Flight time
The flight from Auckland to South Africa takes roughly 20 hours with a stopover. It's a bit of a haul but that will immediately be forgotten when you see your first baby elephant or herd of zebra.
South Africa is a country that dazzles with diversity – from wild savannahs to edgy cityscapes to the turquoise coastline and white sands of your dreams.
Watch elephants, giraffes and rhinos roam at sunrise in Kruger National Park, feel the sea breeze on your face at Cape Point, or hike Table Mountain for panoramic views that will leave you utterly speechless.
In Cape Town, colourful neighbourhoods, harbourside precincts and buzzing food markets are brimming with life, while Johannesburg hums with creativity and a bold, artistic spirit.
Food and wine lovers are in for a treat – sip award-winning vintages in the Cape Winelands, feast on fiery Durban curries, discover Cape Malay flavours in Bo-Kaap, and tuck into sizzling braai (barbecue) wherever you go.
Up for adventure? South Africa has it in spades – cage-diving with great whites, hiking, kayaking with penguins, river rafting, cycling and so much more.
Get chatting with our South African specialists – your adventure of a lifetime is calling!
The flight from Auckland to South Africa takes roughly 20 hours with a stopover. It's a bit of a haul but that will immediately be forgotten when you see your first baby elephant or herd of zebra.
The best time to visit South Africa depends on where you're headed: May to September is ideal for safaris, spring and autumn shine in Cape Town, and Durban’s coast offers warm, beach-perfect weather year-round.
South Africa is 10-11 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving here so there's a bit of an adjustment to be made.
Bridget has an amazing collection of knowledge from 19 years creating wonderful itineraries for all her clients. She takes the role of research very seriously from finding the finest cocktail to ensuring everyone has the best activity tips!
Her knowledge in cruising, as well as other adventure and family travel combined with her easy approachable manner takes the pain out of planning your trip of a lifetime.
"Designing unique travel experiences is my passion. My attention to detail and always looking for exclusive options ensures that all client's experiences are seamless right from the initial enquiry".
When Bridget is not pouring over brochures for inspiration, you can find her having a game of tennis, finding the next best HOT Chocolate, or spending time with her family.
"Travel is the healthiest addiction" - Anonymous
Why I love travel:
For me life is about experiences, not things! I love exploring new places, cultures, environments. I see travel for me as an addiction - I just can't stay away and helping people is so rewarding.
My travel tips:
My top 5 destinations:
What's in my suitcase?
Bridget
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
I'm Gavin Rasikaran, your dedicated travel expert with a passion for exploring the world and a commitment to making your travel dreams a reality.
With over 40 years of experience in the travel industry, I've had the privilege of helping countless clients embark on unforgettable journeys to destinations near and far.
When it comes to planning an International trip, be it just one destination or an around the world journey, it can all become overwhelming and daunting. Together with you, I will help you plan a perfect holiday taking the stress away, personalised to you.
As the proud Owner Operator of House of Travel Nelson, I lead a small but passionate team dedicated to taking care of all your travel needs.
I primarily work on the Orbit World Travel side of our business, specialising in business and group travel. But as a traveller myself, I love chatting with customers and the team about their upcoming adventures — there’s nothing better than sharing in the excitement of a great trip!
Travel has played a huge role in my life. From years of family holidays to the Gold Coast and Fiji, where the kids spent hours in the pool or on the playground, to unforgettable highlights like Disneyland (they were 10 and 12 — the perfect age!), followed by a relaxing week in Mexico. These days, with older kids, we’re seeking more adventure. Our recent trip to Vietnam was a standout — from the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the peaceful beauty of Hoi An's lanterns and Halong Bay. If you haven’t been, it’s a must!
Next on my list? Europe. While I’ve done a couple of quick trips
in the past, I’m keen to take the time to explore the diverse cultures and rich
history of the places I’ve spent years helping others discover.
Whether your trip is big or small, come in and see us at House of Travel Nelson — we’ll make sure it’s your best one yet.
"Very friendly and very willing to help and she listens"
Neil"Tori immediately analysed what I required: air travel and insurance to fit in with a pre-booked rugby tour package to South Africa. She suggested a different plan to one I envisaged. It saved money and was more efficient timewise, as I wanted return travel via London. This was achieved in a matter of days to meet the rugby tour organisers demand for insurance before they could make further arrangements."
Nevil"Steve was very prompt with his response and information relating to my airfares inquiry. And also to my expanded inquiry for a tour. Just a pity there was an error with my air ticket booking proposal that caused me some concern. But it was all sorted in good time even tho the weekend made things difficult. I’m just sorry for Steve that it was only an air ticket."
Penelope-JaneStart here
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