the water. The area is also rich with scenic local walkways, ideal for those who enjoy exploring nature on foot. One of the highlights is the Waitākere Ranges, offering gentle hikes with stunning coastal views, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
For relaxation, breathe in the healing salt breeze to rejuvenate, or unwind in a hammock as you listen to the waves and dream. You can also enjoy the outdoor lawn games available at the cottages, including petanque, chess, and croquet—perfect for some leisurely fun amidst nature.
After a day of adventures, return to your cosy cottage to unwind. Soothe tired muscles by soaking in the Scandinavian hot tub, or hire the portable Kiwi hot tub for privacy on your deck, surrounded by scented flowers from the garden.
If you’re visiting in early March, be sure to support the community by attending the Bethells Beach Surf Life Saving Club Fundraiser. This event raises essential funds to rebuild their clubhouse, which was damaged during Cyclone Gabrielle. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled evening with local activities and food while contributing to a great cause.
Book your stay at Bethells Beach Cottages now to secure your spot for the holiday season. Limited availability means you’ll want to act fast to experience the natural beauty, community spirit, and peace of this coastal haven.
Te Koinga Cottage, Turehu Cottage, Wairua Apartment and Wedding & Events Pavilion
Embark on a dream island getaway with Champion Travel, your gateway to the luxurious properties of Pacific Resort Hotel Group in the beautiful Cook Islands. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a family holiday, or a solo escape, Pacific Resort Hotel Group offers the perfect setting to suit your travel needs.
Experience the untouched beauty of Pacific Resort Aitutaki, where white sandy beaches meet vibrant blue lagoons. This award-winning luxury resort offers beachfront bungalows and villas, providing you with front-row access to the stunning natural surroundings. Relax in style while indulging in world-class dining and rejuvenating spa treatments.
For a cultural immersion, head to Pacific Resort Rarotonga, located on the main island. With its unique blend of Polynesian charm and modern amenities, this boutique beachfront resort offers easy access to local markets, traditional performances, and adventure activities. Perfect for families or those looking to explore the local culture while staying in comfort.
If privacy and tranquillity are what you seek, Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa offers self-contained beachfront villas, providing the ultimate blend of independence and indulgence. With your private pool and optional in-villa spa services, you’ll experience the beauty of Rarotonga in an intimate, luxurious setting.
For a romantic escape, Little Polynesian Resort, an adults-only retreat on Rarotonga’s southern coast, offers stunning beachfront and garden studios, ideal for couples wanting to experience a more intimate island getaway.
Champion Travel partners with Pacific Resort Hotel Group to offer exclusive deals and tailored experiences, ensuring your time in the Cook Islands is unforgettable. Whether you’re chasing adventure or seeking relaxation, these stunning resorts will provide the perfect backdrop for your next holiday.
Let Champion Travel help you discover your slice of paradise with Pacific Resort Hotel Group!
AI has become a strong force in many fields, and this goes without saying in the travel industry. Be it automating customer service or bespoke travel recommendations, AI technologies come out as a strong disrupting force that changes how people plan, experience, and reflect on their journeys. In this age, consumers yearn for personalisation, AI processes vast amounts of data and delivers insight in real time. Its international scope means that tourists from Tokyo to Toronto reap from its sophisticated applications and radically change how the world travels.
The Role of AI in Enhancing Sustainable Travel
In New Zealand, AI is being harnessed not only to improve the experience but to further sustainability efforts as well. With its striking natural landscapes and strong environmental focus, New Zealand is leveraging AI to promote eco-friendly tourism. AI systems help in managing tourist traffic in hotspots by utilising predictive models so that overcrowding does not take place and the impact on the environment is reduced. Besides, AI-enabled tools have started helping travellers make more eco-friendly choices by recommending sustainable accommodation options, energy-efficient modes of transportation, and ecotourism options. In this manner, integrating AI into New Zealand’s tourism not only fortifies ease of travel but also ensures that this pure environment will be preserved for future generations. AI is leading from the front to show how technology can help the country keep its reputation of promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.
Changing Transportation: AI-Driven Transformation
In the United States, AI is playing a significant role in optimising transportation and enhancing the travel experience among locals and cross-country. Major cities are now integrating AI into the public transportation systems for better optimisation of predictive analytics for improving traffic flow and congestion, hence accurate times in public transport schedules. Every kind of ride-hailing app makes use of AI techniques that help them match the rides of the passengers effectively with that of the drivers. This reduces wait times while commuting. In addition, it optimises routes to reduce travel time and ensures safety on board in the charter bus industry. For travellers in Boston, for instance, finding the best charter bus companies has become more streamlined through AI-powered platforms that offer real-time tracking and customised service options. These technologies enable travellers to explore cities with ease while reducing the unpredictability that normally characterises transportation.
Personalised Travel Planning: Redefining the Experience
Perhaps one of the most profound influences AI has on the travel industry is in personalising travel planning. AI-driven platforms analyse user preferences, browsing habits, and travel history to recommend destinations, accommodations, and activities tailored precisely to a certain individual. These algorithms go through millions of data points and make recommendations that otherwise would have been difficult to stumble upon using usual search methods. Further, chatbots and virtual travel agents help power bookings and answer questions, apart from real-time updates. This saves time but also ensures that the best available opportunities are extended to travellers. Many companies have embraced AI that yields predictive insights on flight prices and trip itineraries, thus letting travellers make informed decisions based on data rather than guesswork.
AI in Global Hospitality: A Revolution in Guest Services
AI is making waves in the global hospitality industry. AI is being integrated into operations around the world to offer superior guest experiences in hotels and resorts. The range of AI-powered virtual assistants goes from taking room service orders to facilitating check-ins, even offering customised recommendations of nearby attractions. Certain high-end hotels have gone as far as adding AI-powered robots that welcome guests, bring luggage, and even serve room service. Moreover, AI is supporting hoteliers in providing an analysis of guest feedback to anticipate needs and improve services in real time. Machine learning models will predict guest preferences from past stays for hyper-personalised experiences that enhance customer satisfaction. This makes one seamless travel experience wherein the needs of guests are almost intuitively understood, further solidifying AI’s transformational influence in global hospitality.
Conclusion: The Future of Travel
As AI continues to mature, with each passing day its impact on the travel industry will deepen. From personalised trip planning to AI-enabled transportation, the potential of the technology to enable newer ways of smarter, more efficient, and more enjoyable travel experiences is limitless. As it is, predictions are difficult regarding when fully AI-powered travel could turn into a reality; however, looking at the present trajectory, it most definitely will be an exciting future for travellers around the planet.
For the ultimate horseback adventure, look no further than The Cardrona’s Top Beat—New Zealand’s highest guided horse trek. This exclusive ride offers plenty of fast-paced cantering and galloping on fun, forward-moving horses, perfect for experienced riders seeking a thrill off the beaten track.
Set in the rugged, mountainous terrain of the Cardrona Valley, Top Beat takes you high up into the hills for breathtaking views and an exhilarating ride. With steep climbs, sharp turns, and plenty of opportunities to let your horse stretch out in a full gallop, this is the fastest ride on offer at The Cardrona. As you navigate the remote bushy landscape, you’ll stop at a hitching rail high up the mountain, giving you a chance to catch your breath and snap some stunning photos. This exclusive alpine equine experience is one you won’t want to miss.
Right click on this video, go to show all controls, press play to see the action!
The trek lasts around 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views and enjoy the thrill of riding these spirited, well-trained horses. Top Beat is not for beginners or nervous riders—this ride demands confidence and a passion for speed.
The Top Beat trek requires a minimum of two riders to go ahead, but solo riders can request a private, one-on-one experience (terms and conditions apply).
Don’t just take our word for it—experienced riders visiting Queenstown and Wanaka have been raving about this ride:
“Absolutely wonderful morning riding with Kelly on a private “Top Beat” ride. Lou is a beautiful, forward moving horse who was a joy to ride. Stunning landscape, interesting terrain and a fast pace makes for an exhilarating ride. Kelly is a fabulous, welcoming leader with lots of local knowledge that she shares along the way. Can’t recommend this experience highly enough if you are a comfortable rider. Would rate it 6/5 if I could!”
For those craving an unforgettable adventure, Top Beat is the ride of a lifetime!
To book this incredible adventure, email Kelly at info@thecardrona.co.nz.
At Pacific Resort Hotel Group, every guest’s experience is at the heart of everything we do. From the pristine beaches of Aitutaki to the serene elegance of vibrant yet relaxing resorts and villas, we are committed to crafting unforgettable moments. Now, guests are invited to share those moments with the world through Pacific Resort Hotel Group’s social media channels.
Our guests are the group’s greatest ambassadors, and their stories add to the rich tapestry of experiences at each resort. Whether it’s enjoying a cocktail at Pacific Resort Aitutaki, indulging in a romantic sunset dinner at Little Polynesian, relaxing on a lounger overlooking Muri lagoon at Pacific Resort Rarotonga, or unwinding in a private pool in a villa at Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa, these special moments are what make each stay unique. Pacific Resort Hotel Group invites guests to share their experiences, showcasing the beauty of the Cook Islands through their eyes.
Join the Online Community
Each destination within Pacific Resort Hotel Group features its own Facebook and Instagram accounts, allowing guests to connect directly and immerse themselves in the unique charm of their chosen resort. By following these accounts, guests can stay connected with a vibrant online community, see the latest news, enjoy stunning imagery, and keep up with updates specific to each property. More importantly, these platforms offer a space for guests to share their stories.
We’d love to hear from you! Connect with us and share your story to inspire others and celebrate the beauty of the Cook Islands through your unique experiences.
At Pacific Resort Hotel Group, we deeply value guest feedback and encourage reviews. We believe every guest’s story is a part of the rich and vibrant culture of the Cook Islands. By sharing your experiences, you contribute to a global community of travellers who have discovered the magic of our Pacific Resort properties. Whether you’re reminiscing about a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a tranquil retreat, your stories help inspire others to explore the unparalleled beauty and hospitality of the Cook Islands.
Kelly Spaans is the heart and soul behind The Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs, where she blends her love for horses and outdoor adventures. From her start as a horse trekking guide to running her own business off the beaten track in Cardrona Valley, Kelly’s passion for the land shines through in everything she does.
1. If you could only choose one: horse trekking, quad biking, or riding ATVs, which would it be and why?
Ah that’s easy – Horses hands down! They’re my babies 😉 However we go much higher up the mountain on the quads & off-road buggies, therefore the views are even more impressive, so I often think “how nice it would be to be on a horse up here..” they’re both very cool activities!
2. What inspired you to create your business? And why Cardrona?
I was already working full time as a horse trekking guide in the local area, so it was a natural progression as I was already very intimately connected with the land on the farm I now run my business on (riding my horse, running, mountain biking & quad biking for fun almost every day).
3. Do you have a story from your early life that hinted you might end up working with horses and outdoor activities?
My sister & I were very “horse-mad” as young girls, but we lived in the city so we were not allowed a pony of our own. Our parents bought us motorbikes instead, I guess hoping that would stop the pestering for horses & horse riding – the good thing is now I can ride both! Thanks Mum & Dad!
When I was about 15 my Aunty started up a horse trekking business on their farm in Waitarere Beach & I used to go up & help her out preparing the horses & being her “tail end charlie” on weekends & school holidays, now the tables have turned & she doesn’t have horses anymore, so it’s quite neat to take her out on my treks when she is visiting the area.
4. What are your hobbies outside of your business activities?
I’m a keen runner & mountain biker, I generally love being outdoors & keeping fit so doing what I do for a job suits me down to the ground! In the winter I try to dust my snowboard off & in the summer it’s great to get out with my partner on our Harley Davidsons – if I can manage to ride a horse as well as my snowboard/ Harley in the same day that’s a pretty wicked feeling 😉
5. What is the most unique feedback you have ever had?
There have been many occasions whether verbally or online I have received accolades to the effect of; “This was the honestly best ride I have ever done”, & frequently “This was hands down the highlight of our Queenstown/Wanaka holiday” It is very touching to hear such positive feedback & I love that my clients expectations are often exceeded.
6. If you were to add a completely new, somewhat unconventional activity to Cardrona, what would it be?
Hmmm I’ve ridden Camels & Elephants in other countries… Not sure they would like Cardrona very much though haha
7. How do you hope your work impacts your clients and the community?
As I mentioned above, I hope that my clients expectations are exceeded & that those that were perhaps new to the activity or worried/ nervous can come away with a sense of accomplishment. We have a lovely community here in Cardrona Valley where we all look out for each other & support the local businesses so I feel privileged to be a part of that & make sure my neighbours come & experience what I have to offer.
8. What legacy do you wish to create through your business?
Cherishing & respect of this special land & its history that we are so privileged to be able to enjoy
9. What are some important lessons you’ve learned about life and business throughout your journey?
Where do I start? I had never owned a business before this one, in fact I had never really properly owned horses of my own! & I continue to learn from them – they are amazing creatures! I say to my new staff as I am training them “learn from my mistakes” as I made many in the early years! It’s a pretty well-oiled machine now though.
10. Did you ever imagine the bra fence would be as popular as it is?
Haha nobody did! As I’m typing this I can see many vehicles parked beside it & people taking photos & making cash donations which I bank for NZBCF, plus I can see emails coming through with donations coming via the QR code to the “Bradrona” fundraising page almost $170,000 so far & counting! I’ve been interviewed by various media sources more times than I can remember now & pleased to be able to assist with supporting such a worthy cause.
Kelly has turned her love for adventure into more than just a business—she’s built a community and created lasting memories in Cardrona Valley. Through exciting experiences and a genuine love for the outdoors, she continues to inspire and impress everyone who comes her way.
Pacific Resort Hotel Group (PRHG) is thrilled to announce that three of its prestigious properties have once again been recognised with top honours at the World Travel Awards 2024. The group’s unwavering commitment to excellence in hospitality has been celebrated with the following awards:
Cook Islands’ Leading Boutique Hotel 2024: Little Polynesian
Cook Islands’ Leading Resort 2024: Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Cook Islands’ Leading Villa Resort 2024: Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa
“Marcus Niszow, CEO of Pacific Resort Hotel Group, commented: ‘We are honoured to receive these prestigious accolades at the World Travel Awards 2024. This recognition underscores our commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences and is a testament to the relentless efforts of our team. We are grateful to our staff and loyal guests, whose support has been pivotal in achieving these significant milestones.’”
The World Travel Awards are regarded as the pinnacle of excellence in the travel and tourism industry, making these consistent victories particularly significant. Since 2018, Pacific Resort Aitutaki, Little Polynesian Resort, and Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa have each been recognised as winners in their respective categories year after year. This ongoing recognition sets PRHG apart as leaders in the industry, highlighting their unwavering commitment to delivering the highest standards of luxury and exceptional service.
PRHG look forward to celebrating this success with their community and continuing to set the standard for luxury accommodation in the region.
ENDS
—
About Pacific Resort Hotel Group Pacific Resort Hotel Group (PRHG), is the Cook Islands leading independent collection of luxury and boutique beachfront resorts. PRHG operate boutique resorts and hospitality facilities underpinned by a focus on local culture, the environment, and unique architectural and landscaping design providing discerning guests with an authentic South Pacific experience. PRHG successfully owns and operates four award-winning resorts under the Pacific Resort brand and has partnered with one further Cook Islands property under its Franchise Partner Hotel Program.
About Pacific Resort Aitutaki Secluded Luxury… The island of Aitutaki, an atoll of lush tropical foliage and white sand beaches ringed by a stunningly beautiful lagoon of turquoise water. This is where you’ll find 5-star luxury resort, Pacific Resort Aitutaki, each morning greeted by a spectacular view of Aitutaki’s world famous lagoon, thanks to the absolute beachfront location of the resort’s 29 spacious and air-conditioned bungalows, villas and suites. The resort welcomes guests 12 and older and provides an intimate and romantic escape where the delights of island life are presented to you in luxurious surroundings; that illustrate exactly why Pacific Resort Aitutaki is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
About Little Polynesian Resort Inspiring Romance… Little Polynesian is one of the Cook Islands’ most intimate luxury boutique resorts. With just ten beachfront bungalows and four garden studios on a beautiful stretch of white sandy beach, Little Polynesian is committed to providing the ultimate Cook Islands experience through outstanding personalised service that surpasses all expectations.
About Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa The road less travelled… Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa has been designed just for you. This concept in luxury accommodation gives you the freedom to personalise your own leisure experience. Set on the beautiful white sand beach of Rarotonga’s stunning Muri lagoon, your private villa awaits. How you choose to tailor your villa experience is completely up to you.
About Pacific Resort Rarotonga Authentic Boutique… Pacific Resort is Rarotonga’s leading full-service authentic boutique resort situated in an unrivaled location on the glorious white sands of Muri beach. This premium boutique resort offers a collection of 64, rooms, suites and villas with a perfect blend of modern comforts and traditional island hospitality.
