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 4
Explore Korea Highlights with Exotic Holidays
South Korea
Korea Highlights with Exotic Holidays
9 Nights
Daily breakfast
Sightseeing
from
$
9029
per person share twin. Flights are additional
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?
ONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
DRINKS PACKAGE
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
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
ONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
DRINKS PACKAGE
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.
13 Night Fly Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
6399
per person share twin Inside Stateroom
Cruising with
Celebrity Cruises
Departs 28 Feb 2027
ONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
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 Fly Stay Cruise Package
from
$
4799
per person share twin Oceanview Stateroom
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 6 May 2027
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
$
7699
per person share twin
Obstructed Oceanview Stateroom
Obstructed Oceanview Stateroom
Cruising with
Norwegian Cruise Line
Departs 8 Nov 2026
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
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
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
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
Brigitta Moore
House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)
Nice to meet you! I love traveling with my husband, whether it's hiking the Camino de Santiago, biking through Latvia, or relaxing on beach holidays in places like Greece and Fiji. Recent highlights include cruising Norway and exploring Puglia, Italy—though I’m always guilty of overpacking!
Brigitta
Customer holidays snaps
Best. South Korea Holidays. Ever!
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