Sarah McCarthy Travel Counsellor

10/06/2026

Hope you enjoy my New Zealand travel blog, happy reading 💕

"I've been fortunate to visit many incredible destinations throughout my career, but New Zealand is one that will stay with me for a very long time. The scenery is extraordinary, the people are genuinely welcoming and every day seemed to bring a new highlight. It is a destination I cannot wait to re...

11/05/2026

An absolutely exceptional stay at The Rees Hotel Queenstown. A spectacular lakeside setting overlooking Lake Wakatipu with views that are simply off the scale.

This beautiful property truly has a room type for every style of traveller — from elegant Executive Lake View Rooms perfect for couples, to spacious lakeview apartments and suites, along with stunning lakefront villas complete with private outdoor hot tubs. A special mention must go to The Residence, an incredible 3-bedroom property ideal for that very special occasion or VIP client experience.

The service and hospitality throughout our stay was warm, genuine and welcoming, while the dinner tasting menu with wine pairing was absolutely to die for.

A scenic 20-minute lakeside boardwalk stroll brings you straight into the bustling heart of Queenstown, or if you prefer, the hotel’s complimentary shuttle operates almost hourly until 10pm daily.

A true delight in Queenstown and without doubt a hotel that will be top of the list for my lovely clients going forward. Thank you to The Rees and Queenstown — it has been exceptional.

10/05/2026

New Zealand. Gateway to Milford Sound 🇳🇿 🚢

10/05/2026

Another adventure with our partners brought us to the beautiful glacier town of Franz Josef / Waiau — an absolute must for anyone wanting their first taste of New Zealand’s spectacular West Coast scenery. A small, friendly and picturesque town with so much to offer outdoor enthusiasts, and of course home to the famous Franz Josef Glacier.

You really do need at least one overnight stay here — or even two if time allows — as there is so much to experience. From breathtaking helicopter flights over the glacier with optional glacier landings, to canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and fishing on Lake Mapourika, plus quad biking adventures through the rainforest, there truly is something for everyone.

We were very lucky to stay at the beautiful Te Waonui Forest Retreat, located just a short stroll from the town centre and the perfect base to explore the area.

Departing Franz Josef, we got our first glimpse of the dramatic and rugged coastal scenery as we made our way south towards Queenstown. With plenty of scenic viewpoint stops along the way, the drive itself was an unforgettable experience.

We also stopped in Wānaka for an hour… wow. What a stunning place and it made me even more excited for what was still to come in Queenstown.

Keep following for more New Zealand updates 🇳🇿

10/05/2026

WOW 🤩

09/05/2026

Another whirlwind 2 days in New Zealand 🇳🇿

A wonderful overnight stay in the beautiful South Island city of Christchurch where we were incredibly lucky to experience Āmiki Cultural Food Tours.

Our evening included a 3-hour guided walking food tour with dinner and wine pairings, and our guide Rewi was absolutely exceptional. I’ll without doubt be recommending all clients spend at least 2 days in this beautiful, welcoming city when beginning their South Island adventure.

Home for the night was the gorgeous boutique The George — such a warm and hospitable hotel, perfectly located just a short stroll from the heart of the city.

The following morning we boarded the iconic TranzAlpine rail journey via Arthur’s Pass to the west coast of the island. What an experience. We travelled in the Premium Scenic Plus carriage with panoramic viewing throughout the journey and the scenery was simply spectacular.

The rail journey finishes in Greymouth where we were transferred onwards to the idyllic glacier region of Franz Josef. The coastal route of rainforest, mountains and ocean views was absolutely breathtaking.

I have a feeling the West Coast may end up being the highlight of this trip… stay tuned for more 💕

07/05/2026

What a jam-packed couple of days exploring more of beautiful New Zealand 🇳🇿

An early start on Day 3 saw us leave the vibrant city of Auckland behind for a scenic drive to Rotorua via the magical Hobbiton Movie Set. Whether you’ve watched the movies or not, this is New Zealand’s number one attraction for a reason… absolutely incredible. It genuinely made me want to go home and watch all the films again ✨

We then continued on to Rotorua and honestly packed so much into just one night here — I’d absolutely recommend a 2–3 night stay for clients wanting to properly experience the region.

Home to the largest Māori population in New Zealand, I felt incredibly lucky to experience the warmth, spirituality and hospitality of the Māori people. A very special evening at Te Puia included a guided tour of the geothermal geysers along with a fascinating insight into Māori culture and traditions, which remain so beautifully alive today. The evening finished with cultural song and dance… truly unforgettable.

The next morning began with a very special visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa before ending with a restorative wellness journey at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa… pure bliss

Next stop the South Island…stay tuned 🇳🇿

05/05/2026

A million thanks to our partner for inviting me to New Zealand on a whirlwind tour 🇳🇿✨

What a fantastic start—two days soaking up the energy of vibrant Auckland, followed by a full day on beautiful Waiheke Island, just a 40-minute ferry ride away. A true escape from the city!

From stunning vineyards (a dream for any wine lover 🍷), to an exhilarating eco zip-lining experience and a scenic bush walk, it had it all. Add in incredible beaches, olive oil and honey tastings, and views that simply take your breath away…

The trip is off to an amazing start—stay tuned for the next stop! 🌏✈️

24/04/2026