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Smell the cherry blossoms in Japan

Japan

Japan’s pastel pink cherry blossoms smell as good as they look. While the trees seldom bear fruit, the blossom flourishes every spring, and with it comes an intoxicating floral scent.

The Japanese celebrate Sakura (cherry blossom) with Hanami, literally “flower viewing” celebrations which take place in March and April.

Locals organise flower appreciation picnics under the blooms, sitting beneath the bubble gum petals and sipping on ‘Sakura’ Pepsi. For a limited time, even the cola’s pink!

“You have to try the Starbucks sakura-themed drinks - they are an acquired taste but has to be done!”

Connect with a Japan specialist

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Gemma Pearce

House of Travel Barrington

I love turning people's dreams into reality and enjoy sharing my travel experiences.

Travel is my passion and I feel it’s the only thing you can buy that makes you richer!

Gemma

Namrata Patel

House of Travel Hobsonville

Hi, I’m Namrata — a travel consultant who genuinely cares about your time, your budget, and your hopes for that memorable holiday. I love turning travel ideas into something real and unforgettable. For me, building an itinerary is like solving a puzzle — shaped by your interests, personality, and sense of adventure.

I’m research-driven and love digging into the details that make a trip special. Whether it’s tricky airfares, island-hopping cruises, or crafting meaningful family journeys, I’m here for it.

Travel is never one-size-fits-all, and I look forward to discovering your unique travel style.
Every trip starts with a good chat — let’s start there.

Namrata

Leanne Newton

House of Travel Upper Riccarton

Experiencing travel through the eyes of my daughter, has given me a whole new perspective and thirst for travel.

It enables me to slow my pace, look around and just enjoy being in the moment as she interacts with local people.

It brings back that feeling I had when I first travelled overseas, and I feel so grateful to be able to experience something so meaningful and life changing with my daughter.

Leanne

Petra Otte

House of Travel Wellington City

Having spent 40+ years, 30 owning my own HOT outlet here in the heart of Wellington, in this exciting and ever changing industry you could say that extraordinary resilience is at the top of my skite sheet given the many and varying challenges that have faced travellers over the years.

My clients and colleagues describe me as a passionate people person, who endeavours to get the best out of a traveller's investment.

It is important for me to be inclusive of everyone within a travelling party, to hear the voice of each traveller, and ensure everyone's wishes are met.

Having been to all continents bar Antarctica which is high on my list, I have also travelled in all styles from budget overland backpacking to luxury cruises which allows me to relate to all clients and work with you for what is best for you.

Petra