Venture Travel & Events

17/03/2023

US ‘Roaming’ Update when travelling to the US
Most major mobile providers in the US have retired their 2G and
3G networks which may impact some Vodafone NZ customers while roaming, advises the telco.
Vodafone NZ says its Kiwi travellers opting to ‘roam’ in the US will automatically be connected to two of the largest US local network operators (Verizon or AT&T) using their 4G and 5G networks to provide the best connection experience.
“This means in some regions you may be automatically switched
between the two to maintain optimal coverage,” it tells it’s US-bound clients. “ If you experience any sort of issues with connectivity while roaming in the US, please manually
select Verizon or AT&T in the first instance.”
If connectivity issue persists, and users cannot make/receive calls
and TXTs--and you have a Samsung
device—Kiwis are urged to manually select T-Mobile. “Please note
that T-Mobile uses 2G and 4G only, and has less coverage than Verizon or AT&T,” adds Vodafone.Clients with phone which are 3G/2G capable only, are asked to manually select T-Mobile 2G network. “If there is no T-Mobile 2G coverage, you will lose connectivity,” it adds.

11/09/2022

Here are some tips from Venture Travel & Events travelling overseas during these times..

04/09/2022

GREAT NEWS VINAKA VAKA LEVU FIJI GOVERNMENT!!
On Friday evening, the Fijian Government made the decision to remove the requirement for a RAT test with-in 72 hours of arriving into Fiji. This takes effect from today, 5 September 2022. The requirements of being fully vaccinated and having travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage will remain in place until further notice.

Travellers who have already have a pre-booked/pre-paid arrival RAT in place are encouraged to still have this done however they are also able to request a refund.

Refunds can be requested through the amend/cancel link on the booking confirmation that was emailed to the traveller when their test was confirmed. With over 20,000 bookings in the system, refunds are advised to take 5 – 10 working days to be processed. The Entry Test Fiji portal used to pre-book these tests will now be discontinued. You can contact [email protected] should you have additional queries.

25/08/2022

Singapore Airlines has decided to end mask requirements following an update in guidelines from the Singaporean government.
The new policy comes into effect from Monday 29 August and will see masks dropped from most international routes. However, mask usage will still apply to certain destinations that require one on flights, for example Canada and New Zealand. For Australia, masks are required onboard flights to the country, but are not needed on the way to Singapore.

The airline notes that masks are still required on domestic flights in New Zealand, as well as airports and terminals.

The end to requirements will also apply at Changi Airport, one of the world’s busiest hubs.

21/08/2022

Spent my Sunday morning checking in the NZ team off to France to race the ISDE - world enduro champs. Great to have my first post Covid long haul group on their way to hopefully bring back a few gold medals.

11/08/2022

When you need to travel with your doggie or your moggie here is a great website for travel within NZ.
https://petfriendlystays.co.nz/

Pet Friendly Stays prioritizes your pet by only listing Pet Friendly Accommodation available across New Zealand.

26/07/2022

The new Sabre catamaran to the sand island in Fiji is a must next time you are visiting Fiji. The crew, food and the snorkeling and overall
Experience is 5 star!!

11/07/2022

When you are next travelling to Italy here is a true hidden treasure in Italy a ferry ride away from Naples.
Lying off the coast of Naples, Procida offers you an authentic Italian island experience—'reminiscent of glorious Italian coastal towns back in the days before they were discovered by the rest of the world’.
Activities on the island include a visit to the very instagrammable Marina di Corricella. The area has colourful homes, restaurants, cafes, pizzerias, and gelato shops along the waterfront.
For swimming, Chiaiolella is Procida’s best-known beach, while
nearby Ciraccio and Pozzo Vecchio are ideal choices for those who
prefer some privacy. Send history lovers to the fortified mediaeval
village of Terra Murata and the former prison and palace the Palazzo D’Avalos. The final must-do is night fishing for anchovies with a local crew, while the more discerning clients can opt for a sunset cruise with an aperitif. Procida is the Italian Capital of Culture for 2022 and has a bumper events calendar this year. There’s more than 150 events with highlights such as music
festival Echoes of the Distances which includes performances in
beaches, gardens, piers and squares, and a contemporary art exhibition, SprigionArti, in the cells of the island’s former prison. . . Getting There
Procida is easily accessible by ferry from Naples, with travel time ranging from 30 to 90 minutes depending on the schedule/vessel. There is also a ferry from Amalfi during the peak northern summer season which takes two hours and 20 minutes. For more information on Procida and its events, see
https://www.italia.it/en/campania/things-to-do/procida-an-island-of-culture -calendar-of-events-is-being-constantly-updated

04/07/2022

Aussie Aussie Aussie!!! Positive Changes from Wednesday.
Travel to/from Australia is now a little easier, with eased entry requirements coming into effect from 06 Jul.

From this date, arriving passengers will not need to be vaccinated
against C-19 and nor will they have to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration. Meanwhile those departing Australia won’t need to provide evidence of their vaccination status.

Passengers flying to Australia will still be required to wear masks on all international flights.

04/07/2022

Heading to Aussie - read this!
Australia-bound clients are advised to pack their patience, as the country’s airports make headlines today for long queues and delays.
As Aussie school holidays kick off, 9NEWS reports Melbourne Airport as experiencing long queues from 0600, with cancelled Jetstar flights leading to frustrated flyers. Staff from Melbourne airport told news.com.au it had been ‘wild all week’ and could get
worse. It’s not just Melbourne facing chaos, with passengers at Brisbane Airport also reporting ‘outrageous queues’ and issues caused by understaffing, and those at Sydney saying there’s lengthy queues and delays at security points. Melbourne Airport is expecting 2.1 million people to pass through 01-14 Jul, whilst Sydney Airport forecast 2.1 million people 27 Jun-17 Jul.

16/06/2022

Great news!!

16/06/2022

Great day catching up with New Zealand suppliers at Meetings in Christchurch at the stunning new Te Pai convention center and a big thank you to Hotel Montreal for hosting me . Stunning boutique hotel and even got to put my hands on the Rugby World Cup with Ian Jones

24/05/2022

A very successful Venture Travel group tour of the Deep South with a few surprises for the group. Fabulous last day with lunch at Olveston House and farewell dinner at Larnach Castle in Dunedin.

22/05/2022

You never know where a Venture Tour will end up- watching the Southern Steel v WBOP Magic at ILT stadium Invercargill

21/05/2022

Exclusive dinner at Transport World in Invercargill for the Venture tour with special guest Joc O’Donnell speaking with us. Joc is Bill Richardsons daughter and an incredible businesswoman who has turn HWR into one of NZ’s largest privately owned companies.

19/05/2022

Great start to the Venture South tour with 3 nights on Stewart Island experiencing 4 seasons in one day, cruise, Ulva Island, Golf, fishing, Dark Skies, Kiwi Spotting, fresh cooked Blue Cod caught by our Fisher people finding the beers very cheap! and the local island hospitality next stop Invercargill!!

08/05/2022

It’s been a while since sending out groups documents great times again even working on Mothers Day😂

04/05/2022

Did you know? - effective immediately the Hong Kong government has prohibited Alternative Smoking Products (ASPs) e.g. e-cigarettes, va**ng devices to be carried to/from Hong Kong on person or in cabin or checked baggage.

Penalties will apply if they are carried and will be immediately confiscated.

28/04/2022

Great News as of Sunday 1 May Fiji no longer requires fully vaccinated travellers to have a negative Covid 19 test done prior to travel to Nadi. However all travellers must be fully vaccinated over the age of 16 years.

Please see below for update:

From Sunday 1 May, fully vaccinated visitors to Fiji will no longer be required to produce a pre-departure Covid-19 test to enter Fiji. This move reduces costs and lends greater convenience to those travelling to Fiji.

Please note that the current requirement to book an in-country Covid-19 RAT test, prior to departing for Fiji, remains. The test must be done within 48 – 72 hours of arrival and must be be booked prior to departing for Fiji on https://entrytestfiji.com/.

From Sunday 1 May 2022, the vaccination requirements for entry into Fiji has also been changed. All visitors aged 16 years and over must now display proof of full Covid-19 vaccination prior to entering Fiji.

From Sunday 1 May 2022 Fiji's Entry Requirements are as per the below...

Vaccinations (16 years and over)
• Proof of full vaccination for those 16 years and over.
o Please note that fully-vaccinated means that you have received the recommended number of initial doses (usually 2) of a vaccine that Fiji recognises. Vaccine booster shots are considered as additional protection to full-vaccination.
Testing (12 years and over)
• Pre-booked RAT test to be taken within 48-72 hours of arrival into Fiji. Tests must be booked via entrytestfiji.com. Proof of this test must be shown at your point of departure.
Insurance (for anyone not on a Fijian passport)
Travel Insurance with medical coverage for covid-19.

Testing locations are widely available in Fiji. We are committed in helping you get the right tests at the right time. There are 2 main categories of facilities which you can select to get tested.

21/04/2022

21/04/2022

Further to my recent overseas experience I am pleased to announce my collaboration with Deena and her team with mobile RAT testing from your home or overseas destination. No more hassles and trying to find a testing site whilst either in NZ or overseas. I have tested this with a client who flew back from Australia this week and it worked https://nzmobiletravelrat.wufoo.com/forms/nzwrat-registration-form-venture-travel/

Welcome to NZWRAT “NZ Witnessed Rapid Antigen Tests” You have been referred by your agent Venture Travel and Events for a NZ approved RAT test to enter or leave New Zealand. Our tests are supervised by a registered nurse, are Ministry of Health Approved, and your Certificate will come by PDF a f...

03/04/2022

I have just experienced post Covid international travel and thought I would let you know how it went.

I decided on Wednesday to take my daughter off to Los Angeles for a few days as she had been working at Crowne Plaza which was an MIQ facility for the past 2 years. She starts a new job at the Park Hyatt this week and was a great opportunity to be spontaneous and use our Air NZ flight credits up.

You can only get excited to travel again once you have received your negative Covid 19 test results back and then the excitement and packing can begin.
As my bank - ANZ no longer deals in foreign currency I purchased some USD from Travelex in the check in area of the airport. They charge a 2.5% fee on top of a poor exchange rate which was 63.6 instead of 69 so definitely a cash passport is the way to go for foreign currency.

Flying out in the evening from Auckland International Airport is like a ghost town. Only the Loop Duty Free Store was open and only the Vantage Bar near the departures area - everything else was closed as well as the Air NZ lounge which is reopening fully on the 11 April.

Upon arrival at Tom Bradley International Terminal in Los Angeles we were collecting our bags within 20 minutes of disembarking off the plane - so quiet and no kiosks only 1 immigration official then down to collect your bags and out you go - perfect!! As we stayed in downtown Los Angeles we took the Flyaway bus direct to Union Station then boarding the metro for 3 stops to our hotel - so easy. We did UBER everywhere else as this is too easy.

Los Angeles has opened up with mask wearing now optional in stores no vaccine passes required for entry anywhere so getting back to normality.

The Warner Bros Studio tour is a must next time you are over there as is the Griffith Observatory and the new Museum of Motion Pictures - you can also be filmed being presented with an Oscar!!
We also did a guided segway tour from Santa Monica to Venice beach return for 2 hours - I never knew there were canals at Venice Beach - similar to Italy's Venice - absolutely stunning and very creative murals along the way. We also did a helicopter tour from Van Nys Airport out to Malibu up the coast and through the canyons which was incredible and so worth it.

A problem that did occur was that all of the places on the CDC information on where to get Covid testing done is very much out of date. I spent 3 hours trying to find a testing site. We found one and once we got our results through there was no time on it and after downloading this to the new traveller declaration I was refused entry back to NZ. I contacted the testing site and they included the time and then redownloaded it as was approved.

It is imperative you have the correct information on covid testing sites overseas. In Australia there are testing sites set up at Sydney and Melbourne airports, however you need to allow a lot of extra time to be able to download the results onto the traveller declaration as you could wait upto 50 minutes to get the approval through.

When we flew back the Air NZ check in area was interesting. The customers who had not booked through a travel specialist did not have the correct paper work and were not allowed to check in until all of that was completed and it is not a 5 minute job that is for sure.

So my advice to you is that you need a travel specialist to help with the post covid 19 travel as it is not as easy as you think.

I am here to help you with all of your travel requirements with over 34 years travel experience and my business has survived SARS, the Gulf War, 9/11 and now Covid 19..
Kim Herd email [email protected] or phone 0508 359 2929

22/03/2022

New York, New York has just got closer starting 17 September 2022 Air NZ is flying direct into JFK Airport - looking for a fun white Christmas - contact Kim today to book your holiday.
Ph 0508 359 2929 or email [email protected]

33 years in the Travel Industry & 26 years of owning Venture Travel & Events. Kim has travelled exte

16/03/2022

SHERATON FIJI GOLF & BEACH RESORT OFFICIALLY REOPENS

Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort announced today the resort is officially open following a FJ $73,000,000 transformation. Previously named ‘Sheraton Fiji Resort’, the beachfront resort is situated on the picturesque Denarau Island and reigns as Fiji’s only integrated 5-star resort complex.
Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort is Fiji’s newest and largest playground, inviting locals and travelers to enjoy meaningful connections and elevated guest experiences and adventures
within and beyond the resort.
The resort embraces a new layered design, balancing a sense of timelessness with a fresh and modern feel. Offering 300 rooms that all feature a modern, sophisticated and premium interior design, guests have a choice of oceanfront or garden views and private balconies or patios.
In the newly refurbished rooms and suites, guests are welcomed into a bright, well-lit space with warm, residential appeal, comprised of soft finishes and dark wood tones. They boast
either an ocean or garden view with private balconies or patios to enable guests to stay rejuvenated. Bathrooms are designed with modern walk-in showers, whilst the suites are adorned with luxurious bathtubs.
As Fiji’s largest playground, guests have a wide selection of leisure amenities, including a championship 18 hole golf course, five restaurants & five bars, four swimming pools, synthentic & grass tennis courts, fitness centre, spa and beach. Guests will also have
complimentary access to in-complex resort facilities within the sister property, Sheraton Denarau Villas.
“The reopening of the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort brings a truly world class setting, service and scale of hospitality to Fiji, delivering new standards for dining, conferencing and
events to the Fijian holiday experience” commented Mr Neeraj Chadha, Multi Property Vice President Fiji & Samoa, Mariott International and General Manager of Westin & Sheraton
Resorts, Fiji Complex.
“From casually curated, to exceptional and refined experiences, the Sheraton team elevates local spirit to leave the best possible lasting memories. Like the people of Fiji, the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort has a warm and generous community spirit, sharing the Fijian culture traditions, skills and heritage with all those who visit”.
The redesigned property has introduced revitalised culinary experiences at the three new dining venues .Tatavu Grill and Bar Restaurant champions elemental dining, with its chic and spirited-side culinary experience that embraces the essence of Fiji – water, fire, sand and sky; featuring artisan cocktails and coastal flavours fresh from Fiji’s first multi level bespoke vertical open grill. Island 619 offers a “Festival of the Senses” with its vibrant live kitchens
that bring new standards of culinary showmanship through open kitchen demonstrations, freshness and variety of local and international inspired cuisine. 28g offers tropical coffee
expertise in a layered café experience aimed at facilitating social connection in true Bula Spirit with high tea and cold drip tasting sessions in the day and espresso martinis after dark.
Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort is positioned as “The Beating Heart of Fiji”, where guests can connect with the local community and leave with a deeper connection to Fiji, its people and each other. A myriad of unique experiences awaits on Fiji’s newest and largest playground where the guest journey begins on arrival with a 'Cola Vina' welcome – local artisans playing a bespoke beat on a custom carved large scale ”lali” located in the porte cochère.
The resort’s signature activities to be launched include the Sheraton’s family 'Side by side” program, “Feet in Sand” ritual at Tatavu Grill & Bar and ‘Koro' pop-up night market, exhibiting
a range of locally sourced and bespoke handicraft, partnerships with local artists and vendors to activate rotating art installations, light shows, performances and live music.
Fiji is undisputed as one of the best and safest holiday destinations in the world, offering access to world-class luxury accommodation, nature and adventure experiences and wonderfully warm tropical weather. With bookings now open, Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach
Resort is the ideal destination for voyagers and business travellers alike.

08/03/2022

STOP PRESS;
Are you flying out of Auckland International airport in the ocming days - then BYO your own snacks.
Businesses across New Zealand are struggling with staffing shortages due to the Omicron outbreak and Auckland Airport is no exception. As such the airport company is asking agents who's clients are set to depart AKL, particularly for international flights, to please urge them to bring their own snacks and essential supplies.
Due to Omicron's impact on staffing levels at the airports food and beverage outlets, particularly airside, passengers are also being asked to consider having a meal before heading to the AKL terminal as there's currently limited dining options airside, particularly at the international terminal.
Travellers departing New Zealand are being asked to come prepared with snacks and consider having a meal before heading to the international terminal. "Unfortunately, some of our in-terminal dining outlets are needing to temporarily reduce their opening hours and some have had to close altogether at very short notice. This is limiting food and beverage availability, particularly in the late afternoon and evenings at the international terminal," says Anna Cassels-Brown, AKL's gm operations.
The airport has apologised for the disruption, but the reality is that due to Auckland's rampant Omicron outbreak it's an issue across the city. . . Duty-free, Grab & Go
Duty-free shopping is still open at AKL for departing and arriving flights-with snack packs now available to purchase. In addition, 'grab and go' food items are available from the Take Home store in the international terminal public arrivals area. The domestic terminal food and beverage outlets are also an option for those arriving on domestic flights for an international connection.
The airport is hopeful that the disruption is short-lived and for the most up-to-date information agents (and clients) are urged to check the airport's website for the latest details. . . Screening & Food
As a reminder, to comply with Aviation Security restrictions departing passengers travellers need to follow the below security screening requirements.
Passengers can take food, including baby food and formula, through security screening, EXCEPT the following:
*Food with a high liquid content such as cream, oil, soup, foods in sauces, sauces, stew, honey, seafood in liquid, syrup or anything else with a similar consistency.
*Food that is spreadable such as butter, margarine, sandwich spreads, jam, paste.
*Powders and salts.
Empty drink bottles are allowed and can be filled after security screening. For more details, including for clients travelling with small children, see HERE
https://www.aviation.govt.nz/passenger-information/powders-liquids-aerosols-and-gels-plags/ -with-a-young-child

If you are travelling with a young child, you will be allowed to take more food, drink, baby powder and formula than the restricted limits, in amounts considered reasonable for the flight. When working out how much to take, include the time leading up to departure, the duration of the flight with a...

28/02/2022

This is it team you can now travel anywhere and not have to self isolate on your return. Fully vaccinated NZ passport holders only - its a great start
NOW IT IS TIME TO PLAN YOUR WINTER GETAWAY - call or email Kim now 09 447 1905 or [email protected]

20/02/2022

WA is reopen for business from 3 March!! Contact me today
www.venturetravel.co.nz
[email protected]
Ph 09 447 1905 or 0508 359 2929

08/02/2022

The rest of the world has reopened so what are you waiting for?
Contact Kim today to discuss all of the travel requirements before choosing your destination.
www.venturetravel.co.nz

16/12/2021

As 2021 draws to an end Kim would like to thank her loyal clients very much for sticking by her after another horribilis year. 2022 can only be better than 2020 and 2021. The world has reopened and with the new border measures advised clients are planning to travel again. Air NZ are opening up more routes from February and March.
Direct flights to Houston from July or Chicago from the 2nd of September. Vancouver is earlier from mid February.
Its time to plan for Hawaii, Tahiti, Noumea again from mid April.
Travel post covid is not as we know it so ensure you plan to talk to Kim.
Ph 0508 359 2929 or 09 447 1905, email
[email protected] or www.venturetravel.co.nz

06/12/2021

Here is another reason to book for Fiji in 2022...
Fiji’s Attorney-General and Minister of Economy, Honourable Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum has launched FijiCare, a Covid-19 insurance cover for up to F$60,000 for travellers, another step in ensuring protection for international travellers choosing Fiji.

The insurance coverage, if needed, begins the moment a person tests positive for Covid-19 in Fiji, whether this be on arrival or before departing. The policy provides coverage for isolation costs, Covid testing throughout, transportation costs, hospitalisation expenses, and trip curtailment expenses.

FijiCare has also introduced a portal which gives visitors a fully digitalised platform to purchase the product directly online.
FijiCare Insurance can be purchased from NZ$45 by travellers to satisfy the requirement for Covid insurance cover which is mandatory for entry into Fiji or to supplement standard travel insurance for this purpose and provide further protection and confidence.
https://www.fijivisitorsinsurance.com/

Buy travel insurance online with COVID-19 Coverage with FijiCare Visitors Insurance. Cover up to FJ$60,000 for medical and non-medical COVID-19 treatment expenses.