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Adelaide, Australia

Discover Adelaide and South Australia’s wine, food and iconic experiences.

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Venture through South Australia, to Adelaide and beyond.

If you’re planning to travel to Adelaide, you’ll discover a city that combines outstanding food and wine with an easygoing lifestyle. Known as Australia’s 20‑minute city, Adelaide is compact, walkable and the ideal base for exploring South Australia’s most iconic regions.

An Adelaide holiday begins in the city, where leafy streets, cultural highlights on North Terrace and a standout dining scene set the tone. Enjoy shopping at Rundle Mall, sample local flavours at the Adelaide Central Market or head to nearby Glenelg Beach for café‑lined streets and golden sands just minutes from the CBD.

Beyond the city, South Australia shines with world‑class destinations. The Barossa Valley, less than an hour away, is famed for award‑winning wineries and gourmet food, while the Adelaide Hills offer cooler‑climate villages like Hahndorf, rich in history and charm. For a slower pace, the Murray River delivers scenic cruising, wildlife encounters and unforgettable houseboat stays.

Whether you’re after a short city break or a longer journey through wine regions and natural landscapes, Adelaide and South Australia offer relaxed travel, incredible flavours and memorable experiences at every turn.

Thinking about a South Australia escape?

Speak with our South Australia travel specialists and tailor an Adelaide holiday that suits the way you like to travel.

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Flight time.

Close to home. South Australia is just a 5-hour flight from Auckland - that means less time travelling and more time exploring.

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Best time to go.

The best times to visit South Australia are during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). These seasons bring mild temperatures and are ideal for exploring wine regions, costal landscapes, and outback scenery.

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Time difference.

South Australia is 2 hours and 30 minutes behind New Zealand.

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

Meet our South Australia specialists

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Sarah Martelli

Sarah Martelli

House of Travel Rotorua

My love for travel began early - at 19, I left New Zealand with a one-way ticket to London to start my OE, and I've never looked back. I spent eight years living overseas, including four incredible years in London, where I explored Europe extensively. (Barcelona still has my heart!) 

I began my travel career in Melbourne in 2004, and knew I'd found my dream career. Even know, I still smile every day coming to work - I truly LOVE what I do. 

I did step away from the travel industry for a few years to raise my family, but the pull of travel was simply too strong. Coming back confirmed what I already knew: there is nothing else I would rather be doing. No two days are ever the same, and helping to create someone's dream holiday is a true privilege. 

Helping clients plan their adventures brings me so much joy. I specialize in point-to-point Europe itineraries, and I'm especially passionate about tours and cruising. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a multi-generational family holiday, a tailor-made Europe itinerary or a cruising holiday, I'll work with you to create a trip that fits within your budget and needs.

I pride myself on attention to detail and prompt turnaround times with my work. I believe I also go above and beyond for my clients - many now see me more as a friend, because we've built such strong relationships. Whether it's your first trip or your tenth, I'm here to make your journey smooth, exciting, and unforgettable from start to finish.

I'm known for being friendly, bubbly, and a great listener. I'll take the time to understand your needs and offer thoughtful advice and suggestions to make your trip the best it can be. 

I live on our dairy farm in Reporoa with my Husband Mathew and our three young children, who go to school in Rotorua. We are a busy sporting family, so I understand the #mumlife juggle and the importance of taking time out for a well-earned holiday, either as a family or for a lush couples' getaway! 

Some of our favourite family trips have been around Vietnam and to the theme parks on the Gold Coast, and next on our list with the kids in Japan. For my husband and I, a favourite recent trip was to Bali - the beachfront cocktails were amazing! Our next couples' getaway is to Langkawi in Malaysia!

Don't just dream about it - lets start planning. Get in touch today and let me turn your travel dreams into your next boarding pass. 


Sarah

Isabella Taylor

Isabella Taylor

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

Travel is my passion, and being able to share that with others is the most rewarding part of what I do!

I love everything about travel — from adventure and culture to incredible food, relaxation, and creating lifelong memories along the way. Having explored destinations like Los Angeles, Thailand, Singapore, Australia, the Pacific Islands, and enjoyed several cruise experiences, I’m excited to help you design a journey that's just right for you.

Whether you're after an action-packed adventure or a relaxing beach escape, I’m here to make sure every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying the trip of a lifetime.


Isabella
Lesley Masters

Lesley Masters

House of Travel Lower Hutt

Why book with me?

Because your holiday deserves more - it deserves care, tailored advice, and personal attention every step of the way. 

With over 20 years of experience as a travel consultant, I specialise in designing trips that fit your needs perfectly, whether it's a fun family escape to the Gold Coast or a complex, multi-country adventure across the globe. I'm here to handle the details, solve the unexpected and make sure your travel experience is seamless from start to finish. 

Travel isn't just my job - it's my lifelong passion. Since catching the travel bug at age 12 on a trip to England, I've explored around 35 countries, discovering the joys of rail journeys, river and ocean cruises, guided tours and solo travel. This hands-on experience means I can give you first-hand tips and recommendations. 

My favourite destinations include Italy, England and Niue, but truly, I've fallen in love with almost everywhere I have explored. Next on my list? Japan, Samoa and Sri Lanka - always planning, always exploring, so I can share the very best with you. 

I feel privileged to work in such an exciting, dynamic industry, and I'd love to help to plan your next unforgettable holiday. Let me take care of everything - so all you have to do is enjoy. 

Lesley


Janine Taylor

Janine Taylor

House of Travel New Plymouth


With years of travel under my belt and time spent living in London, I bring real-world knowledge to every itinerary I create. I’m passionate about helping people see the world with ease and confidence.

Janine

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Adelaide FAQs

Where is Adelaide located in Australia?
Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, located on the southern coast between beaches and wine regions like the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale.

 

How far is Adelaide from New Zealand?
Flights from New Zealand to Adelaide typically take around 4 to 5 hours, usually with one stop (often via Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane).

 

What is South Australia best known for?
South Australia is famous for its world-class wine regions, wildlife encounters, coastal scenery and relaxed pace, with highlights including Kangaroo Island, the Barossa Valley, and the Eyre Peninsula.

 

When is the best time to visit Adelaide from NZ?
The best time is March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring), offering mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer (December to February) is popular for festivals but can be hot.

 

Is Adelaide good for a food and wine holiday?
Yes. Adelaide is considered the gateway to Australia’s top wine regions, with easy access to the Barossa, McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills, plus a thriving food scene in the city.

 

How long should I spend in Adelaide and South Australia?
A stay of 5 to 7 days is ideal for Adelaide and nearby regions, while 7 to 10 days allows time to include Kangaroo Island or a longer road trip.

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

 

Are there direct flights from NZ to Adelaide?
There are limited or seasonal direct flights, with most travellers connecting via major Australian cities such as Melbourne or Sydney.

 

What airport do you fly into for Adelaide?
You’ll fly into Adelaide Airport (ADL), located about 15 minutes from the city centre.

 

What currency is used in South Australia?
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD), and contactless payment is widely accepted.

 

What should I pack for Adelaide and South Australia?
Pack for variable weather: light clothing for warm days, layers for cooler evenings, comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. A jacket is useful outside summer.

 

Is travel insurance recommended for South Australia?
Yes. Travel insurance is recommended for medical coverage, trip disruptions, and rental vehicle protection.

Do I need a car in Adelaide and South Australia?
In Adelaide city, you can get around easily, but hiring a car is recommended to explore wine regions, coastal areas and Kangaroo Island.

 

What are the best things to do in Adelaide?
Top experiences include exploring Adelaide Central Market, Glenelg Beach, the Adelaide Hills and nearby wine regions, as well as festivals and cultural attractions.

 

What are the top wine regions near Adelaide?
The main regions are Barossa Valley (full-bodied reds), McLaren Vale (coastal wineries), and Adelaide Hills (cool-climate wines and cellar doors).

 

Is Adelaide safe for tourists?
Yes. Adelaide is considered one of Australia’s safest cities, with a relaxed atmosphere ideal for couples, families and solo travellers.

 

Is Kangaroo Island worth visiting from Adelaide?
Yes. Kangaroo Island is one of Australia’s top wildlife destinations, known for sea lions, koalas, rugged coastlines and natural landmarks like Remarkable Rocks.

 

What unique wildlife experiences can I have in South Australia?
South Australia offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, including swimming with sea lions or dolphins, spotting kangaroos and seeing native animals in their natural habitat.

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