https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/charley.robinson/

Australia & New Zealand Travel Expert, Wells (2026)

06/05/2026

New Zealand Diaries ~ Day Two | Waiheke Island

Day two in New Zealand was all about island vibes, world‑class wine and the most incredible coastal views.

Whilst in Auckland I stayed at Hotel Indigo, perfectly positioned in the heart of the CBD and just a short stroll from the harbourfront. From there it was an easy walk to the ferry terminal, where regular sailings make the 40‑minute crossing over to Waiheke Island. The journey itself is part of the experience, with gorgeous views across to Devonport, the volcanic cone of Mount Rangitoto and back towards the Auckland skyline.

On arrival we were greeted by Paulie, our host for the day and a real fountain of knowledge about the island. Waiheke has a fascinating story: once a quiet holiday hideaway with baches dotted along the bays, it has evolved into a chic island escape known for its vineyards, olive groves and creative community. The land has a rich Māori history too, with fortified pā sites on the headlands and a deep connection to the sea and the fertile soils that now nurture vines and olive trees.

Our first stop was EcoZip Adventures. After a safety briefing and getting kitted out in our harnesses, we headed to the first dual zipline, aptly named “Vineyard Cruise”, gliding over rows of Syrah vines. The second line is higher and longer at 200 metres and quickly became my favourite thanks to the sweeping views out over the bay. The third and final line is 220 metres and can reach speeds of over 50 km/h, which is actually faster than you’re allowed to drive on Waiheke’s roads! We finished with a peaceful guided walk through native forest, with our guides pointing out local birds and unique flora along the way.

For lunch we headed to Casita Miro, a beautiful tapas‑style restaurant set on a vineyard with a distinctly Spanish flair. The setting is as lovely as the food: think Gaudí‑inspired mosaics lining the driveway, dappled light, and leisurely small plates paired with local wines.

After an unforgettable lunch we stopped at the new Allpress Olive Grove tasting room. Here we learned about the olive‑picking process: from hand‑harvesting the fruit at just the right stage of ripeness, to pressing it within hours to preserve flavour and nutrients. We tasted five different olive oils, including an early harvest variety that is rich in antioxidants and known for its health benefits.

We ended our Waiheke experience at the picture‑perfect Mudbrick Vineyard. A full wine tasting was followed by sunset on the terrace, looking back over the water to the Auckland skyline as the lights of the city began to sparkle. It was the most magical way to end a truly fabulous day on Waiheke Island.

05/05/2026

New Zealand Diaries ~ Day One | Auckland

Touching down in Auckland at 7am this morning felt a little bit like stepping back in time and fast‑forwarding all at once. After leaving Los Angeles at 10.25pm two days earlier, a mere 13.5 hour flight and a date line crossing meant I quite literally skipped Sunday 3 May this year.

This trip is particularly special for me. I have not been back to New Zealand for eight years, since I left after living in Wanaka for several years, and it feels incredibly emotional to return with my wonderful ground team partners and a few fantastic Travel Counsellor colleagues by my side. Coming back in a professional capacity, with people who share the same passion for exploring this magical country, makes it even more meaningful.

First impressions: Auckland Airport is a dream. After years of shuffling through queues in busy US and European hubs, breezing through immigration and Biosecurity in seconds was a revelation. The whole arrival experience was calm, friendly and efficient, and the Biosecurity team (who carefully protect New Zealand’s fragile ecosystem by checking for food and potential pests or diseases) were very friendly. It is such a positive welcome into the country.

The drive from the airport into Auckland CBD was a blur of tiredness and nostalgia. Through slightly jet‑lagged eyes I watched familiar Kiwi brands, roadside cafés, local shops and those unmistakably New Zealand adverts roll past the window. Little details like that instantly took me back to my last time here, and reminded me why this country gets under your skin in the best possible way.

With only a couple of hours of broken sleep on the flight, I was determined not to give in to a nap and ruin my body clock. After a quick freshen up, I met up with the team for breakfast then headed straight to the gym for a short workout to shake off the journey and reset before our afternoon of exploring.

Feeling much more human, we set off on foot down to Auckland’s harbourfront to meet our guide Liz from Aucky Walky Tours. Liz is a fourth‑generation Aucklander and has that rare gift of being both an encyclopaedia and a storyteller. What she does not know about the city simply is not worth knowing. She led us through the Britomart area, along Queen Street and into the uptown districts, weaving in stories of Auckland’s past, Māori heritage, modern development and day‑to‑day local life. It was the perfect way to reconnect with the city, not just ticking off sights but really understanding how it fits together.

Along the way we stopped at the wonderful Cocoa Wilds for a chocolate tasting that was every bit as indulgent as it sounds. We then wandered through the beautifully designed Hotel Britomart with its chic, sustainable aesthetic and sense of understated luxury, before settling in for lunch at the family‑run Mezze Bar. The food there was outstanding: generous, flavour‑packed sharing dishes that were exactly what we all needed after a long travel day. It had that relaxed, local feel that makes you want to linger.

In the afternoon we made our way to SkyCity for the All Blacks Experience, which turned out to be one of the biggest surprises of the day. I had expected something mainly for die‑hard rugby fans, but it was so much more than that. It is highly interactive, combining storytelling, immersive AV, and hands‑on elements that bring New Zealand’s sporting culture and values to life. It is a fantastic option for families, multi‑generational groups or anyone curious about how deeply rugby is woven into the national identity. Even if you do not know your scrums from your line‑outs, you will come away moved and inspired.

After a quick turnaround back at our hotel, we rounded off the day at the Viaduct with dinner at Soul. Sitting by the water with an incredible seafood spread, great New Zealand wine and plenty of animated trip talk with the team felt like the perfect full‑circle moment. Fresh oysters, beautifully cooked fish and that lively yet relaxed harbourfront atmosphere made it a dinner I would recommend in a heartbeat.

It has been a whirlwind first day in Auckland, filled with familiar sights, new discoveries and the joy of sharing it all with colleagues and partners who are as passionate about travel as I am.

30/04/2026

5 UNIQUE LUXURY STAYS IN AUSTRALIA ✨

When it comes to luxury, Australia does things a little differently. Think remote locations, extraordinary landscapes, and experiences you simply will not find anywhere else.

Here are five incredible stays that really stand out:

🌿 Sal Salis, Ningaloo Reef
Beachfront safari tents just steps from the reef: snorkel straight from the shore and experience barefoot luxury at its finest.

🏜️ Longitude 131°, Uluru
Iconic desert luxury with uninterrupted views of Uluru, immersive dining under the stars, and guided experiences in the Red Centre.

🌄 El Questro Homestead, The Kimberley
Remote, exclusive, and set in one of Australia’s most dramatic regions: private gorges, waterfalls, and outback adventure wrapped in comfort.

🦘 Bamurru Plains, Kakadu
A safari‑style lodge on the edge of Kakadu National Park, offering incredible wildlife encounters and a true sense of escape.

🌊 Saffire Freycinet, Tasmania
Contemporary coastal luxury overlooking Wineglass Bay, with standout experiences and exceptional food and wine.

If you would love a tailor‑made Australian itinerary featuring one of these unforgettable stays, get in touch and I will design a journey that is perfectly matched to you.

28/04/2026

How long does it take to reach the South Pacific?

If you are already dreaming of Australia or New Zealand, adding on a South Pacific island escape is often much easier than you might think. Those turquoise lagoons and overwater-style stays do not always mean long travel days.

Here is a simple guide to typical flight times between key hubs and some of the most popular South Pacific islands:

From Australia
• Fiji: around 4–5 hours from major cities such as Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne
• Cook Islands: around 6–7 hours from Sydney (direct)
• French Polynesia (Tahiti): around 8–9 hours from Sydney (direct)

From New Zealand
• Fiji: around 3 hours from Auckland
• Cook Islands: around 4 hours from Auckland
• French Polynesia (Tahiti): around 5 hours from Auckland

💡 Top tip: Many of the most convenient South Pacific flights depart from Auckland, which makes it a very natural add‑on to a New Zealand itinerary.

Short flight times mean you can enjoy a city and adventure holiday in Australia or New Zealand, then finish with a few blissful days on a tropical island without another ultra‑long flight.

If you would love to combine Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific in one tailor‑made trip, contact me and I will design an itinerary that flows perfectly for you.

21/04/2026

🌟 NEW | Oasis Luxury Eco Villas - Rawnsley Park Station, Flinders Ranges

Opening from 1 November 2026, these brand new, architect-designed eco villas sit on a private site overlooking Rawnsley Bluff and Wilpena Pound, where you can watch the colours of the Flinders Ranges shift from sunrise to sunset from your very own plunge pool.

Think wide balconies, a sun deck, private plunge pool, outdoor kitchen for relaxed in-villa dining, modern vibrant interiors and exclusive private touring included: all created with advanced eco principles and low-impact design at their heart.

Choose from:
• One-bedroom villas: a dreamy, adults-only escape for couples
• Two-bedroom villas: perfect for families or friends who want to share an extraordinary outback experience

If your idea of “getting away from it all” includes stargazing skies, rugged ranges and a glass of something special by your own pool, this is your new outback oasis.

Contact me to be among the first to secure an Oasis Luxury Eco Villa stay from November 2026.

19/04/2026

Some very exciting New Zealand news from me… I’m heading back to Aotearoa in less than two weeks!

I’ve just received my itinerary and it looks incredible: a wonderful mix of new destinations and experiences, combined with a few old favourites that I can’t wait to relive again. After eight years away, almost to the day, it feels incredibly special to be returning to a place that means so much to me, both personally and professionally.

Over the coming weeks I’ll be sharing lots of Kiwi‑focused posts: fresh inspiration, first‑hand tips and on‑the‑ground updates from around New Zealand. If you’re dreaming of your own New Zealand adventure, now is a great time to start gathering ideas.

Keep an eye on this space for the journey to begin… and if you’d like bespoke advice for your own trip, just drop me a message and let’s start planning.

02/04/2026

A big hello again to everyone on my Australia & New Zealand Travel Expert page 👋

I’m Charley, your go‑to Travel Counsellor for tailor‑made holidays Down Under. In my mid‑20s I was lucky enough to live in Australia for nearly two years, and I used that time to explore almost every corner of this incredible country. I spent extended periods living in both Sydney and Melbourne, really getting under the skin of each city as a local rather than just a visitor. Since then I have been back to Australia twice for shorter trips, and I am already dreaming about my next visit to revisit old favourites and discover the few regions I missed.

Some of my personal highlights from Australia:
• The Rocks, Sydney: the historic heart of the city, with cobbled laneways, sandstone terraces, harbour views and old pubs that feel full of stories.
• Melbourne: lingering over flat whites in hidden laneway cafés, discovering ever‑changing street art and soaking up the creative, laid‑back vibe.
• Ningaloo Reef: swimming alongside manta rays and turtles on a reef that feels wonderfully untouched and far less crowded than many others.
• Van life in Tasmania: winding roads, dramatic coastlines, rich convict history and a cooler, wilder feel that is so different to the mainland.
• Back country Victoria: bushland full of Ned Kelly history, mountain scenery and what felt like millions of wild kangaroos at dusk.
• Uluru at sunrise: the rock slowly glowing from deep purple to fiery red is a moment that genuinely lives with you forever.
• East coast beaches: long stretches of golden sand, surf towns and those perfect early‑morning ocean swims.

Even after all of that, there are still places I am itching to experience for the first time, like Broome, Margaret River and the Atherton Tablelands. That is the magic of Australia: it is so vast and varied that you can return again and again, and still find somewhere completely new to fall in love with.

Over the years I have helped many clients plan their own Australian adventures, drawing on my first‑hand experience to match the right regions, seasons and stays to each person. Whether it is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime trip, a rail and road combo, a wine and food journey or a family adventure, I would love to help design something truly personal.

If you enjoy this page, it would mean a lot if you could share my details and this page with your friends and family who might be dreaming of Australia or New Zealand. I am really keen to grow this side of my business and your recommendations and word‑of‑mouth support genuinely make such a difference.

I will be talking more about New Zealand this weekend, including a very exciting announcement, so stay tuned…

If Australia is on your wish list (or you are ready to go back again), feel free to drop me a message and we can start planning your perfect trip.

24/02/2026

Planning a trip to Melbourne or just dreaming ahead? Here are ten incredible experiences to add to your list in this vibrant Australian city:

🎨Explore the Laneways & Street Art
Lose yourself in Melbourne’s iconic laneways like Hosier Lane and Degraves Street, filled with bold street art, cosy cafés and hidden boutiques.

🎵Soak Up the Atmosphere at Federation Square
A cultural hub with galleries, museums and regular events, perfect for people‑watching and getting your bearings in the city.

🚋Ride the City Circle Tram
A free heritage tram that loops around central Melbourne, ideal for sightseeing while resting your feet.

🌺Stroll the Royal Botanic Gardens
Wander through lush gardens, lakes and themed plant collections just a short walk from the city centre. A peaceful escape from the buzz.

💛Visit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
Australia’s oldest public art gallery, with world‑class exhibitions and an impressive permanent collection. Perfect for a culture‑filled afternoon.

🍏Experience Queen Victoria Market
Sample local produce, taste your way around international food stalls and browse artisan goods at this lively open‑air market.

⛱Head to St Kilda & the Beachfront
Enjoy a seaside stroll along the Esplanade, grab a coffee on Acland Street and catch sunset over Port Phillip Bay.

✨Watch the City from Above at the Melbourne Skydeck
Take in panoramic views from the Southern Hemisphere’s highest observation deck and see the city sparkle after dark.

🏏Catch a Game or Tour a Stadium
Melbourne is Australia’s sporting capital: visit the MCG or soak up the energy of an Aussie Rules football match or cricket fixture (in season).

🍷Take a Day Trip to the Great Ocean Road or Yarra Valley
Drive the dramatic coastline of the Great Ocean Road or spend a day in the Yarra Valley, tasting fine wines and gourmet local produce.

If Melbourne is on your wish list, I can design a tailor‑made itinerary that includes premium hotels, private tours and seamless transfers, so you simply relax and enjoy every moment.

Message me today to start planning your Melbourne escape.

15/02/2026

“Do I choose Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound?”

It is one of the questions I get asked often by clients planning a New Zealand adventure.

Both are incredible, and you can experience day cruises and overnight boat stays in both fjords, but they each offer something a little different:

✨ Milford Sound
• The icon: towering cliffs, thundering waterfalls, Mitre Peak and that big “wow” factor
• Easier access: more day tours and departures, perfect if you are short on time
• Scenic journey in: mirror lakes, rainforest and dramatic mountain passes
• Livelier feel: more boats on the water, more people, lots of photo opportunities

🌿 Doubtful Sound
• Wilder and quieter: often called the “Sound of Silence”, with far fewer boats
• Feels remote: reached via lake crossing and coach over the Wilmot Pass
• Rich wildlife: great chances to spot dolphins, seals and sometimes penguins
• Slower pace: more space, more serenity and a real “off the grid” atmosphere

In simple terms:
• Choose Milford Sound if you want bold, dramatic scenery and those classic postcard photos.
• Choose Doubtful Sound if you prefer tranquillity, fewer crowds and a more untouched wilderness feel.
OR choose both if you have the time - they offer enough variation that, trust me, you won't be bored!

If you would like help choosing the right fjord for your style, I can build it into a tailor made New Zealand itinerary with handpicked stays, scenic rail, heli-flights and either a day cruise or magical overnight on the water.

Message me to start planning your Fiordland adventure today.

14/02/2026

Happy Valentine's Day!

From rooftop sunsets to wild coastlines, Australia and New Zealand are full of places that feel made for two. Here are some of the most romantic spots I love to build into tailor made itineraries for couples:

🦘 Australia

💍 The Whitsundays & Whitehaven Beach
Powder white sand, turquoise water and private sailing at sunset. Perfect for proposals, honeymoons or simply pressing pause together.

🌇 Sydney & its Harbour
Think sunset drinks overlooking the Opera House, dinner cruises, and sky-high cocktails with twinkling city lights. Sleek, stylish and perfect for a chic city break.

🌿 The Blue Mountains
Cosy luxury lodges, log fires, starry skies and dramatic clifftop views. Ideal for a romantic escape from the city with spa time and slow breakfasts.

🌅 Uluru
Sunsets that turn the rock deep red, dining under a blanket of stars and immersive Aboriginal experiences. A very special, almost spiritual kind of romance.

🥝 New Zealand

🍷 Waiheke Island
A short hop from Auckland but a world away: boutique vineyards, long lunches, sea views and beautiful little stays tucked amongst the vines.

🏔 Queenstown & Fiordland
Snow capped peaks, lakeside strolls, hot tubs with a view and scenic flights over Milford or Doubtful Sound. Adventure by day, candlelit dinners by night.

🌸 Hawke’s Bay & Martinborough
Elegant wineries, cycle trails through the vines and charming boutique lodges. Perfect for couples who love good food, wine and relaxed luxury.

🏝 Bay of Islands
Secluded bays, sailing, dolphin spotting and hidden retreats. Ideal if you want soft adventure mixed with lazy afternoons on the water.

If you would like a truly romantic itinerary, I can design a trip that strings together these special places with handpicked hotels, private transfers and unforgettable experiences just for the two of you.

Message me to start planning your Australia and New Zealand escape for two.

Australia & New Zealand Travel Expert

06/05/2026

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