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China

Epic sights, ancient stories and modern marvels

Temple Of Heaven, Beijing, China

From the impossibly ancient to the ridiculously modern

China is a country where living history meets the future. From the fast-paced buzz of cities like Beijing and Shanghai to tranquil mountain ranges and misty rice terraces, there’s something here for everyone – and then some.

Step back in time at the Forbidden City, marvel at the ancient Buddhist art of the Mogao Grottoes, or hike the dramatic Tiger Leaping Gorge. You’ll quickly realise: one visit is never enough.

Of course, there are the icons – the Great Wall, the 1,200-year-old Buddha at Le Shan – but if nature is calling, head to Guilin’s karst peaks or Longji’s sweeping rice terraces for views that take your breath away. And don’t miss the panda breeding centres in Chengdu – cuteness levels are off the charts.

For food lovers, this is paradise. From street snacks to steaming bowls of noodles, there’s something delicious (and surprisingly affordable) every few metres.

A trip to China is a feast for the senses – a fascinating blend of ancient tradition, bold modernity and unforgettable flavour.

Chat to our China specialists and let’s map out your perfect adventure.

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Flight time

The flight from Auckland to China takes roughly 12 hours nonstop. It's not a short flight but worth it to see things you've only ever dreamed of.

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Best time to go

The best times to visit China are spring (March to May) and autumn (September and October) for mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer offers vibrant festivals while winter brings ice festivals and skiing.

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Time difference

China is 4–5 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving in NZ. It will take a couple of days to adjust

Meet our China specialists

Courtney McCormack

Courtney McCormack

House of Travel Morrinsville

Travel is truly in my blood. My grandparents sparked the travel bug in my mum, and she passed that passion on to me. From the moment I took my very first holiday at age three, a magical trip to Disneyland, I was hooked. Growing up, I listened to my mum’s stories from her OE, my cousins’ globe-trotting adventures, and my sister’s explorations, all of which fueled my own wanderlust.

Over the years, I’ve lived in Scotland, as well as in England and Ireland, soaking up different cultures and ways of life. I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively, exploring incredible destinations including Jordan, Israel, the USA, Australia & Europe. I’ve experienced the security and ease of organised solo travel with Contiki and Topdeck tours, but I’ve also embraced the challenge and freedom of planning my own trips, like eloping in Denmark, which remains one of my most cherished adventures.

With a background in hospitality, I combine practical knowledge with genuine care to craft holidays that are personalised, meaningful, and seamless. I love getting to know your unique travel style and what matters most to you, whether that’s family fun, a romantic escape, or a bucket-list adventure.

I’m not just your travel consultant; I’m your travel cheerleader. I’ll celebrate every countdown with you, smooth out any bumps along the way, and be just as excited when everything comes together perfectly. My goal is to take the stress out of travel planning, so you can focus on making memories.

Let’s work together to create a travel experience that’s not only unforgettable but uniquely yours.


Courtney

Linley Pearce

Linley Pearce

House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square

I have travelled to many countries & experienced many forms of travel - plane, train, river boat, coach, helicopter, longtail boat ....... I love to travel to old cities as I love buildings & architecture, food, wine, people watching & taking photos.

Travel constantly challenges me, I especially love interesting flight itineraries. I have over 35 yrs experience in this complex and dynamic industry, I can use my knowledge to work with you to create your journey no matter the destination.

Linley

Charlotte Chalman

Charlotte Chalman

House of Travel Invercargill

Travel -it broadens our views, creates lasting memories and allows you to take a break from the ordinary.

In recent years, I have taken to much more adventurous travel, heading to Central Asia and exploring Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, exploring much of Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Shanghai and looking forward to our next adventures in Africa.

I love travelling with my family and seeing my teenage girls minds blown by the experiences they have in different countries - different ways of living, different foods, different cultures, amazing sites (and sights!) and really seeing what is important to other people outside of NZ.

I love hearing about the epic adventures people have planned and love helping pull things together to give you your Best Holiday Ever. Give me a call or send me an email to get started on your next journey.

Charlotte

Sarah Martelli

Sarah Martelli

House of Travel Rotorua

Lovely to meet you! My love for travel began early—at 19, I left New Zealand with a one-way ticket to London to start my OE, and I’ve never looked back. I spent eight years living overseas, including four incredible years in London, where I explored Europe extensively. (Barcelona still has my heart!)

I began my travel career in Melbourne in 2004, and I knew I’d found my dream job. Even now, I still smile every day coming to work—I truly LOVE what I do.

Helping clients plan their adventures brings me so much joy. I specialise in point-to-point Europe itineraries, and I’m especially passionate about tours and cruising. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, I’m here to make your journey smooth, exciting, and unforgettable from start to finish.

I’m known for being friendly, bubbly, and a great listener. I’ll take the time to understand your needs and offer thoughtful advice and suggestions to make your trip the best it can be.

Now based on a dairy farm in Reporoa with my husband and our three young children, I understand the #mumlife juggle—and the importance of taking time out for a well-earned holiday! Having travelled to over 40 countries, I can’t wait to share my experience with you.


Sarah

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"easy and everything I asked for unlike the arrogant flight centre idiots"

Donald

"She was very attentive. Excellent comms. I don't use travel agents as a rule but she was great. I'll rethink my stance on them."

Alec

"We trust his extensive tavel knowledge and experiences and he always provides the ultimate customer service."

John

Best. Holidays. Ever!

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