t’s officially winter, and the pull of warmer and, perhaps, more exotic climes is kicking in. With that in mind, I spoke to some of our favourite local faces about their top travel tips and adventures for some added inspiration as we head into the cooler months and beyond.
We asked four locals to spill the beans...starting with...
EMMA LEWISHAM, FOUNDER, EMMA LEWISHAM SKINCARE
In 2019, Emma set out to create evidence-based, natural skincare that works. As the world’s first certified Climate Positive and 100 percent circular skincare brand, they are leading the transition to a more sustainable beauty industry.
Where is your favourite place to go on holiday?
Lake Tarawera—my husband’s family has had a place on the lake for 70 years, and it’s a very special place for us. We are now the fourth generation of Lewisham, and we have been taking our daughter there since she was a baby.
Why do you love it so much?
I can truly switch off and spend quality time with my family. It has a magic to it, and the surrounding lakes and mountains are breathtaking. It is a sanctuary for me from my busy travel schedule which sees me away so much for work.
What was the most memorable holiday you’ve ever taken?
Most recently, I travelled to Wachenheim, a small town in Germany known for its beautiful vineyards and landscape. I went to see my brother and attend his wedding which was so special.
Are you a heavy or light packer?
I am a light packer. I only take carry on now, even for three- week trips. I love how efficient it makes travel and that it makes me very thoughtful about what I take. I always end up with a few shopping bags carried back with gifts for my daughter and husband.
Do you have a bucket list destination you’re yet to explore?
Africa – I would love to go on a safari and I'd love to visit Copenhagen, too.
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KAREN WALKER, FASHION DESIGNER AND CREATIVE
Arguably New Zealand’s best known fashion name, Karen’s clothing and accessories are stocked and worn the world over.
Where is your favourite place to go on holiday?
For a spot of warmth to break up a gloomy winter, I’m a lifelong fan of Fiji – my first trip there as a pre-schooler has been followed by dozens of great family holidays on its golden sands. For something that doesn’t involve a hammock, my first choice would always be the great cities of Europe – any of them, and still so many I’ve not got to.
What was the most memorable holiday you’ve ever taken?
Last year I took my then 15-year-old to Europe for the first time and showing her two of my favourite cities, London and Paris, was one of the great experiences of my life. It’s a perfect age to share something wonderful with a young person and see their eyes bulge with the beauty and history.
Are you a heavy or light packer?
I start very broad and then narrow, narrow, narrow down. However, I’ve never been able to master the 24-hour pack and I always say that if you’re doing one checked bag you might as well do two.
Do you have a bucket list destination you’re yet to explore?
Yes, and it’s massive. I need to visit more European cities, ride on more trains, eat more great food and there are way too many galleries not yet visited. Travelling the length of Italy is very near the top of the list and I’ve not yet seen any of Scandinavia – I’m keen to visit Sweden to walk in the footsteps of my Viking ancestors. I’d love to get to Antarctica and I’m very keen to re-visit my husband’s hometown of Odesa with my husband and our daughter, who’s not been, once the ghastly war is over.
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MATTHEW CRAWLEY, INDEPENDENT MUSIC PROMOTER
Music lover, DJ, promoter and Man About Town, Matthew is familiar to many as the man responsible for the vibe at the iconic Golden Dawn (RIP).
Where is your favourite spot to go on holiday?
I’ve always envied people who grew up having a ‘spot' to holiday at, and have spent years kidding myself that I’m one of those people who just 'loves Auckland when there’s nobody around', but actually I am just terrible at planning ahead to go anywhere.
The first place that comes to mind is Hobart, despite having only been there twice.
Why do you love it so much?
MONA! When I first heard about this mystical museum, I knew I had to go there. A wild gallery space, built into a rocky cliffside by a madman whose CV read more like a Bond villain than an arts philanthropist, and home to some unbelievable spectacles old and new. I love a good holiday with a purpose. I don’t function well with time to just do nothing.
What was the most memorable holiday you’ve ever taken?
I’ll never forget being bitten on the nipple by a fish while trying to meditate in the water in Fiji. I’ve never been back to Fiji, or tried to meditate since.
I love the city of Porto in Portugal. That place is like nowhere else I’ve been, and being there during the Festa de São João do Porto was something else. People are encouraged to hit strangers on the head with inflatable hammers in the street, and light lanterns that float up into the sky, thousands at a time. What could go wrong?
Bucket list destination and why?
Ooh, what a good question First stop is to head to LA to visit my little sister who’s making a life playing music over there. If I can somehow combine that with a ramble through the misty Scottish highlands then record shopping in Tokyo and watching Nick Cave in Iceland as one big trip, that’s my answer!
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ELLE PUGH, CO-FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR, ELLE + RILEY CASHMERE
Elle + Riley was founded in 2016 by Elle and her mother, Yolande Ellis, to change the landscape of luxury knitwear.
Where is your favourite place to go on holiday?
Europe. Without a doubt the ultimate holiday destination. My favourites in particular are Paris, Capri and Greece. The food, the culture, the sunshine... it's just unbeatable.
What was the most memorable holiday you’ve ever taken?
My husband and I went on a belated honeymoon in 2022 for almost five weeks around Europe, travelling mostly through France, Italy and Greece. I organised everything down to the letter and it meant that every element of our trip was just exquisite. It was our first big vacation post-Covid, so I think it felt even more special after being caged up for so long.
Are you a heavy or light packer?
I'm a heavy packer, although I do plan my outfits out for every day of my itinerary, so I don't necessarily overpack. I just like to make sure my style reflects my destination. We have been known to purchase an extra suitcase coming home though for all of our shopping.
Do you have a bucket list destination you’re yet to explore?
I'm hoping to do a safari in Africa next year. That's at the top of my bucket list along with a week in the Maldives.
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YOLANDE ELLIS, CO-FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR, ELLE + RILEY CASHMERE
Yolande is a partner in the Elle + Riley Cashmere label alongside her daughter, Elle.
What was the most memorable holiday you’ve ever taken?
Last year I visited Tuscany with some friends – we stayed in the villa where the wedding in Succession was filmed. It has to be one of my favourite trips filled with fabulous people, food and wine. The beauty of Europe is being able to get around to so many amazing towns and cities so easily.
Are you a heavy or light packer?
Like Elle, I'm a heavy packer but concise. I make sure I have plenty of outfits to mix and match together, and lightweight clothing that is comfortable for travel. It's always shoes and cosmetics that take up most of the weight in our bags.
Do you have a bucket list destination you’re yet to explore?
I would love to take a ski trip to Japan next. Plenty of opportunity to wear all my fabulous cashmere, and the food and culture would be divine! (HELENE RAVLICH)
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Published: May 2024