Hawaii Hot Spot

A sunny stopover came as welcome relief when the Viva team flew Hawaiian Airlines to New York

See viva.co.nz for Hawaiian Airlines crew member Heather Sanchez’s guide to New York City.

Eight hours in Hawaii provided a blast of tropical air for the Viva team flying to New York with Hawaiian Airlines. The stopover broke up the long journey and offered sunshine, cocktail-filled coconuts and a spot of shopping; a week after battling -3C temperatures and snowstorms in New York City, an overnight beachside stay on their return was the perfect thawing mechanism. Hawaiian Airlines began flying from

New Zealand a year ago and flies from

Auckland to Honolulu three times a week. The only North American carrier to fly from New Zealand, the airline’s A330 planes take about nine hours each way. Once in Honolulu the airline offers connections to four neighbouring islands, as well as 11 United States destinations including Las Vegas and Seattle. From March 11, the airline will launch Ohana by Hawaiian, a new inter-island service that will bring the outer islands of Lana’i and Moloka’i closer.

Viva photographer Babiche Martens wouldn’t miss a Hawaiian stopover, saying it’s one of her favourite spots for its mix of beach and shopping. “I particularly love going there to buy bikinis, as they have cute styles and a lot more choice than New Zealand,” she explains, having added two new swimsuits to

Pac k m or e

her collection this trip, as well as hitting the big brands such as Chanel and Louis Vuitton during her stay. With the combination of luxury brands, streetwear shops, mega-malls like Ala Moana and department stores such as Macy’s, a low sales tax compared with most other US states, and a two 32kg bag allowance from Hawaiian Airlines, it’s wise to allow a few days’ shopping time before or after your US trip. If you just have eight hours en route, hit a few shops then slot in a swim, and grab a delicious shake from Ruffage Natural Foods, a Viva favourite.

Viva digital and fashion features editor Zoe Walker enjoyed staying at Vive Hotel Waikiki by the beach and indulging in the tropical cliche, sipping Blue Hawaiian and Mai Tai cocktails from the requisite coconut.

“Hawaii flies with us” is the promise the airline makes to all its passengers, with their onboard service celebrating the culture, natural beauty and essence of Hawaii. Local snacks and on-demand travel videos will get you in the holiday mood before you land.

From August 1, Hawaiian Airlines will introduce the new “extra comfort” premium economy seating, available on routes serviced by the A330. Offering more legroom and other amenities, passengers can upgrade for about $120 each way to Honolulu and about $70 each way to mainland US destinations. • For more information or to book flights, visit hawaiianairlines.co.nz or phone (09) 977 2227.

into your Hawaiian Holiday

Hawai‘i starts the moment you step on board. And with our generous luggage allowance of 2 x 32kg per person, you’ll be able to pack more to and from your next holiday. Fly non-stop 3 times a week from Auckland to Hawai‘i and onward to 11 U.S. Cities, including New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles & San Francisco. Or transfer to your favourite Hawaiian Island on one of 170 flights daily.

For more information or to make a booking, visit us at www.HawaiianAirlines.co.nz call us on 09 977 2227, or contact your preferred travel agent.