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India

An explosion of colour, culture and cuisine

Holi Festival

Vibrant, wild and unforgettable – this is India

India is a sensory explosion — bold, vibrant and utterly unforgettable. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-drenched beaches of Goa and Kerala, this is a country that lives life in full colour.

Watch the sun rise over the Taj Mahal, wander the palaces of Rajasthan, or lose yourself in the spiritual chaos of Varanasi. Indulge in food from sizzling street stalls — samosas, chaat, curries — their delicious aromas drifting through the air. Or browse dazzling shops for vibrant textiles and sparkling jewellery.

Get amongst it in the bustling madness of Mumbai, or find your calm with Ayurvedic treatments and yoga in a palm-fringed coastal retreat. India is whatever you need it to be — full-noise excitement or complete tranquillity.

Whether you’re drawn by the festivals, the flavours, the spirituality or the sheer beauty of it all, India is a holiday that will stay with you forever.

Let our India travel specialists create your perfect, personalised escape today.

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Flight time

The flight from Auckland to India takes roughly 18 hours with a stopover. It's not a short flight but India's energy will more than make up for the travel time once you get there.

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Best time to go

A great time to visit India is December to March, when dry, sunny days make exploring beaches, cities, temples, and national parks ideal. But with varied climates and year-round festivals, it's best to decide based on your regions or activities of interest.

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Time difference

India is 6.5-7.5 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving here. Yes, that half hour is correct!

Meet our India specialists

Fiona Muir

Fiona Muir

House of Travel Whanganui

You know how some people collect handbags or shoes, well I have a love of collecting passport stamps! I developed a bit of a passion for adventure travel since working in the States at a summer camp in my early 20’s. I have travelled to over 40 countries, doing everything from eating scorpions in China, snorkelling the Silfra fissure in Iceland, to skydiving in Namibia.

Fiona


Anna O'Dell-Smith

Anna O'Dell-Smith

House of Travel Ferrymead

Having travelled extensively I thoroughly enjoy immersing myself in the rich culture of any country I am fortunate enough to visit. Travel is my passion and I love helping clients create an unforgettable experience that is uniquely their own. 

I genuinely believe that travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. I enjoy being part of each and every journey. No day is the same in the life of a travel consultant and I relish the challenge that this represents. I am flattered by the number of clients who have come back to me time and time again. 

Having travelled to nearly 50 countries, my bucket list is still never ending. I have backpacked my way through the world in my youth as well as enjoying five star luxury in more recent times. I have definitely felt richer from each and every experience. Travel is a way of life, I love what I do and that passion and enthusiasm always translates into the work I put into my clients plans. 


Anna 

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


Elizabeth Turney

Elizabeth Turney

House of Travel Hamilton City

I’m someone who’s always had a deep passion for travel and a genuine love of connecting people with the world around them.

I’ve been fortunate to live in several countries and have spent many months backpacking through South America, Europe and Asia, experiences that have given me a deep appreciation for different cultures, landscapes, and ways of life.

For me, travel is more than just visiting new places, it’s about creating meaningful connections and helping others experience the transformative power of discovering the world.

Whether it’s sharing stories, planning journeys, or offering guidance, I’m passionate about helping others create their own unforgettable travel experiences.

Liz

Customer holidays snaps

Best. India Holidays. Ever!

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