Pacific Romance 2019

Pacific Romance YOUR GUIDE TO WEDDINGS, HONEYMOONS AND ROMANCE IN THE PACIFIC ISLANDS

FIJI • TAHITI • VANUATU • COOK ISLANDS NEW CALEDONIA • SAMOA • HAWAII • NIUE

The islands of TahiTi from

$479 one -way

from auckland wiTh air new Zealand

(economy class seat fares)

Ta k e m e T o

Ta h i T i

THE YASAWAS – FIJI T HE PARADISE PLAYGROUND

PARADISE COVE RESORT

BLUE LAGOON BEACH RESORT

OCTOPUS RESORT

The Yasawa Collection p. +64 3 442 9998

BLUE LAGOON BEACH RESORT

OCTOPUS RESORT

sales@fijitravelnetwork.com www.fijitravelnetwork.com

A match made in heaven, celebrated in paradise.

T H E U LT I M AT E F I J I B E A C H W E D D I N G PA C K A G E $10,840 FJD Wedding ceremony and reception based on 20 guests, including 4 nights accommodation.

Embraced by an aqua sea and azure sky, this private island is an ideal setting for your destination wedding. Hold your ceremony by the ocean’s edge; on a stretch of pristine white sand beach; or surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Afterward, our award-winning chef will create an intimate dinner for two or a joyful feast for you, your family and friends.

Valid until 31 March, 2020. Conditions apply.

For information:

TEL +679-666-1233 EMAIL

weddings@castawayfiji.com.fj

WEB

http://weddings.castawayfiji.com

Contents 12 WEDDING TIPS........................................................08 FIJI.................................................................................. 12 TAHITI..........................................................................42 VANUATU...................................................................54

42

COOK ISLANDS......................................................66 NEW CALEDONIA..................................................86 SAMOA.......................................................................96 HAWAI’I..................................................................... 106 NIUE.............................................................................116

54 96 Pacific Romance

5

We now pronounce you blissfully happy.

D R E A M W E D D I N G PA C K A G E $6,500 AUD | $6,950 NZD Wedding ceremony and reception based on 30 guests, including 4 nights accommodation.

Valid until 31 March, 2021. Conditions apply.

For information:

TEL +679-650-0044 EMAIL

Celebrate your special day at one of the most romantic 5-Star resorts in the South Pacific. Choose from a floral ceremony in a tropical garden, on the beach or at our stunning hilltop chapel. This extraordinary setting is everything you’ve dreamed and our authentic Fijian world-class service is from the friendliest people on earth.

sales@outriggerfiji.com.fj

WEB

outrigger.com outriggerfijiweddings.com

Special moments call for special places.

If there’s one part of a wedding that gets debated more than any other, it’s the location and venue. A logical way to pick, would be to narrow down various choices to two or three options, and then list the positives and negatives of each one.

The thing is, committing yourself to someone you love is an emotional decision, and a wedding day, one of the most emotional moments a couple will share.

When you put it that way, inviting close friends and family to join you for a Pacific Island wedding makes perfect sense. In our third annual edition of Pacific Romance we take you on a romantic journey, giving you insights and inspiration about dream weddings, honeymoons and romantic escapes in some of the most beautiful places on earth.

The kind of special places that make for special moments.

Matt & Fran ISLAND MEDIA www.islandtime.co.nz PUBLISHER Fran McDermott - fran@islandtime.co.nz +64 21 557 170 EDITOR Matt Taylor - matt@islandtime.co.nz COPY EDITOR Mark Barratt-Boyes CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Fran McDermott, Matt Taylor, Mark Barratt-Boyes, Nicola Russell, Raumati Wikaire ACCOUNTS Lisa Watson - islandtimemag@gmail.com DESIGN & PRODUCTION MacWork Design & Print - blair@macwork.co.nz www.macwork.co.nz

SOUTH PACIFIC NATIONAL TOURISM OFFICES COOK ISLANDS TOURISM NZ 64 9 366 1106 nzmanager@cookislands.travel Aus 61 7 5504 5488 www.cookislands.travel

SAMOA TOURISM AUTHORITY NZ 64 9 379 6138 samoa@samoa.co.nz Aus 61 2 9440 0377 www.samoa.travel

HAWAI’I TOURISM AUTHORITY NZ 64 9 977 2222 dwalshe@hawaiitourism.co.nz www.hawaiitourism.co.nz Aus 61 2 9286 8936 www.gohawaii.com/au

TAHITI TOURISME NZ 0800 TAHITI (824484) Aus 61 2 9233 4920 www.tahititourisme.nz

NEW CALEDONIA TOURISM NZ Sally 09 368 1191 s.pepermans@nctps.com www.new-caledonia.co.nz NIUE TOURISM OFFICE NZ 0800 359 437 Aus 1300 136 483 www.niueisland.com

TOURISM FIJI NZ 64 9 376 2533 infonz@tourismfiji.com.fj Aus 61 2 9264 3399 www.fiji.travel VANUATU TOURISM OFFICE NZ 021 704 730 new.zealand@vanuatu.travel Aus 61 2 9028 5086 www.vanuatu.travel

PRINTER Crucial Colour - brock@crucialcolour.com www.crucialcolour.com ISSN 2382-1248 (Print)

ISSN 2382-1256 (Online)

COVER IMAGE: ©SIX SENSES RESORT, FIJI

Pacific Romance

7

How to plan an island wedding Get Engaged Congratulations, let the wedding planning begin!

Don’t forget to ask Island Weddings to help you with the planning.

12-18 months + out • Guest list – create a guest list to help determine the size of venue required.

• Budget – set a budget & establish where the funds will come from. This will save you stress later.

• Decide on a month and preferred date. Think about the seasonality, weather and try and avoid high season (July).

• Choose your dream island wedding destination & resort. Think about what factors are important to you and the affordability and access for guests.

• Send out Save The Date cards and alert VIP guests so they have time to prepare.

•Y ou may want to go on a scouting trip to check out the location & resort.

• Choose your wedding party.

10-12 months out • Design and send out invitations – they set the tone for the event.

• Book flights and accommodation. Island Weddings can negotiate group deals & liaise with all your friends & family. Payment plan options are also available.

• Book travel insurance.

• Organise a Facebook group page for wedding updates and info.

• Dress shopping – think about what suits you & remember it will be hot!

• Create your gift registry.

• Choose a photographer or videographer that suits your style.

• Book hair & makeup stylist if using a specialist.

• Request time off work.

6 months out • Combine your wedding & honeymoon. Will you stay at the same resort or venture elsewhere for a bit more pampering?

• Set locations for hens night & stag do parties. You may even choose to do these a few nights before your Island Wedding.

• Decide on your wedding menu.

• Decide on your theme and colour scheme. This includes booking all vendors such as celebrant, florist, DJ/band, cake, hair & make up, photographer & videographer.

• Plan any additional wedding related events i.e. post wedding day brunch or wedding after-party at home.

• Check passports are valid or order new ones.

Double check on visas – if not travelling on a NZ passport.

• Start planning the ceremony details including any island traditions you may like to include.

• Choose attire for wedding party.

• Order thank you cards.

• Create initial wedding day timeline.

8

Pacific Romance

3 months out • Buy wedding rings.

• Schedule recreational activities & any group events such as a welcome cocktail party for the first night.

• Decide on guest favours or gifts for the wedding party.

• Apply for your Single Status Certificate.

• Complete documentation to apply for your marriage licence.

• Finialise guest RSVPs and meal requirements including any dietary needs.

• Choose wedding music and flowers.

1 month out • Final wedding dress fitting.

• Put together a packing list including your something old, new and blue.

• Final dinner seating arrangements.

• Book in final massage, facial, nails for before you go or when you arrive at your Island destination.

s

On arrival in the Island

Wedding Day

• Meet local wedding resort coordinator.

• Relax and enjoy your day.

• Run through the entire wedding program including any special requests.

• Don’t stress too much if things don’t go according to plan, no one else will notice.

• Visit the Registry Office if required to officiate marriage licence.

• Wedding rehearsal.

e

Once you return hom

• Hold an ‘after party’ for those that couldn’t make it or casual dinner to show off all the photos or video.

• Follow up with photographer/videographer for final edited photos.

• Follow up on official Marriage Certificate.

• Send out thank you cards.

Wedding Planning can be daunting...

So escaping to the Pacific Islands can be tempting. It’s more affordable, with amazing photo opportunities and your friends & family can have a holiday too. Best of all Island Weddings is a free service!

P: 021 242 7004 E: info@islandweddings.co.nz www.islandweddings.co.nz

A member of

Pacific Romance

9

Tips for a tropical island wedding The planning process

Start early and book in as early as possible to secure your ideal dates.

Secure a wedding planner to assist you. You could do all the research yourself, but why spend hours online when your wedding planner probably has all the details already available and can negotiate group specials. Overseas wedding planners, specialists and travel agents are also free.

The most popular wedding season is from April to early June, and October-November. These dates are outside of the peak period so they are a little cheaper and also avoid the sticky wet season.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Delegate your partner, your mum or your bridesmaids to do certain tasks to relieve the pressure off you. They will probably be grateful for direction and knowing how they can help.

Choosing your venue

Cho

Think about what is important to you both – is it a great beach, family-friendly, good food or affordability.

Look at review sites, talk to friends and family, and ask your planner for advice. Compare pricing, availability and access, as that may help you make your decision.

Most importantly, this day is about the two of you.

Don’t let friends and family influence your decisions.

Inviting your guests

A Save the Date or Facebook group is a great way to notify your guests well in advance. Many will need to save and budget for the trip, so the more time you give them the better. Most travel agents will also offer payment options to help with this.

Your invitation is a taste of your personality and what they can expect on the day. Will your wedding be fun and relaxed or more formal? Think about your colour scheme, too.

Choosing your dress

The islands will be hot, so bear that in mind when choosing your dress. You may like to have a more formal gown for the ceremony, then change into something light for the reception so you can dance the night away.

Most dress boutiques will have a box or a suit bag you can carry your wedding dress in.

Travel with your dress as hand luggage and lie it down flat on top of other luggage in an overhead locker on your aircraft. On arrival, hang it up and the humidity should get rid of all the wrinkles. You can also ask your wedding coordinator about steaming it before the big day.

Choosing other suppliers

The islands are easy, as many suppliers are already included in the package.

Your wedding planner can assist with other options, should you have specific requirements. Use social media for ideas, and save photographs of anything you like.

We find it easier to replicate something from a photograph or an image, rather than a description.

On the day

Don’t sweat the small stuff. The islands don’t always get everything perfect, but does that matter? Get into the spirit, relax and enjoy!

Brought to you by Raumati of Island Weddings www.islandweddings.co.nz 10

Pacific Romance

Choose howfly you hoose how you Choose howfly you f theto Islands to thetoIslands the Islands

Choose how you fly Choose how you fly Seats to Suit Seatsto to the Suit Islands Seats to Suit to the Islands

airnewzealand.co.nz/seatstosuit airnewzealand.co.nz/seatstosuit airnewzealand.co.nz/seatstosuit

Seats to Suit

Seats to Suit

airnewzealand.co.nz/seatstosuit

airnewzealand.co.nz/seatstosuit

FIJI

A world of

possibilities

There is such a diverse range of romantic options in Fiji, first a couple need to sit down together and work out what they really want. Once the decision has been made, Fiji will deliver. From small, intimate out-of-the-way locations to big, busy mainland resorts, Fiji has a place where your fairytale will come true.

Tying the knot

The legal age to wed in Fiji is 18 years. An application for a marriage licence must be made in person to the nearest Registrar Office or District Court in Fiji at least three working days prior to the marriage. Please note, weddings may not be performed on Sundays or public holidays.

• •

The wedding couple will need to provide the following: • Original birth certificates • Valid passports • Divorce papers (if applicable) • Death certificate (if previous spouse is deceased) • Single Status Certificate or Certificate of • No Legal Impediment

BULA BRIDE – NANUKU AUBERGE RESORT

12

Pacific Romance

Pacific Romance

13

The easiest way for us to guide you through Fiji’s numerous romantic destinations, is by breaking them up into different regions. We’ve covered island groups such as the Mamanucas and Yasawas, we take a drive down the Coral Coast, we cover the popular area of Denarau Island, plus we look at some idyllic spots that are well off the beaten track.

THE MAMANUCAS

CASTAWAY ISLAND RESORT

This might seem a tad strange. You fly three or four hours to a tropical island, only to transfer to another smaller island once you get there! But when you see the beauty on offer in Fiji’s Mamanuca Group, it all makes perfect sense!

It’s almost impossible for words to describe the sheer beauty. And even a good photo can struggle sometimes. Small green dots, scattered across the bluest of ocean. White sand beaches, palm trees swaying in the wind. It’s your classic picture postcard and quite honestly, it’s about as romantic as you could hope for.

To be fair to the other parts of Fiji, the Mamanuca Group isn’t the only drop dead gorgeous set of islands. However, they are definitely the most accessible. A ‘rock-star’ helicopter transfer will have you beachside in 10-15 minutes and even a ferry ride is only 60 minutes or so.

Wedding or honeymoon? You’ve come to right place. And if you’re the type of couple that likes to stay active, there is any number of waterbased activities to enjoy. Scuba diving and surfing is world-class in this part of Fiji. Most resorts come with a fleet of jetskis that you can whip around on. Plus there are all the regular activities such as snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking.

PLACES TO STAY Castaway Island Resort If you were going to pick a spot to build a Mamanuca resort it would be hard to go past the location of Castaway Island Resort. Which is exactly what happened in 1966 when Castaway became the very first resort in the Mamanuca Islands. When you arrive, you do feel a sense of history, one reason why visiting couples soon feel at home here. The swaying palm trees, beautiful blue water and white sand beach are the perfect setting for a special occasion. And the friendly staff are seasoned experts at planning a wedding and honeymoon to remember.

Likuliku Lagoon Resort Maintaining an impeccable standard of service comes down to getting the smallest details right. Likuliku Lagoon Resort is one of those rare resorts that has achieved this feat. And has done so over a long period of time. It’s impressive collection of awards is testament to that. For couples the attraction is obvious. Signature overwater bures, a first class spa and dining options, and a boutique adults-only vibe that makes romance inescapable. Likuliku has a number of ‘off-the-shelf’ wedding packages to choose from, but these can all be tailored to suit.

And afterwards, why would you go anywhere else? Likuliku is set up for a dreamy honeymoon too.

Lomani Island Resort If you thought the name Lomani sounded romantic, you’d be spot on.

Lomani is the Fijian word for love. The boutique adults-only haven is

14

Pacific Romance

LIKULIKU LAGOON RESORT

perfectly suited to small, intimate weddings, which can take place at the secluded Picnic Point Bure or even on a small sand island that sits offshore (no onlookers here). Either way the bride, groom and guests will be in for a treat. Because the resort has just 30 rooms, the atmosphere is peaceful and the service is personal.

Staff will know you by name and vice versa. And if a couple should feel like mixing things up, they can bike along to Plantation Island Resort and Musket Cove Resort, which share the island with Lomani.

Malolo Island Resort You can literally paddle from Likuliku to its sister resort Malolo Island Resort. Sitting just around the headland, on yet another fine swathe of white Fijian sand, Malolo Island Resort is a magic spot for weddings. In particular, island weddings that include the whole family from the kids up. They have family friendly accommodation options, plus one of Fiji’s best kid’s club programmes. A couple’s favourite is the classic beach wedding as the golden sun comes down on the distant horizon. At that moment there will be nowhere else you’d rather be.

Plantation Island Resort If you had doubts whether an island wedding could take place on a wallet-friendly budget, Plantation Island Resort proves that it can. Sitting on the sands of gorgeous Malolo Lailai Island, Plantation has a location to match anywhere in Fiji, and a wedding package to suit anyone – from simple celebrations all the way through to grand all-inclusive weddings that come with absolutely everything. Couples can choose from a variety of themes, such as tropical, tribal or boho romance.

They also have a range of beauty services so the bride can look her very best. They even have Hens and Bucks ideas (what guy wouldn’t enjoy half a day of deep-sea fishing to calm the nerves). In a nutshell, Plantation Island Resort does it all.

Pacific Romance

15

LOMANI ISLAND RESORT

SIX SENSES FIJI

Six Senses Fiji

Vomo Island Resort

The Six Senses brand has built its reputation through Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean, in large part through their commitment to sustainable luxury in remarkable out-of-the-way locations. In Fiji they’ve stayed true to this mantra, something ecoconscious couples will lap up. A yoga pavilion overlooking the ocean, personalised wellness packages, organic cuisine (wherever possible), zero plastic bottle waste – all wrapped up with five-star villas, a flawless beach and golden sunsets. Yes, Six Senses do romance and they do it well.

Talk to anyone who has stayed at Vomo Island Resort and don’t be surprised if they will say it is their favourite Fijian resort. This five-star private island simply does not put a foot wrong.

Tokoriki Island Resort At Tokoriki Island Resort, their version of romance is very much about relaxed island luxury with a personal touch. Professional, polished and at the same time, friendly and fun. The maximum number of guests on the island at any one time is 72, but somehow every staff member will manage to remember your name. The villas are all absolute beachfront. They sit amongst lush meticulously maintained gardens that instantly puts you at ease. And the beautiful foliage provides a natural screen between each villa, so you can sit back on the deck, or dip in the plunge pool and not see another soul all day. In front of each villa there’s a private track to the beach, which means guests never have to walk past their neighbour’s villa. In other words peace and privacy is guaranteed. The only real downside is sooner or later, you have to leave.

16

VOMO ISLAND RESORT

Pacific Romance

The setting is drop dead gorgeous, even by Fijian standards. The service is impeccable, the rooms are of the highest quality, and so is the sumptuous cuisine (which changes daily). The resort has its own dedicated adults-only space at the western tip of the island.

The Rocks restaurant and bar is also the best place on the island to watch the sunset. And from late January 2019, a new infinity pool will create a private island beach club feel for adult guests. There is no better place to spend the day or evening.

HOW TO GET TO THE MAMANUCA ISLANDS Making your way to the Mamanucas is very simple. The most popular method of transfer is catching a South Sea ferry from Port Denarau. They have multiple departures during the day. There are a number of private water taxi services that can be booked too, such as Mamanuca Express and SeaFiji. If your budget can stretch, flying by helicopter or sea plane is the other option. The views are amazing and you’ll be get there in around 10-15 minutes. Island Hoppers and Pacific Island Air are experienced operators.

Island Wedding Lomani Renewal of Vows Package -

An officiant to perform the ceremony Bottle of sparkling wine, fruit basket and 2 Lomani Sarongs upon arrival Bridal bouquet and Groom Buttonhole A one hour couples massage to relax prior to your big day A decorated wedding arch, covered with tropical flowers Romantic “Breakfast in Bed” for the bride and groom

Lomani Wedding Package -

FJ$2400 / NZ$1648

Bottle of sparkling wine, fruit basket and 2 Lomani Sarongs upon arrival A Minister, Priest or Celebrant to perform the ceremony* Bridal bouquet and Groom Buttonhole A one hour couples massage to relax prior to your big day Option of acoustic guitarist and singers to play processional music A decorated wedding arch, covered with tropical flowers Romantic “Breakfast in Bed” for the bride and groom Romantic 3 course dinner for two

Resort Charter -

FJ$990 / NZ$680

FJ$112,095 / NZ$76,938

3 nights’ accommodation at Lomani Island Resort for 60 people All meals including a wedding reception or gala dinner by the beach Options of a Lomani Wedding package or 2 day conference room hire.

Daily Group Activity options

NZD Prices are indicative.

For More Information Contact Our Weddings Team Email: wsc@raffehotels.com | Call: (+679) 6734744 | Website: www.lomaniisland.com

Pacific Romance

17

YASAWA ISLANDS

PLACES TO STAY

On Fiji’s Western border, north of the Mamanucas is the Yasawa Islands, where you and your partner will enter a bubble of tranquillity and beauty that will set the scene for an unforgettable romantic holiday.

Blue Lagoon Resort

Just 30 minutes by seaplane or a couple of hours by ferry (depending on which island you are visiting) the beauty of this island group lies in its isolation and authenticity, there is no shopping or traffic here, just the traditional island way of life, and a smattering of resorts – ranging from simple and more rustic offerings to five star accommodation.

Once limited to visiting cruise ships, where passengers could only admire the pretty islands from a distance, tourists were first allowed to step foot on the islands from the 1950s which marked the start of an eco-tourism initiative that has resulted in a honeymooners dream destination.

If you come here by boat your romantic adventure will begin before you’ve arrived at your destination. The Yasawa Flyer makes its way to the Yasawas once a day and cruising into these picturesque islands will set the scene for what is to come - beauty and more beauty!

Once at your resort of choice, you can enjoy the turquoise water teeming with tropical fish and colourful coral, take a tour of the local villages, get involved in water sports or bush walks or simply lie in a hammock and bask in the peace and laid-back lifestyle that comes when you get away from it all.

No visit to the Yasawas is complete without a day trip to the limestone caves of Sawa-i-lau where you can float your way inside the incredible natural wonder, gaze up at the tall limestone walls or hold each other’s hand tight and follow your guide through the entry point into the more exciting second cave! Hollywood producers considered these caves the perfect spot to film Brooke Shield’s famous rock scene in the 1980s romantic film, The Blue Lagoon, just as you will deem the Yasawas the perfect spot for your romantic holiday.

BLUE LAGOON RESORT

18

Pacific Romance

Blue Lagoon Resort is set on the white sand beach of the beautiful, remote Nacula Island. This resort has traditionally designed rooms that blend into the natural, relaxed ambience of the island creating the ideal destination for a romantic, relaxing holiday. Choose from a picturesque beachfront villa where you can wake to the sound of the sea, or a garden villa, which offers a private, tranquil sanctuary. Both offer private open-air bathrooms and cool, air conditioned rooms where you can take respite from the sunshine. Snorkel straight off the beach, spend time in the pool and its accompanying bar or relax together in the hammocks or beachfront loungers. The resort offers fishing, village visits as well as bush walks, yoga and crafts. Run mostly by locals, you will leave here feeling rejuvenated and relaxed, having had an authentic Yasawas experience.

Mantaray Resort For ocean loving couples Mantaray Resort is simply bliss. Set amongst vibrant coral reefs, with a dive team on site, you will experience a romantic adventure together here you will not forget.

Swim with the manta rays, or make the most of the perfect, shallow diving conditions to learn to scuba dive. Or simply relax on the hammocks, swim in the pristine marine reserve, and meet new friends at the regular entertainment each evening.

Mantaray is a relaxed, rustic resort which offers accommodation ranging from backpackers to bures but couples wanting a deluxe experience can choose a beachfront villa and retreat to a piece of paradise, with a luxury outdoor bathroom, spacious living and sleeping area and patio. Be sure to ask the Mantaray team, where the private back beach is - here you will have the best sunset swim of your trip!

Fiji’s remote Yasawa Islands free wedding offer

Private picnic on a different beach every day

Located in one of the most pristine areas of Fiji, Yasawa Island Resort & Spa offers the discerning couple some of the most idyllic and romantic wedding locations on earth. With 11 private beaches, all day gourmet dining and luxuriant tropical surrounds, the resort is offering couples who stay and pay six nights accommodation a Yasawa Frangipani Wedding absolutely free.

The resort’s director James McCann said, “Our Frangipani Wedding offers the perfect combination of simplicity & elegance.” The free wedding includes marriage licence, services of our Wedding Coordinator, ceremony by a local Methodist Minister, floral salusalus (leis) & headbands, local flower bouquet (frangipani), floral arch, private beach dinner with special menu, one tier wedding cake for two and celebratory bottle of Veuve Cliquot NV. The offer is valid year round based on rack rate including all meals, nonalcoholic drinks, tours and activities. Clients can combine this with Yasawa’s Ultimate SPA deal offering a 50-minute SPA each day of their stay.

For details contact your preferred Fiji specialist travel company.

One of the special things about staying in Fiji’s northern Yasawa Islands is the serenity that comes with having few neighbours, unspoilt tropical islands and being surrounded by turquoise waters. This also means pristine uninhabited beaches abound! Yasawa Island Resort & Spa has exclusive access to 11 white sand private beaches and offers guests the opportunity to picnic on a different beach every day of their stay.

The resort’s New Zealand Marketing Representative, Richard Hankin, says “The Beach Picnics are something truly unique to Yasawa. Guests can be dropped off with a picnic hamper in the morning and return to the resort later in the day or be waited upon over a beach lunch for an hour or so. The choice is theirs and its all included in our daily tariff.”

For honeymooners and couples seeking a very special romantic experience, Yasawa’s stunning private beach picnics provide the perfect setting.

One word...

Heaven

There are 15 words in the Fijian language meaning Heaven and ‘Yasawa’ is the first.

Yasawa Island Resort & Spa offers couples the most idyllic, romantic and serene piece of paradise to spend time enjoying each other’s company in a stunning and luxurious setting with all inclusive...

• gourmet meals • non alcoholic beverages • all motorised and non-motorised activities, trips and tours (excluding fishing, diving, spa)

phone 679-672-2266 reservations@yasawa.com www.yasawa.com

Pacific Romance

19

Blue Lagoon Cruises, Fiji Princess For something really special jump on board The Fiji Princess for a three, four or seven night mini-cruise run by Blue Lagoon Cruises. This is an intimate, romantic way to see the Yasawas together, accommodating only 68 passengers. This pretty little cruise ship will take you to stunning islands, with a maximum of four hours cruising a day so there is plenty of time to explore. Finish your day with sunset cocktails served on the top deck, followed by a delicious dinner served on board. Be sure to revisit the top deck at night and lie under the stars before returning to your cute little cabin to be rocked to sleep by the ocean.

During the four and seven night cruise, the boat stops at its own private beach - Nanuya Lailai. Once anchored you can make the most of the transfer boats, to explore the island at your leisure. The exceptionally friendly crew provide guided bush walks, snorkelling trips to coral reefs or grab a paddleboard or kayak and explore the lagoon, just the two of you.

If land-based activities are on your agenda, you can watch the lovo being prepared for dinner, challenge each other to some beach volleyball or relax on the sun loungers and make the most of the beach bar to toast your romantic adventure. The day culminates in a kava

BLUE LAGOON CRUISES, FIJI PRINCESS

PARADISE COVE RESORT

20

Pacific Romance

ceremony, lovo dinner on the beach and a visit from local villagers who perform traditional dance and bring their beautiful crafts, so you can take home a piece of paradise to remember your romantic holiday.

Paradise Cove Resort Although Paradise Cove Resort is just as popular with families as it is with couples, the layout has been designed so that both can enjoy the resort independently. The ‘adults-only’ side of the resort features “The Cove”. A very short walk from the resort’s main bar, restaurant and family pool, this grown-ups refuge feels miles away. With two pools, a “boat” bar and a menu of delicious snacks to choose from, couples can quite happily stay there all day long, without a single child within earshot. The couples accommodation is also located in and around The Cove, while the family villas are positioned on the other side of the resort.

For the ultimate in peace and privacy, there are four self-contained twobedroom Beach Houses that sit on a completely separate island just a across a small channel. To access the main resort, guests simply pick up the phone and a boat will be there within a matter of minutes. Being a boutique resort, Paradise Cove is idyllic for intimate weddings, and of course honeymoons.

PARADISE COVE RESORT

— S AY I D O DREAMS DO COME TRUE AT RADISSON BLU RESORT FIJI WHERE EVERY MOMENT MATTERS. With the sparkling Mamanuca sea as your wedding backdrop, the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji offers a variety of tropical and intimate settings for your special day.

I N PA R A D I S E — For enquries and bookings please contact: +679 675 6666 or Email: sales@radissonfiji.com

Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island P.O. Box PD 141, Port Denarau, Fiji Islands T: +679 675 6677 reservations@radissonfiji.com

radissonblu.com/resort-fiji

CORAL COAST Coral Coast locals like to think of their beautiful stretch of coast as the ‘real Fiji’. A place where visitors can come and enjoy the comforts of quality resorts, but also connect with the people that have called the Coral Coast home for many hundreds of years. For couples, wedding parties and honeymooners, it means they get the best of both worlds. Depending on how much time a couple might have, there are numerous highlights. A trip to Sigatoka, the Coral Coast’s biggest township is fun and fascinating at the same time. Stroll the busy streets, do a spot of shopping, grab a bite and really just mix and mingle.

For the couple that prefer activities at faster pace there’s the Sigatoka River Safari. Sit back buckle up and let your jet boat pilot take you on the ride of a lifetime. The vast Sigatoka Sand Dunes are fun to visit. And a groom and his mates can bond over 18 holes pre-or-post wedding at Nataldola Bay Championship Golf Course.

PLACES TO STAY Yatule Resort and Spa Relaxed, intimate and sitting on arguably the most picturesque bay on Viti Levu, Yatule Resort and Spa promises a first class boutique experience.

The Natadola Beach locale is hard to beat. A couple can simply kick back and gaze out across the bay at surfers catching waves, horseriding on the beach and local fishermen in small kayaks catching their daily quota. As you can imagine, this most idyllic spot makes for a dream wedding. And with just 36 bures on-site, the bride, groom and wedding party will fell like they have the whole place to themselves.

SIGATOKA RIVER SAFARI

Hideaway Resort and Spa As the name suggests, Hideaway Resort and Spa is another secluded spot on the Coral Coast. The resort is a favourite with wedding couples and it has gone the extra mile for them, designing and building a dedicated wedding bure that creates an authentic Fijian experience. The resort has a variety of wedding packages available, the one you choose will really depend on the number of guests you invite and the size your budget. Regardless of the your pick, Hideaway has an in-house wedding coordinator who will ensure everything on the day runs to plan.

YATULE RESORT AND SPA

22

Pacific Romance

HIDEAWAY RESORT AND SPA

Paradise Bride

Your Fiji Wedding Specialists

©K-Thorpe Photography

© vantage Fiji

© oceanstudio

© vantage Fiji

Creating the perfect day requires careful planning. And at Paradise Bride Fiji, we’re the wedding planners that can make it happen. We’ll turn your ideas and dreams into a magical moment. Styling, organising and designing every detail until it’s picture perfect. While being there for you every step of the way. To celebrate your wedding in style, simply call and we’ll take care of the rest.

Contact our wedding coordinator to design your dream wedding +679 6728873 weddingcoordinator@paradisebride.com.fj

Crusoe’s Retreat If off-the-beaten track is on your romance travel brief, Crusoe’s Retreat could be just the hidden gem you’re looking for. Tucked away in its own private paradise, about 45 minutes’ drive past the town of Sigatoka, this laid-back resort is a real toes-in-the-sand escape. Zero stress and 100 percent authentic. (Crusoe’s was Fiji’s very first resort and it shares close ties with the local village, meaning guests feel very much part of the local community – rather than just regular visitors to a resort).

While the journey to get there might be a little longer than some, committing to an extra hour or so is worth that getting-away-from-it-all feeling once you arrive. And when a couple does arrive, the welcoming resort staff will take care of absolutely everything.

CRUSOE’S RETREAT

They’re well-schooled in the art of wedding planning and can add all the personal touches a couple could want, think local village choir, soft ukulele strumming and traditional meke performances. Which means that no two wedding ceremonies are the same. The resort can cater to wedding parties from two to 60, which also suits most overseas couples.

Once the big day is done, Crusoe’s is a great place to stick around for the honeymoon too. The resort’s rustic beach bures are a beautiful place to call home after days spent exploring the island’s sun-drenched shores. Active couples will be in their element with amazing scuba diving packages, zip line tours, jet boat safaris and all many more tours on offer. Or for a day of indulgence, a couple can always just stay put and be pampered at Crusoe’s Coco Spa.

CRUSOE’S RETREAT

Ready to experience the real Fiji?

Bula and welcome to Crusoe’s Retreat - Fiji’s very first resort, where you’ll arrive as a guest and leave as a friend.

Our honeymoon at Crusoe’s was nothing short of incredible – stunning location, activities galore, epic beach bar, quirky bures and beautiful staff who went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. We truly immersed ourselves in the Fijian culture and didn’t wear shoes for the entire week. It was perfect.

- Chloe and Greg

Treat yourself to an authentic, affordable and refreshing Fijian holiday.

Book online today: www.crusoesretreat.com 24

Pacific Romance

THE ADULTS ESCAPE

DENARAU ISLAND If an effortless wedding or honeymoon is your calling, the resort enclave of Denarau Island is the place to go. The proximity to Nadi International Airport is a big plus – you can both be sipping cocktails poolside less than 30 minutes after you clear customs.

Yes it’s a busy vibe, and you won’t experience the sense of adventure you’ll get on an outer island, but that’s not the point.

Couples love Denarau because of its vibrant buzz. There is always something going on, and you have the option of wandering from resort to resort, sampling the numerous dining and entertainment options.

When you choose Denarau for your romantic occasion, you do so knowing this string of resorts are popular with families. Having said that, many of the properties have created dedicated adult spaces, places where a couple can find a peaceful spot, away from the fun and games that kids enjoy.

On Denarau, two of the best spots to escape are the purpose-designed adults-only havens of Waitui Beach Club at Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa (undergoing refurbishment from January to April 2019), and Koro at Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa. At each one you can simply lie back on the lounger, cocktail in hand, book close-by, snack on delicious bites and dip in the pool whenever you need to cool down.

WAITUI BEACH CLUB - SOFITEL FIJI RESORT & SPA

KORO AT HILTON FIJI BEACH RESORT AND SPA

Fiji Hideaway Resort & Spa Dreaming of a Fijian wedding or honeymoon? Begin your life together at the gorgeous beachfront resort Hideaway – Coral Coast or adults only, Hideaway – Vuda. Share a moment captured in time with those closest to you and celebrate your love. Choose from one of the available wedding packages, or have one tailored to your needs.

Your dedicated wedding coordinator will ensure your special day is perfect, down to every last detail.

Fiji Hideaway Resort & Spa – Coral Coast and Vuda P: +679 6500177 E: weddings@hideaway.com.fj

www.hideawayfiji.com

Pacific Romance

25

RADISSON BLU RESORT

PLACES TO STAY

SHERATON FIJI RESORT

Sheraton Fiji Resort If you were going to pick the most romantic spot to get married on Denarau Island, Sheraton Fiji Resort’s magnificent beachside chapel would be at (or near) the top of the list. Floor to ceiling picture windows frame sweeping ocean views, and if a couple choose the popular sunset wedding, the chapel will be filled with a romantic red light. In a word, it’s amazing.

Being a large resort, there are plenty of other options to tie the knot too – go barefoot on the beach or maybe ballroom formal. The other advantage of a wedding at the Sheraton is they can cater to wedding parties of virtually any size. It’s unlikely you’ll have 800 people along for your big day, but if you did, this resort could quite easily handle the occasion.

Radisson Blu Resort If you’d like to say ‘I do’ in Fiji, Radisson Blu Resort is another place that boasts endless wedding options. As soon as you step inside the resort you’ll see the first signature wedding location, Radisson’s cascading waterfall and grass lawn. A beautiful backdrop indeed. But then so is the Vei Domoni lawn (meaning romance in Fijian) that holds a wedding party of up to 35.

Those special moments deserve only the best Champagne...find it with us

Fiji’s wine experts www.victoriawines.com.fj

26

Pacific Romance

The lawn overlooks the beach, but it’s surrounded by tropical foliage that provides privacy for a couple and their guests. The resort’s ballroom provides an indoor setting if that’s’ what is required or the weather gods don’t co-operate. Otherwise, Radisson Blu Resort is a brilliant place for couples to kick back. Particularly reclining by the adults-only pool with friendly wait staff bringing you whatever beverage you desire!

If you’re the kind of couple that likes to think outside the square, all you need to do is start looking outside the main tourist hotspots.

Going the extra mile will certainly bring its rewards and add a whole new dimension to your special occasion. Here a just a few picks to get you started.

Say “I Do” in Paradise

©withheart.com.au

Discover wedded bliss at Sheraton Fiji Resort. With beautifully furnished rooms overlooking Nadi Bay, three restaurants and a 18 hole golf course, there is something to please everyone. Experienced event planners and stylists embrace your special event from the ceremony and reception, to cocktails under the stars, every wish can be granted. For a true island paradise experience, why not celebrate your special day at the Sheraton Fiji Resort on Denarau Island then escape on your honeymoon to the idyllic Sheraton Resort & Spa on Tokoriki Island.

P: +679 6750777 E: Fiji.weddings@sheraton.com www.wedding-fiji.com/en

Your Independent Wedding Planners & Stylists

Weddings made in Heaven, Sealed at

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK If you’re the kind of couple that likes to think outside the square, all you need to do is start looking outside the main tourist hotspots. Going the extra mile will certainly bring its rewards and add a whole new dimension to your special occasion. Here a just a few picks to get you started.

Garden Island Resort, Taveuni Imagine waking up to panoramic ocean views and being lulled to sleep by the sound of waves in the evening. This is the experience to be enjoyed amongst the lush surroundings of Garden Island Resort on Taveuni. This is a back to basics style of romantic experience. Oh so beautiful, but very down to earth.

Couples will enjoy true quality time, regardless of whether they’re celebrating a wedding or honeymoon. There is also plenty to keep a couple occupied – the resort spa has a long list of treatments, and there’s even a nine hole golf course. The resort also provides couples with a wide variety of tour options, such as the hike to Tavoro Falls, and a visit to the Waitavala rock waterslide.

Royal Davui Island This tiny gem of an island is home to just 16 luxury villas, each one carefully positioned for absolute privacy. For a couple searching for pure peace, Royal Davui Island is 5-star Fiji at its best. Each villa has its own private plunge pool, so it’s tempting to just stay where you are soak up the views. And if you really feeling like moving, there’s are some splendid snorkelling spots right out in front.

The resort offers all-inclusive dining with the menu changing daily.

And the Davui Spa has have teamed up with Pure Fiji to create a range of luscious treatments that will have you drifting off in a state of bliss. Royal Davui Island Resort sits around 15 km off the south coast from Pacific Harbour, inside the spectacular Beqa Lagoon.

ROYAL DAVUI ISLAND

is just a dream away at Musket Cove

Island Resort & Marina, Fiji

Ph. +679 666 2215 events@musketcovefiji.com

28

Pacific Romance

Island Resort & Marina, Fiji

Just steps from the pristine sands of Malolo Lailai in the Mamanuca Islands, Fiji.

Sits the iconic Musket Cove, a four star island resort which blends the barefoot ambience of a tropical island with the warm hospitality and traditions of the Fijian people.

musketcovefiji.com

Qamea Resort and Spa Qamea Resort and Spa is another place for couples to escape the world, while enjoying all the comforts of a premium Fijian resort. Getting there is certainly an adventure. First catch a connecting flight from Nadi to the ‘garden island’ of Taveuni.

Then travel by road to a remote beach where you’ll be picked up by boat and whisked away (in just 10 minutes) to the resort.

Welcome to paradise. Home to just 17 luxuriously appointed beachfront villas and bures, this is a place of peaceful bliss.

When it comes to weddings, the resort has three packages to choose from, however, these can be tailored by the on-site co-ordinator. And after, well, just stay where you are and enjoy a dream honeymoon.

QAMEA RESORT AND SPA

Volivoli Beach Resort Sitting at the very northern tip of Viti Levu (about 2.5 hours drive north of Nadi) you’ll find Volivoli Beach Resort. If you are looking for a honeymoon with intimate solitude, active adventure and luxury treatment, you’ll find it here.

Nestled amongst the delicate coral reefs and lush rainforests of Fiji’s Sun Coast, Volivoli is designed with couples in mind, particularly their Premium Ocean View Bures.

This modern take on traditional Fijian-style homes, comes with uninterrupted ocean views and the perfect mix of comfort, luxury, and privacy. And personal touches like a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival – which you can both enjoy on your patio overlooking the Coral Sea, surrounded by lush gardens with bird of paradise flowers and the smell of wild frangipani and hibiscus floating through the air.

VOLIVOLI BEACH RESORT

SHERATON FIJI RESORT

Pacific Romance

29

Bula Bride's essential Fiji honeymoon tips

If you’ve been dreaming of white sand and blue ocean for your honeymoon and are looking to enjoy some well-deserved coupletime together after the wedding madness is over, there is no shortage of idyllic options in the Fiji Islands.

In fact, narrowing down the choice can sometimes be hard and leave you wondering if you have made the right decision. Thankfully, Fiji is beautiful anywhere you go, but as a honeymoon is a very special type of holiday it’s a good idea to do your research and think about what will make it truly special.

3. Use a specialist travel agent Your honeymoon is a once in a lifetime trip so you want to get it right.

Engage the services of a destination travel agent or honeymoon specialist that is familiar with Fiji to make sure your trip runs smoothly.

You’ll get great advice on choosing your resort, personalised service and attention to detail to ensure your trip is a breeze from take-off to the first cocktail! After a busy wedding your honeymoon should be a relaxing and stress-free experience and a good travel agent will make this happen. And in the event anything goes wrong, someone experienced will help you deal with it quickly and get everything back on track so the trip is still amazing.

For more information go to www.bulabride.com or email leanne@bulabride.com.

Here are a few tips to plan the perfect honeymoon: 1. Plan it together Will it be relaxing on a beach with a cocktail in hand or will it be snorkelling and diving to your hearts content? Do you want to splurge and go luxury or are you feeling the pinch after the wedding? The style of your honeymoon should reflect in the location and resort you book, so agree on the key priorities in advance and make sure you book in a location that matches what you are looking to get out of the experience.

2. Short on time?

If you only have a week or so, Fiji is the ideal honeymoon location as you can reach it from most Australian or New Zealand major cities on one flight within 3-4 hours. However some resorts in Fiji then require an additional journey by way of flight, ferry or extensive drive, so consider any additional travel time and your flight times if your stay will be under seven days.

Fiji’s leading hair & make up stylists Hair Salon l Mobile Stylists l Wedding Specialists Services include: Hair / Make Up / Nails / Spray Tans / Henna

INFORMATION •INSPIRATION WEDDING VENDORS

Bula Bride is Fiji’s leading wedding directory and the best place to start when planning your Fiji wedding. www.totokahairfiji.com Phone: +679 6721177 l bookings@totokahairfiji.com

30

Pacific Romance

We can do you happily ever after !

4 star boutique resort on a 6 star location

• Absolute beachfront location & just under 1 hour from Nadi International Airport • Secluded, peaceful & tranquil • Small & Boutique – 36 Polynesian–inspired bures • Plated breakfast daily included in room rate • Restaurant & Bar • Romantic beachfront dining options • Fabulous food & menu selection • Attentive & unobtrusive service

• Swimming pool with swim-up bar • Free WiFi in lobby area, restaurant & bar • Day Spa • Kayaks, paddleboards & snorkelling available • Honeymooners Bonus Offer • Stunning wedding location – wedding packages start from only F$2500 • A specialist Wedding Coordinator who will ensure a seamless & memorable day

P: + 679 6728004 E: res@yatulefiji.com.fj

www.yatulefiji.com

Elegant weddings with a hint of Fijian style Discover your own tropical paradise at Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, the only property on Fiji’s mainland to offer over-water villas.

Located just 45 minutes from Nadi International Airport, Fiji Marriott Resort offers a stunning beachfront setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The accommodation is ideal for a romantic honeymoon, or intimate wedding, with room for all your wedding guests to stay overnight and continue the celebrations.

Whether you are looking for a traditional wedding or a one-of-a-kind celebration, the resort will exceed every expectation. The wedding team at Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay is well versed in keeping weddings simple and authentically elegant, adding a hint of Fijian style to match the resort’s design and architecture. With tailored service, attention to detail and exquisite cuisine, combined with the beauty and serenity of Momi Bay, Fiji Marriott Resort is the perfect choice for your special day.

Each wedding package comes with your choice of menu, inspiring spaces and a dedicated wedding specialist to take care of all the stressful organising, so you can really enjoy your big day.

The location offers over 3000 square metres of indoor and outdoor event space, making your wedding a truly unique experience.

With different types of venues to choose from, we will make your dream tropical wedding come true, beyond what the eyes can see at Fiji Marriott Resort. Take advantage of our beachfront location by extending your wedding beyond the Grand Saloon Ballroom to one of the beautiful outdoor spaces.

North Point, located at the far end of the resort, is a great spot for a tropical garden wedding ceremony under the swaying palm trees. Say “I do” at this dreamy wedding location with panoramic ocean and lagoon views.

Vonu Beach plays host to the ultimate island wedding experience with room for more than 500 people. The lure of a sand beach, turquoise lagoon, sunny skies and relaxed island vibe is hard to beat.

Alternatively, Fish Bar Restaurant is ideal for your intimate celebration, where guests can witness one of Fiji’s famous sunsets, accompanied by the spectacular ocean view.

32

Pacific Romance

Thoughtfully designed to take full advantage of its picture-perfect setting, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay offers beautiful accommodation options to impress you and your guests. The resort features 136 contemporary Deluxe Rooms and 114 luxurious Bure Villas, including 22 Over-Water Bure Villas with direct lagoon access. All the rooms and Bure Villas have a private balcony or terrace and extensive views of the pool, lagoon or ocean.

You can choose from three restaurants offering distinctive local and international cuisines. At Goji Kitchen & Bar you can engage with the chefs and savour the inventive Fijian, Asian and international dishes made to order at the open-kitchen cooking stations.

At Fish Bar, enjoy a bounty of fresh seafood while you look out over a panorama of the Pacific Ocean. For those looking for a more relaxed setting, Lagoon House & Bar offers simple yet delicious Mediterranean fare using the highest quality produce. Fiji Baking Company, the resort’s bakery and delicatessen, offers freshly made pastries, sandwiches and salads, with baristas to serve your favourite coffee in a casual café setting.

Escape to Quan Spa for an indulgent array of spa services and spoil yourself with luxurious facials, body treatments and manicures. Quan Spa’s special treatment rooms for couples include a plunge pool to delight and relax your body, mind and soul in equal measure.

Soak up the sun at one of the swimming pools, including the adultsonly infinity pool, relax at the swim-up bar and indulge in amazing signature cocktails at Lagoon Lounge, or enjoy the resort’s extensive watersport activities.

From the spectacular surroundings, complemented with bespoke service anticipating your every whim, let us create your dream wedding at Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay.

www.fijimarriott.com | weddings.momibay@marriott.com

FIJI ISL AND WEDDING BLISS

T R AV E L B R I L L I A N T LY

F I J I M A R R I O T T R E S O RT M O M I B AY Savusavu Road, Momi Bay, Viti Levu, Fiji P +679 670 7000 | E weddings.momibay@marriott.com www.fijimarriott.com

Pacific Romance

33

InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa The multi-award winning InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa, with its 266 luxury rooms and suites, is located on stunning Natadola Bay. Recognised in 2017 as Australasia’s Leading Resort by the World Travel Awards, the luxury property fronts onto the finest beach on the Fijian mainland, and one of the world’s leading beaches.

Offering an intimate setting for couples who wish to enjoy an escape, the InterContinental Resort is set up for honeymooners and couples who are looking to invest in quality time with each other, and our more senior market, who expect a five-star quality experience with staff who can cater to their every whim.

There are 266 rooms and suites, of which 50 belong to the Club InterContinental level. The Resort rooms have king-size beds in each of our Garden, Pool, Lagoon and Beachfront View rooms.

For a more refined experience, we invite our adult guests to enjoy the Club InterContinental suites, with semi-inclusive rates for a maximum of 50 suites at any one time. Rates are semi-inclusive, with couples preferring to stay in our one-Bedroom Suite, complete with a king-sized bed and a plunge pool.

Couples can enjoy a personal butler service, a mini-bar that is replenished daily, high tea, sunset cocktails and canapés, a nightly turndown service and so much more.

The Resort offers three restaurants, with Navo Restaurant offering adults-only breakfast and dinner from 7pm. The cuisine is a fusion of local delicacies and international cooking styles. We also offer private outdoor dining arrangements, and ask that you connect with the concierge for more details.

The Resort offers an award-winning day spa, a PGA championship golf course and many activities to add to the overall experience. Guests can expect to go parasailing, waterboarding, learn to dive, immerse themselves in the Fijian culture, go on a jet-board safari and so much more.

34

Pacific Romance

Pacific Romance

35

PHOTOGRAPHERS

SNAPSHOT

Michelle Cheer

Cheer Wedding Photography How long have you been a wedding photographer for?

I’ve been capturing and documenting weddings part-time since 2011.

Demand grew and I went full time in 2012.

What made you decide to specialise in this form of photography?

I’m a Libra and a hopeless romantic. I’ve always been in love with love and I knew that if I had to choose something for work and really stick to it, it would have to be something that I was truly passionate about. I loved taking photos but not taking just any photos, I truly wanted to capture and document beautiful moments that would otherwise be gone forever.

Do you have any special qualifications, training or mentoring?

I have a Communications Degree from the Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand, however I’m entirely self-taught in photography and business. Initially I was putting in 80+hours a week to teach myself so many aspects of being a photographer plus managing a business. The more I taught myself and the more I pushed, more work came in. It was amazing!

What questions should the bride and groom ask photographers to ensure they get the photo album they want?

Michelle C heer comfortable, find their favourites sides and what poses make them look and feel more comfortable. And for their wedding day, my tip would be to try to relax and trust everything to flow as they should on the day.

How do you get everyone to relax for the candid shots?

If its for the bridal party, I’ll spend some time just relaxing and chatting with them about their holidays and plans etc. For guys I’d probably talk about the latest that’s happening in sports and likewise for the girls. If it’s for the wedding guests mingling, I’ll try to avoid being too close by, I have a pretty good zoom lens and I can shoot from a distance with minimal distraction. There’s also the part where I’ll have some jokes ready to get them all laughing. You’ve got to be prepared for any scenario. You’ve got to know how to pre-empt situations.

Have you got an actual album or sample that I can look at?

What is the difference between a Photo Album and a Photo Book?

What is your typical turnaround time?

How many images can I submit?

If it’s during our peak wedding season, turn around time is usually 6-8 weeks but if we can deliver earlier we always do. Off peak season will be 1-2 weeks.

Can I add extra pages and images?

Do some couples only want video? How many want both formats?

These days I’ve noticed a lot more couples wanting both photography and cinematography and budgeting for both as well.

Can you provide any tips to help them prepare for the shoot?

Although it may sound cheesy I’d ask the couple to spend sometime posing, hugging, standing in front of their mirrors at home to just feel

Anything else you would like to add?

Taking wedding photos, making a career out of it, having a work/life balance to travel with my daughter and owning my own business by doing something that I’m passionate about has always been a wild dream that’s become reality. Anything is possible if you’re not afraid to put in the hard yards, believe and keep challenging yourself - you are your own biggest competitor.

Pacific Romance

37

THE

INSIDE WORD

Wedding Planner

Darshita Naidu, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort

Darshita Naidu

How long have you had this role?

I have been with the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort for five years in this role as a Sales Manager/Wedding Specialist.

What lead time do you require to plan a wedding?

About 60 days. This will allow us to get the wedding documents lodged within the timeframe. Since Outrigger Fiji is a one-stop-shop for weddings, we have the option of booking hair and makeup, photography, videography and entertainment within this timeframe. By this time the couple would have received the confirmed guest numbers and decided on their theme.

What are some of the unique things you can offer?

We only do one wedding per day. There are lots of great photographic opportunities around the resort. We have an amazing chapel named Bure Ni Loloma situated on a hilltop overlooking the ocean. We have dedicated and professional wedding planners and coordinators. There is an option to hire Fijian warriors to escort the bride. The wedding couple also have the option of hiring traditional outfits. You can add a bit of traditional entertainment to your wedding reception such as a meke show, a kava ceremony or a Polynesian fire show. We can cater for all dietary requirements.

What are the main benefits of getting married at your resort?

We have an alternative wet weather option for the ceremony and the reception, at no extra cost. We do one wedding per day. Our venue for the wedding ceremony and reception is secluded and private. We have five restaurants offering a variety of different cuisines. There is no minimum guest stay required if you book our all-inclusive wedding package. Couples who book our all-inclusive wedding package for November to March will receive a bonus honeymoon accommodation at Castaway Island Resort.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I am passionate about weddings, as this allows me to be part of the joyous moments of the couple and turn their dream into reality.

What are the top three things a planner needs to find out from a couple?

1. Set a budget 2. Outline the priorities 3. Decide on a theme

What are some of ways you can personalise a wedding?

Bonbonniere, Songs, Cake topper, Guest book, Signage, Theme

What’s the best advice you would give a couple?

Booking your destination wedding with Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort assures you that you are in great hands, and our wedding professionals will be at your service to turn your dream into a reality.

As we are a wedding destination, we want the planning process to be less stressful, but exciting at the same time, during the build-up to the wedding ceremony. On the day, sit back, take it all in and see everyone having a great time celebrating your big day.

38

Pacific Romance

What’s your key tip to avoiding wedding day stress?

Have a wedding day itinerary ie, the time for hair and makeup, the ceremony, pre-dinner drinks and group photographs, the reception, cake cutting, speeches and entertainment. Have a planned schedule for family photographs to ensure everyone is included. Allow flexibility if the venue needs to be relocated due to bad weather, or if the bride needs a little extra time before the ceremony. Trust your wedding coordinator.

Do you have any memorable or unique wedding stories you can share?

Every wedding is unique in its own way and tells a story. We have had couples who have waited years to have their dream destination wedding. Some choose to renew their vows in a form of wedding, as they didn’t get to have a proper wedding.

We also have couples who are eloping or just want a commitment ceremony. Regardless of whether you want a small or a big wedding, the team ensures we make your dream come true.

REAL LIFE

WEDDINGS

James and Jo Leslie Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa, Denarau, Fiji What inspired you to have a South Pacific island wedding?

We wanted to have a small wedding with just our closest friends and family, so going away and enjoying a holiday together at the same time seemed perfect. It was also significantly more cost-effective than having a wedding in Auckland.

The warm weather was also inviting. Jo really wanted an outdoor reception, which is a bit risky in Auckland.

What made you pick that specific island?

We got engaged in Fiji on a trip to celebrate our anniversary, so it was fitting we went back there to get married.

What made you pick that specific resort or other wedding venue?

We chose Denarau to make it easy for our guests who were travelling to be there, some only for a long weekend, so they didn’t have to worry about long transfers or ferries. We wanted to maximise their relaxing time and get straight to Fiji time.

What were some of the advantages of getting married in the islands?

Relaxing, good weather is almost guaranteed. We got to have a holiday at the same time with all our closest friends and family. We got to work on our tan before our honeymoon!

Did you stay on the same island for your honeymoon?

Jo and myself, along with some family members, went up to Fiji a few days earlier and had two nights at Yatule Resort & Spa (Natadola Beach) and a relaxing few days before travelling up to Denarau.

What did you love most about getting married in the islands?

The relaxed island vibes. It was nice to have a low-key outdoor ceremony and reception on the beach, under the stars. Our photographs (by Nadi Bay Photography) are amazing, and the beautiful setting certainly helps.

What were some of the special touches that you could only get in the islands?

Our package included Fijian serenaders to entertain our guests as they were gathering before the ceremony. Fijian hospitality - they were always smiling and nothing was too difficult.

What was the most romantic time or place you had during your honeymoon?

The Hilton gave our room a “honeymoon turndown” with rose petals on our wedding night.

How was the dining and catering?

The food and beverage manager Tia was amazing on the night and nothing was too difficult. We chose a barbecue buffet for the wedding dinner, which was included in our package. There was plenty of food and all our guests raved about the quality.

Looking back, was there anything you would do differently?

We wouldn’t change a thing - we had a great time.

40

Pacific Romance

If you had a friend planning an island wedding, what would your top five tips be?

1. Don’t worry about Fiji time. Some things seem to be in slow motion but on the day it all pulls together.

2. Make sure the people you really want there are able to travel. (We may not have done a destination wedding if my 80-something year old Nana was not able to travel. It meant everything for us to have all the family there.)

3. Check in with your photographer – ours suggested changing the time of the ceremony to make the best use of the sunset for photographs.

4. Work out what your priorities are and focus on those. We wanted to have a live band, good food and an open bar! We weren’t as worried about the cake etc, but it turned out amazing. (The Hilton pastry chefs made it. There was more than enough and we had leftovers for breakfast! We gave the rest to the staff to enjoy).

5. If you can, plan a fun activity before the wedding. We planned a day trip to Malamala Beach Club for everyone who wanted to come, which turned out to be nearly the whole group. Everyone had an awesome time and got to know each other better, if they didn’t already. Malamala is amazing and a short boat trip from Denarau, so it was ideal!

Pacific Romance

41

TAHITI

Tying the knot Both spouses must be at least 18 years old and not currently married.

The couple cannot be related by direct lineage or be French nationals or residents of France. The bride and the groom must each choose a witness who must be 18 years of age or older (if the chosen witness is not present, the mayor’s office can provide a witness).

Required documents • The Marriage of Foreign Citizens in French Polynesia application must be completed.

• A letter signed and dated by both future spouses, addressed to the mayor of the commune chosen for the marriage ceremony.

• A copy of both spouses’ passports.

• A certified copy of both spouses’ birth certificates.

• A Certificate of Non-Marital Status (Certificat de Celibat) signed by a lawyer, translated into French and legalised by the French Consulate.

• Proof of residency for both of the future spouses (a utility bill or any bill noting names and physical address will suffice).

A photocopy of bills for both spouses is acceptable.

42

Pacific Romance

Give up your heart to a

Pacific idyll

THE ST. REGIS BORA BORA RESORT

Pacific Romance

43

THE ST. REGIS BORA BORA RESORT

Everyone will understand you if you never leave your honeymoon resort in romantic French Polynesia, especially if you are staying in an over-water villa. No documentary video or brochure image can prepare you for the unmatched blend of peaks, lagoons, luxury and attractive, friendly local hospitality. But if you do venture out, Tahiti has some memorable attractions.

There is something special about waking up over-water. But then imagine your over-water residence (villa) is set on the edge of the lagoon on the island of Bora Bora. Surrounded by luxury in movie set surroundings like you’ve never seen before - it’s a dream start to the day for any couple.

Then breakfast is delivered to your door - fresh tropical fruit, croissants, pain du chocolat and coffee outside on the deck while you look soak in the sparkling lagoon blues and Bora Bora’s jagged peaks. As the day warms up, there is only thing to do - dive into the welcoming clear waters of the lagoon.

44

Pacific Romance

SOFITEL BORA BORA PRIVATE ISLAND

The simple, yet brilliant idea of creating an over-water experience began 50 years ago, when three American men took Tahiti’s traditional Polynesian grass huts and set them on concrete stilts on the water.

The first three were built at the Bali Hai Hotel on Raiatea and they quickly built more on Moorea and Bora Bora. Other hoteliers in French Polynesia soon saw their attraction, and Tahiti is now renowned for its hundreds of over-water bungalows or villas, which have evolved from simple huts to palatial suites, with all the amenities of a top-class hotel.

Every visitor begins their Tahitian adventure in Papeete. You may think it is just a stopover on your way to your resort, but there are lots of activities for a couple to enjoy.

The Marché de Papeete will win you over with its colourful stalls of tropical flowers, fresh and tinned produce, handicrafts and Polynesianstyled clothing. Buy a couple of pareu each to wrap around yourselves like a sarong.

Stroll through the dappled shade of Bougainville Park and admire the gardens, and call into the Robert Wan Pearl Museum, and learn about the mystique of the pearl, how they are grown and harvested, and the wonderful array of colours, from purest white to Tahiti’s renowned black pearls, with their overtones of pink, green and white.

Place Vaiete is a top spot to grab a bite. Get there soon after 6pm and the place will be transformed into an open-air restaurant. The choices will delight, as a variety of aromas waft through the balmy evening air.

Tuck into a plate of marinated raw fish, known as poisson cru, or ‘ota ‘ika. Try fresh red tuna, caught daily, along with galettes, Asian food,

steak and pizza. Drink fresh coconut milk sucked through a straw, or a can of the local Hinano beer. A sweet, thin crepe makes an ideal light dessert.

Taking in a Polynesian dance show is also fun, and you’ll experience oritahiti, or rapid, rhythmic dances, and aparima, the slow and sensual dance, accompanied of by drums, chants and song.

MOOREA The island of Moorea is only 16 kilometres from Papeete, less than one hour away by ferry, across the Sea of the Moon.

You will remember your arrival forever. As your helicopter starts its descent, or your ferry sails into the deep sapphire colours of the lagoon, with its surrounding mountain peaks jutting up into the sky like giant incisors, your hearts will beat faster. A magical escape is about to unfold.

Moorea has many memorable attractions. Moorea ATV tour is booked from the Moorea Activities Centre. Each all-terrain vehicle seats two, so couples can share the driving as a guide leads your squad down unsealed back-country roads through tropical jungle, across gurgling river fords, and up to panoramic lookouts. You might pause in pineapple plantations and taste some local products. You will certainly get dusty, and muddy too, if there’s been recent rain, but you can swim and refresh in the pool below one of Moorea’s sparkling waterfalls.

Pacific Romance

45

MANAVA BEACH RESORT AND SPA

You can also hire a four-wheel-drive beach buggy and drive to wherever you wish. Start with the beaches. Go snorkelling at Opunohu Bay and make time to experience Tiki Parc, where you can hook into a harness and swing across multiple aerial, obstacle courses and zip lines graded according to how brave you think you both are. Then round the headland to Cooks Bay, or Temae, where you can have a picnic under the palm trees.

For a unique symbol of your new commitment, James Samuela at Moorea Tattoo will talk to you, and then use traditional Tahitian techniques and designs to create a one-of-a-kind tattoo that is appropriate to both of you. A swim in the lagoon is an ideal way to soothe your skin afterwards!

Alternatively, you may want to try a ubiquitous Tahiti Drink from the Rotui juice factory, a form of fruit punch with a generous serving of rum, sold in cartons.

Grab a casual bite to eat at any of the roadside cafes, but for something special, book a table at the Moorea Beach Café, run by the relaxed Bruno Jamais, who spent years working in hospitality in New York before seeking a more relaxing place to live.

The deep, cool blue of the lagoon, with its tiny islets, or motus, should not be overlooked. Don’t let the name Stingray City put you off. This little section of the lagoon teems with stingrays and harmless sharks, all cruising around in water that’s only a couple of metres deep. For

46

Pacific Romance

something equally immersive, the Moorea Dolphin Centre is a natural refuge where you can swim and play with wild dolphins.

Paddle a canoe or kayak, or take a motorised canoe out to Coco Beach on the motu called Tiahura, dip your toes into the turquoise water, and dine on tuna steak, or shrimps cooked in whiskey, prepared by chefs Nahema and Eric.

Rudy’s Restaurant is a little French bistro set in the heart of Moorea.

Book a table and they will send a car to pick you up so you can dine on their signature dish, parrot fish, or other delectable seafood.

PLACES TO STAY Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa Sitting between two spectacular bays, Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa has a setting that any couple would dream about. It’s also happens to be Moorea’s only five-star experience. This mix of luxury and location make it a wonderful place to wed or honeymoon. Couples-to-be can choose from three wedding packages. The simple Tiare ceremony includes a Polynesian priest, flower crown, musicians, dancers and champagne sundowner. While the premium Toa ceremony has add-on features such as a procession in a royal chair, couples massage and romantic dinner. Regardless of which ceremony a couple might choose, the resort will ensure every magical moment will be remembered.

Manava Beach Resort and Spa Boasting a sun-soaked location on the northern side of Moorea, Manava Beach Resort and Spa is a place of pure romantic comfort. The resort is handy to the main wharf and airport. And it’s a short walk from Maharepa village, which makes it easy for couples to sample freshly made delicacies (i.e. yummy French pastries) and mix with people who that are lucky enough to call Moorea home. The resort has a number of wedding packages available including a variety of traditional Polynesian style ceremonies. Think Polynesian priest, dancers and musicians, flower crowns and leis. On top of that they have traditional American style weddings too – with classic bridal bouquets and a master of ceremony.

HILTON MOOREA LAGOON RESORT AND SPA

Sofitel Moorea la Ora Beach Resort This first-class resort is home to one of Moorea’s finest white sand beaches and being located on the eastern side of Moorea, it’s just a hop, skip and jump from the airport and ferry dock. In short, a couple will find supreme comfort and exceptional pampering. Sofitel Moorea la Ora Beach Resort offer a variety of wedding ceremony packages. Plus couples can choose from a very long list of romantic extras. Would you a like a bottle of Bollinger champagne, hors d’oeuvres and macaroons waiting in your room? Or how about a couples wellness day with a jacuzzi, luscious Polynesian massages and fresh smoothies delivered to the room! And of course there are many romantic dining options that take in Moorea’s stunning natural surroundings. Yes it’s decadent, but that’s why you’re here in the first place.

MANAVA BEACH RESORT AND SPA

Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora

Book your stay on www.sofitel.com

Grégoire Le Bacon

3 islands where

Pacific Romance

47

BORA BORA Bora Bora is that island somewhere over the rainbow, just beyond the horizon where you will spend a blissful honeymoon. It lies northwest of the island of Tahiti, and less than an hour away by plane.

Your love affair with Bora Bora will begin as soon as the island comes into view through your plane window. The airport is located on a small motu, and you won’t have to wait long to experience the exquisite lagoon. Instead of a courtesy coach, a water taxi will take you to your resort.

There are several ways to explore Bora Bora lagoon. Relax with some snorkelling, swim from a motu or on renowned Matira Beach, or take in the sights, as you circle the island on your own jetski.

The Aquarium Bora Bora diving site is particularly suitable for beginners. You’ll love the dense schools of brightly coloured fish, along with moray eels and stingrays, and majestic coral formations.

You can go on a whale watching experience beyond the reef if you’re honeymoon is between mid-August and the end of October. If the weather and the sea state are favourable, you can even swim with them.

The island itself is easy to explore, with four-wheel-drive vehicles climbing high into the hills for great views. Stop off at local villages and fossick for handicrafts and works of art.

You may wish to see the sunset back at your resort over cocktails, but a sunset cruise on a catamaran is a great alternative. Or take a stargazing tour, and as night falls, your guide will point out how his ancestors used them to navigate their way across vast stretches of open ocean.

Bora Bora’s resorts are known for their cuisine, and lots of cafes and bistros provide a satisfying meal. But for some local flavour, have dinner at the legendary Bloody Mary’s and savour its relaxed ambience.

The catch of the day will be prepared as you like it, and there is crab, shrimp, steak and other options. It’s closed during the weekend and during January.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT BORA BORA

48

Pacific Romance

SOFITEL BORA BORA PRIVATE ISLAND

PLACES TO STAY Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora The Four Season brand is known the world over for its luxury hotels and their Bora Bora property continues this first-class tradition.

Numerous A-list Hollywood stars have relaxed in these opulent surroundings – the majestic waters, views to Mt Otemanu and impeccable service are all part of the attraction.

It’s difficult to imagine a setting that is more romantic. Honeymooners can lap up every moment, enjoying the exceptional dining options and the world-class spa treatments. And for those tying the knot there’s the enchanting Aherenoa Chapel with its jaw-dropping views directly across to Mt Otemanu. It’s doesn’t get much better.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT BORA BORA

Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort Sitting on the eastern side of the main island, Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort offers guests a different experience from the resorts located on the smaller surrounding motu (islets). You’ll still enjoy the same stunning garden setting, pure white sand beach and classic overwater experience, but you’ll also have easy access to a host of Bora Bora’s local attractions, including the town of Vaitape and the famous Bloody Mary’s restaurant. When it comes to weddings, the resort’s motto is “your wedding as per your wishes”. Essentially couples “work” hand-in-hand with Sofitel’s wedding co-ordinator to create a wedding that reflects their personal passions – and then it is all brought to life in this stunning Bora Bora location.

SOFITEL BORA BORA PRIVATE ISLAND

Pacific Romance

49

THE OTHER ISLANDS Look at a map of French Polynesia on your screen and as you zoom in you will see lots of islands and atolls you have probably never heard of.

About 67 of them are inhabited, with the other main islands including Rangiroa, Taha’a, Fatu Hiva and Huahine.

RANGIROA ŠDREAM YACHT CHARTERS TAHITI

Fly there by plane and stay at relaxed, informal lodges or hotels that bypass the luxury of the resorts for a more natural Tahitian cultural experience.

Adventurous honeymooners with some time on their hands can book a cabin on board the combined cruise ship/freighter Aranui 5, While she anchors to drop off and pick up supplies from the villages, there is ample time to go on shore and either join the organised activities, or take off on your own to explore, relax and find somewhere to eat.

And then there is Tetiaroa, the island closely linked to the American actor Marlon Brando. The resort is named after him and the 35 villas offer a blend of isolation, nature and luxury rarely found on French Polynesia.

DREAM YACHT CHARTERS TAHITI

50

Pacific Romance

ARANUI 5 ARRIVING IN TAHITI

THE

INSIDE WORD

Wedding Planner

Estelle Parentelli, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort What lead time do you require to plan a wedding?

The more time in advance, the more time we have to plan and personalise the day according to the bride and groom’s exact wishes.

Some of our requests come in two years before they arrive at the resort. But we can also do simple ceremonies for last-minute requests if suppliers are available. Our Bridal Boutique has a selection of dresses for sale by a local designer, Hani Haring, so we are able to add that special touch. The only situation where lead time is necessary is for legal weddings at the Bora Bora Town Hall. The official documents must be translated by an officially approved translator and received by the Town Hall at least two months before the date of the civil ceremony.

E stelle Parentelli

How many weddings do you organise each month?

Between eight and 14, depending on the season. We keep it at one wedding per day, although we will make an exception sometimes with one wedding in the morning and one in the afternoon if the date is a special one for the bride and groom.

What are some of the special things you can offer?

Some of my favourite experiences are private fireworks that spell out initials or numbers that can be set off at a specific time as a surprise, or adding an underwater component to the photo-shoot for one-of-akind photographs at our beautiful Lagoonarium. I think what is really special about our Bridal Boutique is how we love to work with brides and grooms to make their ideas come to life, even if we have not done anything like it before.

What are the main benefits of getting married at your resort?

Our team of full-time planners is an advantage, as our couples know they are our priority and we spend the entire wedding day with them. We are also able to be more flexible in case of last-minute changes than if only one planner is available. Many of our couples choose The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort for their destination wedding because they fell in love with the unique ceremony locations we offer. Our Spa Beach is the most requested, and the terrace of the Lagoon Restaurant is a close second.

What are the top three things a planner needs to find out from a couple? Beyond their choices of flowers, vows or photographers, it is their story and their personality that help us understand and hopefully exceed their expectations.

What are some of ways you personalise a wedding?

Almost everything. Couples can write their own vows, ask for a unique cake shape, wear Polynesian attire, request their own music, and so on.

We often make arrangements for special surprises from the groom for the bride or vice-versa to discover throughout the day.

What’s the best advice you would give a couple?

When you decide on a destination wedding, the planner on location becomes your eyes, ears and hands, so it’s important to feel complete trust. Choosing the planner you feel has your best interests at heart, along with the destination and the resort, will make the process a lot more enjoyable.

Do you help with honeymoon plans, too?

We will gladly assist with any special romance-related events during your honeymoon.

What’s your key tip to avoiding wedding day stress?

A lot of stress is alleviated when the planning process prior to arrival goes smoothly, so that is a key area we work on. We meet the couple upon their arrival to run through the whole itinerary together and answer any last-minute questions, so all they have to do on the wedding day is enjoy each other.

What is the best time of the year to get married in Tahiti?

The best time to visit French Polynesia is from April to November.

Do you have any memorable or unique wedding stories you can share?

On the grand scale, the largest wedding at The St. Regis Bora Bora was a full buyout of the resort for three days, with flowers arriving by plane in refrigerated containers, and the bride being paddled to the beach on a decorated canoe as a surprise to the groom, who was expecting her from the other side.

I arranged the wedding of two wonderful guests suffering from lifeaffecting illnesses this year whose dream was a wedding in Bora Bora.

Another one this year was a lovely same-sex couple who got engaged at the resort last year. They came back this year with their families for a civil ceremony, followed by a symbolic ceremony at the resort.

Pacific Romance

51

REAL LIFE

WEDDINGS Dennis and Laura Miller Papeete What inspired you to have a South Pacific island wedding?

We wanted a relaxed wedding at an island location, as it really suited us as a couple.

What made you pick that specific island ahead of all the others?

A lot of people in Australia tend to choose destination weddings in Bali, Fiji or Thailand, and we wanted to do something different, so we chose Tahiti. We also knew it was a stunning location with a touch of exclusivity.

What made you pick that specific resort or other wedding venue?

As per the laws of French Polynesia, we were required to have our legal ceremony conducted at the Town Hall in Papeete, Tahiti. We therefore had our wedding at the beautiful Town Hall!

Did you use an agent to book your trip? If so, who?

We used an agent based in Sydney, Tahiti Travel Connection.

What was the main benefit of using an agent to book your trip?

This agent also has an office in Papeete, so that made it easier during the process of planning our wedding, as our agent was able to communicate with its offices in Papeete and the process flowed a lot smoother.

What were some of the advantages of getting married in the islands?

We found the process a lot less stressful than if we had got married in Australia, which was great! In addition, choosing the islands as a location for our wedding brought with it a relaxed island vibe on our wedding day, so there was absolutely none of the typical wedding day anxiety for us - just fun!

Did your resort or wedding venue provide you with a wedding planner? If so, how did you find that experience?

Yes, we had a wedding planner provided for us. It was great to have the wedding planner there for us on the day. In fact, our planner called us on the morning of our wedding to confirm all of the details of our wedding and that everything was organised. This was very comforting.

Our wedding planner was very professional, kind and well organised.

Did you stay on the same island for your honeymoon?

We stayed in Papeete for a couple of days after our wedding ceremony before commencing our honeymoon in Bora Bora.

What did you love most about getting married in the islands?

We loved the Polynesian theme and the Tahitian ambience on the day. It’s a beautiful location and great for wedding photographs. If you are looking for a more relaxed theme, the islands are perfect! We particularly loved that we could go off just a short distance on our honeymoon to one of the nearby islands, which was very convenient.

If you had a friend planning an island wedding, what would your Top 5 tips be?

1. First of all, choose Tahiti as your wedding destination.

2. Have a wedding planner who can assist you with all the planning, preferably one based in Tahiti near to your wedding location.

3. E nsure you take into account the flight time to Tahiti and allow enough time to rest and recoup from the flight in time for the big day.

4. C hoose accommodation that is near the wedding venue, to ensure you have a short and easy trip on the day.

5. Ensure you dress in cool attire for your wedding, as it is warm and humid in Tahiti - probably best not to choose a gown with lots of layers or excessive material.

52

Pacific Romance

Pacific Romance

53

VANUATU

smiles

The islands of

Just a few hours from New Zealand is Vanuatu, home to pristine beaches, a rich culture and tropical landscapes. In other words, it’s ideal for a relaxing romantic escape or a memorable tropical wedding.

MARK AND KATE LAURENCE WEDDING ©GROOVY BANANA PHOTOGRAPHY

54

Pacific Romance

Tying the knot

Getting married in Vanuatu is a straightforward process. However, it’s a process that’s best started a few months ahead. First, an Intended Marriage Form needs to be filled out – the resort’s wedding coordinator will be able to pass this on to you – and then this form needs to be lodged with the Vanuatu government at least 28 days prior to the wedding day. From there a couple will need to be in Vanuatu at least three working days prior to the wedding.

Plus the following will also need to be provided: • Birth certificates and valid passports • Divorce papers (if applicable) • Death certificate (if a previous spouse has passed away) • One witness for each person to prove your identity

Pacific Romance

55

As you soon as you step foot off the plane, you’ll feel the change of pace. After all, Vanuatu has been voted ‘happiest place on earth’, and one of their secrets is having a relaxed, no-rush attitude. Couples wanting quality time away from the daily hustle will be in their element.

As will couples who wish for a wedding with a chilled Pacific vibe.

IN AND AROUND PORT VILA Port Vila is first stop for most couples. This picturesque capital is located around a magnificent natural harbour with views of Iririki and Ifira Islands. Being Vanuatu’s biggest centre, Port Vila has the most accommodation / venue options. And they range from larger resorts that can cater to wedding groups of virtually any size, all the way through to intimate boutique properties.

Another one of Vanuatu’s attractions, is that it has so much to do. Which will tick the box for couples who have a sense of adventure. They can swim at Eton Beach, explore Eden Gardens, explore Havannah Harbour, and it might surprise some to learn that Vanuatu has a bounty of tasty cuisine too! Its agricultural diversity means a variety of fresh food on offer. Couples can take their pick of wonderful Pacific influenced French, Italian and Asian food as well as pop in to the many beachfront bars to enjoy delicious cocktail or a glass of wine.

Every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday evenings the waterfront Nambawan Café in Port Vila has a free ‘Moonlight Cinema’ where recent releases or movie classics are shown on a big screen with the harbour as a backdrop. Join the locals, grab a beer and a snack and enjoy a film with your loved one in the fresh sea air.

PORT VILLA HARBOUR

An hour and a half from Port Vila on the Eastern side of Efate Island is the Blue Lagoon, a large swimming hole with a refreshing mix of salty and freshwater. The perfect place for a dip a hot summer’s day, enjoy the surrounding gardens, have a swing on the ropes, or make the most of the picnic tables to sample your fresh treats from Mama’s Markets.

There is a small fee to enter the Blue Lagoon, and bring your own water and food as there are no shops on site.

For another fantastic day, couples can explore Havannah Harbour and surrounding bays on the Coongoola, a 23m wooden sailing ketch.

You’ll visit the gorgeous Sun & Moon Bay and then land at Moso Island where there is caves to explore and a turtle conservation area. Here you can sponsor and name a tagged turtle and release it back to the ocean. And to top off a brilliant day, you’ll likely sail with dolphins on the way home.

PLACES TO STAY

BREAKAS BEACH RESORT

Breakas Beach Resort This intimate tropical retreat, celebrates tropical living and relaxation with stand-alone fares boasting open air coral bathrooms, and traditional natangora ceilings. Experience the natural, down to earth beauty of the Pacific in these beautifully designed fares, with some luxuries thrown in.

Set in a private cove in Pango Peninsula, the award winning resort has an infinity pool, a la carte restaurant, and a massage fare.

The Havannah The Havannah, an adults-only luxury boutique resort sits on a sheltered white sand peninsula on Havannah Harbour. It offers a range of waterfront, lagoon and garden villas, all with inviting outdoor areas. The garden villas are tucked away in a cool, secluded area in the tropical gardens, and the others offer sweeping views of the pool and beach.

Relax in the natural beauty of the resort and its surrounding area, or use it as a base to explore the natural and cultural activities on offer. Close to the island of Moso and Lelepa and a short drive to Port Vila this is a beautiful place for a couple to enjoy the beauty of Vanuatu.

56

Pacific Romance

THE HAVANNAH

Warwick Le Lagon Located along the edge of Erakor Lagoon with lush gardens, cascading water features, two tennis courts, three pools, and a variety of restaurants and bars, each of the 143 guest rooms and suites here have a focus on seclusion and comfort and offer unique views. What more could a could a couple ask for?

Their new luxury collection of villas includes Private Pool Villas with lagoon views and a private plunge pool, plus a Villa Ambassador who will look after your needs.

WARWICK LE LAGON RESORT & SPA

Enjoy a couples massage or a volcanic ash body scrub at Oasis Spa, have midday drinks at the pool bar and dinner at Wild Ginger Restaurant and Bar which uses only fresh, local products. Warwick Le Lagon offers wedding packages and the overwater deck overlooking the lagoon custom is built for romantic wedding ceremonies. Or you may prefer the stretch of white sand on the Beach Terrace for an open-air reception under the stars, with a choice of marquee. An onsite wedding planner will tend to your every need and the resort provides special group accommodation rates for wedding guests.

Nasama Resort

NASAMA RESORT

Nasama Resort offers well-appointed, self-contained, absolute beachfront accommodation in the southwest corner of Efate Island, in a prime position for the cool trade winds of the summer months, and it’s just 10 minutes from the café’s, restaurants and shops of downtown Consistently rated one of the best restaurants in the South Pacific andPort aVila. Couples can enjoy the beautiful infinity pool, a soothing massage to the sound of the waves in the beach fare or get active with snorkelling, tennis, or complimentary kayaks. They’ll also enjoying “must do” when visiting Vanuatu. eating out at Café Vila or making the most of the barbecue area, for a relaxed outdoor meal.

Mangoes Resort

Consistently rated one of the best restaurants in the South Pacific and a “must do” when visiting Vanuatu.

MANGOES RESORT

Set high above Erakor Lagoon, Mangoes Resort has been a popular couples destination for a good number of years. The attraction is obvious. With 29 bungalows and panoramic views, the setting is quiet and stunning. The tranquil ambiance also comes courtesy of an over 18 years child-free policy!

The in-house dining is also first-class. Mangoes Restaurant and Bar is considered one of the island’s best eateries with its palm tree setting and views of the pool and garden, the icing on the cake. Couples can also toast their stay with a delicious tropical cocktail courtesy of Mangoes resident mixologist.

Consistently rated one of the best restaurants in the South Pacific and a “must do” when visiting Vanuatu.

Reservations | Phone 27279 | Email tr@tamanuonthebeach.com Reservations | Phone 27279 | Email tr@tamanuonthebeach.com Reservations Phone +678 27279 Email tr@tamanuonthebeach.com

Pacific Romance

57

MARK AND KATE LAURENCE WEDDING- TAMANU ON THE BEACH ©GROOVY BANANA PHOTOGRAPHY

Tamanu on the Beach What could be more romantic than a private white sand beach, hidden away from the wider world! Tamanu on the Beach fits this description, yet it’s just 20 minutes from downtown Port Vila. The resort’s dreamy Caribbean style villas are set just a few metres back from the beach, and each room has a open air bathroom - providing a tropical feel with all the special touches a couple could want.

Tamanu also has Vanuatu’s only purpose built wedding chapel and a range of packages, from couples escaping on their own, to weddings with family and friends. The reception can be held in the beachside restaurant, marquee on the beach, or in the chapel. Plus couples can leave all the hard work up to the resort’s dedicated wedding planner, while they sit back soak up the special day.

Ramada Resort Ramada Resort is one of Port Vila’s newest resorts and it has plenty to offer romance travellers. Built on the shores of Erakor Lagoon, just a few minutes from downtown Port Vila, the Ramada is home to 80 self-contained apartments, each one with panoramic views. The resort is fully serviced, with a elegant lounge bar to enjoy fantastic views over the lagoon, and a restaurant offering international cuisine influenced by the Pacific. Active couples will love it here. Enjoy an early evening cocktail in the swim-up pool bar, indulge in a spa treatments and swim, kayak, paddleboard and snorkel the turquoise lagoon in front of the resort. The Ramada has a range of wedding packages and a wedding coordinator to help you plan your day.

Wedding packages

start from

Discover Ramada Resort Port Vila, just 3 hours from Sydney, the ideal location for your wedding or honeymoon With wedding packages from just AU$1,490, Vanuatu is closer and more affordable than you think.

RAMADA RESORT

NZ$1949*

Planning a wedding involves endless details, deadlines, family drama, and far too often enough stress to make you want to just elope. With Ramada Resort Port Vila, you can just relax and enjoy the best day of your life.

Erakor Lagoon, Paray, PORT VILA – Vanuatu Phone +678 28000 www.ramadaresort.com.vu This facility is independently owned and operated under a franchise/license agreement with Ramada Worldwide Inc.

58

Pacific Romance

ROMANTIC ADVENTURES IN SANTO The island of Santo is an easy 50-minute flight from Port Vila. And it offers an amazing experience for couples who like getting off-thebeaten track. If you thought Port Vila and the island of Efate was easygoing, get ready for a whole new level of chill. On top of the that, Santo just happens to be home to Vanuatu’s most beautiful beaches and chances are you’ll have them all to yourself.

CHAMPAGNE BEACH

A good place to start a Santo adventure is in Port Olry. It has stunning white sand beaches, pretty offshore islands and an array of rustic local restaurants to choose from. Just off the North end of Port Olry is Malet Island, which you can walk to in low tide. Take a champagne picnic lunch and chill out on the secluded island, where you can swim the small white sand beach at the one end or snorkel the reef at the other.

Or rent a kayak from one of the restaurants, and paddle to Malmas Island to swim with the turtles.

Discovering the other worldly blue holes of Santo is another must for couples. They’ve been formed from limestone springs. The crystal clear, cool, blue water is truly magic to swim and snorkel in and a kayak trip up the river to one of the deep blue holes is a tranquil, intimate experience. Nanda Blue hole has a small cafe, and some of the others have ropes to swing from and platforms for diving.

PLACES TO STAY Ratua Island Resort and Spa

THE BLUE HOLE

Set amongst 146 acres of lush tropical gardens, private beaches, lagoons and coral reefs, Ratua Island offers a luxury eco-experience with accommodation completely unique to Vanuatu. The rooms are recreated from 200 year old hand carved teak Balinese villas that have been disassembled from remote mountain villages in Bali and reassembled in Ratua. Each villa has their own private beach access and offers complete privacy in lush green gardens. Offering an over-water day spa, a yacht club and superb organic dining using local produce and the days catch, this is the perfect place to unwind in a timeless environment. Ratua’s private and unique setting is perfect for a romantic wedding. Choose from a variety of beautiful settings - be it an intimate twilight ceremony on the pier with canapés and cocktails or a relaxed ceremony on the beach with a gourmet BBQ lunch. Or choose a more formal evening ceremony at the Yacht Club with a sit-down candlelit dinner. The Ratua also has custom designed wedding packages on offer.

Aore Island Resort

RATUA ISLAND RESORT AND SPA

A beautiful, friendly family-run retreat, overlooking the crystal clear waters of Espiritu Santo. The Studio Bungalows are adults-only, providing couples with peace and seclusion - either on the beachfront or set back in the tropical gardens. The bungalows have an authentic feel, constructed with local timbers and with roofs made of Natangora.

The open air Nakamal (meeting place) houses the restaurant and bar creating an authentic Melanesian dining experience with the majority of produce either caught, grown or cultivated locally. Overlooking the water’s edge, with views to mainland Santo, the owners describe the Nakamal as the ‘heart of the resort’. Aore Island Resort can cater for large wedding parties with exclusive use of the resort, smaller groups or just the special couple.

Pacific Romance

59

PHOTOGRAPHERS

SNAPSHOT

Gaga and Ben

Groovy Banana Productions How long have you been a wedding photographer for?

Five years.

What made you decide to specialise in this form of photography?

We love the positivity, the smiles, the emotion and catching moments, so weddings are just perfect for our creativity.

Ben and Gaga

Do you have any special qualifications, training or mentoring?

I have been taking pictures all my life, and Ben gets all his knowledge from the internet. We learnt a lot from looking at other photographer’s work. We love making people happy with beautiful snaps of them.

Can you provide some technical information?

Our principal camera is a Nikon D850. We use flash for studio, reception and start pictures. We take videos with another camera, a Panasonic GH5.

What questions should the bride and groom ask to ensure they get the photo album they want?

We personally play it by ear on the day, and as we document the day we stay aware of whatever happens. If the bride and groom have checked the photographer’s full album, they will know what to expect. They might also want to read reviews of other customers. If they want specific pictures, they can also ask for them.

Do some couples only want video? How many want both formats?

Yes, but rarely. It’s maybe one out six who want both video and photographs.

Can you provide any tips to help them prepare for the shoot?

Not really, our goal is to make them feel comfortable. If they are worried, we can always meet beforehand (or Skype or call), but usually we can feel each other’s mood by email. We hope they will forget our presence and think we are just friends attending the wedding.

60

Pacific Romance

How do you get everyone to relax for the candid shots?

I like it when the couple pretend we are not there. Chat, cuddle, laugh, have fun with each other, enjoy the moment. They shouldn’t worry about “bad” faces, because we shoot a lot and select the ones where they look the best.

Have you had any unusual requests for locations or scenarios?

Rarely. I have had a few couples ask me to take pictures in front of a car or a bus. When I think it is not such a good idea, I take it as a challenge to take a great picture out of it.

What is your typical turnaround time?

It takes us four or five weeks to deliver the pictures (There might be some “sneaks” on social media beforehand) and three months for the video.

Anything else you would like to add?

We love traveling and if we know well in advance and can attend an overseas wedding, that’s a win.

We work accompanied by our children. We have a nanny with us and if not, Ben or I take care of them. I was very happy when a bride told us after we had taken a beautiful night picture that we were so professional, even with our children with us.

And another time, one man told me it was a magical experience thanks to the kids.

Mangoes – turning imagination into tropical holiday reality Mangoes is a carefully designed adults only, full service resort of just 29 beautifully appointed boutique bungalows, with a choice of panoramic views over the Pacific lagoon or tropicallush gardens. Many of the romantically louvered bungalows feature their own plunge pool, and thoughtful comforts of separate sitting areas and furnished terraces that make you feel immediately pampered.

Email: mangoes@vanuatu.com.vu www.mangoesresort.com

Featuring breathtaking views over one hundred year old tree top canopies and tropical sparkling waters, The Terraces is Port Vila’s finest boutique apartment styled resort.

A mixture of generously proportioned one and two bedroom combinations span over two levels, designed specifically to take full advantage of the natural light, cool breeze and stunning views. Poolside the infinity edge pool is a hub for rest, relaxation and opportunity to laze in the sun lounges or over-water cabana.

For the active, a tennis court and modern gym is waiting for you.

We can tailor make a bespoke honeymoon experience to start your journey as husband and wife. A Tour desk is available to book all your Vanuatu excursions our central location means we are a ten minute walk from Port Vila township. The Terraces is suitable for those aged 5 years and over.

Phone: +678 24923 • Email: theterraces@vanuatu.com.vu • www.theterracesvanuatu.com

REAL LIFE

WEDDINGS

Mark and Kate Laurence Tamanu on the Beach Resort and Spa

What inspired you to have a South Pacific island wedding?

We knew we wanted a destination wedding. We’ve been to some weddings in Fiji and Rarotonga, so we wanted something different. We loved the look of the purpose-built chapel at Tamanu on the Beach Resort, so we went to Vanuatu for a weekend and we were sold.

What made you pick that specific island ahead of all the others?

It was down to the resort and it being easily accessible for all our guests.

What made you pick that specific resort?

The people. When we got to the resort and met the warm and professional people running it, we knew it was the place for our wedding.

Glen Craig (one of the owners we dealt with) is a Kiwi and is superhospitable. Nothing was ever a problem. Raewyn, the resort’s wedding planner, was phenomenal. Between the two of them and their amazing staff they made our wedding everything we dreamed of and completely stress-free for us.

What were some of the advantages of getting married in the islands?

It was a tropical holiday for all our guests, and a chance to soak up the sunshine and warmth of the islands whilst celebrating love, family and friendship. We invited our guests to come for five days together so it took the pressure off the wedding day. We got to spend time with our guests before and after the wedding.

Did you stay on the same island for your honeymoon?

We went to beautiful Ratua island - the perfect honeymoon destination for any couples who want somewhere very special, relaxing and authentic.

62

Pacific Romance

What did you love most about getting married in the islands?

It was a wonderful opportunity to explore a place we might never have otherwise gone to. It was also nice to give a little something back to the island. Instead of gifts, we asked guests to donate to the Goodwill School. We were thrilled to give NZ$5,000 to the school. We are sponsoring a year of free schooling for two students from the island of Ambae, which had to be evacuated when a volcano erupted. This feels really good.

Fall in love all over again at Breakas

Experience the barefoot relaxation of our beautiful 63 FarĂŠ (bungalow), adults only resort, located on a intimate, private beachfront cove at Pango peninsular in Port Vila.

From dining on our beach to relaxing in our idyllic tropical setting, this really is magic. Come and create your very own unforgettable romantic holiday, in our little slice of paradise.

Book today through your preferred wholesaler.

Phone 25844 | reservations@breakas.com | www.breakas.com

THE

INSIDE WORD

Wedding Planner

Kate Griffiths Warwick Le Lagon Vanuatu

Kate Griffit hs

How long have you had this role?

I have spent three years with Warwick Le Lagon Vanuatu as the Executive Sales Manager.

What lead time do you require to plan a wedding?

This is totally flexible, as we are here to make every wedding seamless.

We have arranged a renewal of vows in a day, and a wedding celebration of over 150 people, a year out.

How many weddings do organise each month?

Every month is different, as we can go from one a month to having eight just now in the month of October.

What are some of the unique things you can offer?

A warrior escort and cultural performance during the ceremony. We have coconut palms throughout the resort grounds, so we always provide freshly husked coconut when guests arrive for wedding ceremonies. And our overwater deck was purposely built for wedding ceremonies overlooking the cobalt blue water of Erakor Lagoon.

What are the main benefits of getting married at your resort or destination?

Relaxed environment for all families.

Being a child-friendly resort, the kids are well looked after by the Mummas, while the adults can unwind by our swim-up pool bar.

Vanuatu has such a family-oriented culture and it is very special to be a part of it.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Working with our talented staff, who take charge of every event to deliver a memorable experience. Every wedding is different, and as Vanuatu is a destination, wedding couples do not know what to expect. I always keep in close contact with calls and emails and then, when we meet face to face, it’s like greeting a friend you haven’t seen in a long time.

What are the Top 3 things a planner needs to find out from a couple?

How the couple interacts together (their personalities) tells a lot about their relationship and how they work together.

What are some of ways you personalise a wedding?

We offer a couple a romantic dinner after the wedding so they can sit back and relax after a memorable day.

What’s the best advice you can give a couple?

The wedding day does go by very fast, so I always suggest to the couple that they go for a walk away from the reception venue - just the two of them - and have time together. “Wow, did we just get married?” as they can talk with their guests throughout and forget to think about what has just happened.

Do you help with honeymoon plans, too?

Couples tend to stay in one of our four Private Pool Villas, or one of our four newly refurbished Overwater Villas. As they are already in a destination, they make their time here a honeymoon as well, or possibly go to another island in Vanuatu.

What’s your key tip to avoiding wedding day stress?

We arrange the day before the wedding, ordering refreshments while the couple are getting ready, as they need to stay hydrated (champagne and water) along with eating fresh fruit and sandwiches.

What is the best time of the year to get married at your resort/ destination?

You can never control the weather, but the weather is comfortable from April to October.

Any memorable or unique wedding stories you can share?

I always feel such a part of the family with all the weddings, so it is beautiful to share in every couple’s special day.

Pacific Romance

65

COOK ISLANDS

Unspoiled beauty Tying the knot

The legal requirements of getting married in the Cook Islands are straightforward, but there a few things that Kiwis should note: • If a bride or groom is under the age of 21 they will need written parental consent.

• An application for a marriage licence must be made in person to the Registrar of Marriages at least three working days before the wedding, New Zealanders cannot apply for a licence before they arrive.

• Applicants for a wedding licence must produce a passport, and if divorced, a copy of the Decree Absolute.

TURAMA PHOTOGRAPHY

66

Pacific Romance

The Cook Islands has all the ingredients for a romantic escape with its wide variety of accommodation and restaurant options, coupled with unspoiled beauty and a laid back village lifestyle.

Pacific Romance

67

AITUTAKI LAGOON PRIVATE ISLAND RESORT

RAROTONGA With a circumference of just 32km, it’s so easy to explore Rarotonga, with its forest clad mountains that plunge into a turquoise lagoon. Its diverse landscape means there is all the usual water activities of the Pacific alongside trekking, mountain biking and 4x4 safari tours.

Catch an 8am flight to Aitutaki for a full day’s experience of the pristine island that dreams are made of. On arrival you will be taken on a one hour island tour of the main island of Aitutaki by ‘le truck’ followed by the highlight of the trip, The Vaka Cruise aboard the 21 metre catamaran, Titi-ai-Tonga.

Relax at your resort accommodation by the pool, enjoy the beaches near your intimate water bungalow, or admire the view from your luxury Mediterranean style villa. Take a glass-bottom day cruise to surrounding Motus or head beyond the reefs that surround Rarotonga’s white sandy beaches where the quick drop into deep water creates the perfect diving and fishing location - there really is something for everyone.

The vaka has comfortable covered seating and deck sun loungers and there is time for snorkelling and swimming off the boat in Aitutaki’s tropical waters, followed by a tasty barbecue lunch cooked on board.

The cruise stops at several motu including the stunning One Foot Island. You’ll be back in Rarotonga by 5:30pm having experienced an unforgettable piece of paradise.

Rarotonga is also a great place for weddings, its bounty of venues means there is a wide-variety of wedding packages to choose from and lots of accommodation options to suit the needs of attending family and friends. And if you want to add something extra special for your honeymoon, just a 40 minute plane ride away is the spectacular Aitutaki, the island that tops many bucket lists.

Hit the markets

ROMANTIC ACTIVITIES

Tik-e Tour’s Sunset Cocktail Cruise by Tuk Tuk

Couples Massage – Rumours Luxury Waterfall Spa: Bring some luxury relaxation to your holiday with a couples massage at Rumours. After a decadent relaxing massage, relax and enjoy time together in a candlelit therapy room for two. Finish off with glass of bubbly or juice and receive a special gift to take home.

Private sunset dinner at Crown Beach Resort Enjoy a three course sunset dinner, served by your own personal table attendant in an exclusive gazebo on the beachfront looking out to the coral reef. Choose a bottle of wine from the wine list or a bottle of Jean Pierre Brut, Classic or Rosé.

68

Aitutaki day Tour – Air Rarotonga

Pacific Romance

Every Saturday Punanga Nui market comes alive with an array of stalls offering fresh local produce, street food, coconuts and arts and crafts to take home as souvenirs of your romantic holiday. Open from 6am to midday, this is a social occasion in the Cook Islands not to be missed, with performances by local bands and cultural groups and a chance to hang out with the locals.

How’s this for a bit of fun - an environmentally friendly electric tuk tuk will pick you and your partner up from your hotel and take you on a tour of the island’s best beachfront bars. Your friendly guide will help you choose the best locations, and the best cocktails to sip while you watch the sun slowly lower into the horizon.

Raemaru Mountain Trek Want to experience a different side of Rarotonga? Join Island Way Adventure, for a 3-4 hour trek of Raemaru Mountain, which has a flat peak 350 metres above sea level. The prize at the top is panoramic views of the mountains, valleys and forest, expanding towards the coast, lagoon, reef and the ocean. A great adventure to share.

PA R A DI SE , BY T RU E DE F I N I T ION Royale Takitumu is the dream destination for a romantic island getaway with your special someone. With the sun beating down on the golden sands of Titikaveka beach, immerse yourselves in the idyllic tropical surroundings with the one you love. While away the days in a haze of relaxation, where the time ticks by slowly and living feels like a dream.

R AROTONGA · COOK ISLANDS

C O OK I SL A N D S

www.royaletakitumu.com

R AROTONGA · COOK ISLANDS

PAC I F I C R E S O RT H O T E L G RO U P

•

COOK ISL A N DS

Pacific Romance

69

PLACES TO EAT Tamarind House This is located in a restored, 1904 heritage colonial house, on two and a half acres of lawn bordering the lagoon. Originally the home of the Union Steamship Company management and then the British Consul, this is a unique building set in beautiful surrounds.

Refurbished in 2004 by Kenyan born Sue Carruthers and Cook Islander and executive chef Robert Browne, it’s open for espresso, lunch, dinner or drinks and serves a range of innovative dishes using fresh seasonal produce. A popular venue for weddings, and well known for its line-up of fine-dining entertainment.

Vaima Polynesian Restaurant and Bar Sitting beachfront on the South side of Rarotonga, in Titikaveka is Vaima Polynesian Restaurant and Bar. The restaurant offers both traditional indoor or terrace dining or you can choose a table on the beach and feel the sand under your feet while you eat. This is also a popular relaxed, wedding venue catering for up to 50 people and weather permitting, another 30 on the beach under a marquee.

Nautilus Resort The stylish Polynesian beachfront restaurant at Nautilus Resort celebrates Polynesian architecture, design and cuisine. Enjoy creative dishes that take inspiration from different cultures throughout the Pacific using locally grown, fresh, ingredients and served in a fine dining a la carte setting in the main dining area. On the spacious patio overlooking the lagoon and infinity swimming pool, guests can enjoy a more casual al fresco dining experience. The open bar features a lounge area with panoramic views of the beach as well as 180 degree views of Muri lagoon.

NAUTILUS RESORT

70

Pacific Romance

Nautilus also offers a private dining room overlooking Ta’akoka inlet that can seat up to 22 people. The elegant room with its vaulted wood-beamed Pacific-inspired ceiling is a lovely space for an intimate wedding dinner.

Island Platters Treat yourselves, or surprise your loved one with a romantic sunset dinner, catered by Island Platters. Set yourself up on your favourite spot on the island with a personalised platter featuring the freshest seafood, meats and salads, made to order. From sashimi, to mussel fritters to pork belly and paw paw Salad, a bounty of fresh treats awaits!

Antipodes Enjoy a Mediterranean experience in the Pacific, at this very special al fresco villa perched on a north facing cliff with 180 degree views over the reef. Offering a selection of a la carte dishes and a range of shared boards, platters and entrees, take your time to enjoy a romantic meal while enjoying the stunning views and working your way through the delicious wine list. The range of daily Blackboard Specials is determined by fresh local and where possible, organic produce. On a Sunday Antipodes runs a ‘Long-Lazy-Lunch’ with local live entertainment.

The executive chef and owner has more than 30 years’ international experience in weddings and events, and bought Antipodes with weddings in mind. Larger events are catered with beautiful buffets, and smaller events with pre-selected menus.

Hold your wedding on the lawn area, surrounded by tropical trees, or on the veranda overlooking the ocean. Small ceremonies for 10 maximum can be held on the rooftop deck with its 360 wraparound views or if it rains, up to 80 guests can be accommodated inside the villa, leading out to the enormous covered front veranda with fabulous views.

CROWN BEACH RESORT

discover the romance of the Cook Islands Dreaming of a romantic island wedding with friendly Polynesian hospitality and the sweet smell of frangipani in the air? Say ‘I do’ at one of the most romantic places on earth. With a range of superb accommodation options and great wedding packages to suit all budgets, The Edgewater Resort & Spa is the perfect place to celebrate your romantic destination wedding - from intimate ceremonies with close family and friends to large scale events and lively receptions. Whatever you’re looking for, Edgewater’s team of event planners will ensure your Cook Islands wedding is enjoyable and stress-free.

THE TIPANI WEDDING PACKAGE – FROM NZD$1699

*FREE Tipani Wedding Package If your guests book 35 paid room nights in any room categories and receive our Tipani Wedding Package FREE

*50% off Tipani Wedding Package If you book 5 nights or more in any room category and receive 50% off our Tipani Wedding package.

ALL-INCLUSIVE 5 NIGHT WEDDING PACKAGE for $NZ6299 for 30 people Our all inclusive wedding package features:

CEREMONY: • The Services of your Personal Wedding & Reception Planner • Marriage License & Certificate • Services of a Celebrant or Minister • Tropical Flower Bouquet for the Bride and Neck garland (Neck Ei) or Buttonhole for the Groom • Decorated Beachside Ceremonial Archway • Complimentary Bottle of Bubbly to Celebrate • Wedding Gift from The Edgewater RECEPTION: • Mouth-watering Island BBQ Buffet Menu for 30 close family and friends • 3-Hour Beverage Package for 30 close family and friends • One-tier Wedding Cake • Fully Decorated Wedding Reception Venue BRIDE & GROOM’S ACCOMMODATION: • 5 Nights in a Beachfront Deluxe Suite @ The Edgewater Resort & Spa • Return airport-resort transfers for the Bride & Groom • A His & Hers 30min Aromatherapy Massage or a Picnic Hamper for two (your choice)

*Quote ‘ALL INCLUSIVE’ for more information: email weddings@edgewater.co.ck, or contact your travel professional. www.facebook.com/edgewaterresortandspa

www.edgewater.co.ck

PLACES TO STAY Pacific Resort Rarotonga This four star resort overlooks the world famous Muri lagoon, and offers a choice of 64 air-conditioned rooms and villas for your luxurious romantic getaway. All rooms are beautifully appointed and designed with a fresh Pacific style, high end amenities and surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens bordering the sea. Relax by the pool, cool off under the coconut palms, enjoy a couples massage at the Te Manava Spa and easily access all the activities the island has to offer.

Pacific Resort offers romantic dinners for two on the beach, or sit under the stars and enjoy Sandal’s Restaurant cuisine followed by a nightcap at Barefoot Bar.

Royale Takitumu Royale Takitumu villas on Titikaveka Beach are a luxurious, peaceful place to spend your romantic holiday. Surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, the 10 free standing, thatched-roofed villas overlook palm-tree lined pathways, that lead to the golden sands of the lagoon.

Make the most of the complimentary snorkelling gear, kayaks and stand up paddleboards, or relax in the freshwater pool and sun loungers.

ROYALE TAKITUMU

Moana Sands Lagoon Resort Moana Sands Lagoon Resort is an adult’s only (18 and over) resort offering an intimate environment with 24 spacious, modern suites and studios overlooking Muri Lagoon. Enjoy the spectacular swimming pool, sip a cocktail or drinking coconut from the poolside cabana, and enjoy an al fresco meal at the stylish Laguna restaurant and bar.

Palm Grove Set in Vaimaanga on the stunning Southern coast, the small and friendly Palm Grove offers 22 self-contained bungalows – 13 set in the hibiscusfilled gardens, and nine on the secluded beachfront. Relax in the swimming pool and beach followed by a meal at the Yellow Hibiscus Restaurant which offers open-air dining, serving quality Pacific fare and with live music, three nights a week.

Palm Grove provides wedding planning through an on-site wedding coordinator who will take care of your reception, flowers, photography, videography, and music. There are several wedding packages to choose from – from intimate weddings for two to a special day with friends and family and you can choose from a beach or garden ceremony.

PALM GROVE

Experience the magic of Manuia ... in a truly romantic beachside location From quality accommodation – each room with an outdoor shower – to superb island cuisine in our ‘toes-in-the-sand’ restaurant, with cocktails on the beach at sunset... the holiday of your dreams is waiting for you here.

For enquiries: phone (682) 22461 | email: rooms@manuia.co.ck | www.manuia.co.ck

72

Pacific Romance

Dreaming of a South Pacific Island Wedding ...

Unique tropical weddings and honeymoons are a specialty of Nautilus Resort, located on Rarotonga’s stunning Muri Beach. Wed on the beach, amongst tropical gardens – even on an uninhabited tropical island.

The professional team of event planners will design celebrations from intimate to grand occasions specialising in creating full service unique experiences. The bridal couple can relax and enjoy this treasured time –with their entire family and friends or just relaxing on their honeymoon.

Honeymoon in spacious Polynesian-inspired Garden or Beachfront villas, boasting their own plunge pool, grand bathroom, kitchenette and furnished patio; choose to dine at the beachfront Pacific-Rim restaurant or cocktail bar overlooking the resorts infinity pool and the lagoon.

Resort services include watersports, the exclusive Thalgo branded Spa Nautilus, kids concierge and tour desk services.

res@nautilusresortrarotonga.com nautilusresortrarotonga.com

FAST FACTS

Absolute beachfront • Dedicated wedding coordinators Celebrations two to 150 guests • All Ares with private plunge pools Thalgo Spa • Full concierge service

Cool, boutique and Rarotongan Beachfront ...

The eco-friendly Muri Beach Resort promises to make your tropical-wedding promises into memories to treasure forever. A personal Wedding Coordinator, will guide you through our pre-arranged Wedding Plans; from a flowerdecked beachfront site or pristine sands with coconut palms and Muri Lagoon as a stunning background or sail to the getaway splendour of a lush uninhabited island . . .

Every detail is included, from registering the marriage, choosing a celebrant, organising flowers, finding the right music and providing your Certified Marriage Certificate.

But don’t think a big budget is necessary. We’ll happily arrange a wedding day for only the two of you, or to give over the entire resort so you are surrounded by loving family and friends on your Big Day. Cocktails for just a few, snacks by the pool, a sit-down banquet that includes local entertainment and music? We will do it all, so all you must do is count your blessings.

relax@muribeachresort.com muribeachresort.com

FAST FACTS

Absolute beachfront • Dedicated wedding coordinator & plans 12 metre swimming pool • Polynesian inspired restaurant and bar

The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium On the Southwest Coast on Aroa Lagoon marine sanctuary, The Rarotongan Beach Resort and Lagoonarium is the perfect spot to enjoy the white sand beach and clear blue lagoon. With accommodation options for families, couples and wedding groups, this is a great resort to accommodate an island wedding. You’ll be spoilt for choice with places to hold your special day including the Blue Lagoon Marquee, Treetops Verandah Room and Latitude 21-30 soundproof after-party venue. There are resort experiences to suit many tastes including snorkeling, fishfeeding, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, tennis and night snorkeling tours. Enjoy a Lagoonfront & Private Candlelit Beach Dining with your loved one or have a casual meal at Captain Andy’s Beach Bar & Grill.

Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach (Adults-Only) Next door is Sanctuary Rarotonga, The Rarontongan’s adults-only sister property. The boutique beachfront resort has 48 suites and is for guests 18 years and over. Make the most of the private white sandy beach on the shores of Aroa Lagoon, enjoy the peace and quiet of the Pacific cuisine in Blue Water Grill, and luxuriate in the poolside pavilions, swimup bar and pool. Then top it off with a treatment at Spa Polynesia.

THE RAROTONGAN BEACH RESORT & LAGOONARIUM

Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas Enjoy one of just four spacious, two-storey, two-bedroom villas with sweeping lagoon views, wrapped around a deluxe infinity pool. Each villa is equipped with modern kitchens, stylish living and dining areas, and a private outdoor dining space. Swim in the infinity pool with its panoramic lagoon views, and relax in the daybeds and sun loungers.

Make the most of your private beach access for strolls under the stars and soak in the sheltered Jacuzzi. This indulgent, private space is perfect for a carefree couple escape. Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas also offers an idyllic romantic setting for a stylish private wedding or a fully catered event with family and friends.

CRYSTAL BLUE LAGOON VILLAS

Welcome to Palm Grove, your private piece of paradise!

Beachfront and garden bungalows Onsite restaurant and bar Personal wedding co-ordinator Rarotonga’s quiet southern coast PO Box 23, Rarotonga, Cook Islands p: +682 20002 e: beach@palmgrove.net www.palmgrove.net

74

Pacific Romance

Our

Flambe R

ma

gn

ific

en

t Is

l

ur beautiful ursday night at o ver y Th e s i ectly on the r i d d e t a c , lo Show estaurant R e t c n o n r f Da where our guests can eat each beach a n d eans B t e t lunch & dinner beside c ff O breakfas Bu t gh the ocean. Located on the Ni d We s t e r n s i d e f o r an magnificent sunsets!

est a

ura Ra is e nt sn h it Wit

ro to n ga’ wl sp yb erfe uil ct lo t ou catio Fla tsid n to ex mb e din peri e e is ing ar nce e a mu a & wee kly F excel st to e i re D l e n xperien ce! anc t se es, rvi ce

an

df oo d.

36 individual villas situated on 5 acres of tropical gardens

www.crownbeach.com | info@crownbeach.com | +682 23953 Events.

Spa r t & n g We d d i n g s & o s i e d R n h tsta eac ir ou B e wn or th f

k at o

ur ons ite sp a

for m ass ag e s, m

is k

re icu an

C no ro wn

Bo o

ed i c s, p

u r es ,

nd

.

re! mo s, &

Enjoy one of our luxurious beachfront, garden, or private pool suite villas.

All sumptuously decorated, with spacious king bedrooms. Our beautiful adults only resort offers you the peace and quiet you need to refresh and reconnect with loved ones.

wraps / scrub

es a

es

dy facials, bo

Contact us today for availab

kag le pac

c pri

YOU R P I E C E OF PA R A DI SE For a romantic getaway in the South Pacific, Rarotonga is the dream destination and home to Moana Sands Group and its three stunning properties. This idyllic island holds all you could wish for, from lazy days in the sun, to warm evenings filled with the scent of tropical flowers. True romance abounds in this little paradise.

C O OK I SL A N D S

www.moanasands.co.ck

R AROTONGA · COOK ISLANDS

76

Pacific Romance

PAC I F I C R E S O RT H O T E L G RO U P

•

COOK ISL A N DS

Manuia Beach Resort This adults-only boutique hotel is set in tropical gardens and has a beachside infinity pool with views over the lagoon. Choose a garden suite, a beachfront suite or an apartment – all decorated with fresh Polynesian inspired interiors. Have an intimate dinner delivered to your room or enjoy your Polynesian inspired meals at the On the Beach Restaurant and Bar. Drink in the views and a tropical cocktail from the pool or soak up the sun on Manuia Beach. There is an experienced wedding planning team on hand to organise your wedding under a floral archway by the sparkling water’s edge. Heaven!

Muri Beach Club Hotel Set right on Muri Lagoon, this adults only resort has its own restaurant and bar, Rarotonga’s biggest pool, rental cars and scooters, activities and tours, beach volleyball, snorkeling gear, kayaks and stand up paddleboards. Eat at Muri Beach Restaurant, visit the spa for a romantic couples massage, or book in a group indulgence day for your wedding party or special occasion. Muri Beach Club hotel offers a range of wedding ceremony packages, including a personal wedding coordinator, a beautiful ceremony under a floral archway in an exclusive beachfront location. Add ons can include flowers, photography, hair and make up, a reception venue and catering, drinks packages, canapés, entertainment, and much more.

MANUIA BEACH RESORT

Nautilus Resort This luxury resort has 17 premium villas, each with their own salt water plunge pool, large outdoor furnished deck with undercover gazebo and a private open-air outdoor shower and courtyard. The spacious villas have been designed to reflect the tropical island location and climate. Each room as a well-equipped mini-kitchenette, and the bathroom includes a limestone bath.

The resort has on-site wedding and event planners who offer specially designed menus, a variety of entertainment and all the special touches and attention your special occasion deserves. Choose from a number of reception venue options including a poolside or beachfront marquee, resort restaurant or private dining room overlooking the lagoon. The resort can cater for up to 150 guests for a seated dinner or 300 for cocktail party. Get married on the beach or travel across the lagoon to an uninhabited tropical island to celebrate in seclusion.

MURI BEACH CLUB HOTEL

NAUTILUS RESORT

Pacific Romance

77

78

Pacific Romance

PACIFIC RESORT AITUTAKI

AITUTAKI Aitutaki is home to approximately 1800 people and a breathtakingly pristine lagoon. This very special island is only a 45 minute flight from Rarotonga. Secluded and romantic, the lagoon has 15 motu (islets) sprinkled among its turquoise waters. Take a day cruise or charter a boat for a secluded picnic on your own private motu. Nicknamed Honeymoon Island, Aitutaki offers the ultimate setting for a romantic holiday.

ACTIVITIES Bishops Lagoon Cruise

AITUTAKI LAGOON

Discover the eastern side of the Aitutaki Lagoon with Bishops Cruises.

See turtles, snorkel the tropical wonderland of Aitutaki, visit the famous Heaven Sand Bar, then cruise your way to the star attraction of the lagoon - One-foot Island (Tapuaetai). Enjoy a BBQ lunch in the Hideaway Hut and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing, and swimming. Get your passport stamped and send a postcard from the “smallest, uninhabited post office in the world”. Bishop’s Cruises also offer weddings on One Foot Island with a variety of packages to choose from.

Wet & Wild water activities Wet and Wild offer a smorgasbord of ways to explore Aitutaki Lagoon. Water activities on offer include boat charters, kiteboarding, wakeboarding, tube riding, skiing, fishing, spear fishing, sightseeing, island hopping, snorkelling and whale watching. Take your pick and enjoy the ocean paradise.

Punarei Culture Village Want to learn about the history and culture of this very special place?

Visit Punarei Culture Village which was built as a replica of traditional village life. Hear the real stories of Aitutaki, learn about the history and language and understand Aitutaki’s unique culture within the Cook Islands. Visit the sacred site ‘Marae Arangi-rea’ that was excavated as research for the cultural village, enjoy a traditional umu lunch together and help Aitutaki’s culture live on.

PACIFIC RESORT AITUTAKI

Pacific Romance

79

PLACES TO STAY Etu Moana Etu Moana is one of the leading resorts on Aitutaki. Nestled gently into the surrounding landscape on a beautiful beach, each of the 10 luxury Polynesian villas has a spacious veranda. Admire the ever changing colour of the lagoon through the day with a grand finale of a spectacular sunset from the outdoor loungers in the evening. Set on two acres of tropical gardens, the villas have fully equipped kitchens, king-sized beds, marble floored bathrooms, and lights that can be dimmed to guarantee a romantic atmosphere. A tranquil and private property to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Aitutaki.

Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort

ETU MOANA RESORT

A two minute ferry ride from Aitutaki, is Motu Akitua Private Island, home to Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort and the Cook Islands’ only overwater bungalows. Experience the joy of accessing the water directly from your veranda and enjoy panoramic views of the lagoon with its tiny islets on the horizon. The bungalows are stylishly decorated with tropical decor, air-conditioning, thatched roofs, pandanus-lined walls, and open-air showers. The resorts signature romantic experience is Private Dining Under the Stars at Kuriri Point, a truly special experience for honeymooners.

Pacific Resort Aitutaki The 29 luxury villas at the award winning Pacific Resort Aitutaki are set over 19 acres of absolute Aitutaki beach front land. View the stunning lagoon with a cocktail from the infinity fresh water pool. Try a variety of dining options including evening poolside dining at Black Rock, fine dining at Rapae Bay restaurant or try the special romantic dining option - a Bedouin-style dinner for two on the beach. And be sure to treat yourself with a massage or beauty treatment from Tiare spa on the beach or in the comfort of your villa.

AITUTAKI LAGOON PRIVATE ISLAND RESORT

Your little piece of paradise on Aitutaki

Join us at our Award Winning Boutique Resort for your Romantic Getaway. Allow our personal touch to help ensure your stay with us is perfect. The unique hideaway for your wedding, honeymoon or simply spending valuable time together.

www.etumoana.com PACIFIC RESORT AITUTAKI

80

Pacific Romance

The Rarotonga Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

Dreamy destination has lots of family activity

Are you, or do you have clients who yearn for a great-value, all-inclusive destination wedding? Are you expecting 30 or more guests to your big day?

For a week-long wedding, honeymoon, holiday or family reunion filled with lifelong memories, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium has created a Seventh Heaven All-Inclusive Wedding Package.

Imagine the white sandy beach turning golden in the island sun, the fragrance of frangipani in the tropical air, the soft popping of champagne bubbles and being surrounded by the warm wishes of those you love. And Rarotonga is just a 3.5-hour flight away from Auckland.

Afterwards, fly away to your overwater honeymoon at the private, adultsonly Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort.

For wedding couples who are expecting families to celebrate with them in paradise, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium has just been voted the People’s Choice - Best Family Resort in the Pacific in the Family Travel Awards. This is in addition to being named a Top 10 Family Resort 2018 by readers of Holidays with Kids.

Children and teenagers up to the age of 16 stay and play for free at The Rarotongan. The Kids Club (open 9-12 noon, 2-5pm and 7-9pm, MondaySaturday) and the Teen Zone, which offers stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling, are both also free.

There are lots of activities for families to enjoy together. Hand-feed the reef fish, take scuba-diving lessons in the pool, have fun in the games room, learn to husk a coconut, dance the hula and make a lei. Or have a go at playing the ukulele and island log drums. The prime white sandy beach and the Aroa Lagoon Marine Sanctuary can be enjoyed regardless of the tide.

All the rooms at the Rarotongan Beach Resort come with a microwave and airconditioning, and there are a range of interconnected rooms, selfcatering suites, two and three-bedroom options.

ICONIC SOUTH PACIFIC SISTER RESORTS

Overwater Heaven Float over the world’s bluest blue

Island Beach Weddings

The Cook Islands’ leading Wedding Resort TheRarotongan.com

Indulge in the ONLY Overwater Bungalows on the ONLY private island resort in the fabled Cook Islands (just west of Tahiti) at the ONLY resort set directly on the World’s Most Beautiful Lagoon. Heaven sent for dream honeymoons, weddings, anniversaries.

Meant to be.

info@aitutakilagoonresort.com | P (+682) 31 200 AitutakiLagoonResort.com

Adults-only Seclusion on Absolute Beachfront SanctuaryRarotonga.com

The ONLY Resort set right on the World’s Most Beautiful Lagoon AitutakiLagoonResort.com

Pacific Romance

81

PHOTOGRAPHERS

SNAPSHOT

Brie Zeman

Turama Photography How long have you been a wedding photographer for?

Six years.

Julian and Brie

What made you decide to specialise in this form of photography?

Being able to capture a couples love on the most important day of their life together brings us so much fulfilment. It really is a honour to be a part of such special occasions.

Do you have any special qualifications, training or mentoring?

We both studied photography/art/design in college but most of what we have learned since then has been self-taught because of a desire to always provide our couples with the best possible photos. We are constantly learning from other photographers around the world who offer specialty workshops. We believe that you can never stop learning.

What questions should the bride and groom ask photographers to ensure they get the photo album they want?

We believe the most important part is making sure the couples connect with the style and photographic voice of the photographer. The worst thing a couple can do is choose a photographer that doesn’t quite fit their style because they think they are getting a deal.

82

Can you provide any tips to help them prepare for the shoot?

For our style of photography the most important part is to just relax and have fun. We are really trying to capture those in-between natural expressions. Don’t worry too much about photo lists and let us do our job to get you the best possible photos on the day.

How do you get everyone to relax for the candid shots?

We encourage everyone to have a drink and bring some food for our bridal party and intimate portrait sessions. No one is going to look good if they are thirsty or hungry! We also request the couples Spotify playlist or favourite type to music to help lighten the mood and get fun natural expressions!

Have you had any unusual requests for locations or scenarios?

Yes you name it, everything from a couples boudoir session to deep sea underwater sessions swimming with fish! We love to get creative and try and get unique images that couples can look back on for years to come.

Do some couples only want video? How many want both formats?

What is your typical turnaround time?

Yes we find that more and more couples are booking video. About half of our weddings have some form of video coverage.

Depending on the time of year our usual turn around time is 6-8 weeks from the wedding day.

Pacific Romance

THE

INSIDE WORD

Wedding Planner

Ramana George-Welsh Nautilus Resort and Muri Beach Resort How long have you had this role?

I have spent 3.5 years with Nautilus and Muri Beach Resort, however I started as a wedding coordinator 12 years ago.

Ramana George-Welsh

What lead time do you require to plan a wedding?

We recommend booking at least a year in advance, simply because this can secure the date you want, and allows you to book the best external suppliers like hair and makeup artists, photographers and live entertainment to ensure you don’t miss out on your preferred choice.

The finer details can be planned a few months out from the beautiful day.

If needed, we can arrange a wedding in a week, but would be limited by the availability of those partners we work with to make the day happen.

What are some of ways you personalise a wedding?

I ensure I am available to my brides around the clock via phone, email, messaging or in person if I am in the country they are located, as it’s nice to meet to the person you are dealing with prior to the couple arriving on the island. Once the wedding couple are on the island, they are our priority, and we are there to accommodate their needs and wants.

What are some of the unique things you can offer?

Every wedding we create is different from every other one, as our wedding couples have the opportunity to select from our wide range of setup gear. Our weddings team can assist with designing a theme to suit a wedding ceremony and transform one of our venues to create the perfect ambience for your reception. With our beachfront resorts, the turquoise lagoon and tiny motus, or islets, offer a uniquely authentic and romantic backdrop.

Best advice you would give a couple?

Remember to take the time to relax and enjoy your beautiful day, as it will go so quickly. Do not stress when you have a professional team who are there to organise your day - have faith. Try not to do too much yourself, or that may take the fun out of this special occasion. Make the most of the help you are offered and make the most out of your day.

Any memorable or unique wedding stories you can share?

What are the main benefits of getting married in Rarotonga?

We have one of the most sought-after locations on Rarotonga or the Cook Islands, for that matter. We don’t require all of your party to be inhouse guests to have your celebrations with us, and we provide couples with flexibility in finalising their plans and offer a manageable payment plan. Children are welcome, as so many wedding groups have children included in their wedding parties these days. We can arrange every aspect of your celebrations, from the ceremony and reception to hair and makeup, photography, transport, entertainment and all the décor.

One of the most memorable occasions was a wedding party when the groomsmen decided to swim to the ceremony location, a small island 200 metres off the main island, situated in the calm waters of Muri Lagoon. I took all their clothes with me on the boat and met them on the island, where they proceeded to get ready for the big day, all cool, calm and collected. They got dressed, looking very swish, neat and tidy, in time to meet the guests and the bride and her bridesmaids. That was definitely a great way to ensure the groom and his groomsmen were fresh for the ceremony.

Pacific Romance

83

Honeymoon in Your romanticindream Honeymoon Paradise getaway awaits!

Paradise

Whether it’s a proposal, a renewal of vows, an anniversary •or restoring • Absolute Muri Beachfront Location Daybeds the intimacy of newlywed status with • 4Absolute spacious air-conditioned • Wifi voucher your one, Muri Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas is the perfect romantic getaway where you’ll fall in love again.

• loved Beachfront Location • Starter Daybeds 2 bathroom villas • 24 bedroom/ spacious air-conditioned

• Absolute Muri attention beachfront to location secluded, peaceful & tranquil • 2Superb detail-villas bedroom/ 2ofbathroom • Uninterrupted views the lagoon & beyond • Fully equipped designer kitchen • Superb attention to detail • Small & breakfast Boutique –starter 4 luxurious villas upon guests arrival • hamper • A Fully equipped designer kitchen • Airconditioned 2 bedroom / 2 bathroom villas • Uninterrupted views of the lagoon • A breakfast starterdelivered hampertoupon guests arrival • Complimentary breakfast your villa • Infinity Pool views of the lagoon • Uninterrupted • Full equipped designer kitchen • Spa / Jacuzzi • Infinity Pool • Infinity Pool, Spa/Jacuzzi • Spa&/ unobtrusive Jacuzzi service • Attentive

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Private outdoor Living space Starter Wifi voucher

•BBQ Private outdoor living space with BBQ for each villa foroutdoor each villa Private Living space& snorkelling gear •Complimentary Complimentary use of kayaks kayak hire vouchers available forofeach villa •BBQ Plenty dining choices just a stroll away Complimentary use ofhire snorkelling equipment kayak vouchers available •Complimentary Daybeds 8Complimentary restaurants within a 2-10 minute walk • WiFi connectivity use ( $ ) of snorkelling equipment No children under 12a 2-10 minute walk 8• Perfect restaurants within for honeymooners Perfect for honeymooners children under (12 •No Wedding Packages $)

• Perfect for honeymooners

P: + 682 55720 E: P: manager@crystalbluelagoonvillas.com + 682 55720 E: manager@crystalbluelagoonvillas.com

www.crystalbluelagoonvillas.com crystalbluelagoonvilla www.crystalbluelagoonvillas.com crystalbluelagoonvilla In association with... www.tevaranui.co.ck In association with... www.tevaranui.co.ck

84

Pacific Romance

• • • • • •

Village Tour Spectacular Over Water Night Show Village TourDinner with Buffet Spectacular Water Night Show Weddings & Over Events with Buffet Dinner Weddings & Events

REAL LIFE

WEDDINGS Sarah and Michael Russell Lagoon Breeze Villas, Rarotonga

everyone had done their booking correctly. Some people get caught out with the time difference. It also took the pressure off me trying to ensure everyone had accommodation that they were happy with. It basically meant someone else dealt with all of the details.

What were some of the advantages of getting married in the islands?

Smaller wedding, more relaxed, we enjoyed the wedding day with family and friends, plus the extra days everyone was there.

What inspired you to have a South Pacific island wedding?

Did your resort or wedding venue provide you with a wedding planner? If so, how did you find that experience?

I wanted the wedding to be more than just one day. Having the wedding in Rarotonga meant everyone got a holiday and we were able to spend a week with our family and friends. I felt the wedding day went by very quickly and I didn’t get to talk to everyone, so I was pleased I would be seeing everyone over the next few days.

Yes, and I am so pleased they did. She was amazing. We met our onsite wedding planner the day after we arrived at Lagoon Breeze. She helped us arrange our marriage licence, and meet our celebrant. She had everything under control and made us feel relaxed. On the day, she ensured everything went to plan and had alternative options, just in case.

What made you pick that specific island ahead of all the others?

Did you stay on the same island for your honeymoon?

I grew up in Rarotonga and have returned for many holidays. Rarotonga is a special place for my family and me. I have always wanted to get married there.

Yes, but we also did a day trip to Aitutaki.

What made you pick that specific resort or other wedding venue?

1. Get there in plenty of time to organise your marriage licence. Three days before wasn’t enough. Allow at least four days, as they don’t count the day you arrive.

Lagoon Breeze is a small property that is family-friendly. The owners live on the site and are very customer service oriented. They even provided their garden for our ceremony, as the weather was not suitable for the beach wedding we had wanted. Lagoon Breeze catered for everyone, including couples, and families. We had six children attending the wedding. I wanted somewhere where everyone would enjoy their holiday. Plus, as a large group, we could spread ourselves around the resort and not worry about other guests.

If you had a friend planning an island wedding, what would your Top 5 tips be?

2. Flowers and hair are a lot more affordable than in New Zealand.

3. People are very helpful when it comes to organising the wedding.

4. I would recommend accessing as much local help as possible.

5. One Island Photographers were also more affordable than in New Zealand and were very helpful.

Did you use an agent to book your trip? If so, who?

What did you love most about getting married in the islands?

Yes, Kimberlee Collins. She knows the island very well, which was very helpful. I booked part of our wedding arrangements directly and she booked all our guests.

It was the bringing together of family and close friends to a place I love.

Relaxed, friendly - a time of sharing that was stress-free.

What was the main benefit of using an agent to book your trip?

What did your guests love most about your wedding in the islands? The most common comment was, “It was so lovely and

When we were doing welcome packs and group itineraries, we knew what time everyone was arriving. Plus, we were able to make sure

relaxed.” They also said how much they enjoyed having a holiday and all being together. Most people wished they had stayed longer!

Pacific Romance

85

NEW CALEDONIA

A South Pacific

n o i t c u sed

What could more seductive than a laid back Pacific Island ambiance that blends the best of French food, language and customs? Say bonjour to romance travel in New Caledonia.

Tying the knot In 2009 a change in policy meant that couples visiting New Caledonia could hold a civil wedding ceremony. Applications are made to the NoumĂŠa City Authorities five to six months in advance, via an email to the Townhall Records Authority.

Proof of civil status and a certificate of residence is required.

An officially approved translator (French/English) will be present at ceremony. After the ceremony, a certified transcription of their marriage certificate then needs to be taken to the consulate of their country.

Š ANTOINE ROULEAU / NCTPS

86

Pacific Romance

Pacific Romance

87

NOUMEA © TERRES DE LUMIÈRE / NCTPS

A world heritage site with Polynesian and French culture, New Caledonia offers crystal blue waters, unique flora and fauna and a bustling cosmopolitan centre with a generous offering of dining and nightlife options. Couples can choose to stay in the main centre of Noumea, or venture out to Isle de Pines for an intimate, away from it all experience – or combine both for the ultimate New Caledonian escape.

VIBRANT NOUMEA The capital city of New Caledonia, home to about 100,000 people, is located in the South of Grand Terre Island, about 45 minutes from La Tontouta International Airport.

Most of the resorts and hotels in the predominantly French speaking capital are situated near the beautiful bays of Anse Vata and Baie des Citrons (Lemon Bay). You can easily spend your holiday in this vicinity, enjoying the water activities, biking or walking the sheltered bays or simply soaking up the surrounds in between dips in the ocean or pool.

At night, take your pick from the abundance of delicious restaurants that line the main strips in walking distance.

If you want to venture further however, you can easily cab or bus (or drive, if you have a hire car) into Noumea’s main centre. Here you can learn about New Caledonia’s indigenous Kanak culture at the Tjibaou Cultural Centre which includes an art centre, museum and a landscaped park, do some shopping, pick up French cheese and wine from the Moselle Market or try one of the many restaurants on offer.

AQUA BLISS Aquatonic Spa at the Chateau Royal is a unique wellbeing experience not to be missed. The idea of soaking in warm water at such a tropical location, might seem a little odd, but you’ll soon understand the appeal.

With an extensive view of Anse Vata Bay the 300m pool is made up of several areas, ranging from 28 to 34 degrees Celsius, with jet baths and shower massage loungers targeting different areas of the body at varied intensities. We left feeling like we’d had a full-body therapeutic massage. Don’t wear your board shorts, only swimsuits and speedos are allowed here.

88

Pacific Romance

AQUATONIC SPA AT THE CHATEAU ROYAL

EXPLORING TOGETHER Pack a picnic and head up Ouen Toro Hill, located about 25 minutes from Le Meridien Hotel on Pointe Magnin. Open a bottle of French wine, unpack the French cheese and baguettes and take in the 360 degree view over the city and the lagoon - and if the weather allows it a view of the Amédée lighthouse, 20 kilometres away.

A great way for couples to see the sights is on the picturesque jogger’s highway at Promenade Pierre Vernier, from Pointe Magnin. This highway winds around the coast, with designated cycling lanes where you can breathe in the sea air and watch the windsurfers and yachts sweep by. This is a beautiful way to see the coast while burning off some of those croissants.

A leisurely walk from Anse Vata, along the Roger-Laroque promenade to Baie des Citrons (Lemon Bay) is also fun. Sheltered from winds, the swimming here is the kind of calm you close your eyes and try to remember in times of stress! Swim out to the floating platform and soak up the scenery and when you’ve both had your fill of sea and sun, cross the road to the strip of bars and restaurants for a bite to eat or nice glass of wine.

ISLAND TRIPPING Forty minutes boat ride from Noumea, Amedee Island is a quintessential Pacific paradise. This protected marine reserve offers the ultimate in eye-candy for snorkellers. There’s green turtles – and the lazy fish that catch a ride on their shells, clown fish, reef sharks and magnificent coral to explore on the sheltered reef.

If getting in with the sea creatures is not your thing, you can jump on the glass bottom boat and watch them up close from the comfort of the vessel. The on-board guide provides valuable insights into the Island’s marine life and a couple of helpful tips: One: don’t touch the precious turtles or you can incur a million franc fine, Two: close your bags in case the venomous striped sea snakes, who are looking for places to lay their eggs, try and hitch a ride home with you.

These slippery little suckers are particularly prolific late in the year when they come to the warm shores to breed but do not fear, they are venomous but not aggressive.

The island is also home to two special man-made attractions - the smallest post office in the world where you can send a postcard home and a magnificent historic lighthouse. Climbing the 247 step spiral staircase of the lighthouse is a must for the incredible 360 degree views of the island from the top. The sight of the beautiful turquoise lagoon and the expansive reef are so pretty you’ll want to capture them from every angle.

Mary D’s day trip includes the 40 minute boat ride, hotel transfers to and from the wharf, an excellent buffet lunch with drinks and a cultural performance plus optional activities. A blissful day out.

AMEDEE ISLAND

Pacific Romance

89

ROMANTIC DINING L’ed Zen is a little gem on a walk around Anse Vata initially attractive for its relaxed outdoor dining and great atmosphere. The restaurant changes its menu regularly using fresh seasonal ingredients and you can choose from three dishes - the salad, fish and meat of the day. Or choose from one of the stars of the menu - foie gras burgers or poutine topped with foie gras and truffle.

If you are after a hip, romantic setting with wait staff passionate about wine and bistronomic food (casual, fine dining with flair!), pop into Chai de l’HIPPODROME, a new offering in Anse Vata. The wine bar is beautifully decorated, with vibrant paintings and sculptures. The bar is made up of different areas to suit your mood: couches for those wanting to get cozy, oak tables and chairs for more space and a covered outdoor patio. There is also a beautiful private room, where wine tasting classes are held among beautiful oak barrels.

For a romantic fine dining experience, you can’t go past Le Meridien’s signature restaurant l’Hippocampe. This elegant and intimate restaurant serves locally sourced French cuisine with a South Pacific twist, using fresh local ingredients. Try this refined, creative cuisine for lunch or dinner.

Just off the Anse Vata main strip is New Caledonia’s only 360 revolving restaurant. L’Entrecôte au 360. Set at the top of the Ramada Hotel, it offers a spectacular panoramic revolving view of the city and lagoon.

Choose from either a steak or tuna option, with salad and fries.

ILE DES PINS © TOKO / NCTPS

NOUMEA © TERRES DE LUMIÈRE / NCTPS

IN 2019 SAY ‘‘OUI, JE LE VEUX’’ New Caledonia, only a few hours away, is the perfect destination for the most memorable wedding or luxurious honeymoon. From the cosmopolitan chic of Noumea, to the heavenly charm of the Isle of Pines, New Caledonia has an abundance of venues and romantic locations to make your day truly special. With same sex marriage legal in New Caledonia, what are you waiting for? 2019 is the year to say “oui, je le veux” (yes, I do).

Start planning, visit www.newcaledonia.travel

90

Pacific Romance

NOUMEA © TERRES DE LUMIÈRE / NCTPS

ILE DES PINS – AN ISLAND ESCAPE Ile des Pins, a 20 minute plane ride or 2.5 hour boat ride from Noumea, is a beautiful, tranquil romantic getaway for couples and honeymooners. Home to about 2000, mostly Melanesian, people it is named after its abundant pines but it has also been nicknamed ‘the closest island to paradise’. You will immediately see why - Ile des pins is famous for its long, picturesque beaches with powder white sand, and clear turquoise water.

Soak up the sun and the sea at the breath-taking bays of Kuto, Upi, Kanumera and Oro; pack bottle of French bubbles and climb to the highest point of the island at N’ga Peak for a breath-taking view and visit the many special sites around the island.

Be sure to visit the Hortense Queens Cave, a spectacular place with a very special story - this is where the revered Queen Hortense is said to have taken refuge for many months when conflict broke out between tribes in 1885. She is famous for standing up to the French authorities.

Wear sturdy shoes to enter the cave, and take a torch to explore the ancient stalactites.

To learn more about the history of the Island take a Mana Island guided tour. They run from 10-2pm and include lunch. There is also a two hour island bus ride available to explore the special sites unguided.

To explore the island by sea take a ride on a glass bottom boat and view the colourful coral and tropical sea life. If you fancy a traditional sailing experience, jump on board a traditional outrigger and sail the sparkling waters of Upi Bay. Or simply grab a kayak from your resort and paddle the calm turquoise waters at your own pace.

PLACES TO STAY Chateau Royal Beach Resort & Spa Chateau Royal Beach Resort & Spa is a four-star resort nestled in two hectares of tropical gardens on Anse Vata Bay. Enjoy beautiful views of the lagoon, direct beach access, on-site restaurants and dining, a fitness room and pool and the Aqua Royal Spa, home of the Aquatonic Pool.

ILE DES PINS © TOKO / NCTPS

Hotel Oure Ile Des Pins These lovely natural bungalows are situated on the serene Kanumera beach. Couples can choose from a beachfront villa with ocean views, or a garden villa set in a lush tropical garden. View the incredible sunsets from the west facing pool, eat freshly caught seafood and the famous Isle of Pines lobster at the delicious Kanumera restaurant, or relax on the private beach where you might just see dolphins swimming by.

CHATEAU ROYAL BEACH RESORT & SPA © TERRES DE LUMIÈRE / NCTPS

Pacific Romance

91

LE MÉRIDIEN ILE DES PINS

Le Méridien Noumea Resort & Spa

Le Méridien Ile des Pins

Le Méridien is an exceptional place for your romantic New Caledonian escape, located on its own special corner of Anse Vata beach, with views to Amedee island and Duck Island, and just 10 minutes from the city centre. The resort offers guests a fresh, luxurious, modern décor with all the little details taken care of following an extensive renovation.

Bordering Oro Bay, Le Méridien Ile des Pins offers spacious, luxurious guestrooms and bungalow suites. Each guestroom and suite has floorto-ceiling windows and a private balcony, with views of the coconut grove, beach, pool or lagoon.

You’ll immediately breathe out the stresses of the outside world and breathe in Le Méridien’s incredible landscaped gardens made up completely of local fauna and flora. Sip a cool drink by the pool (with a good book in the other hand), and enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset from the beachside restaurant and loungers.

There are over 200 rooms at Le Méridien Noumea from classic and superior rooms to a range of suites - including a presidential suite which recently housed the French President. All rooms have floor to ceiling windows and a private balcony with views of the landscaped gardens and the lagoon. The décor is clean, modern and inviting with a Pacific influence and each room has naturally lit bathrooms with separate bath tubs and showers. There is high speed internet and flat screen TVs and complimentary tea and coffee making facilities.

Depending on your level of motivation, there’s a modern cardio-fitness room including state-of-the-art cardio machines, or you can always relax and rejuvenate in the Deep Nature Spa with its private treatment rooms, sauna, a steam room and indoor and outdoor jaccuzzis. Bliss!

92

Pacific Romance

With fresh, minimalist décor, and a private, peaceful ambience the guestrooms provide the ideal accommodation for a romantic escape and are popular with honeymooners. Superior and deluxe rooms have a generous private loggia (a covered open room) and the bungalow suites have a separate living room, master bedroom and outdoor terrace.

Rejuvenate your skin and relax your mind with Deep Nature Spa’s deluxe treatments, using Algotherm products. Make the most of the canoes, paddle boards, pedal boats and snorkelling gear available to explore the tropical wonderland on your doorstep. Grab a complimentary bike and explore the many sights the island has to offer, or get your game on with table tennis, petanque and beach tennis at the resort. Or simply stretch out on the powder white sand or by the lagoon-style pool and enjoy the peace and quiet of this very special place.

La Pirogue serves delicious French/Melanesian cuisine using fresh island produce and seafood. Have a romantic dinner on the outdoor terrace with a view of the ocean at night, or enjoy a casual BBQ lunch by day. Enjoy a Le Méridien signature sparkling cocktail at Longitude 167 bar before heading to dinner, or have a night cap over a game of billiards or chess.

Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa and Golf Resort Noumea has a fine selection of resorts and hotels for visiting couples, but if you head out of town, you can also find some hidden gems. And one of the standouts is Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa and Golf Resort. A touch over two hours drive north of Noumea, this spectacular resort sits inside the Deva Domain – an 8000 hectare regional park with 13 kilometres of white sand beach and a vast network of hiking and biking trails.

With a clever design that’s kept much of the natural environment in its original form, Sheraton Deva fits into its surroundings like it’s been there all along. Needless to say, couples that love peace and quiet will be in their element. The facilities are equally impressive. There are 180 rooms, three restaurants, a 90 metre swimming pool and an 18 championship hole golf course, should you both fancy a leisurely round.

A bride and groom can choose from the outdoor terrace, poolside area or resort gardens for a dreamy wedding ceremony, followed by a reception at the elegant ballroom. There are food, beverage, music, venue and accommodation wedding packages on offer. And if a honeymoon is the reason for staying, a couple could not be in a better place to celebrate their love.

SHERATON NEW CALEDONIA DEVA SPA AND GOLF RESORT

SHERATON NEW CALEDONIA DEVA SPA AND GOLF RESORT

LE MÉRIDIEN NOUMEA RESORT & SPA

Pacific Romance

93

#FollowMe to New Caledonia The Perfect Romantic Escape less than 3 hours flying from Auckland

Share our New Caledonia flying Aircalin

www.aircalin.com 94

Pacific Romance

REAL LIFE

PROPOSAL Andrew Cavallarao Ile des Pins

Was this your first time in New Caledonia?

Yes, for both of us. In fact neither of us had been to the South Pacific previously!

How much time did you spend there?

We went for one week, spending three nights in Noumea, four nights on the Ile des Pins, and a final night in Noumea on the way home.

Where did you stay in New Caledonia?

In Noumea we stayed at the Chateau Royal Beach Resort & Spa – we loved it there, being right on the beach, within easy walk to great restaurants, and the swim-up pool bar at the resort. On the Ile des Pins we stayed at Le Meridien (Ile des Pins) in a luxurious beachfront bungalow – such an incredibly beautiful spot and a really special resort.

Had you planned your proposal there?

Yes. I arranged it with Le Meridien (Ile des Pins) prior. They were so wonderfully helpful and helped to make it such a special occasion for us.

What did you do?

I arranged for a champagne picnic at the Piscine Naturelle (natural pools), which are a short walk from Le Meridien (Ile des Pins). We started with a relaxed walk to the pools (through the forest), and once there found a secluded spot on the beach overlooking the water. After laying out our picnic blanket, we both lay there looking out across the water, and after a while I nervously plucked up the courage to get up on one knee and propose to Charlie.

Did the hotel help? How? The hotel were simply wonderful the entire time. They were the ones that came up with the idea for doing a champagne picnic at the Piscine Naturelle. We were just so impressed with how well they looked after us.

What did he do?

It truly took him by surprise – he was not expecting it at all. After a few seconds he said a big YES, and we popped our bottle of champagne to celebrate.

Why did you choose Ile des Pins?

It just looked so stunningly beautiful in pictures. It truly looked like what you would imagine of an idyllic South Pacific island. We also loved the fact that it was small enough to feel like you were in the middle of nowhere (true escapism), while also big enough to leave the resort and explore.

The French-factor added to the romantic feel.

What advice would you give other couples who intend to spend their honeymoon or a romantic time on Ile des Pins?

Go for longer. Four nights definitely wasn’t enough. We’d suggest at least a week – that way you have enough time to really relax, as well as explore the island (it’s actually bigger than we were expecting).

Pacific Romance

95

SAMOA

JORDAN KWAN PHOTOGRAPHY

96

Pacific Romance

Natural

connection

Lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls, year round fishing, diving and surfing, cave pools and quintessential Pacific white sand beaches, Samoa is a haven for couples who love natural adventure.

Tying the knot

Marriages in Samoa are legally recognised worldwide. To marry in Samoa you will need to fill in an application for a marriage license at least 10 days prior (but no more than 3 months in advance) to your wedding day with the Ministry of Justice in Apia.

You will be required to provide a photocopy of your passport, birth certificates, death certificate (of past spouses) or a copy of the Decree Absolute if divorced, and a Certificate of No Impediment to Get Married (from your country of origin).

Pacific Romance

97

Samoa has two main islands: Upolu, home to the capital Apia and a stunning Southern shoreline with unspoilt pristine lagoons and natural treasures like the To Sua Ocean Trench which will delight and surprise you. Savai’i, ‘the big island’ is less developed and offers an even slower pace. It’s a place that has held tight to the Fa’a Samoa (the Samoan Way) and offers a true getaway for your romantic adventure.

While Savai’i’s has a calm ambience, the island’s natural wonders are dramatic - with lava fields, village ruins and explosive blowholes. Savai’i is just an hour boat ride from Upolu so visiting both islands is perfectly achievable during your romantic escape.

NATURAL WONDERS What can be more romantic than a gentle waterfall cascading into a freshwater pool in a lush forest? Samoa has hundreds of waterfalls which are at their most beautiful in the wet season between November and April.

For some childish fun, visit Papase’ea Sliding Rocks where gentle waterfalls have formed natural slides in the rocks with one up to five meters in length.

Or for a relaxing float in the pool and a shoulder massage under the falls, head to the Togitogiga Waterfall, a 30 minute drive from Aga Reef Resort.

For bird lovers, hike to Fulpsia Falls and experience the tranquility of the rainforest waterfall. In Savai’i, cool off in the natural plunge pool at Afu Aau falls, or jump from the surrounding cliffs into the deep water.

Couples will not want to miss To Sua Trench Ocean in the village of Lotofaga, Upolu. This is where you will find your ultimate Facebook cover photo. Climb down a long step ladder to reach a 30 metre crater filled with clear seawater. The beautifully maintained gardens surrounding the trench are a beautiful place for a romantic picnic.

VIsit Alofaaga Blowholes in Taga, Savai’i and see several blowholes of various strengths shooting skyward. Pack your lunch and watch the ocean in all its powerful glory.

Go to the lava fields on Savai’i to experience a geological phenomenon, and a sight to be seen. The fields are a result of the three year Mt Matavanu eruption which buried five villages (thankfully no one perished because of its slow eruption). The local church and the chief’s daughter’s grave, somehow remained unharmed during the eruption and provides a haunting look into the past.

10 minutes by boat from Upolu’s Lalomanu Beach is Namu’a Island which boasts a beautiful swimming beach and stunning marine life.

Snorkel amongst the turtles or sea kayak on the sparkling water. You

JORDAN KWAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Luxury Comfort Splendour Saletoga Sands Resorts is a quality 4 star resort offering exceptional value and personalised weddings, nestled within its own private bay on the South Coast of Upolu in Samoa.

P: +685 41212 E: reservations@saletogasands.com www.saletogasands.com

98

Pacific Romance

SAVAI’I

can stay on Namu’a in open sided fales, situated on the beachfront with incredible views towards Upolu. There is no electricity or shops here, so bring your own food and drink and enjoy the seclusion.

You are bound to see turtles during your swims in Samoa, but for a small cost you can swim with endangered green turtles at Satoalepai Turtle Sanctuary, Savai’i, before they are tagged and released. The turtles swim in a part-fresh, part-salt water pool, and this is a great way to get up close and personal with the magnificent creatures, which can grow to 185kgs.

Samoa is also a land of natural beauty and natural healing ingredients.

Indulge in a pampering treatment at the hands of taulasea (traditional

healers). Treat yourself with a coconut oil fofo (traditional Samoan massage), or a refreshing banana and papaya body wrap and facial.

Or try Nonu, one of the treasures of the rainforest used to soothe and nourish sensitive skin. These treatments are available at many spas around Samoa.

You can spend the night in a traditional beach fale. Imagine waking up on the beach with the waves lapping the sand and the sun rising - it doesn’t get much more romantic than that. A list of beach fales can be obtained from Samoa Tourism Authority and these circular structures held up by wooden posts can be your home for the night. They have no walls, but have blinds or mosquito nets that can be lowered.

WE’LL TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING

VISIT US Located just 20 minutes from the international airport on its own private beach facing stunning sunsets.

LIMITED DATES AVAILABLE All inclusive wedding packages from $6,500NZD (30 people) New stunning beachfront chapel opening Valentines Day 2018

(00) 685 35055 weddings@returntoparadiseresort.com returntoparadiseresort.com

Pacific Romance

99

PLACES TO STAY Le Legoto Resort & Spa Located on a secluded white-sandy beach, this boutique restaurant has just 11 rooms but with all the conveniences of a large resort, in a idyllic setting. Five of the bungalows are absolute beachfront, and the ocean view bungalows sit a row behind, but all have uninterrupted views of the ocean.

Relax on the beach or in the infinity pool, and finish the day watching the sensational sunsets from your room while sipping a delicious cocktail from the onsite restaurant. Each room comes with two complimentary 15 minute massages. Ultimate relaxation in a pristine environment.

RETURN TO PARADISE RESORT & SPA

Seabreeze Resort Imagine being tucked away in a private cove away from the rest of the world. This is the feeling a couple can savour when they wind their way down the driveway to Seabreeze Resort. Seabreeze is a gem, or in this case, a hidden gem.

The secluded horseshoe-shaped cove comes with swaying palm trees and picture postcard ocean views. This peaceful slice of paradise is made for intimate weddings. The private beach is the most popular venue for a ceremony. Otherwise, you can set up next to the pool. Honeymooners will also fall in love with the peace and privacy of this wonderful resort.

100

Pacific Romance

TAUMEASINA ISLAND RESORT

Taumeasina Island Resort

Aga Reef Resort

This deluxe resort is just five minutes from Apia yet offers a world of its own with breathtaking views of the mountains and sea. Choose from oceanview rooms or waterfront villas and dine at one of the three restaurants or enjoy a locally inspired cocktail at one of the bars. Sina’s Restaurant offers views of the ocean and the sunset, Lapita’s Restaurant has seasonally inspired menus and live entertainment every night.

This four star boutique resort offers a mix of private waterfront villas and comfortable hotel rooms, all with modern décor and amenities.

All rooms offer a private balcony, views over the lagoon and a complimentary 15 minute spa treatment but if it’s absolute luxury you’re after try out the exclusive VIP Villa with a private plunge pool. Aga Reef Resort organises wedding ceremonies on the beach, by the pool or elsewhere on the island.

For a romantic treat, order a three course romantic balcony dinner for two in your room. The resort offers a cascading swimming pool, tennis courts, cooking classes, and weekly cultural shows. Or simply retreat to Fofo Spa & Sauna for a treatment. Taumeasina offers a variety of wedding packages - choose from a barefoot beach wedding , a customary chapel ceremony at the Vasa wedding venue or a ceremony in the lush gardens. The resort’s dedicated wedding coordinator will tend to every detail.

Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa offers modern, comfortable rooms with indoor and outdoor showers, some just a few steps from the beach.

Relax on your spacious deck overlooking the tropical gardens and the ocean. Saletoga offers a variety of wedding packages - for two or for much larger groups. Wed in the resort’s intimate chapel on the beach or walk down the aisle along the 30 metre jetty on the water.

There is full pre-wedding pamper package or wedding day makeup and hair styling packages available as well as a relaxing ‘His & Her’ massages at the spa. Check out the all-inclusive group wedding package which includes everything you need for your ceremony, reception and accommodation for 20 people.

Return to Paradise Resort & Spa Return to Paradise Resort & Spa set on a beautiful lagoon and gardens, has over 60 beautiful beachfront rooms facing spectacular sunsets.

The resort has a very special story - named after the 1953 film starring Gary Cooper and Roberta Haynes, the beach caught the attention of Hollywood location scouts as the perfect setting for Return to Paradise and became an international symbol of Samoa. It was protected from development for many years despite numerous financial incentives until the beach was trusted to Ramona Su’a Pale, a daughter of the village returning from New Zealand, to develop. It remains 100 per cent owned and operated by Samoans and staffed by the extended family.

The resort has two restaurants and a bar. Paradise Kitchen is the signature restaurant with an international team of chefs who design dishes by sourcing fresh local ingredients. Cabana Cafe, by the pool is open daily for lunch in the high season serving snack foods, tapas and wood-fire pizza.

The Rock Pool Bar is located in a traditional Samoan falé with an extensive deck, overlooking the beach. A beautiful place to watch the sunset with your loved one and sip a fresh coconut blended with Samoa’s own cocoa liqueur. The resort offers a variety of wedding packages.

SALETOGA SANDS RESORT & SPA

Indulge in Award-Winning Style…

In a truly enchanting beachfront location From stylish accommodation, to superb island cuisine and cocktails around the pool at sunset – the holiday of your dreams is waiting for you here!

World Boutique Hotel Awards Winner, 2017 +2018 – Australasia’s Best Relaxation Retreat

P: +685 47800 E: office@agareefresort.com www.agareefresort.com

Pacific Romance

101

PHOTOGRAPHERS

SNAPSHOT

Jordan Kwan

Jordan Kwan Photography How long have you been a wedding photographer for?

I’ve been a wedding photographer for seven years, shooting mainly in Samoa and Auckland. My background is actually in geography and politics, but I’ve always enjoyed photography as a hobby, and eventually decided to make a living out of it.

Can you provide some technical information?

My principal camera is a Nikon D750, it gives me great resolution for editing and prints. It’s also a beast in low light, and the autofocus system is exceptionally fast. I hardly shoot video, mostly because my talents lie in still photography.

I hardly, if ever, shoot or edit in black and white, mostly because part of the magic in getting married in Samoa is the beauty and vibrancy of the environment, which begs to be captured in full colour. With that said, if I see a shot is best highlighted in black and white, I’ll definitely do so.

Do some couples only want video? How many want both formats?

In the last five years, more couples are getting a video done of their wedding. I have friends who are professional videographers, and I’m amazed at their ability to put together polished and cinematic wedding videos. It’s understandable that couples are budgeting for video, too.

What questions should the bride and groom ask to ensure they get the photo album they want?

A consultation with me is compulsory. On-line blogs and articles cover this topic in detail, but personally I think it’s more important to sit down and have a coffee with your photographer. My best weddings were always the ones where I got to know the couple well beforehand, and got a sense of who they were as people, and as a couple.

Plan your shoot. Your photographer is a fountain of knowledge, so make use of it and ask for advice and suggestions.

102

Pacific Romance

Jordan Kwan How do you get everyone to relax for the candid shots?

If couples are worried about getting comfortable in front of the camera, I usually suggest they opt for an engagement shoot. This gives them a fair idea of what to expect once we shoot on their wedding day.

Couples often look at my portfolio and think the photographs look romantic and effortless. But more often than not it took a lot of work, sometimes hiking, often out in the burning sun, in horrible humidity, and so they need to be mentally prepared. A friendly disposition is always the best way to get people to relax for candid photographs.

Have you had any unusual requests for locations or scenarios?

Perhaps my favorite was a Harry Potter-themed one. Harry Potter was a big part of my childhood, and this shoot was personally exciting for me.

It also taught me that growing up doesn’t mean you have to let go of your inner child.

Anything else you would like to add?

Now and then someone will complain about the high cost of wedding photography, but I tell people their photographs will grow in value over the years. And if you can’t afford a big wedding, a simple blessing can be just as moving. A friend married her partner in a simple ceremony during an early morning mass. And that was it. It was no less moving than some of the lavish weddings I’ve shot. At the end of the day, the only thing that’s important is you two. The rest is details.

REAL LIFE

WEDDINGS Graham and Donna Debney Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort What inspired you to have a South Pacific island wedding?

We had stayed at the Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort in 2017. We loved the simplicity and warmth of the locals and Samoa’s natural, rugged landscape, which created the low-key but beautiful atmosphere we were looking for. We also loved the idea that our wedding would be a very special holiday with our closest friends and family.

What made you pick that specific island ahead of all the others?

We have holidayed in Fiji and Rarotonga. However, Samoa felt off the beaten track, and not too commercial. There is still a very “local” vibe about it, which we love. Also, airfares and accommodation are great value for money compared with other Pacific Islands.

What made you pick that specific resort?

When we flew to Samoa in 2017, a wedding group on board were also staying at the Sheraton Resort. We watched them walk past us to their wedding ceremony and Graham said, “Wouldn’t it be great if we got married here.” I said yes immediately, as we had been struggling to find the right location in New Zealand.

Did you use an agent to book your trip? If so, who?

Yes, we used Lifestyle Holidays to book our airfares, accommodation and honeymoon. They negotiated a group booking airfare and accommodation rate for our 36 guests.

What was the main benefit of using an agent to book your trip?

Lifestyle Holidays’ local knowledge and contacts, and the excellent relationship they had with the Sheraton Samoa Resort. Our agent was in regular communication with the resort. A lot of our guests had special requests for their stay in Samoa, all of which they handled gracefully and confidently. They were able to organise lots of extras for us. One was a private bus tour for our guests to explore Upolu for the day. The tour included a stop at the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, a spectacular waterfall photograph stop, lunch at a top restaurant in Apia and a walking tour around the Apia markets. It was a very special experience for all our guests.

What were some of the advantages of getting married in the islands?

The best aspect was getting on the plane in Auckland and knowing all our wedding plans had been taken care of. It was our time to relax and enjoy the lead-up to our wedding day with our friends and family. The main advantage was our island wedding became a five-day event, rather than just an afternoon and an evening. We spent time with all our guests, creating amazing memories and sharing many fun times.

Did your resort or wedding venue provide you with a wedding planner? If so, how did you find that experience?

Our wedding package at the Sheraton included a wedding planner, Louise, who was efficient, friendly and went to great lengths to cater to our needs. We were lucky to have met Louise in 2017. She gladly shared advice from previous weddings she had organised at the resort. She was very considerate of our budget and always gave us options for us to choose from.

If you had a friend planning an island wedding, what would your Top 3 tips be?

1. Ensure a wedding planner is available as part of your wedding package.

2. Check you don’t book during the rainy season/tropical cyclone season.

3. Book a resort where all your guests can stay at the same location and also where your wedding will be held. This makes everything much simpler and easier.

Pacific Romance

103

THE

INSIDE WORD

Wedding Planner Lou Brightwell Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa How long have you had this role?

It’s around 15 years – time flies!

Lou Brightwell

What lead-time do you require to plan a wedding?

We are pretty flexible and of course it depends on what a couple wants, but as a general rule we try and aim for the following:

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Tropical Wedding – 1 week

I get experience all the satisfaction of making the day special for a bride and groom – creating happiness and life long memories.

Deluxe Wedding – 2 weeks Le Taimane Wedding – 1 month All inclusive Wedding – 2 months

What are Top 3 things a planner needs to find out from a couple?

Documentation, location, set up and how many guests are attending.

How many weddings do you organise each month?

Some months are busier than others, but on average we would host two weddings per month.

Best advice you would give a couple?

What are some of the unique things you can offer?

Do you help with honeymoon plans too?

There are numerous options such as sunset photos, and a wedding on our beautiful beach or private jetty. We can also create a traditional Samoan theme with amazing song from a village choir or warriors escorts.

Yes, we do have honeymoon bonus, our location is perfect and very memorable for a couple.

Communication is key!

Any memorable unique wedding stories you can share?

What are the main benefits of getting married at your resort?

We have a wonderful location tucked away in our own slice of paradise.

We also have the wisdom of experience, which makes a huge difference. And from a cost point-of-view we are experts at making a tight budget work!

104

Pacific Romance

We had one bride and groom who met at university, and went on to marry different partners. Those marriages didn’t work out, but later in life they met again and they got married with us. The groom sang while the bride walked towards him. We were their witnesses and we were all in tears, such a romantic one!

Taumeasina Island Resort

Escape to paradise

Experience first class quality at Taumeasina Island Resort, Samoa.

Indulge in fabulous food, luxurious spa treatments and great service all in a pristine island location. Surrounded by a beautiful blue lagoon and framed by emerald green mountains, Taumeasina offers the perfect setting for a tropical honeymoon, romantic escape or your dream wedding. Share your special day with family and friends or marry in an intimate ceremony with just the two of you. The island offers a number of spectacular venues where you can exchange vows surrounded by a sparkling lagoon, white sand beach and lush tropical gardens. Our professional team including your own wedding co-ordinator will tend to every detail to make your destination wedding in Samoa the most seamless and unforgettable day surpassing your expectations. www.taumeasinaislandresortsamoa.com

WE INVITE YOU TO BE INSPIRED BY OUR BESPOKE WEDDING PACKAGES DESIGNED WITH LOVE.

Samoa’s Premier Island Resort

Experience a romantic tropical escape at Taumeasina Island Resort. Offering deluxe island hotel and villa accommodation, 4 star facilities and services along with world class dining, it’s everything and more for your special day or treasured honeymoon.

P: +685 61000 E: info@taumeasinaislandresortsamoa.com www.taumeasinaislandresortsamoa.com

Pacific Romance

105

HAWAI’I

A state of bliss

Hawaii has everything required for a romantic getaway.

The challenge is narrowing down the numerous options that each island has to offer. Regardless of which route you choose, you will be left in a state of romantic bliss.

Tying the knot

A couple must obtain a marriage licence when they arrive in Hawai’i.

This can be done from a marriage licence agent (there are many agents on each island and they can be found online or an appointment can be arranged by your wedding coordinator). Note: you have to appear together to obtain the marriage licence. As a rule, there is no waiting period for your licence, it is granted on application.

• Bride and groom need to be over the age of 18 years – otherwise a birth certificate and written consent from both parents, a legal guardian or a family court judge is required.

• Proof of age – Passport, drivers licence or birth certificate.

• If either partner has been married before, a divorce decree is required.

• Once the marriage licence is obtained, you have 30 days to get legally married in Hawai’i.

©OUTRIGGER WEDDINGS

106

Pacific Romance

Tba

Pacific Romance

107

WAIKIKI, OAHU ©HTA / DANNY SEPKOWSKI

If your honeymoon could last a month, deciding which Hawaiian Islands to visit wouldn’t be an issue! You could see them all, soak up their unique atmosphere and enjoy their unique adventures. Whether that’s dining in a world-class Japanese restaurant on Oah’u, kayaking to a hidden waterfall on Kaua’i, watching the sunrise from a snow capped (dormant) volcano on Maui, or riding horseback through lush tropical rainforest on the Big Island.

You see, there are just so many wonderful options at a couple’s fingertips. Deciding where to go is really just a matter of working out your priorities. Whatever they happen to be, Hawaii will have the perfect match. And if you miss something this time, it’s a great excuse to go back.

Pacific – and plenty of hole-in-the-wall spots for a quick bite to eat. If you get the chance, make sure you go to a luau, a traditional feast with hula dancing and other entertainment. It may feature laulau, or pork wrapped in leaves; a luau, poke, or raw marinated fish, lomi salmon, opihi and poi, a taro paste which is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine.

Overlooking Waikiki is the iconic mountain of Diamond Head. For couples who enjoy staying active, there is a 30-minute trail to the summit which is easy enough to start, and is then followed by several switchbacks as you gain height.

Toward the end, you pass through a military tunnel, go up a few flights of stairs and emerge through a bunker. The view is sensational.

The best way to start narrowing things down is by looking at each of the four main islands – Oah’u, Maui, Hawai’i (The Big Island) and Kaua’i.

They are all amazing, but each one has its own distinct character and hero attractions. Most couples won’t have time to visit every island, so it’s best to make a list of priorities and then match the island(s) to suit.

Shoppers will be drawn to the Ala Moana Shopping Centre like children to an ice-cream. The world’s largest open-air shopping centre is retail therapy maxed out, with luxury brands like Chanel close by department stores like Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom. Don’t worry guys, there is plenty there for you too. The terrace on the fourth floor has international cuisine, combining local ingredients with Asian flavours, and live music.

OAHU

For a complete change of pace, couples can head to the North Shore, a 12-kilometre stretch of still rural coast with some of the world’s biggest waves. In winter, the waves at Waimea Bay, the Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach may tower seven stories high, and the beach sometimes shakes when they slam into the sand.

There are times when you want to be alone together, there are also times when you will be in the mood for lots of buzz, activity and colour.

It’s then that Waikiki is your place. It’s fun just to put your towel on the sand and be part of the ever-changing scene.

Kick back and watch the surfers and the outrigger canoes ride the waves. You could hire a board and get out there yourself. Or maybe just swim, or grab a snack and drink from one of many food trucks.

Towering hotels and apartment buildings mean there are always lots of people around, and the resorts have some of the best dining in the

108

Pacific Romance

Leave the surf to the surfers, and sunbathe, go for a stroll, or cool off with a local delight, a rainbow-flavoured shaved ice. A short distance away is laid-back surf town of Haleiwa and the Polynesian Cultural Centre. And if you want to indulge your sweet tooth, head for Leonard’s Bakery in Kapahulu, who are renowned for their malasadas, or Portuguese doughnuts. Delish!

PLACES TO STAY Moana Surfrider, Waikiki Beach You‘ll feel the history as soon as you step foot inside this grand Victorian era hotel. The first hotel on Waikiki, Moana Surfrider opened its doors in 1901. And for visiting couples it has everything you could ask for. The prime beachfront location in the heart of Waikiki means you’re a short walk from everything. The Moana Lani Spa is the perfect place for couples, with special rooms for two, and enticing treatments, including a lomilomi ola, Hawaii’s traditional healing massage refined over generations.

‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach This luxurious oasis on Kalakaua Avenue has undergone a multi-million dollar redevelopment that has transformed the property into one of Waikiki’s finest. The Swell Bar and Lounge is one of the hippest spots to hang out – think infinity pool, cabanas, driftwood sculptures, lanterns and glowing fire pits. At night the same space turns into a hot spot with live music and cocktails flowing. The resort also has two exceptional Japanese restaurants run under the strict guidance of acclaimed international Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto.

Turtle Bay Resort, North Shore Set on 850 acres of wide-open beachfront spaces, Turtle Bay Resort is the only resort on the famed North Shore. As you can imagine, staying here is completely different from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki.

Indeed, Turtle Bay is very much about peace, quiet and getting back to nature. For the couple seeking quality time and space, it’s a magic spot.

An easy 60 minute drive from Waikiki, the resort offers miles of hiking trails, horseback riding, two championship golf courses, along with every water-based activity a couple could ask for.

MOANA SURFRIDER, WAIKIKI BEACH

for any occasion

2018

V ote d “ B e s t H ote l i n H awa i ʻ i ”

m aui , haw a i ʻ i w w w . k b hm a u i .c o m 8 0 8 - 6 6 1 -0 0 1 1

Photo Courtesy Of Aubrey Hord Photography

Pacific Romance

109

MAKENA, MAUI ©HTA / TOR JOHNSON

LOCALLY GROWN, MAUI ©HTA / MARK KUSHIMI

WAILUA FALLS, HANA, MAUI ©HTA / TOR JOHNSON

SNORKELLING MOLOKINI ©HTA / BLAKE BRONSTAD

MAUI

PLACES TO STAY

After Oahu, Maui is the second most visited island in Hawaii. It’s not hard to see why. The beaches are considered among Hawaii’s best, there are some splendid resort options and a huge variety of activities that couples will love.

Kaanapali Beach Hotel

If you can rouse yourself in the very early hours of the morning and take the drive to the Haleakala Visitor Centre, you will see the first rays of the new dawn break through from the top of a dormant volcano.

Colours of every hue will swirl and dance until the sun finally appears.

As you sit together snuggled under a rug (even though it’s Hawaii it can snow up there), you’ll be seeing one of the world’s most dramatic sunrises.

Back down on the coast, Kanaapali was the first planned resort area in Hawaii, and five hotels, along with several apartment blocks, line the beach, which the Hawaiian royal family once claimed as their own retreat.

Some of Hawaii’s best restaurants and luau entertainment is here, along with the Whaler’s Village, a shopping and restaurant complex, free Hawaiian entertainment and Island Vintage Coffee, which roasts some of Hawaii’s finest Kona coffee from the island of Hawaii.

Further north is Kapalua, once a ranch and a plantation. Now its vast 10,000 hectare expanse is a special resort area and the site of the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, restaurants and boutiques, and two golf courses.

Maui’s third resort area is around the town of Wailea, with its three signature beaches of Wailea Beach itself, Polo Beach, and Ulua Beach Park.

You’ll want to linger in the town and poke around its shops and boutiques, and either eat at one of the exceptional restaurants, or eat like a local and buy a plate lunch, with rice and macaroni, and maybe pork, barbecue chicken, or mahimahi.

110

Pacific Romance

If you’re looking for a genuine, authentic Hawaiian experience the Kaanapali Beach Hotel is the place to stay. Known as the ‘Hawaii’s Most Hawaiian Hotel’, the staff put a real emphasis on capturing the spirit of aloha, where a couple will be welcomed like one of the family.

With 11 acres of gorgeous tropical gardens, glorious ocean views and a multitude of dining options, relaxation and quality time is guaranteed.

A real must-do is popping to the Beauty of Aloha spa for a traditional Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage. The long, gentle strokes will put you into a deep state of chilled-out bliss!

Fairmont Kea Lani A honeymoon should be a time to be treated. Which is where the Fairmont Kea Lani is an absolute expert. The resorts award winning Willow Stream Spa is a state-of-the art oasis. And let’s just say it has everything. 13 luxurious treatment rooms (including a couples Aloha suite), there are male and female relaxation rooms with heated stone lounges, inhalation steam rooms, sauna, a palolo (mud) bar and unique rain shower experiences. The list of treatments is also extensive the long list of facials, massages and body treatments all look so good, it will be hard try to pick one (or maybe two). And after you’ve been pampered from head to toe, a couple can kick back and enjoy everything else this absolute beachfront resort has to offer.

Hotel Wailea Maui It’s a real feather in your cap, when Conde Nast Readers vote you the Number 1 Resort in Hawaii. Maybe it’s the peace and privacy (there are only 72 one bedroom suites set on 15 acres). It could be the panoramic ocean views out to three Hawaiian Island, or the cascading waterfall (inside the resort) and lush tropical grounds. Complimentary yoga or group fitness anyone? How about Tesla Model X house vehicles for exploring the local Wailea area? This 5-star adults-only haven is pure honeymoon heaven.

HAWAII - THE BIG ISLAND Just as there are two sides to every story, so there are two sides to the island of Hawaii, The Big Island. Its land area accounts for over a third of the total of the state’s five main island. On one side it is lush tropical rainforest. But on the other, it’s dry mountain slopes and black lava deserts.

The biggest attraction on the Big Island is without a doubt Volcanoes National Park, one of the most visited parks across the USA. 2018 was one of the most active in recent years. Most couples will have seen images of the lava outburst from Mount Kileaua, when lava flowed from the crater down to the sea during the recent eruption, creating primeval scenes.

It’s safe now, and a drive up to the summit along Crater Rim Drive to peer into the crater will give some idea of this most powerful force.

What was once a lake of molten, burning lava has disappeared and is now replaced by a gigantic hole. The Park’s Jagger Museum tells the story that will no doubt have many more chapters. If you really want to get up close and personal, jump on a helicopter tour that will give you grandstand views of this spectacular natural landscape.

If exploration at a slightly slower pace is your go, you could horseback ride at Kahua Ranch. It’s still a working sheep and cattle ranch and within its bounds you’ll be able mosey through lush forest, rolling green hills and freshwater streams.

Speaking of streams, the Big Island is also home to some of the most picturesque waterfalls in the Pacific. Some of these require a hike, however, they are well worth the effort. The Rainbow Falls, Pe’epe’Falls, and Waiale Falls are all easy to access and if you want to see the big kahuna himself, visit the Waihilau Falls which are over 700 metres high!

PLACES TO STAY Four Seasons Hualalai This premium property situated along the Kona Coast is set amidst black lava, lush vegetation and white sand beaches. You have seven swimming pools to choose from. Or you could just take a dip in the beautiful Pacific Ocean which is steps away. Experience fine dining, world-class golf (the club pro is a PGA Tour winner), tennis and a health club. Then add in a first-class spa that provides luscious in-room massage treatments (yes, they’ll bring the table to you).

Volcano House If you’d like to stay right in Volcanoes National Park this is the place.

Volcano House, is a charming boutique lodge with picture windows that look straight out across the Kilauea crater. At breakfast you can sit in the restaurant and gaze out across this martian landscape and at dinner time you can sit back and marvel at the red glow.

ROPE BRIDGE NEAR UMAUMA FALLS, HAKALAU, ISLAND OF HAWAII ©HTA / HEATHER GOODMAN

KAANAPALI BEACH HOTEL

HORSEBACK RIDING, NORTH KOHALA, ISLAND OF HAWAII ©HTA / KIRK LEE AEDER

Pacific Romance

111

KOLOA, KAUAI ©HTA / TOR JOHNSON

PUKALANI CAVE, KAUAI ©HTA / BLAKE BRONSTAD

KAUA’I If your idea of a romantic escape means getting away from it all, Kaua’i is the obvious island of choice.

Sitting at the top of the Hawaiian chain, Kaua’i is the oldest, smallest and least developed of the major islands. And that’s reflected in the sheer beauty of the landscape. Lush rainforests thrive, valleys and mountains have been weathered into the most spectacular forms, rivers snake their way across the countryside, waterfalls burst with life, and there’s even a Pacific version of the Grand Canyon. It’s no wonder Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Carribean were filmed against this backdrop.

The mountainous interior and sheer cliffs of the North Coast has made it impossible to build a road circling the island – in fact, only around 10 percent of the island is accessible by car. This may sound like a hindrance, but it’s actually a blessing as it means that much of this beautiful countryside is reserved for hikers, bikers and kayakers.

Couples that love a challenge can tackle the 18 kilometre long Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast. This is Kaua’i’s most famous hike and it’s considered one of the very best in America. It runs from Ke’e Beach and goes through deep green valleys and along towering sea cliffs, before ending in the Kalalau Valley.

The other way to see Kaua’i is by helicopter. In fact, taking a mindblowing aerial tour of Kaua’i should really be compulsory for any couple. Companies such as Blue Hawaiian Helicopters operate out of the island’s main airport in Lihue. With rock music playing in your headphones, the pilots whisk you away for a 50 minute highlight package that includes the Waimea Canyon, Na Pali Coast, Bali Hai Cliffs, Hanalei Bay and Mount Waialeale – one of the wettest places on earth!

Exploring the island by water is another fantastic option. Kauai is home to some world-class kayaking. For example you can follow the Huleia

112

Pacific Romance

KAPAA, KAUAI ©HTA / TOR JOHNSON

River into Huleia National Wildlife Refuge and visit waterfalls without another human in sight. There are also sea kayaking tours that will take you along the steep ocean cliffs of the Na Pali Coast.

PLACES TO STAY St. Regis Princeville Located on the north shore of Kauai and overlooking picturesque Hanalei Bay and Makana Mountain, this exquisite five-star property is widely considered one of Hawaii’s best.

You will need a healthy budget to stay here, but you will get what you pay for. In this case, flawless five-star luxury, exceptional oceanside dining, a private beach with a water sports centre, and a 5,000-squarefoot infinity pool. And not to mention, personal butler service.

Koa Kea Resort Hotel This boutique property is a real favourite with honeymooners. It boasts a prime position in the middle of Poipu Beach. Along with their Ko’u Aloha Romance Package, couples can rejuvenate at the resort’s spa, laze by the tropical pool and have freshly made cocktails from the outdoor bar. And the award-winning Red Salt Restaurant is the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two – using locally sourced ingredients, of course.

Aqua Kauai Beach Resort Sitting on the eastern coast, Aqua Kauai Beach Resort is a laid-back alternative to the island’s larger resorts. The resort offers couples a wide range of services and facilities, including four swimming pools (complete with cascading waterfalls), three restaurants, Rainforest Spa, and a modern fitness centre. But after hiking, kayaking and swimming all day, you may not need any further exercise.

THE

INSIDE WORD

Wedding Planner

Lauren Carson, Weddings of Hawaii How long have you had this role?

I personally have been planning weddings in Hawaii for over 10 years.

Our company, Weddings of Hawaii, has been in business since 1978.

What lead time do you require to plan a wedding?

Weddings of Hawaii coordination team – Glory Hashimoto, Teri Sharman, Rachel Hashimoto, Lauren Carson

We can plan a wedding in as little as two days to two years out! The lead-time really depends on how many guests are coming to Hawaii and the venue availability.

What are some of the unique things you can offer?

Having a wedding in Hawaii gives us the advantage of incorporating many unique Hawaiian-inspired themes into your event. A traditional Hawaiian kahu can preside over your ceremony, or have a specialty dinner menu with traditional Hawaiian food, and even a hula halau to honour the couple and their guests with a beautiful dance!

What are the main benefits of getting married at your resort?

There are many hotels in Waikiki. However, not all of them are directly on Waikiki Beach. You can have your celebration steps away from the sand. Tiki torches light up the sky and the sound and breeze of the ocean is truly majestic. There truly isn’t anywhere quite like it in Hawaii.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Our couples come from all over the world and from all walks of life.

Hearing their stories of how they met, and how they came to be here in Hawaii, always touches my heart. This is one the most wonderful parts of my job. Of course, hearing from my couple after their wedding on how thrilled they are is always a bonus.

What are Top 3 things a planner needs to find out from a couple?

1. How many guests are you planning to have at your wedding.

2. What type of location do you envisage for your ceremony and celebration afterwards.

Do you help with honeymoon plans, too?

Outrigger has numerous beautiful hotels and resorts all through the Hawaiian islands. The concierges at the hotels know how to help couples book activities, tours and local experiences which will provide them with a memorable honeymoon.

3. What is your budget for both your ceremony and the reception.

What’s your key tip to avoiding wedding day stress?

These questions help us to provide recommendations that are relevant to the couple’s needs.

To avoid wedding day stress, hire a wedding planner! Let someone manage your big day so you can simply enjoy the moment with the people you love.

What are some of ways you personalise a wedding?

Any memorable unique wedding stories you can share?

Special personal touches are a sweet way to incorporate “you” in to your big day. This can be as simple as selecting a special song for the ukulele musician to play as you walk down the aisle, to a special Hawaiian “his and hers” cocktail at the reception, or even honouring your guests with beautiful Hawaiian leis as they arrive at your event.

The options are endless.

In addition to weddings, we also coordinate vow renewals. A couple of years ago we had a vow renewal for this lovely couple from Canada who were celebrating 25 years of marriage.

What’s the best advice you would give a couple?

The wedding day can go by so fast! Be sure to make time for the two of you to enjoy each other after your ceremony. After all, the celebration is about the two of you! Often times, the couple are so busy entertaining their guests that they forget to sit back and soak in the moment together.

They arrived at their ceremony to meet with the celebrant, Rev. Russ.

They began to tell Rev. Russ that 25 years earlier they were married at the exact location, but they could not remember the name of the company, but they had a photograph of their ceremony.

They showed the photo to Rev. Russ and much to the woman’s surprise, the celebrant in the photo was Rev. Russ’s father, the late Rev. Hansen!

There was not a dry eye to be seen and this was even before their special vow renewal ceremony! It was an incredible moment for everyone.

Pacific Romance

113

REAL LIFE

WEDDINGS

If you had a friend planning an island wedding, what would your Top five tips be?

1. Have a vision of what you want your day to look like.

2. Utilise the help of a wedding planner. They are experts at what they do and know where to access everything you need.

3. Be flexible with your budget.

Peter and Irene Smith Waialae Beach, Oahu What inspired you to have a Pacific island wedding?

It was easy for our family to get to from Scotland.

What made you pick Oahu ahead of all the others?

We thought it would be a special place to spend time with family and friends - somewhere different and special.

What made you pick that specific resort or other wedding venue? It was recommended by wedding planner.

Did you use an agent to book you and your guests’ trip?

If so, who? We used Flight Centre for flights and our wedding planner sorted out everything else.

What was the main benefit of using an agent to book your trip?

Hassle-free and one less thing to worry about.

What were some of the advantages of getting married in Hawaii?

Point of difference. We were able to incorporate a wedding and a holiday at the same time.

What were some of the special touches that you could only get in the islands. Our wedding drink. Hawaiian sunsets.

Did you stay on the same island for your honeymoon?

We haven’t yet had our honeymoon. We are going away later to Bali.

Did your resort or wedding venue provide you with a wedding planner? If so, how did you find that experience?

The wedding planner was amazing. We found them through a recommendation and they did everything. It was a relief to just turn up and have everything sorted and not have to run around at the last minute. There were things we still needed to do to add our own personal touch, but everything from flowers to the venue was all done.

114

Pacific Romance

4. The exchange rate can make a difference between what you want to pay and end up paying. Be prepared to tip.

5. Enjoy your day!

What did you love most about getting married in Hawaii?

The people and the island were so beautiful. Being able to share the experience with family and friends was something we wont forget. We were able to spend time with those we rarely see due to where they live, so that was extra special.

AS IF AN

OCEAN VIEW WA S N ’ T E N O U G H

EXPERIENCE OUR ROOM & BREKKIE PACKAGE Includes an ocean view room, welcome drinks for two, daily breakfast at 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar, guaranteed early check-in at noon and no resort charge. 5 night minimum stay required.

At the Prince Waikiki, the infinity pool and ocean merge while our personalized service helps everyday life vanish into the horizon.

Find your escape at P R I N C E WA I K I K I .CO M/B R E K K I E R E S E R VAT I O N S@PRI N CEH AWAI I.CO M

NIUE

Romantic

adventures

116

Pacific Romance

Tying the knot

The Notice of Intended Marriages Form must be filled out and signed with minimum three (working) days notice.

You will be required to provide: • A formal letter from both bride and groom stating they have never been married before.

• Certified copy of birth certificate and passport documents from each person • Divorce documents if appropriate - to show proof of dissolve of marriage Contact Niue Justice Department during working hours. Ph 00 683 4351 or noora@niue.nu

Niue is a charming destination for couples who want beautiful outdoor adventures on an intimate island where they can forget the distractions of a busy life back home.

Niue’s version of romance is quite different from the glitz and glamour you’ll often find on other Pacific Islands. And that is what makes the island so attractive. With only 1500 residents, one resort and a smattering of boutique accommodation and dining options to choose from, Niue offers you the simplicity to enjoy the incredible surrounds and each other, with little else to worry about.

Niue is also a place where couples (or any visitors for that matter) will feel ‘at home’ from the second they step off the plane. The tight-knit local community are warm, welcoming and they proud to share their small piece of Pacific paradise.

EXPLORE TO YOUR HEART’S CONTENT There’s are a surprising amount of sights to see on Niue, so hiring a car is well worth it. It’s easy to drive around this lovely island, with the array of must-see locations easily landmarked on the coastal loop road.

Adventure-loving couples will be in their element on the coral atoll, with rock pools, chasms and caves galore to explore. Many of the best natural pools and caves are tide dependent, so grab a map and a tide chart and work out the optimum time to visit. Every place is unique and you can spend days discovering new places. Allow yourself to get lost and find your own private piece of paradise.

On the North west side of the island on Hikutavake reef is three deep pools for snorkelling that are accessible at low tide. There’s incredible marine life and exciting swim-throughs here and it’s also well worth checking out sunset from the lookout at the top of the walkway. A few minutes’ drive from Hikutavake is Limu Pools, home to a deep swimming hole, where a perfectly placed rock has formed a wall to the ocean. This is a beautiful spot for snorkelling, and a romantic picnic.

The Avaiki Cave is another amazing spot. And like most places in Niue, it’s not unusual to have it all to yourself. The rock formations and the colours in the rock pool to the North of Avaiki cave are remarkable.

Swim in the clear waters of the cave while you watch the waves break onto the shore, look for whales swimming in the distance, and if the time is right, take in a stunning sunset.

Niue is also famous for its on-water adventure. And what better way to bond with your loved one than catching your dinner together. Deep blue water are literally just off the shore making Niue brilliant for fishing.

There are a number of reliable fishing charters and those wanting a really unique experience can try fishing the traditional way from a vaka (canoe) or head out for a flying fish netting session. Whatever your preference you’ll likely have a big fish to show for it at the end of your trip!

For couples visiting between April and September there’s the chance to swim with dolphins and whales. There are two whale watching enterprises on the island - Magical Niue Adventures and Buccaneer Adventures. A trip with Magical Niue Adventures includes the opportunity to swim with whales and dolphins if they are around, as well as a snorkelling on a live coral reef and in a very special cave. Ravi Oved who runs the trips is well aware you can’t control nature, so only charges for the parts of the trip you experience.

Pacific Romance

117

PLACES TO STAY Scenic Matavai Resort Set on a clifftop just 10 minutes from central Alofi, Scenic Matavai Resort is a great option for a romantic getaway. The resort has 55 recently renovated rooms available, most with Pacific Ocean views, as well as self-contained apartments one kilometre down the road. Sip a cocktail by the pool while you take in the 180 degree views of the Pacific Ocean and watch whales and dolphins swim by.

For those wanting to get married at this special location, an onsite wedding planner is available to help you arrange your wedding day. Choose from a ceremony on the restaurant terrace, the resort’s conference room, or at your favourite island location with transport arranged for guests. Pick from a range of well-priced, fully inclusive wedding packages ranging from couples eloping for a private ceremony to those wanting a large ceremony and three course dinner with family and friends.

Namukulu Cottages New Zealander’s Ross Hight, Michelle Andrew and their family run Namukulu Cottages - six lovely self-contained units in a beautiful tropical garden setting on the North West side of the island near some of the best snorkelling spots.

Couples can choose from self-catering one bedroom cottages or studios.

SCENIC MATAVAI RESORT

The view from this property is expansive and watching the sunset from the lookout here is a must, as is the cycling tour to the Washaway Café on a Sunday. Couples massages can be arranged by appointment by a local massage therapist and Michelle and Ross are planning to make even more of the spectacular view from their property, with plans to build a pizza oven and bar and an outdoor cinema. They also hope to run weddings here in the future. This is a lovely private home away from home, with the help of great hosts available if you need it.

Laus Getaway Located in Avatale, these two standalone two bedroom oceanfront villas are set in tropical gardens with outstanding views of the ocean. These are a great option for couples wanting the ultimate private escape. Watch dolphins from the day bed, have an open-air bath on the secluded balcony surrounded by nature or open a bottle of bubbles and watch the sunset from the outdoor couch and soak up the magic.

NAMUKULU COTTAGES

PLACES TO EAT Falala’fa Café, in the main centre of Alofi is a must visit for dinner. The sashimi is melt in your mouth and the tuna with pilaf rice a delight. You’ll likely return more than once to this little gem.

Kaiika restaurant is the brain child of Avi Rubin and Japanese Niue enthusiast, Taiichi Fox. Avi previously ran a commercial fishing business on the island and Taiichi wanted somewhere on Niue to eat fresh fish served by Japanese chefs. The result is a winner - delicious Japanese food using fresh local ingredients.

Washaway Café on Avatele Bay is both a local and tourist favourite. One of the few cafes open on a Sunday, it runs a charming cash only, serve yourself, system. Patrons help themselves to drinks and write them in a book to be tallied up at the end. The Washaway serves simple but satisfying fare - fish focaccias, burgers, pizzas and fries – perfect for refuelling after the guided bike ride from Namukulu cottages.

Visit Vaiolama Café in Alofi, run by ex-Wellington mayor Mark Blumsky and his wife Pauline Rex. Choose from a cabinet full of good food, soak in the incredible ocean views and have a game of mini golf while you watch the whales swim by in the distance. Open for lunch every day, except Saturday and for dinner on Thursday, the rockmelon crush here is an island favourite.

118

Pacific Romance

VAIOLAMA CAFÉ

THE

INSIDE WORD

Wedding Planner

Missy Brettell, Scenic Matavai Resort

Missy and Mathew B ret te

ll

How long have you had this role?

What are some of ways you personalise a wedding?

I’ve been in the industry for over 25 years, and in Niue for 14 months.

I get to know the bride and groom to find out what they really want to get out of the day and take it from there. I make sure they know they can change their mind at any time (within reason) so they have that ownership.

What lead-time do you require to plan a wedding?

Six to 12 months is good, but no issues on last-minute contact.

How many weddings do you organise each month?

I organise about two a month.

What are some of the things you can offer?

Beach ceremonies, pool area ceremonies, amazing views whilst you have dinner, inside and outside arrangements, back-up plans for rainy days that still give you an outside covered wedding, great Niuean-style decorations and awesome photo opportunities.

What are the main benefits of getting married at your resort or destination?

Best advice you would give a couple?

It is your day, so ensure you do what you want to do to make you both happy.

Do you help with honeymoon plans, too?

Absolutely. We have 14 other hotels throughout New Zealand and Pacific, or we can whisk them away to a more private accommodation venue in Niue.

What’s your key tip to avoiding wedding day stress?

Be organised by letting the planner guide you. A good planner will direct but not take over. We have a run sheet which can guide you through, so you know what needs to be done before the day

Easy to organise. The accommodation, the wedding ceremony and dinner all at the one venue. I also organise the marriage certificates and the pastor or celebrant.

What is the best time of the year to get married at your resort/ destination?

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Any memorable wedding stories you can share?

Weddings make me happy and they make me cry.

What are Top three things a planner needs to find out from a couple?

The date, the theme and their budget.

The best months are March, April, May and June, or October and November.

There have been a lot of reunions here in Niue. One, where the daughter decided to get married in Niue and brought her father back who had left the island when he was very young and was reunited with his family, was very touching.

Pacific Romance

119

REAL LIFE

WEDDINGS

Shari and Joseph Feast Tamakautoga Beach ceremony and Scenic Matavai Resort

What inspired you to have a South Pacific island wedding?

We both have very large family and realistically couldn’t get married in New Zealand. Rather than 80 people in Niue it would have likely been 800 people in New Zealand! We had travelled to Niue three years ago to meet our Niuean family - it made sense to go back, and I got to take my grandfather back home.

Did you stay on the same island for your honeymoon?

Can you still class it as a honeymoon if you are taking your children to Canada and the United States in 2020?

What did you love most about getting married in the islands?

Reuniting our New Zealand and Niuean whanau together and having the most beautiful wedding photographs I have ever seen.

If you had a friend planning an island wedding, what would your Top five tips be?

What made you pick that specific island ahead of all the others? I’m Niuean – says it all.

1. It’s island time – chill.

What made you pick that specific resort or other wedding venue?

3. Plan and prepare early.

2. D on’t sweat the small stuff (No one knows that flower shouldn’t be there.)

We stayed at the Scenic Matavai Resort on our first visit to Niue. The staff were amazing and the food was fantastic. Plus, it’s the only resort on the island.

4. Find the prefect hair spray for the bride. It’s humid, remember.

What were some of the advantages of getting married in Niue?

What did your guests love most about your wedding?

Making memories with my family, introducing my New Zealand family to Niue, and watching faces glow as they explored paradise. The pictures said it all.

Most of them didn’t own a passport, so you could only imagine their excitement. The scenery, the smells, the kai and whanau were enjoyed most.

Did your resort or wedding venue provide you with a wedding planner? If so, how did you find that experience?

Marie, from Scenic Matavai Resort was amazing. Nothing ever seemed to be too hard or a problem.

120

Pacific Romance

5. Book through a travel agent. I am our destination wedding specialist for our office – find one!

What were some of the special touches you could only get in the islands?

I was lucky being Niuean. We were all given a lei from our Niuean whanau on our arrival and we celebrated with a special traditional Niuean ceremony. Beautiful songs were sung and there was plenty of dancing.

T H E WOR L D’ S BE ST K E P T SE C R ET Where glorious mountain peaks melt into elegant white sand beaches, the little paradise of the Cook Islands is home to Pacific Resort Hotel Group. Whether you are looking for a wedding or honeymoon here in utopia; we offer the Cook Islands’ largest range of services & experiences for your romantic escape...

C O OK I SL A N D S pacificresort.com

R AROTONGA · COOK ISLANDS

PAC I F I C R E S O RT H O T E L G RO U P

•

COOK ISL A N DS

enjoy a taste of fiji With a free stopover

Don’t flyover Fiji without stopping and experiencing the friendly hospitality of Fiji for yourself. If you’re flying through Nadi you can spend up to 72 hours in Fiji at no additional airfare charge. Come and set your watch to ‘Fiji Time’ and discover why Fiji is home to the friendliest people on earth.

To book a stopover email holidays@fijiairways.com or call AU 1 800 230 150 | NZ 0800 800 178 Full details on fijiairways.com.