Pacific Islands
Fiji · Samoa · Tonga · Cook Islands · French Polynesia · Vanuatu · New Caledonia · Hawaiʻi · Niue
These cultures are very close to our hearts, as New Zealand is one of the world’s most important centres of Polynesian culture. Auckland is home to the largest Polynesian urban population in the world. So when we travel through the Pacific Islands, there is a wonderful feeling of being almost at home.
The diverse islands of the Pacific share many similarities, despite their differences. Among Polynesian peoples, these connections can be found not only in their languages, but also in their legends, creation stories, traditions and ancient cultural practices.
Experiences
On the islands of the Pacific, we can swim with whales, explore volcanic landscapes, snorkel alongside sea turtles, discover some of the world’s most spectacular coral reefs, or simply set off on a hike through the islands’ beautiful natural surroundings.
Private Islands
Our journeys don’t end on the main islands. We venture further afield, staying in authentic surroundings in handcrafted traditional fale, bure or bungalows. Here, nature takes centre stage, with breathtaking scenery all around us.
In the evenings, the sound of local singing may drift into our rooms, or we may be invited to join a traditional kava gathering and share a drink with the local community.
These are the moments when the Pacific feels truly authentic — far from the usual tourist experience, and much closer to island life.
Bula · talofa · Mālō e lelei · Kia orāna · Ia ora na · Gud moning · Bozu · Alohai · Fakaalofa atu
did you know?
- Many islands are actually the peaks of submerged volcanoes.
- The distances between the Pacific Islands are enormous.
The Polynesian Triangle covers more than 10 million square kilometres, while the total land area within it is surprisingly small in comparison. - The word “tattoo” comes from Polynesia.
- Kava is much more than a drink — it is a cultural experience.
Sharing kava is a way of expressing hospitality, respect and community. And perhaps the funniest part: after drinking kava, you may not remember the taste as much as you remember wondering why your mouth has gone slightly numb.