Flight time
The flight from Auckland to the Philippines takes roughly 14 hours with a stopover. It's not short but the hospitality of the locals will envelope you as soon as you land.
Many people picture the busy streets of Manila when they think of the Philippines, but this vibrant country is made up of thousands of islands – each with its own magic.
From coral reefs and limestone cliffs to powdery beaches and emerald lagoons, the scenery is next-level stunning. In the Cordillera Highlands, you’ll find the 2,000-year-old Banaue Rice Terraces, and in Sagada, the mysterious and hauntingly beautiful Hanging Coffins.
Palawan is pure tropical paradise – think towering cliffs, crystal-clear waters and colourful reefs, perfect for kayaking or island-hopping. Wind down at the end of the day with beachfront dining and laid-back bars (Coron is a diver’s dream).
In Cebu, you’ll find a vibrant mix of history, waterfalls and beaches all within easy reach of the city.
But maybe the best thing about the Philippines? The people. Warm, welcoming and always ready with a smile – you’ll never feel like a stranger here.
Ready for your island-hopping escape? Chat to our Philippines specialists and start planning your unforgettable adventure.
The flight from Auckland to the Philippines takes roughly 14 hours with a stopover. It's not short but the hospitality of the locals will envelope you as soon as you land.
The Philippines has two seasons: dry (December–May) and rainy (June–November). Sunny dry months are ideal for beach days, but off-peak travel offers lower prices and quieter beaches—albeit with wet patches.
The Philippines are 4–5 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving in NZ. It might take a couple of days to get used to the time difference.
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Discover the vibrant skyline and timeless landmarks of Hong Kong as you set off on an unforgettable Holland America voyage across East and Southeast Asia. Explore the serene natural beauty of the Philippines' Puerto Princesa underground river, wander the powder-soft beaches of Boracay, and take in Manila’s unique blend of colonial history and modern energy. Continue to Taipei’s ornate temples and lively street culture, then sail on to tropical Okinawa, known for its coral reefs and Ryukyuan heritage, before arriving in Yokohama.
Enjoy an elegant mid-sized ship, a comfortable stateroom with refined amenities and Holland America's signature Mariner's Dream™ bed, 24-hour in-room dining, world-class entertainment and cuisine, including a new first-of-its-kind Global Fresh Fish Program.
On the Westerdam enjoy World Stage, home to a variety of performances and lectures day and night, dance to your favourite songs at the Rolling Stone Lounge or sing along and test your music trivia with Billboard Onboard. For leisurely days at sea try your hand at the Pickleball courts that have amazing top-deck views or rejuvenate at Greenhouse Spa & Salon®.
Departs 27 Feb 2026
Discover the wonders of Asia with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Glide between vibrant capitals, tranquil islands, and stunning natural landscapes aboard your luxurious superyacht. Explore bustling markets, ancient temples, and historic castles, or sail through serene waters like Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay and Japan’s cherry blossom–framed rivers. Every journey blends the region’s rich traditions and diverse cultures with the comfort and service that define The Ritz-Carlton experience.
View Asia 2025/26 Season Sailings
View Asia 2026/27 Season Sailings
Departs 23 Dec 2025
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
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.
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
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