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Flamin’ heck, darl! After 33 years of tough love and cups of tea in Summer Bay, Lynne McGranger, better known to millions as Irene Roberts, has finally put down the apron and announced her retirement from Home & Away. And New Zealand, never one to miss a chance for a little trans-Tasman cheek, is offering her a farewell break befitting television royalty.

Tourism New Zealand and Air New Zealand have teamed up to give Lynne the “retirement holiday she deserves” with a week of indulgence across the ditch. From vineyards to whale watching, it’s a send-off that leaves Alf Stewart’s barbecues looking like a sausage sizzle at Bunnings.

The End of an Era

McGranger’s career is nothing short of monumental. Since 1991, she has embodied the resilient, no-nonsense Irene Roberts, becoming the longest-serving female actor in an Australian drama. This month, she capped it off with television’s elusive crown jewel, the Gold Logie for most popular personality.

But even legends need a breather. “You’ve spent three decades working hard to entertain Aussies and Kiwis alike, and we know you’re going to want to put your feet up,” said Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy. “There’s no better time for retirees to visit than spring the waterfalls are roaring, the whales are migrating, and the walks are just the right length.”

The Kiwi Itinerary Fit for a Logie Winner

The itinerary reads like a greatest hits album of New Zealand tourism, tailored to tempt even the most seasoned traveller. For Lynne and her lucky guest, the highlights include:

  • Hotel Britomart, Auckland – swap Irene’s beloved Pier Diner for fresh seafood at Kingi.

  • Rotorua’s Wai Ariki Spa – seven steps of geothermal bathing, mud wraps and saunas, guaranteed to soothe three decades of soap-opera stress.

  • Hawke’s Bay vineyards – a day of cycling and sampling Chardonnay and Syrah in New Zealand’s newest Great Wine Capital.

  • Whale Watch Kaikōura – a chance to marvel at whales, dolphins, and seals in their natural element.

  • Abel Tasman boat cruise – a serene exploration of turquoise waters and golden beaches.

  • Amisfield Restaurant, Queenstown – finishing with a flourish at the restaurant recently ranked third best in the world by Food & Wine Magazine.

Frankly, it makes Alf Stewart’s “Stone the flamin’ crows!” sound like an understatement.

A Sale for All Aussies

Of course, it wouldn’t be cricket to let Lynne have all the fun. Air New Zealand has extended the party to the rest of us, launching a three-day sale with fares from Australia to New Zealand starting at just $259 one-way*.

Air New Zealand’s General Manager Australia, Kathryn O’Brien, quipped: “After 30 years at home, you need some time away. We’re thrilled to host Lynne on a trans-Tasman adventure; and because she’s such an icon, we’re sharing the love with all Australians thanks to our three-day sale.”

Sale highlights include:

  • Sydney to Wellington from $259

  • Melbourne to Auckland from $269

  • Brisbane to Christchurch from $269

  • Adelaide to Wellington from $345

  • Perth to Auckland from $545

(Full details at airnewzealand.com.au)

A Legacy and a Leap

For fans, Lynne’s farewell marks the end of a chapter in Australian television history. Few characters have embedded themselves in the national psyche as Irene Roberts has. And now, her story dovetails into a new adventure this time without scripts, sets or directors, just the pure scenery and hospitality of New Zealand.

It’s a fitting tribute: a star who gave her all to the small screen, now given the space to exhale among mountains, vineyards, and whale-filled waters.

So, c’mon Irene—pack the bags. The Kiwis are waiting.

By Octavia Koo

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