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Malaysia

Bold bites, big sights and endless colour

Malaysia Thean Hou Temple

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.


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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.

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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.

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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.

Meet our Malaysia specialists

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

Pauline Gooding

Pauline Gooding

House of Travel Te Awamutu

My first big trip was off to Camp America many years ago. As soon as I stepped foot on the first big international plane, the travel bug bit me and I never wanted to stop! Eventually I had to get a "real job" and what better job than as a travel agent. 

Since then I've enjoyed sending many more people on their first big exciting trip overseas, on family holidays, honeymoons, reunions, road trips, girls trips and any other reason you can think of for travel!


Pauline

Shelley Rich

Shelley Rich

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

I have been a part of the travel industry for over 30 years and still love it!

I love to travel and I often joke with my clients that I live vicariously through them.

Planning the perfect holiday for my clients fills me with joy. I take pride in what I do and love sharing my passion of travel.

Many of my clients have become life long friends. 

Shelley

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

Best. Holidays. Ever!

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