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Australia

Australia getaways: City breaks, beach holidays and hinterland escapes.


Explore Australia’s iconic cities, white-sand beaches and tranquil hinterland.

From the eclectic laneways of Melbourne to the golden shores of Sydney, an Australia holiday offers an incredible mix of culture, coastlines and city experiences. Discover hidden cafés, street art and boutique shopping, then swap city streets for coastal walks, harbour views and laidback beach days.

Across the country, each city brings something unique. Sip cocktails at rooftop bars in Brisbane, explore global flavours at Adelaide Central Market or unwind in nature at Kings Park in Perth, one of the world’s largest inner‑city parks. Whether you’re planning a short city break or a longer holiday to Australia, you’ll find experiences to suit every travel style.

For sun‑seekers, Queensland holidays deliver some of Australia’s most sought‑after escapes. From the electric river city of Brisbane, the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays to tropical islands and lush rainforests, it’s a region made for relaxing and exploring. Head north for tropical beauty and natural wonders or travel south to buzzing coastal hubs like the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, known for surf beaches, family‑friendly attractions and year‑round sunshine.

Beyond the east coast, there’s even more to discover. Travel to Australia isn’t complete without exploring the diversity of South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory. Think world‑class wine regions, rugged coastlines, unique wildlife and unforgettable Outback landscapes.

Whether you’re planning a two‑week itinerary or an extended Australian road trip, Australia offers endless opportunities to explore, unwind and experience something new - all in one trip.

 

Ready to start planning your dream holiday to Australia?

Stop dreaming and start travelling - speak to your local House of Travel Aussie specialist and turn your holiday dreams into reality.

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Expert tips, insider info and bucket-list inspiration for your next adventure

Frequently asked questions

Where is Australia located from New Zealand?
Australia is located west of New Zealand, across the Tasman Sea. The flight distance varies by city, with east coast destinations like Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast closest.

 

How far is Australia from New Zealand?
Flight times range from around 3 hours (Auckland to Sydney/Brisbane) to 7 to 8 hours (Auckland to Perth), depending on your destination.

 

What is the best time to visit Australia from NZ?
Australia is a year-round destination, but timing depends on where you’re going. The East coast - Sydney, Gold Coast and Brisbane enjoy mild weather in autumn (March to May). Tropical North, Cairns and Darwin’s dry season is from May to October. And southern regions like Melbourne and Adelaide are ideal during summer and autumn (December to February or March to May).

 

What are the best places to visit in Australia for first-time travellers?
Top first-time destinations include Sydney, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne, Cairns/Great Barrier Reef and the Sunshine Coast, offering a mix of beaches, cities and iconic experiences.

 

How long should I spend in Australia?
A typical NZ holiday is 5 to 10 days for one region or 10 to 14 days if combining multiple destinations.

 

Is Australia a good holiday destination for New Zealanders?
Yes. Australia is one of the most popular overseas destinations for Kiwis, thanks to short flight times, familiar culture and diverse travel experiences.

 

What’s the cheapest time to fly to Australia from NZ?
Flights are often cheapest during shoulder seasons (February to May and August to November) and outside school holidays.

 

What is the time difference between NZ and Australia?
Australia is usually 2 to 5 hours behind New Zealand, depending on the state and daylight saving.

Do New Zealanders need a visa to visit Australia?
No. NZ passport holders do not require a visa to enter Australia.

 

Do I need a passport to travel from NZ to Australia?
Yes. A valid passport is required for entry into Australia.

 

What currency is used in Australia?
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). Contactless payments, EFTPOS and credit cards are widely accepted.

 

Are there direct flights from New Zealand to Australia?
Yes. There are frequent direct flights from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch to major cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Perth.

 

What should I pack for a trip to Australia?
Pack based on your destination and season, but generally include light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes and a light jacket.

 

Is travel insurance recommended for Australia?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended, covering medical care, cancellations and travel disruptions.

 

Do I need travel insurance for Australia if I’m from NZ?
Yes. Even though Australia is close, medical costs and disruptions can be expensive without cover.

Do I need a car to get around in Australia?
In major cities, public transport is reliable. However, hiring a car is recommended for exploring regional areas, beaches and road trip destinations.

 

Is Australia safe for tourists?
Yes. Australia is considered very safe, but travellers should follow local advice on sun safety, swimming conditions and wildlife.

 

Can I use my NZ phone in Australia?
Yes, but check roaming charges. Many travellers opt for an Australian SIM or eSIM for better value during long stays.

 

Can you drink tap water in Australia?
Yes. Tap water is safe to drink across Australia.

 

What are the top things to do in Australia?
Top experiences include visiting the Sydney Opera House, Great Barrier Reef, Gold Coast beaches, Uluru, national parks and world-class food and wine regions.

 

Is Australia expensive for New Zealand travellers?
Costs can be similar to or slightly higher than NZ. Prices vary by destination, with major cities and peak seasons typically more expensive.

Our Aussie specialists

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Nicky Aitken

Nicky Aitken

House of Travel Papamoa

I have had a lifelong love affair for exploring the world. Raised in a family that prioritised travel, I inherited a passion for all things travel. I have lived in different countries (London, USA, Argentina) and I am fascinated with the rich tapestry of culture, people, religion and food in new places. 

My love for travel has taken me to some of the world’s most amazing places!

From Mauritius to Bahamas and all in between, I have been privileged to experience the world and being able to speak and understand 5 languages English, Afrikaans, Dutch, German and Greek) certainly comes in helpful.

I have grown up in South Africa, spending most of my adult life there, being able to show my clients what makes this region so unique is a privilege. Africa was my backyard after all and even after living in NZ for almost 12 years, my heart still beats to the African Drum.

For me, choosing a favourite destination is impossible. But .. Bali has literally captivated my heart, and even though I have been there 20+ times, I still always find new things to uncover. As does the Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles, these islands just have the “it” factor

I also love ocean cruising, especially Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Cruising offers such a great variety and a chance to see multiple destinations and experiencing iconic landmarks and locations from your hotel on the sea. 

I WOULD SAY MY PASSION IS MAKING MY CLIENTS DREAM HOLIDAYS COME TRUE AND I PRIDE MYSELF ON MY EFFICIENT SERVICE AT ALL TIMES.

Nicky
Brenda Taylor

Brenda Taylor

House of Travel Timaru

17 years in the business and I am passionate about every holiday I book!  My goal is to keep our clients satisfied and loyal for future services plus giving you the security of booking through an agent.  I can help with planning travel, booking transport, accommodations, insurance, tours, cruises, special events.

Some of the destinations I have explored:  Hong Kong, Brisbane, Queensland, Tropical Northland Queensland, Melbourne, Sydney, Great Barrier Reef, Alaska multiple state in the USA, Canada, Fiji, Rarotonga, Aitutaki.


Brenda

Lisa Grunsell

Lisa Grunsell

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

With over 30 years in the travel industry, I still get that same excitement when creating holidays for my clients.

My extensive travel knowledge, combined with personal experiences, allows me to transform your dreams into reality.

Travel has truly been life-changing for me, from the diverse cultures to the countless continents I’ve explored. I would love to share that joy with you.

I invite you to come and chat with me—I’m here to make booking your holiday as easy and stress-free as possible. 

Lisa

Namrata Patel

Namrata Patel

House of Travel Hobsonville

Hi, I’m Namrata — a travel consultant who genuinely cares about your time, your budget, and your hopes for that memorable holiday. I love turning travel ideas into something real and unforgettable. For me, building an itinerary is like solving a puzzle — shaped by your interests, personality, and sense of adventure.

I’m research-driven and love digging into the details that make a trip special. Whether it’s tricky airfares, island-hopping cruises, or crafting meaningful family journeys, I’m here for it.

Travel is never one-size-fits-all, and I look forward to discovering your unique travel style.
Every trip starts with a good chat — let’s start there.

Namrata

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