There’s a heap of long weekends and public holidays fast approaching (thank GOD) and they provide the perfect opportunity for a mid-year break. And to absolutely NO ONE’s surprise, a recent study has confirmed that 82% of travellers say that holiday planning has a positive impact on their emotional wellbeing*. As New Zealand prepares to reopen its borders to our Australian neighbours – and as we both commemorate Anzac Day on April 25 – restriction-free travel is a lot to be excited about as we reflect back, and look forward to a brighter future. So why not start planning now to head somewhere new for your long weekend holiday, and visit some Anzac-related monuments and locations?
Intercontinental Hotel, Wellington
In the heart of Wellington, The Intercontinental Hotel is a world-class mix of sophistication, luxury and fascination. Experience a world class experience in New Zealand’s capital city. The property is a 3 minute walk to the harbour and offers an exclusive club lounge, a fitness centre, 2 restaurants, a bar and the city’s largest heated hotel swimming pool.
Less than 1km away is the city’s iconic Te Papa Museum which features Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War – an exhibition like no other that tells the story of the Gallipoli campaign in World War I from a New Zealand perspective. The exhibit, particularly its 2.4x human size sculptures, allows people to experience the heart of Anzac from a real, raw perspective.
Take a secluded, romantic long weekend holiday away at Boho Hill on Waiheke Island. Set in Palm Beach, this Bali-inspired boutique accommodation creates a unique oasis for any traveller. The property is 400m from the sandy white palm beach and within 10 minutes of many of the island’s iconic wineries.
Located a short drive away from the tranquillity of this relaxing stay is Anzac Bay – a stunning beach tucked away in Waiheke Island that was named to commemorate the men and women of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. One of just 16 recorded place names linked to World War I, approved as official by the New Zealand Geographic Board Nga Pou Taunaha o Aotearoa, Anzac Bay is part of the geographic board’s contribution to the government’s WW100 programme, which marked the centenary of World War I in 2015.
Crystalbrook Albion Boutique Hotel, Sydney
Why not jet off to one of Australia’s most thriving cities, and spend a few nights in Crystalbrook Albion, a sustainable hotel located in the heart of Sydney that offers an eclectic mix of heritage and contemporary details. It features a rooftop garden with views over Surrey Hills and Sydney City. This unique stay is the embodiment of the local experience reimagined for the modern luxury traveller and perfect for a long weekend holiday.
During your stay, take a short trip to Hyde Park’s Anzac Memorial, a heritage-listed war memorial honours the service or all those who served during the war. Travellers can visit the memorial and see its various halls which are dedicated to different aspects of Anzac. The Art Deco monument was designed by C. Bruce Dellit, and built from 1932 to 1934.
Overlooking the Karrawirra Parri River EOS by Skycity, Adelaide is the embodiment of luxury. Travellers are pampered with choices or entertainment and cuisines from signature restaurants as well as rejuvenating spa experiences for the weary traveller.
Right in the heart of Adelaide is the Anzac Centenary Memorial Walk, which was unveiled in 2016 as part of South Australia’s Anzac Centenary project and pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of all Australians affected by war. Featuring images of South Australia’s servicemen and women, and pavers embossed with the names of the places where they fought, the Memorial Walk was designed around three pillars of symbolism: remembrance, service and loyalty.
Capital of the Australian state of Tasmania, Hobart is a beautiful long weekend getaway just across the ditch. Set amongst the vineyard of Charles Reuben Estate, this 2-bedroom cottage offers a mezzanine master bedroom and an open plan living area and just a short 10 minutes’ drive from the historic town of Richmond.
Hobart is brimming with Australian history and is home to the main commemorative military monument for the Australian state of Tasmania. The Hobart Cenotaph, usually The Cenotaph, initially commemorated those Tasmanians who served in World War One but now commemorates later conflicts in which Australia has been involved. Each year there is a Dawn Service for those who would like to pay their respects to the men and women who served Australia during World War I.
*Figures based on a survey conducted by booking.com
