Flight time
The flight from Auckland to South Korea takes roughly 12 hours nonstop. It's not short but once you get your K-culture fix you'll forget all about it.
K culture, history and everyone’s favourite street food
Since Psy bounced onto our screens with Gangnam Style, the world’s been hooked on Korean culture. From K-dramas and K-pop to K-beauty and street eats, we’re officially obsessed. But a trip to South Korea offers all of that plus centuries of rich tradition and deep history – it’s the best of both worlds.
Wander the buzzing streets of Seoul, where high-tech towers hide hanok villages and secret teahouses. Shop everything from designer labels to quirky underground finds. Head south to Busan for sun-soaked beaches, street markets and seaside museums. Or hop on a slow train through the countryside and discover peaceful temples, UNESCO-listed villages and fields of cherry blossoms in spring.
And then there’s the food. From sizzling bulgogi and pillowy mandu dumplings to sweet-hot tteokbokki and crispy Korean fried chicken, good food – and good times – are never far away.
Chat to our South Korea travel specialists and plan your perfect K-adventure today.
Best time to go
The best time to visit South Korea is from March to May, when mild weather, cherry blossoms, and colourful festivals fill the Land. September to November is also pretty great.
Time difference
South Korea is 3-4 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving here. You won't take long to adjust.
Our South Korea Deals 3
Explore Highlights of South Korea with Exotic Holidays
South Korea
Highlights of South Korea with Exotic Holidays
4 Nights
Daily breakfast
Sightseeing
from
$
4549
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Seoul City Break with Exotic Holidays
South Korea
Seoul City Break with Exotic Holidays
3 Nights
Daily breakfast
Sightseeing
from
$
2429
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Best of South Korea with Exotic Holidays
South Korea
Best of South Korea with Exotic Holidays
6 Nights
Daily breakfast
Sightseeing
from
$
5415
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Can't find what you're looking for?
DRINKS + WIFI
HOT EXCLUSIVE
Explore Japan, South Korea & More
Japan, South Korea & More
Journey through Japan and South Korea on this unforgettable voyage from Tokyo (Yokohama). Visit Kyoto (Osaka), Kochi, Busan, Nagasaki, Kagoshima, and Mt. Fuji (Shimizu), enjoying vibrant cities, rich culture, and stunning coastal scenery along the way. Each stop offers unique experiences, from historic temples and bustling markets to breathtaking natural landscapes—all complemented by exceptional onboard comfort.
12 Night Cruise
from
$
3499
per person share twin Inside Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Celebrity Cruises
Departs 19 Aug 2027
2028 SAILING
ONBOARD CREDIT
Explore Queen Elizabeth's Asian Sojourn
Queen Elizabeth's Asian Sojourn
Set sail onboard Queen Elizabeth, with leisurely days at sea woven through the journey to balance exploration and onboard enjoyment, calling at the vibrant skyline of Hong Kong with an overnight stay in port, the bustling coastal city of Busan, and the historic ports of Nagasaki and Kagoshima, before concluding with an overnight stay in Yokohama, offering extra time to discover nearby Tokyo.
Cunard staterooms are among the most spacious at sea with Penhaligon toiletries, twice-daily turndown service and sparkling wine on arrival. Princess and Queens Suites offer additional benefits including a personal butler. A host of activities are available onboard including open-air pools and gym facilities and the daily programme will have live music, theatre performances, guest speaker events and the famous signature Afternoon Tea and Gala Evenings.
13 Night Cruise
from
$
4829
per person share twin
Inside Stateroom
Flights are additional
Inside Stateroom
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Cunard Cruises
Departs 25 Feb 2028
DRINKS + WIFI
HOT EXCLUSIVE
Explore Japan & Busan
Japan & Busan
Journey through Japan and South Korea on this unforgettable voyage from Tokyo (Yokohama). Visit Kyoto (Osaka), Kochi, Busan, Nagasaki, Kagoshima, and Mt. Fuji (Shimizu), enjoying vibrant cities, rich culture, and stunning coastal scenery along the way. Each stop offers unique experiences, from historic temples and bustling markets to breathtaking natural landscapes—all complemented by exceptional onboard comfort.
14 Night Fly Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
6699
per person share twin Inside Stateroom
Cruising with
Celebrity Cruises
Departs 28 Feb 2027
HOT EXCLUSIVE
Explore Japan's Autumn Embrace
Japan's Autumn Embrace
Experience the best of Japan with this Fly, Stay & Cruise package. Begin with three nights in Tokyo, exploring the city’s vibrant culture and cuisine, before embarking on a 9‑night cruise aboard Norwegian Jade® to Japan’s top ports, including Nagoya, Nagasaki, Kochi, and scenic coastal cities. Enjoy Norwegian Cruise Line’s flexible cruising style, combining immersive exploration with relaxing days at sea — all in one seamless getaway.
12 night Fly, Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
7989
per person share twin
Obstructed Oceanview Stateroom
Obstructed Oceanview Stateroom
Cruising with
Norwegian Cruise Line
Departs 8 Nov 2026
AMAZING SAVINGS
Explore Shanghai to Tokyo
Shanghai to Tokyo
Discover the beauty and culture of East Asia on a captivating voyage from Shanghai to Yokohama. Explore the volcanic landscapes and coastal charm of Seogwipo before experiencing the rich traditions and modern energy of Japan in Fukuoka and Kobe.
Cruise onward to Shimizu for breathtaking views of Mount Fuji before concluding in the vibrant gateway to Tokyo.
Blending iconic landmarks, rich culture, and relaxing days at sea, this journey offers an unforgettable taste of Asia.
10 Night Stay Cruise Package
from
$
2839
per person share twin Interior Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 7 May 2027
Explore Asia with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Asia with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
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 2026/27 Season Sailings
2026 - 2027 Sailings
Natural Beauty & Rich Traditions
Cruising with
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Departs 9 Oct 2026
Meet our Asia specialists
Chloe McKellar
House of Travel Wellington City
Hi all - please note that I am on maternity leave until September 2026 :)
Customer service has always been drilled into me. After begging my way
into a cafe job at 14, I then spent 12 years working in the hospitality
industry supervising restaurants and managing specialty cafes which also
founded my love for all different types of foods.
After spending 3 years in Melbourne, 6 months in South East Asia and a few
years in the UK I finally made the switch to the travel industry where I have
been able to share my love for travel and customer service ever since.
I made it through the dark years of COVID in the industry which has led me to
know to dig that little bit deeper into my clients' travel plans to create that
perfect trip, and ensure we really have the best option for you in terms of
comfort, reliability, and service. As we just don't know what is round the
corner, do we!
I've travelled extensively across Southeast Asia, UK and Europe, spent a lot of
time exploring properties in Fiji (and relaxing by the beach), road tripped in
California and in 2024 I visited South Africa in Feb, Japan, South Korea and
Taipei! I've got many more places on my bucket list to visit, but if I haven't
been, I've got a superb team of people behind me who have and we'll work out
the best trip for you! My ultimate passion when I travel is trying local foods,
and finding the best possible places to have that authentic experience that we
wouldn't be able to have at home. So if that resonates with you, I'd love to
hear from you and let's put together your foodie adventure, together :)
Chloe
Leonie Paul
House of Travel Blenheim
With nearly two decades at House of Travel, I’m always dreaming of the next adventure. The more I explore, the longer my bucket list grows! The thrill of planning a new journey and learning from each experience excites me.
Discussing travel daily is my passion, I love helping clients realize their travel dreams and living vicariously through their experiences.
Getting to know my clients and understanding what matters most to them is something I truly enjoy. This insight allows me to craft itineraries that are as unique and special as the travelers themselves.
There's nothing more satisfying than a client returning with tales of their adventures. I love hearing their stories, as each journey is different—there's no one-size-fits-all approach to travel.
For me, travel offers the opportunity to learn more about the world around us. With every journey, I find new perspectives, cultures, and places to love.
Travel isn’t just about the places we visit—it's about the growth we experience along the way.
Leonie
Jo Coolen
House of Travel Kapiti Coast
For a long time, I've told people I have the best job in the world and I still stand by that.
What could be better than turning peoples dreams into reality? I never know what the day will bring and isn't variety the spice of life?
My travel journey started a bit later in my life, so I haven't been everywhere YET, but I am having a damn good crack at it, gathering local knowledge along the way.
Jo
Suzanne Andrews
House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square
I've travelled extensively all over the world and I now want to make your travel dreams come true!
I've worked in the travel industry for many years and I now want to share my experience and passion for travelling with you.
Suzanne
Customer holidays snaps
Best. South Korea Holidays. Ever!
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