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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

Lisa Crawford

Lisa Crawford

House of Travel Lower Hutt

My love of languages and exploring the world has naturally evolved into a career in travel. I enjoy discovering what motivates your travels and tailoring your trip to suit your own style and interests.

I have travelled extensively across Europe and lived abroad both in the UK and Paraguay. Recent travel highlights include cruising Hawaii’s Islands and experiencing the best of Washington DC.

My special interest is in cruising, from the world’s largest floating resorts to casually cruising Europe’s rivers or the more adventurous Expedition ships to the Antarctic. There is a cruise possibility for every personality and preference!

I look forward to getting to know you and helping you to get the most out of your next adventure. 

Lisa

Catherine Johnson

Catherine Johnson

House of Travel Ashburton

Travel is my passion and to be able to share this with others is the best part of my job!

I love all aspects of travel-adventure, food, culture, relaxation and most importantly making life long memories.

Whether you're looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or a peaceful island escape, I can’t wait to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Catherine
Robyn Oretsky

Robyn Oretsky

House of Travel Wellington City

For me, travel has been more than just a series of destinations,  it has been a transformative journey that has sculpted my character and contributed to my personal evolution. 

My travel experiences are not merely about ticking off destinations from a bucket list, but about immersing myself in the heart and soul of each place I’ve visited visit.  

My early travels began with frequent road trips around my home country of Canada and the USA, and I am fortunate enough to have now been to six of the seven continents. 

Exploring the world through various modes of transportation has been a thrilling adventure for me, from cruise ships, to trains, to rickshaws, and I have an appreciation for the experiences that local transport offers.  I am comfortable with sleeping in a hammock in the rainforest, an overwater bungalow in the South Pacific, and everything in between.  

My experiences have taught me to adapt to different situations and understand diverse perspectives, and my background in customer service and sales has equipped me with valuable skills that I believe make me well-suited for various client needs. I believe this makes me well-suited to meet your needs as a client.

Whether it's finding solutions to problems or anticipating your preferences, I strive to provide an exceptional service tailored to you. My aim is to not just meet but exceed your expectations by drawing on my varied background.

My enthusiasm for travel is infectious, and it is my goal to inspire others to embark on their own adventures and discover the beauty of our planet.


Robyn
Maree Thompson

Maree Thompson

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

From the first travel I did as a teenager I have wanted to travel the world, experience the food, absorb the culture and learn the history!!!

I have always been passionate about creating the ultimate holidays and feel that makes me the best planner of your holidays that I can be!! 

I had been selling travel for over 20 years when I felt something else was needed and to the leap to be the retail manger of House of Travel Papamoa. I feel I have never looked back and enjoy leading a fantastic group of people!!

I love my job!!! I love the fact that no one holiday is ever the same and also thrive on a challenge of a complex itinerary, round the world flight or something out of the norm. 

I think the benefit you get with me is the experience I have had planning and travel and the places I have travelled. 

I have travelled extensively and in particular done a lot around New Zealand, Australia, South Pacific Islands, USA and Europe and find that travel opens your mind to another world full of new experiences, new tastes and an appreciation for life in general. 

I have a rule that every trip I do I need to pick one unique thing to do on holiday that is un-usual or you would not do on another holiday .... I have been hot air ballooning, have been on a segway tour, have helicoptered out to an island etc.

My Travel Tips

  • I am a bit of a IT geek so always travel with an adaptor that has USB ports for my IWatch, iPhone and iPad. 
  • Have a store of great apps that help with travel, packing, maps, closest toilet etc.!!
  • Always keep in touch with your travel agent so they can keep you up to date with deals that are out for your next holiday.
  • Cash passports are a MUST as safe and easy way to travel. 

The best holidays are definitely created together so would love to get you in for an appointment and have a discussion about your travel dreams.


Maree


Customer holidays snaps

Best. China Holidays. Ever!

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