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.
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.
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I'm Gavin Rasikaran, your dedicated travel expert with a passion for exploring the world and a commitment to making your travel dreams a reality.
With over 40 years of experience in the travel industry, I've had the privilege of helping countless clients embark on unforgettable journeys to destinations near and far.
When it comes to planning an International trip, be it just one destination or an around the world journey, it can all become overwhelming and daunting. Together with you, I will help you plan a perfect holiday taking the stress away, personalised to you.
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
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
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.
Always with a smile I will be just as excited and passionate about your future adventures as you are! Originally from the UK I've spent the last 10 years travelling around the globe before finally settling in heavenly New Zealand.
Here I've turned the joy of travel into a profession I love. I enjoy nature, the beach, spending time with loved ones and exploring new places especially on the open road or by cruise.
I believe the biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams!
To me, traveling is so much more than a simple trip or relaxing vacation; it is a journey that always leaves me transformed and forever changed by the experiences presented. I have had the pleasure of visiting too many countries to count from backpacking on a shoestring budget around Asia to going all out on a private luxury adventure filled holidays such as trekking Machu Pichu!
My firsthand recommendations will ensure that your destination choices, no matter how uncommon, are always extraordinary. No matter what you are looking for, whether it’s a bucket list adventure or something that completely takes you off the grid, you can count on me to open doors to the most exceptional experiences and enhance every travel adventure.
Hannah
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