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Maldives

The atolls dreams are made of

Ariel view of overwater bungalows

Paradise, perfected

We’ve all seen the pictures – powder-white sand, overwater villas and iridescent waters that look almost too perfect to be real. The Maldives is the kind of place you dream about – and once you’re there, it’s even better.

But this island nation isn’t just about perfecting your tan on a lounger. Divers and snorkellers will love Raa and Baa Atoll, home to vibrant marine life and the UNESCO-listed Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, where manta rays glide through the turquoise.

Culture seekers can visit local islands like Maafushi for a glimpse into daily Maldivian life, while food lovers will be fascinated by a cuisine that blends local tropical ingredients with Indian and Sri Lankan influence.

The Fari Islands offer sleek luxury with minimalist overwater villas and an art-focused vibe, while Laamu Atoll is all about seclusion – lush, untouched landscapes and boutique resorts designed for nature lovers and marine adventurers.

Whatever you’re looking for, there’s an atoll in the Maldives waiting to make your dream holiday come true.

Chat to our Maldives specialists and start planning the trip of a lifetime.

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Flight time

There are no direct flights to Malé, so the journey usually involves a 16 to 22-hour transit via hubs like Singapore or Dubai. The real adventure begins at Velana International Airport, where your "taxi" is often a seaplane or a speedboat. Depending on how remote your resort is, you’ll finish your journey with a low-altitude flight over turquoise atolls or a salt-sprayed ride directly to your overwater villa’s jetty.

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Best time to go

The best times to visit the Maldives are during the dry season (November to April). This period brings sunny skies, low humidity, and calm seas, perfect for beach stays, snorkelling, diving, and luxury resort travel.

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Time difference

Maldives is 8 hours behind New Zealand, depending on Daylight Saving here so there's a bit of an adjustment to be made.

Meet our Maldives 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

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

Jessica Osbourn

Jessica Osbourn

House of Travel Papamoa

I have always been a lover of travel, family holidays as a child sparked my love of seeing the world. I was born in England, moving to New Zealand with my family at the age of six. Drawn to the outdoors and the natural beauty of the world, I enjoy nothing more than exploring new landscapes, immersing myself in local living or being a major tourist. Whether that’s wondering narrow streets, exploring a big city or lounging on a sun-soaked beach.

In addition to my knowledge of travel, I'm currently training to become a Contiki champ with a passion for adventure and a love of meeting new people, I am eager to help you plan your own exciting Contiki, Top Deck, G-adventures or Intrepid tour and create unforgettable memories. 

I was fortunate enough to be sent to Disneyland California and loved every aspect of its adrenaline packed adventure. It is an unforgettable trip and I cant wait to help others book their magical Disney holidays. 

With a passion for adventure and a keen eye for detail, I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems, unique experiences and trending destinations. Whether you're looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, I have the drive to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Jessica
Tanya Aitken

Tanya Aitken

House of Travel Papamoa

Travel fuels my soul, the experiences, the opportunities, the culture, the adventures, I have been lucky enough to have a career that is a labour of love. Planning holidays with a high degree of skill, attention and knowledge has become my trade mark.

I absolutely adore planning epic family trips, luxurious holidays alongside organizing a lot of corporate travel business as well. I also travel a lot, as often as I can so I have up to date first hand experience in so many areas. This has given me the skill and experience to share with my clients and ensure they also come away with travel experiences second to none. I work with a large referral business and I do require appointments to fully assess what is going to be right for you and start planning your holiday. 

Tanya

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