Sandy Holmes- Travel Broker

17/05/2026

New Product on AIR NZ

The 787-9 now experiences the Economy Skynest™

Now available to book for travel from Thursday, 24 December 2026

Economy Skynest™ is available exclusively on the ultra-long-haul flights between Auckland and New York on the new 787-9 (v5) aircraft.

The world-first Economy Skynest™ is a six-nest sleep zone, offering lie-flat rest sessions for Economy and Premium Economy customers.

Each customer gets their own fully lie-flat space for a four-hour session, complete with bedding and amenities, allowing them to rest, recharge mid-journey, and arrive feeling refreshed.

A Skynest session is priced from $495 NZD per person, and there are two sessions per flight.

11/05/2026

Lyon & Provence Cruise - Regional River cruise in style

Explore the beauty of southern France on an 8-day Rhône River journey with Viking, sailing between Avignon and Lyon (or reverse). Selected departures, including 8 November, are now available from AUD $2,395 per person, with offers valid until 30 June.

This immersive itinerary brings you through the heart of Provence, where you’ll discover remarkable Roman landmarks like Arles Amphitheatre and the iconic Pont du Gard. Wander through historic Avignon and visit the impressive Palace of the Popes, before continuing to Lyon, widely known as the culinary capital of France.

Along the way, enjoy authentic local experiences—from joining a traditional truffle hunt to learning the art of crafting chèvre cheese.

Contact: Sandy / [email protected]

Book your 8-day Lyon & Provence itinerary from Avignon to Lyon in 2026.

30/04/2026

It’s been a busy few weeks behind the scenes, with the Middle East situation requiring a lot of quick thinking and rerouting to keep everyone travelling smoothly. I’m pleased to say that, thanks to a bit of creativity and flexibility, disruptions have been minimal — with only one cancellation.

The good news is that travel to Europe and many other destinations remains strong, and there are still plenty of great options available.

On a sunnier note, if Fiji has been calling your name… you’re in the right place. I’m a Fiji Specialist and have been fortunate to visit nine times, exploring the beautiful Mamanucas, Yasawas, and most recently Savusavu. I’d love to help you find the perfect island escape.

If a getaway is on your mind, feel free to reach out anytime ✈️🌴
Contact: 021 762 272 / E: [email protected]

10/03/2026

Middle East Travel Update & Emirates Flights Resuming

The situation in the Middle East is changing and airlines are gradually restoring their schedules. Emirates has now resumed flights from Auckland and Christchurch, reconnecting New Zealand through Dubai to Europe and beyond.

Over the past ten days, much of my time has been dedicated to assisting stranded overseas travellers who suddenly found themselves unable to return home. Many had booked their travel online and unfortunately had little or no support when flights were cancelled.

As a result of the disruptions and widespread re-routing, seats are currently very limited on many services, particularly on flights between New Zealand and Europe via both Asia and the USA.

If you know anyone currently trying to get back to Europe or struggling to secure flights home, please feel free to refer. I would be more than happy to assist where I can.

I will keep you updated personally via email/phone if you are flying Emirates and we need to rethink your travel plans.

01/03/2026

SITUATION in the Middle East

Due to the current flight disruptions in the Middle East, some services are being affected over the coming days.

Please rest assured that all passengers will be looked after. Emirates has a policy in place for imminent departures to rebook affected travellers on alternative carriers where necessary.

For travel scheduled further ahead, there is no immediate action required. I will monitor the situation closely and will be in touch in due course should any changes be needed.

As always, safety remains the highest priority, and I am here to assist and support you every step of the way.

14/01/2026

What is Changing for UK and Ireland dual citizens.

UK Entry Requirements for Dual New Zealand–UK or New Zealand–Irish Citizens

From 25 February 2026, the UK Government has confirmed that New Zealand citizens who also hold British or Irish citizenship (dual nationals) must travel to the UK using:

• a valid UK passport, or
• a valid Irish passport, or
• another valid passport with a Certificate of Entitlement.
Travellers will not be permitted to travel without one of these documents.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) - Important Clarification

• Dual UK or Irish nationals are not eligible for an ETA.
• If a dual national is travelling before 25 February 2026, and holds a valid passport from a nationality that is eligible for an ETA, they may continue to travel without an ETA or Certificate of Entitlement for travel before this date.

Key Links
UK ETA Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Guide for Dual Citizens
UK Dual Citizenship https://www.gov.uk/dual-citizenship
Ireland Citizenship https://www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/citizenship/
Ireland Passports https://www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/

British High Commission Wellington
44 Pipitea Street
Thorndon
Wellington 6011
New Zealand
Phone (General Enquiries)
+64 4 924 2888
Website www.gov.uk/world/new-zealand

Embassy of Ireland, New Zealand
Level 5
70 The Terrace
Wellington 6011
New Zealand
Phone (General Enquiries)
+64 4 473 5912
Website: ireland.ie/en/new-zealand/wellington/

13/01/2026

Happy New Year!

Hope you all got some rest and fun during the Festive break.

Where do you dream to go this year? 2026 is kicking off with a great New Year Sale, which has filled my Inbox with enquiries and bookings.
This year will see us take off to visit the Greek Islands, following with a road trip in France visiting family and friends. We (myself and family) are all looking forward to reconnecting with Europe and seeing more sights.

The World in on SALE this week with AIR NZ and I suspect next week will start bringing a Sale to Europe.

Get in touch so we can start planning:
021 762 272 / [email protected] 😊

18/12/2025

Merry Christmas!

As the year comes to a close, I would like to sincerely thank you for your support throughout 2025. It has been a pleasure assisting you and I truly appreciate the trust you place in me when planning your travels.

Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be another exciting year. I look forward to continuing to help you plan your well-deserved breaks, offering creative ideas and thoughtful options—especially during busy travel periods such as school holidays.

Christmas & New Year Office Hours

Many travel partners will be closed over the Christmas and New Year period from Friday 19 December. I will be working as usual until 2:00pm on Tuesday 23 December and will return on Monday 12 January 2026.

During this time, I will be available for emergencies. Please contact me on 021 762 272.

From me, I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. I hope you enjoy a relaxing and joyful holiday period. 🌲🎄💫

Sandy😊

25/11/2025

✨ Industry Weekend in Napier ✨

This weekend I’m in beautiful Napier for our annual travel industry conference — a once-a-year gathering where agents and suppliers from across the sector come together to connect, collaborate, and discover what’s new in travel.

It’s a great opportunity to deepen relationships, explore fresh products and destinations, and bring back the very best insights for my clients. Excited to return inspired and ready to create even more unforgettable journeys for you!

If you have a trip in mind for next year, feel free to email me now and I can gather specific information which may be great for you.

e; [email protected] ✈️🏝️

05/11/2025

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Savusavu 🌿🐠

A perfect spot to unwind and soak in the peace of Savusavu. Just 15 minutes from the airstrip, this eco-paradise invites to explore vibrant marine life — snorkelling along the reef or diving into the deep blue.

Yesterday’s snorkelling adventure brought us close with a blacktip reef shark and a guitar shark — a rare encounter! Although our night snorkel was postponed due to the wind, the eco walk didn’t disappoint, offering fascinating insights into local conservation and regeneration efforts.

It’s our last day here before heading home tomorrow — feeling grateful to share these discoveries with you all. Vinaka