Kiwi stars share their favorite escapes, from Waiheke to Samoa
New Zealand's creative and sporting talents have opened up about their most cherished holiday spots, both at home and abroad, revealing a deep connection to nature, community, and cultural discovery. From the rugged beauty of Rakiura Stewart Island to the tropical calm of Samoa, these personal stories offer a window into what makes a perfect getaway for some of Aotearoa's most recognizable voices.
What local destinations do Kiwi stars love most?
For actor and comedian Tom Sainsbury, Rakiura Stewart Island holds a special place. He recently visited with his parents and described it as an incredible experience. There's all the nature, especially the kiwi, but also getting to know all the local characters,
he said. I've been curious about it my whole life and am so glad I visited.
Fleur Saville, who plays Libby Jeffries on Shortland Street, finds her escape at Waihī Beach. Everything slows down, it's an easy drive from Auckland, there's summer sun, sand, and good times,
she shared. That, and we are building and moving there.
Kura Forrester, host of Appropriation Nation, is a devoted fan of Waiheke Island. The moment you step onto the ferry and watch the city slowly disappear into the distance it feels like you're immediately on holiday,
she said. For me, the perfect holiday is staying at a bach near the beach with great friends, good food, and nowhere to be.
Former All Black Mils Muliiaina feels a strong pull toward Ōtautahi Christchurch and Banks Peninsula. Port Lyttelton, the rugged landscape, the hidden bush and crevices where the ocean nestles into the land, the rolling heads a gateway to the Pacific Ocean, and the swell of community spirit all speak to me like the call of a siren,
he said. It fills me with great joy to come home.
Which international destinations inspire them?
Sainsbury picked Samoa for its relaxed vibe. We went for the first time last year and you just have to relax,
he said. Incredible beaches, incredible people, gorgeous tropical nature and I ate so much papaya.
For tourist appeal, he also praised the Netherlands.
Tom Sainsbury, who stars in Small Town Scandal on ThreeNow and Neon, chose Ōhope Beach as his local favorite, noting it is both a great swimming spot and where much of his family lives.
Forrester is drawn to Japan, especially Tokyo. The sense of order, the innovation, the incredible food, and the energy of the city make it one of my favourite places in the world,
she said. One thing the Japanese have absolutely perfected is onsen culture.
Muliiaina, a Sky Sport commentator, travels internationally primarily to visit whānau. I usually trek to Vancouver, BC, and make my way from there,
he said. Every time I land, I feel like I've arrived home, as I do here.
What's on their bucket lists?
Sainsbury has a fascination with micro-states. I've been to Andorra and Monaco and have my sights set on Liechtenstein, San Marino, and then St Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean,
he said. There's also Nauru and Tuvalu just above us.
Closer to home, he is eager to visit Great Barrier Island.
Forrester's top bucket list destination is India. I've always been drawn to its true spirituality, rich history, and vibrant culture,
she said. More than just seeing the sights, I'd love to spend real time travelling around the country, and experiencing everyday life.
Iceland is a close second, for its dramatic landscapes and hot springs.
Saville wants to explore Vietnam. The food, the culture and the scenery look unreal,
she said.
Muliiaina dreams of South America, particularly Chile. I imagined myself backpacking around, learning Spanish as I went,
he said. If I could go anywhere it would be Chile, to work and to play.
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