Flight time
The flight from Auckland to Malaysia takes roughly 11 hours nonstop. It takes a while to get there but the sights and sounds of this vibrant destination will soon have you ready for action.
A melting pot of culture, nature and mouthwatering flavour
Malaysia is a fascinating fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and Indigenous cultures, making every encounter a window into something new. Everyone you meet brings a little of their story to your holiday – and that diversity runs through everything.
It’s also a country of contrasts. In Kuala Lumpur, sleek skyscrapers and mega malls sit side by side with bustling night markets and fragrant street food stalls. In Penang, colonial-era buildings frame streets that pulse with bold modern art and creativity.
Nature lovers are spoiled for choice – hike through Borneo’s lush rainforests, spot orangutans in the wild, or sink into the golden sands of Langkawi. And the food? It’s the ultimate cultural mash-up – from spicy laksa and rich beef rendang to buttery roti canai, smoky satay and hand-pulled noodles.
Chase waterfalls, temple-hop, snorkel turquoise bays, explore centuries of history or simply follow your nose to the next hawker stall – Malaysia is an adventure for all your senses.
Let our Malaysia specialists plan your perfect Asian escape.
Best time to go
Malaysia is a year-round destination, but December–February is best for the west coast, March–May for wildlife and beaches, June–September for Kuala Lumpur and diving, and October–November for Melaka and the Cameron Highlands.
Time difference
Malaysia is 4–5 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving in NZ. It won't take too long to get your body on to local time.
Our Malaysia Holidays 2
Explore Malaysia - Bonus Side Trip with Malaysia Airlines
Malaysia
Malaysia - Bonus Side Trip with Malaysia Airlines
Return flights*
4 Nights
Breakfast daily
from
$
365
per person share twin. International flights are additional
Explore Eastern & Oriental Express - Wild Malaysia Journey
Singapore
Eastern & Oriental Express - Wild Malaysia Journey
Rail Travel
All meals and drinks
Rail excursions
Contact us for the best price available
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Cruising in Malaysia 3
Explore Singapore & Disney Cruise to Langkawi
Singapore & Disney Cruise to Langkawi
Want to add a 3rd or 4th Guest?
Book by 20 December 2026 and the 3rd and 4th Guests can save 50% off the cruise fare when sharing the same stateroom with 2 full-fare Guests on selected Disney Adventure sailings from Singapore.
Valid for departures from 4 January to 16 December 2027. Contact House of Travel for package pricing.
Discover the perfect introduction to Disney Adventure with House of Travel’s fantastic Fly, Stay & Cruise package. Begin with a hotel stay in vibrant Singapore before setting sail on a magical Disney Adventure cruise, including a call into tropical Langkawi.
On board, Disney, Marvel and Pixar stories come to life across seven immersive themed areas, alongside dazzling live shows, deck parties, movies, character meet-and-greets and creatively themed dining — all seamlessly brought together for a smooth, stress-free getaway.
7 Night Fly, Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
4399
per person share twin
Deluxe Inside Stateroom
Deluxe Inside Stateroom
Cruising with
Disney Cruise Line
Departs 10 May 2027
Explore Singapore, Malaysia & Thailand
Singapore, Malaysia & Thailand
Pair with your favourite airline and enjoy a round‑trip cruise from Singapore, discovering the flavours and cultures of Southeast Asia. Explore Penang’s colourful streets, relax on Langkawi’s stunning beaches, and soak up Phuket’s tropical vibes. With laid‑back sea days and enriching port stops, this easygoing itinerary blends culture, cuisine and island relaxation before returning to Singapore.
5 Night Cruise
from
$
1069
per person share twin
Interior Stateroom
Flights Addiitonal
Interior Stateroom
Flights Addiitonal
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 24 May 2027
Explore Singapore & Disney Cruise Epic Escape
Singapore & Disney Cruise Epic Escape
Want to add a 3rd or 4th Guest?
Book by 20 December 2026 and the 3rd and 4th Guests can save 50% off the cruise fare when sharing the same stateroom with 2 full-fare Guests on selected Disney Adventure sailings from Singapore.
Valid for departures from 4 January to 16 December 2027. Contact House of Travel for package pricing.
Discover the perfect introduction to Disney Adventure with a fantastic Fly, Stay & Cruise package including back-to-back cruises for more magical time onboard! Begin with a hotel stay in vibrant Singapore before setting sail to explore seven immersive themed areas where Disney, Marvel and Pixar stories come to life. Enjoy dazzling live shows, deck parties, movies, character meet-and-greets and creatively themed dining — all seamlessly brought together for a smooth, stress-free getaway.
10 Night Fly, Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
5759
per person share twin
Deluxe Inside Stateroom
Deluxe Inside Stateroom
Cruising with
Disney Cruise Line
Departs 7 May 2027
Malaysia Tours 10
Malaysia FAQs
What is the best time to visit Malaysia?
Malaysia is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on where you're travelling.
The west coast, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi, is generally best between December and April, while the east coast islands tend to have their best weather between March and October.
Thanks to its tropical climate, you'll find warm temperatures throughout the year, making Malaysia an excellent option for beach holidays, city breaks and cultural adventures.
How long should I spend in Malaysia?
Most New Zealand travellers spend 7 to 14 days in Malaysia.
A week is enough to combine Kuala Lumpur with a beach destination like Langkawi or Penang, while two weeks allows you to explore multiple regions, experience the food scene, visit cultural sites and enjoy some downtime on the coast.
Where should I go on holiday in Malaysia?
Malaysia offers a fantastic blend of cities, culture, beaches, rainforests and islands.
Kuala Lumpur is popular for shopping, food, culture and the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Penang for its incredible street food and heritage streets, Langkawi for beaches, resorts and island-hopping, Malacca (Melaka) for history and colonial architecture, Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) for wildlife, rainforests and adventure and Perhentian Islands for snorkelling and crystal-clear waters.
Many first-time visitors combine Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi for a well-rounded Malaysian holiday.
Is Malaysia a good holiday destination for New Zealanders?
Absolutely. Malaysia is a popular choice for Kiwi travellers thanks to its affordability, diverse culture, excellent food, family-friendly attractions and beautiful landscapes.
Whether you're looking for a city break, a beach escape, a foodie adventure or a multi-country Southeast Asia itinerary, Malaysia offers excellent value and plenty to see.
Do I need a visa for Malaysia from New Zealand?
New Zealand passport holders can generally visit Malaysia for short-term tourism without applying for a visa in advance.
Entry requirements can change, so it's always worth checking the latest travel advice and entry requirements before you depart.
How do I find the best Malaysia holiday package?
The best Malaysia holiday packages often combine flights, accommodation and transfers, with the option to add tours and island stays.
Booking early is recommended during school holidays and peak travel periods. Many travellers also combine Malaysia with Singapore, Thailand or Vietnam as part of a multi-city Asian holiday.
Is Malaysia expensive to visit?
Malaysia is often considered one of the best-value destinations in Southeast Asia.
Accommodation, transport and dining are generally very affordable, while luxury hotels and beachfront resorts can offer remarkable value compared to many other international destinations.
How much does a Malaysia holiday cost from NZ?
Malaysia offers excellent value for money.
Many New Zealand travellers find that accommodation, food, transport and sightseeing costs are lower than in many other popular holiday destinations. Whether you're seeking luxury resorts or budget-friendly travel, Malaysia caters to a wide range of budgets.
Where should I stay in Malaysia?
The best place to stay depends on the type of holiday you're planning. Kuala Lumpur is perfect for shopping, dining and sightseeing, Penang is ideal for culture, heritage and food lovers, Langkawi is popular for beaches, families, and resort stays, and Borneo is great for wildlife encounters and nature experiences.
Malaysia has accommodation options to suit every budget, from boutique hotels and apartments to luxury beachfront resorts.
What should I pack for Malaysia?
Malaysia's tropical climate means lightweight clothing is essential.
We recommend packing:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Swimwear
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- A reusable water bottle
- A small umbrella or rain jacket
- Modest clothing for visiting mosques and religious sites
Humidity can be high, so light fabrics are your best friend.
Do I need travel insurance for Malaysia?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for Malaysia.
A comprehensive policy can help cover medical expenses, travel delays, lost luggage, cancellations and activities, giving you greater peace of mind while travelling.
What currency is used in Malaysia?
Malaysia uses the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while ATMs are easy to find throughout the country.
Can I use New Zealand dollars in Malaysia?
No, New Zealand dollars are not accepted for everyday purchases.
You'll need to exchange NZD into Malaysian Ringgit or withdraw local currency when you arrive.
Is Malaysia safe for travellers?
Malaysia is generally considered a safe and welcoming destination for tourists.
As with any destination, it's sensible to keep an eye on your belongings, use reputable transport providers and stay aware of your surroundings in busy tourist areas.
Can you drink tap water in Malaysia?
It's generally recommended that visitors drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water.
Most hotels, restaurants and tourist facilities provide easy access to safe drinking water.
How do I get around Malaysia?
Getting around Malaysia is easy thanks to its modern transport network.
Choose to journey by train, domestic flights, buses, taxis, ride-share services or private transfers.
For most visitors, trains and ride-share services like Grab, provide a convenient and affordable way to travel around major cities.
Do I need to hire a car in Malaysia?
Most travellers don't need a rental car in Kuala Lumpur, Penang or other major cities.
Public transport and Grab are widely available and affordable. However, hiring a car can be useful in destinations like Langkawi if you'd like the freedom to explore at your own pace.
What are the best things to do in Malaysia?
Malaysia offers an incredible variety of experiences.
Some visitor favourites include:
- Visiting the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur
- Exploring George Town's street art and food scene in Penang
- Relaxing on Langkawi's beaches
- Riding the Langkawi SkyCab
- Visiting the Batu Caves
- Spotting orangutans and wildlife in Borneo
- Exploring Malaysia's bustling night markets
- Enjoying island-hopping and snorkelling adventures
Is Malaysia family-friendly?
Yes, Malaysia is a fantastic destination for families.
Families love the mix of beaches, theme parks, wildlife experiences, shopping and cultural attractions. Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Penang are particularly popular with families travelling from New Zealand.
What should I know about cultural etiquette in Malaysia?
Malaysia is a multicultural country with Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous influences.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, remove your shoes before entering mosques and some homes, be respectful during cultural and religious celebrations and always ask permission before photographing people in rural communities.
Locals are friendly and welcoming and showing respect for local customs is always appreciated.
Do I need cash or can I use cards in Malaysia?
Both are useful.
Cards are widely accepted in shopping centres, hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions, while cash is handy for local markets, food stalls and smaller businesses.
Is Malaysia a good stopover destination?
Yes. Malaysia is an excellent stopover option for travellers heading between New Zealand, Europe and Asia.
Kuala Lumpur's modern airport, affordable accommodation, world-class dining and easy access to attractions make it ideal for a short stopover. Even two or three nights gives you enough time to experience the city's highlights and break up a longhaul journey.
What apps should I download before travelling to Malaysia?
These apps can make travelling around Malaysia much easier:
- Google Maps
- Grab
- Google Translate
- Klook
- XE Currency Converter
Downloading offline maps before you arrive can also be helpful, especially if you're planning to explore outside major cities.
Meet our Malaysia specialists
Jay Irvine
House of Travel Halswell
Travel has always been a passion of mine, but what I enjoy most is helping others experience the excitement that comes with planning their next adventure. Whether it's a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, a family getaway, a cruise, or a quick escape, I love taking the stress out of the planning process so my clients can simply look forward to their trip.
As a Travel Consultant with House of Travel, I've been fortunate to experience a wide variety of travel styles first-hand. From ocean cruising and independent travel to small group journeys and fully escorted tours, I understand that no two travellers are the same. I've explored destinations throughout Australia, Europe, Asia, the South Pacific and the USA, giving me genuine first-hand knowledge that I can share with my clients.
Australia remains one of my favourite destinations, with its incredible mix of vibrant cities, stunning coastlines and unforgettable regional experiences. Cruising is another personal passion, and I enjoy helping clients find the perfect ship and itinerary, whether it's their very first cruise or they're seasoned travellers looking for their next adventure.
I believe the best holidays are built around the people taking them. That's why I take the time to understand what my clients enjoy, what inspires them, and what they want from their travels. My goal is simple—to create seamless, memorable holidays while providing honest advice, personalised service, and support every step of the way.
Jay
Erica Banks
House of Travel Milford
Originally from the UK and with over 30 years in the Travel Industry I
have been lucky enough to travel to many wonderful places in the world - my
favourite trips have usually included seeing wildlife in their natural habitat.
I love planning trips off the beaten track as well your dream holiday or
cruise. I have been looking after many of my clients for several years
and enjoy getting to know them personally to ensure I can find what will suit
them best
I am a CLIA Cruise Master and have received the HOT Customer Champion award a
couple of times – I appreciate feedback received that clients find me to be
“professional and friendly.
Erica
Melissa Topp
House of Travel Christchurch City
Travel really is my passion and I perhaps love organising it just as much as the actual travelling. Being able to open up options for people they had no idea they could accomplish is truly exciting. I love the scope of what we can accomplish as a travel agent; our systems, knowledge and relationships with the right people all add up to being able to organise a truly memorable trip. I’ve done it all from tours, safaris, ocean and river cruises, adventure travel, self-drives, rail journeys, family travel specialising in all things Disney and I love to share my knowledge to help you achieve the trip of your lifetime.
Outside of the office I like to spend my time skiing, horse riding, tramping, scuba diving, getting outside on our lifestyle block with my two little girls or enjoying a glass of pinot with a side order of chocolate mousse.
Years in the Industry: over 20
No. of countries visited: 50+
Favourite place to visit: Niue, no wait Cuba, hmm no
maybe it’s Egypt….. Or Italy….
Next place on the list to visit: Disneyworld
· “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Augustine of Hippo
Why I love travel?
Travel gives us our greatest stories, our most cherished memories and countless irreplaceable learnings that we can choose to pay forward to others. It teaches us about ourselves and each other, it broadens our horizons and, just like a reset button, it forces us to refocus on what really matters.
My travel tips:
- Pack your patient pants; Don’t sweat the stuff you can’t control. Your trip is
much too short to stress. Did you miss your bus? No worries, there will be
another one.. ATM out of
money? Great! Take an unplanned road trip over to the next town and
explore. I know it can be hard sometimes, but just
take a deep breath and remind yourself that it could be worse.
- Focus on value over
deals. It’s so easy to not look past the initial $ signs when organising
your trip but how much extra will there be in added costs once you are at
your destination, lost time or enjoyment is that initial saving really
going to cost you once you are there.
- Wake Up Early To Avoid Crowds. Rise before sunrise to have the best attractions all to yourself while avoiding large tourist crowds. It’s also a magical time for photos due to the softer light and often providing great opportunities to interact with locals getting ready for their day. Sketchy areas are less dangerous in the morning too. Honest hardworking people wake up early; scammers and criminals sleep in…
My top 5 favourite destinations:
- Rio
De Janeiro – Such an incredibly vibrant city. Imagine, having dinner in a
local favela, no other tourists in sight and locals from ages 1-99 all
together, laughing, dancing to the live music, everyone talking to
everyone. A local group of young people came down the street performing
the traditional capoeira martial art/dance and everyone heads outside to
watch and cheer them on. It is always the people that make the place and
Brazil’s people are very bit as colourful as this amazing city.
- Europe
River cruise – A true holiday. Pull up each day in a different location,
right in the heart of things, wander off the boat and go for it. Return
when you feel like it to every luxury you could want, top class food and
drink and every room has a front row view. No crowds, most ships have
under 200 passengers and a great option for both first time travellers and
more experienced as you tend to visit many of the smaller and often less
visited towns.
- Rocky
Mountaineer train journey – Starting in Banff, which really feels like the
Queenstown of Canada and ending in Vancouver, a stunning city just a few
minutes’ drive and from the beautiful redwood forests this train journey
is must do travel experience. Seeing the spectacular scenery of the
Rockies from the comfort of your warmed up spacious leather seat, the
mountains are not just to either side but also above you through the glass
roof of the train.
- Borneo
– Here you can combine stunningly beautiful beach resorts with a visit to
the jungle; see the Proboscis monkeys, baby turtles being released into
the ocean and one of the only places in the world to see Orangutans in
their native habitat. One of the least explored areas on the planet with
many adventures to be had but you don’t need to skimp on luxury.
- East Africa Safari – It is a strangely exciting experience to be told not to wander too far from your tent at night because wild animals are really all around you. From elephants wandering through our camp one evening, to hearing bison grazing in the grass around us while sleeping, Africa really is as wild as you hope it will be. So many travel experiences these days are replicas – shows put together for your enjoyment. Africa definitely is not; it could not get much more real. Seeing orphaned baby elephants playing football with each other, wandering over to you reaching out their trunk so smell you as you stand behind only a rope fence watching their antics is just one of the incredible experiences on offer in this amazing location.
What’s in my suitcase?
- A
dog bed. I kid you not. These days I’m travelling with two little ones in
tow and as strange as this sounds it’s a life saver on long haul
flights-pair it with one of those big inflatable pillows that go where
your legs usually do and you have a comfortable bed for the little ones to
curl up in.
- A
dirty laundry bag. One easy spot to place all the worn things and easy to
take to the laundry with you while travelling or dump in the machine when
home.
- Earplugs. I need a good nights sleep be ready to do everything I have planned for the next day on my holiday and you just never know what noises you might want to shut out while travelling.
Melissa
Taylor Le Breton
House of Travel Invercargill
I‘m an active explorer, food lover, and fitness addict who is always chasing the next adventure! Travel is my way of diving into new cultures, exploring the past, and tasting my way around the world. I’m always curious about how others live, what makes them happy, and I love coming home with stories to tell and memories that stick.
Taylor
Customer holidays snaps
Best. Malaysia Holidays. Ever!
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