The cutest collab at sea: Bluey meets Mickey onboard Disney Wonder. Photo / Supplied
The cutest collab at sea: Bluey meets Mickey onboard Disney Wonder. Photo / Supplied
Each week in Travel, we check out some of the latest happenings from Aotearoa and beyond to inspire your next adventure.
Time to play! For real life!
Bluey and Bingo are currently aboard Disney Wonder, bringing their signature fun and big hearts to Disney Cruise Line since January 10. Families can enjoy exclusive meet-and-greets, an interactive clue-filled game, and a Bluey-themed dance party. With appearances from Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters, these sailings promise endless excitement for fans of all ages. Departing from Sydney and Melbourne, itineraries range from two to six nights, running through mid-February 2025. After this season, the Disney Cruise Line will return to Australia and New Zealand for a new season of 3-to-10-night sailings from October 2025 to February 2026. See more at disneycruise.disney.go.com/why-cruise-disney/magic-at-sea
Bluey sets sail for the first time aboard Disney Cruise Line.
Every year, the Herald Travel hunts for the best beach in New Zealand. This year, we’re down to 50 finalists and we need your vote to find the ultimate winner. In case it’s your first time participating in the annual Herald Travel’s Best Beaches, we’re looking for Aotearoa’s best beaches in five prime categories: Best Family Beach, Best Surf Beach, Best City Beach, Best Hidden Gem and Best Camping Beach. The competition is down to the Top 10 in each category, and today is the last day to cast your vote. To vote for your winner, visit nzherald.co.nz/bestbeach
The Best New Zealand Surf Beach category wouldn’t be complete without Auckland’s famed Piha. Photo / Getty Images
A flight-free trip to Everest Base Camp
Adventure seekers, rejoice. Explore has unveiled a new 22-day Everest Base Camp trek from March to November 2025, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas. This meticulously crafted itinerary skips domestic flights, instead embracing a scenic, slower-paced route through the breathtaking Khumbu Valley.
Trekkers cross glacial rivers, visit remote villages, and soak in the vibrant culture of the Himalayas. Highlights include wandering through the bustling Namche Bazaar, enjoying hearty Nepali meals in cosy mountain lodges, and climbing to Kala Patthar for breathtaking views of Everest. Designed to maximise the experience, this trek blends incredible scenery with sustainable travel practices, making it a bucket-list adventure like no other. Take the first step towards conquering this iconic trail and discover the magic of the world’s tallest peaks. exploreworldwide.co.nz/holidays/everest-base-camp
Skip the flight and trek to the Everest Base Camp. Photo / 123rf
Bringing the magic of Cirque du Soleil to Hawaii
Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Auana has soared into the spotlight with its world premiere at the Outrigger Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel since December 2024. This dazzling resident show blends Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage with Cirque’s signature acrobatics, storytelling, and jaw-dropping visuals. With tickets starting at US$85 ($150), guests can watch the stunning performances run Wednesday through Sunday at 5.30pm and 8.30pm, exclusively at the Outrigger Theatre. Featuring eight dreamlike chapters, ‘Auana takes you on a high-flying journey through Hawaiian mythology, combining hula, ‘ōlelo, and gravity-defying stunts. If you’re feeling extra fancy, try upgrading to the ‘Auana VIP Experience for Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine, cocktails, and exclusive cast meet-and-greets. cirquedusoleil.com/hawaii.
Cirque du Soleil debuts ‘Auana, its first-ever resident show in Hawaii.
