KEY POINTS:
Under $6500
Meet the indigenous people of Alaska and get close to the country's wildlife on a 12-day journey during which you can visit glaciers, stalk caribou, boat through fjords and enjoy hot springs. The tour aims to get you close to bears, moose, whales, porpoises, seals and puffins. The cost is $6250 each, which does not include flights from New Zealand.
Contact: World Expeditions, 0800 350 354
On the web: www.worldexpeditions.com
Under $300
Take your best friend for two nights at the Oceanside Motel in Whitianga for $300 and stay in an executive spa-bath suite, with breakfast included. Great views of Mercury Bay, and the motel manager will lend you a spade to dig your pool at nearby Hot Water Beach. Deal valid until August 31.
Contact: Oceanside Motel, (07) 866 5766
On the web: www.jasons.com/new-zealand/hot-deals/
Under $200
BreakFree is offering a Pay 2 Stay 3 package at its five Queenstown resorts. For example, at the BreakFree Alpine Village a one-bedroom apartment starts at $160 a night, and a third night is free. At the centrally located BreakFree The Waterfront, it will be $259 a room. You must book and travel before 30 June and other conditions may apply.
Contact: 0800 275 373
On the web: www.stellaresorts.co.nz
Under $300
Pay $265 for a king-sized room at the Skycity Grand Hotel in Auckland and - for one more dollar - choose from one of four winter indulgence packages, ranging from a spa treatment or breakfast for two to wine and food or a luxurious hotel bathrobe. Booking well in advance is advised.
Contact: Skycity Grand Hotel, (09) 363 6000.
On the web: www.skycitygrand.co.nz
Under $1200
When New Zealand is at its coldest you could head for the Hayman resort on Hayman Island. In June and July a Palm Room costs $1160 each, twin-share. Price includes launch transfers, buffet breakfasts, dinners and use of sports equipment. Travel valid from June 1 to July 31 but must be booked by July 20. Airfares can be arranged.
Contact: House of Travel, 0800 838 747.
On the web: www.houseoftravel.co.nz
Under $1600
A seven-night round-trip from Vancouver through the Alaskan wilderness on the Norwegian Sun costs from $1555 a person, twin-share, all meals included. Flights to Vancouver can be arranged. Sailings from now until June 1 next year.
Contact: Flight Centre, 0800 354 448.
On the web: www.flightcentre.co.nz
