Looking to relax and revitalise? These destinations offer an unforgettable break!

1. California dreamin’
Byron Bay in northern NSW, around two hours from Brisbane, is rated third in tripadvisor.com’s top 10 beach and sun destinations in the world. This former whaling station is now a surfing and snorkelling Mecca, with a laid-back, peaceful atmosphere.

The bay boasts a number of festivals, with the Byron Bay Bluesfest a highlight in the annual calendar. It’s held over the Easter weekend (21–25 April 2011) and will be headlined this year by Bob Dylan, with Elvis Costello and BB King also part of the stellar line-up.

Wildlife abounds off the pristine beaches and in the lush rainforests that surround the town. Take to the water to see humpback whales, dolphins and seals, or head inland to spot koalas, kangaroos and flying foxes.

Treat yourself: the profits from two parties will cover the cost for two adults to enjoy a guided tour in the World heritage-listed rainforests. Or take out a two-person kayak and paddle with the bay’s dolphins, whales and turtles.
Byron Bay Wildlife sunset tours: $80 per adult; $40 per child under 15. www.byronbaywildlifetours.com; 0429 770 686
GoSea Kayak: $65 per adult; $55 per child under 12. www.goseakayakbyronbay.com.au; 0416 222 344

2. Some like it hot
Hanmer Springs, on New Zealand’s South Island, caters to the extremes – from extreme sports to extreme relaxation and pampering! This family-friendly spot is situated in beautiful alpine surrounds, only a 90-minute drive from Christchurch or Kaikoura, or a three-hour drive from Greymouth.

The young, fit and adventurous will enjoy mountain biking, river rafting and jet boating, snowboarding, walking, fishing and golf. Or head to the Ferry Bridge and test your nerves against the 35m bungy-jump over the river canyon.

Once you’ve pushed your body to the limit, it’s time to indulge in the natural feature for which the area is renowned – its mineral-rich springs. Water temperatures at the open-air, thermal pools vary from a refreshing 28°C, up to a very toasty 42°C.

Treat yourself: the income from just three parties will pay for a couples’ spa treat at Hanmer Springs, including one night’s accommodation, a half hour sauna, half hour massage, half hour private thermal pool time, plus complimentary access to the outdoor thermal pools.
Hanmer Springs pamper packs: $329 for two people. www.hanmersprings.co.nz; +64 3 315 0020

3. National treasures
Situated 335km from Alice Springs, Uluru lies at the very heart of Australia. World-heritage listed for its natural and cultural significance, the famous sandstone rock formation dominates the landscape and appears to change colour with the changing light, from pale yellow to a rich, glowing red at sunset.
Along with nearby Kata Tjuta (formerly The Olgas), Uluru has incredible spiritual significance for the Anangu traditional landowners and is a fascinating place to learn about Australia’s aboriginal heritage.

Treat yourself: dine under the stars while an aboriginal storyteller shares his culture’s cosmic mythology, with a Sounds of Silence dinner for two at Uluru. You’ll arrive in time to see the sun set over Kata Tjuta and Uluru as you sip champagne and listen to didgeridoo, then indulge in a gourmet barbecue of bush foods, such as kangaroo, barramundi, wattle seed, native mint and macadamia. The profits of three parties will more than cover the cost.

Sounds of Silence Dinner: until April 2011, $159 per adult; $82 per child aged 10–12. From April 2011, $164 per adult; $84 per child aged 10–12. www.voyages.com.au; 1300 134 044

4. Taste sensation
In the Hunter Valley in NSW you’ll find picturesque rolling hills, gardens, galleries and gourmet local produce, but it is the region’s Mediterranean climate and wonderful vineyards that draw visitors from around the country.

One of Australia’s premier wine-growing regions, the Hunter Valley is home to the 2010 Winery of the Year – Tyrrell’s – according to James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion. Founded in 1858 and today one of the country’s most successful family wineries, Tyrell’s focuses on producing premium Semillon and Chardonnay. Visit its cellar door for tastings, and to view its historic buildings and antique oak vats.

Large and small wineries, including Lindemans, McGuigan, Wyndham Estate, Tulloch, De Bortoli Hunter Valley, the boutique Pepper Tree and the 150-year-old Drayton’s Family Wines, dot the valley and grape grazing tours are a popular experience.

Treat yourself: get a whole new perspective on the winelands in a hot-air balloon! The proceeds of five parties will pay for a balloon trip in the valley and a champagne breakfast for two.
Hunter Valley Ballooning: $335 per person, with gourmet champagne breakfast and flight certificate included. www.huntervalleyballooning.com.au; 1800 81 81 91

5. Playtime!
With its great shopping, white sandy beaches and theme parks, the Gold Coast has everything you could desire for an unforgettable family holiday.

After waking to views over shimmering blue water, you have plenty of options for unwinding in the Queensland sunshine. Splash around at Wet ’n’ Wild Water World, have a close encounter with the dolphins, seals and sharks at Sea World, or squeal your way through the rides, shows and adventures at Warner Bros. Movie World.

There’s lots to do in between as well; play cricket on the beach, give your family a thrill with watersports, take a nature walk or wow them with spectacular views from Sky Point, the observation deck at the top of the world’s tallest residential tower.

Treat yourself: why go to just one theme park when you can visit them all? The proceeds of three parties will pay for four VIP parks passes, that give you and the kids unlimited entry to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World and Wet ’n’ Wild Water World until 30 June 2011!
VIP Parks Passes: $99.99 per person. myfun.com.au; 133 386 (133 FUN)
Sky Point admission: $54.50 for a family of four. www.skypoint.com.au; 1300 473 325 (1300 4 QDECK)

*Party profit is $140, based on average party sales in Australia and New Zealand. The prices and contact details quoted are correct at time of going to print.

Get a head start on your Easter break: don't forget to date up January before you go away!