Travel

Planning your Pacific holiday and eager to make a meaningful impact? At Pacific Resort Hotel Group, you can immerse yourself in unforgettable experiences that positively affect the local environment and culture. They’ve curated five regenerative activities designed to enrich your stay while supporting sustainable tourism in the Cook Islands. 1 Marine Conservation Snorkelling Tours Discover the stunning coral reefs of the Cook Islands on eco-friendly snorkelling tours focused on marine conservation. These tours allow you to explore the underwater world while supporting efforts to protect fragile ecosystems. Explore Pacific Resort Aitutaki’s Aquatic Eco Trail, a self-guided snorkelling and educational tour of the lagoon’s marine environment. 2 Enjoy a Traditional Umu Cultural Night Experience the traditional Cook Islands umu cooking at the Umu Cultural Night, where local warriors demonstrate this ancient practice through chants and dance. Enjoy a feast cooked in an underground oven, with live music and cultural performances adding to the atmosphere. For more details visit the Umu Experience page. 3 Contribute to Coral Restoration at Pacific Resort Aitutaki Leave a lasting impact at Pacific Resort Aitutaki by joining the coral restoration project in Aitutaki Lagoon. Guests can plant coral fragments and help regenerate the reef while contributing to the resort’s regenerative tourism efforts. Track your coral’s growth and explore the work of Te Ara o te Akau Inc, which is dedicated to reforestation and coral restoration in the Cook Islands. Learn more about our coral restoration project and Te Ara o te Akau’s initiatives here. 4 Learn Traditional Arts and Crafts The Rarotonga Arts & Crafts Private Tour takes you on an immersive journey to meet local artisans, visiting workshops and factories like the Rito coconut oil factory, Koteka Winery, Cooks Lager Brewery, master carver Mike Tavioni’s gallery, and the Circle Cook Islands shop. This tour supports the preservation of traditional arts, such as weaving and carving, while also promoting upcycled fashion. Find out more here. 5 Take an Adventure with Land Conservation Hikes Experience a guided hike through the breath-taking landscapes of the Cook Islands and participate in conservation efforts like native species replanting and invasive species removal. Tours with Maunga Tours and Tumutoa Tours offer you the chance to connect with nature while contributing to the islands’ ecosystem conservation. Discover more about Pacific Resort Hotel Group’s commitment to sustainability by exploring our Sustainability Hub. Learn how they are minimising their environmental impact and fostering positive cultural exchanges during your stay. For additional ways to travel with purpose, check out Cook Islands Tourism’s regenerative activities here and discover how you can make a difference during your Pacific holiday. Take a look at their great offers and start planning! Contact Pacific Resort Hotel Group reservations@pacificresort.com Contact Media PA027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz www.mediapa.co.nz

Spring has truly arrived in the Cardrona Valley, transforming the landscape into a vibrant display of greenery, blossoms, and the hum of honeybees. It’s a special time of year for Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs, with the added beauty of lambing and calving season creating a unique and memorable backdrop for their tours. Kel, the owner, captures the charm of the season: “Yes, it is certainly very ‘springy’ now! Cardrona Valley is becoming greener by the day, beautiful blossoms are out, and the honeybee hives are beginning to buzz.” This stunning natural setting enhances the experience, whether guests choose to explore the valley on horseback or by quad bike or ATV. During the tours, care is taken around the new mothers and their babies. “Lambing and calving season has just begun here on the farm, so it’s a very special time of year. We need to be extra careful and go quietly past the new mums and babies while on tour with the horses and quad bikes. Sometimes we’ll stop a tour and wait for a mother to help her new baby to its feet to follow her safely away,” Kel explains. These peaceful moments make the tours a truly special way to witness the rhythms of farm life. For those looking for an unforgettable spring adventure, Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs offers both individual and group tours, making it the perfect activity for families, friends, or even workmates. Whether you’re after the calm of a horseback trek or the thrill of a 4×4 ride, Cardrona provides an ideal setting for a spring outing. If you’re planning a group adventure off the beaten track or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the season, Cardrona Horse Treks and 4×4 ATVs is ready to offer an experience you won’t forget. Get in touch to book your tour today! Contact Experience The Cardrona +64 3 443 1228 info@thecardrona.co.nz Contact Phillip Quayphillip@mediapa.co.nz0274 587 724www.mediapa.co.nz

By Fiona Stephen 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! Contact Bethells Beach Cottages +64 9 810 9581 info@bethellsbeach.com www.bethellsbeach.com Contact Phillip Quay Media PA phillip@mediapa.co.nz 027 458 7724 www.mediapa.co.nz

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. 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! Contact Maxwell Burns at Champion Travel 021 022 02220 info@championtravel.co.nz Contact Phillip Quay: Email: Phillip@mediapa.co.nz Mobile: 027 458 7724 Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Press Release – Pacific Resort Hotel Group 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: 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. ENDS- Contact Pacific Resort Hotel Group Pacific Resort Hotel Group reservations@pacificresort.com Contact Media PA027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz www.mediapa.co.nz

By Fiona StephenLooking 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 Bethells Beach                Waitakere                  Auckland                     New Zealand Contact Bethells Beach Cottages +64 9 810 9581 info@bethellsbeach.com www.bethellsbeach.com Contact Phillip Quay phillip@mediapa.co.nz 027 458 7724 www.mediapa.co.nz

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! Contact Maxwell Burns at Champion Travel 021 022 02220 info@championtravel.co.nz Home Contact Phillip Quay: Email: Phillip@mediapa.co.nz Mobile: 027 458 7724 Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

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. Contact The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs info@thecardrona.co.nz +64 3 443 1228 Home Contact Phillip Quay 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz www.mediapa.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. Instagram: @pacificresort (Pacific Resort Hotel Group) @pacificrarotonga (Pacific Resort Rarotonga) @pacificaitutaki (Pacific Resort Aitutaki) @littlepolynesian (Little Polynesian Resort) @temanava (Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa) Facebook: Pacific Resort Rarotonga Pacific Resort Hotel Group Pacific Resort Aitutaki Little Polynesian Resort Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa YouTube: Pacific Resort YouTube Channel Guest Feedback is Valued 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. Pacific Resort Aitutaki Trip Advisor Pacific Resort Raorotonga Trip Advisor Te Manava Villas and Spa Trip Advisor Contact Pacific Resort Hotel Group Pacific Resort Hotel Group reservations@pacificresort.com Contact Media PA027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz www.mediapa.co.nz

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. Contact The Cardrona Horse Riding & 4×4 ATVs info@thecardrona.co.nz +64 3 443 1228 Contact Phillip Quay 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz www.mediapa.co.nz