For many mature Kiwis, Tasmania has long been on the travel wish list. It’s often said Tasmania is a world apart – and in many ways, it truly is. With its wild coastlines, pristine wilderness, historic towns and gourmet fare, Australia’s island state is an irresistible blend of natural beauty and cultural depth.
Though small in size, Tasmania punches well above its weight in beauty and story. Nearly half of the island is protected as national park or World Heritage Area – a sanctuary for rare wildlife, alpine moorlands, glacial lakes and some of the oldest trees on Earth. This is the last stronghold of the elusive Tasmanian devil and home to some of the clearest air and purest water on the planet.
The island’s human history is just as rich. In the 17th and 18th centuries came the British – first as explorers and then as colonisers – establishing one of the harshest convict settlements in the Southern Hemisphere at Port Arthur. Today, its haunting ruins tell tales of resilience, punishment and reform, woven deeply into Tasmania’s heritage.
However, Tasmania is far from stuck in the past. It’s a place that embraces creativity and reinvention. In Hobart, the once-sleepy capital, you’ll now find a thriving arts scene, world-class dining, and the irreverent MONA – a subterranean museum that’s become one of the world’s most talked-about galleries.
Beyond the cities, Tasmania’s charm lies in its communities – towns like Strahan, where fishermen haul in their catch from the wild west coast; or Stanley, perched below an ancient volcanic plug known as The Nut. In Launceston, beautifully preserved streetscapes give way to riverside walks and elegant gardens. Across the east coast, white sand beaches and granite headlands invite you to linger.
The food is something else again. With fertile soil, pristine seas, and passionate growers, Tasmania is a food lover’s paradise. Think creamy cheeses, sweet berries, ocean-fresh oysters, truffles, whisky, pinot noir – all served with heart and hospitality.
If you’ve yet to discover Tasmania, this is your invitation. It’s not just another state of Australia – it’s a state of mind. It’s no surprise those who visit often say they’ve seen something special – something unforgettable.
In March 2026 Grown Up Holidays will be part of a guided escorted group tour exploring the best of Tasmania. Departing from, and returning to Auckland, this 14-day all-inclusive tour spends time in Hobart, Strahan, Cradle Mountain, Stanley, Launceston, St Helens and much more.
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