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Sometimes, as a travel agent you come across some really disturbing facts and we normally bring it to our clients attention.

We booked accommodation in Perth for some of our clients but due to the fact that Discover West cancelled the booking although we sent payment in time ( the probable cause being we did a bank transfer on a Sunday).

 So having taken us about 20 seconds to transfer the fund, after 3 days of no replies to our emails asking for a refund we got through to them 3 days later and was told, “No, you will have to wait for up to 6 weeks for a refund” - giving various reasons why this should be so, none of which were convincing.

So bear this in mind when booking your holidays. In this case the clause reads; “Refund requests are to be made in writing. It will not be possible to give an accurate indication of refunds due until responses are received from service providers relating to their fees.”

In our case there was no service provider involved as the booking was cancelled.

A 40 minute ferry ride transports you for downtown Auckland to a small island of 8000 inhabitants. An island with rolling hills, sandy coves, walking tracks, about 25 art galleries, fishing shacks and some great buildings . Most importantly some top-class wineries and olive groves that flourish in the Mediterranean climate. Actually there are more than 20 vineyards waiting for you to savour their pride.

These vineyards are winning international aclaim and feeding the discerning at fine restaurants that most often adjoins the vineyards and offer great views of the island as well as far distant Auckland.

On your must-do-list you should add a lunch at Mudbrick vineyard and restaurant whose chefs have worked in Michelin-starred restaurants . Try Pure Black Angus Grass-Fed Eye Fillet. Dessert? Why not a Mango, Saffron and Almond Rice Pudding!

Stonyridge is another fine example with its ultra premium organic red wines and it’s Verandah Cafe overlooking the valley with vines and olive trees.

 Waiheke Island is an exclusive destination with multi-million dollar houses - mainly understated design -  being built up on the hills in contrast to simple beach shacks in the villages.

Australian Travel Services has incorporated a couple of tours to Waiheke on their website where you will find all necessary information to make your trip to New Zealand a good one.