Flight time.
Brisbane is only a 3 - 4hour flight from New Zealand, so you can be enjoying riverside dining and great shopping, in no time.
Why visit Brisbane? Best things to do and see.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed Brisbane city break, a riverfront escape with friends or using the city as a gateway to Queensland’s top attractions, Brisbane blends laidback charm with vibrant urban energy. As one of Australia’s fastest‑growing cities, Brisbane offers the perfect blend of culture, nature and lifestyle - all set along the winding Brisbane River.
There's a 101 reasons to visit Brisbane, from alfresco dining precincts and buzzing rooftop bars to riverside walks and immersive cultural experiences. Brisbane is a destination where there’s always something to discover - explore local markets, cruise the river at sunset or dine at award‑winning restaurants overlooking the city skyline.
Discover world‑class galleries, iconic attractions and seamless access to nearby islands and hinterland escapes. It’s this effortless mix of experiences that makes Brisbane a must‑visit for Kiwi travellers.
Riverfront living, cultural precincts and outdoor experiences.
Brisbane’s lifestyle is built around its subtropical climate, with year‑round sunshine perfect for getting outdoors. South Bank is the city’s cultural heart, home to Queensland’s best galleries and museums, plus a man‑made lagoon, parklands and a buzzing dining scene. Nearby, the Brisbane River offers scenic cruises, kayaking and riverside cycling paths that showcase the city from a different perspective.
For those who love city experiences with a local feel, neighbourhoods like Fortitude Valley and New Farm deliver boutique shopping, live music and a thriving café culture. Climb the Story Bridge for panoramic views or explore Howard Smith Wharves, where heritage meets modern dining right on the water.
Beyond the city, Brisbane is the ideal base for day trips. Discover Moreton Island’s crystal‑clear waters and sand dunes, explore the Scenic Rim’s lush hinterland or venture north to the Sunshine Coast and south to the Gold Coast - all within easy reach.
Whether you’re looking to explore culture, unwind in the sunshine or experience a little of everything, Brisbane is the ultimate destination that balances city sophistication with Queensland’s signature laidback lifestyle.
Ready to start planning your Brisbane holiday?
Explore our latest Brisbane deals or speak to our knowledgeable Brisbane travel specialists today to start planning your perfect Queensland escape.
Best time to go.
The best time to visit Brisbane is from March to May and September to November, when temperatures are warm but comfortable with low rainfall.
Time difference.
Brisbane is 2 hours behind New Zealand (or 3 hours during daylight saving). This small time difference is easy to adjust to, making for a seamless transition.
Our favourite things to do near Brisbane
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Looking for a wild day out?
Located in Currumbin, just 20 kms south of Gold Coast, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary offers interactive experiences with Australian wildlife.
Go beyond the beaches
Trade in the surf for serene trails and mountain air – nature’s calling.
Surf, stroll, and soak up the views
Experience the wild beauty of a natural headland in the heart of the Gold Coast.
Food glorious food
Grab your appetite and spend a weekend eating your way along the Scenic Rim food trail from Brisbane to the Gold Coast.
Sip your way through the valley vineyards
Don’t sleep on the Gold Coast wine region—it’s a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered!
Soar high at the epic Pacific Air Show!
Get ready for the ultimate family adventure!
Captain your own adventure
Grab your crew, pack the snacks, and let the good times roll on the open water!
Best. Food. Ever!
Sip on cocktails, feast on the catch, and soak in the vibes!
Taste the world in the Gold Coast
From Bangkok to Barcelona, your flavour journey starts here!
More than a 'surfers' paradise!
Pop on your Captain's Hat, pack the picnic.
Explore Hotel Indigo Brisbane City Centre
Brisbane
Hotel Indigo Brisbane City Centre
4 nights
Breakfast Daily
Dining Credit
from
$
609
per person share twin
Explore CLLIX Brisbane Skytower Apartments
Brisbane
CLLIX Brisbane Skytower Apartments
4 nights
from
$
419
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids 2-11 yrs)
Explore CLLIX Brisbane Skytower Apartments
Brisbane
CLLIX Brisbane Skytower Apartments
4 nights
from
$
519
per person share twin
Explore Hyatt Regency Brisbane
Brisbane
Hyatt Regency Brisbane
Return flights
2 nights
Breakfast Daily
from
$
929
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore The Docks on Goodwin & Bluey's World
Brisbane
The Docks on Goodwin & Bluey's World
3 Nights
Bluey's World Tickets
from
$
379
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids 2-11 yrs). Flights additional
Cruising to Brisbane 6
Explore Queensland Bliss
Queensland Bliss
Warm coastal escapes await on this tropical roundtrip from Brisbane. Sail through the Whitsundays with a call into Airlie Beach, continue on to Cairns for reef‑side wonders, and enjoy tranquil moments as you cruise past remote Willis Island. Sun, sea breezes and laid‑back holiday vibes shape every day of this easy Queensland escape.
Ready to set sail for Queensland’s sunshine and reef? Chat with your local House of Travel consultant to start planning your Queensland cruise.
8 Night Fly, Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
2949
per person share twin Interior Stateroom
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 18 Feb 2027
Explore South Pacific Christmas Escape
South Pacific Christmas Escape
Trade the everyday for a tropical South Pacific escape from Brisbane, with sun-filled days at sea and beautiful island experiences waiting along the way. Spend time at Royal Beach Club Lelepa®, where turquoise waters and pristine beaches set the scene for a relaxing island getaway, before discovering Vila, Vanuatu, with its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant local culture. With plenty of time to unwind on board, soak up the sunshine and enjoy a change of scenery, this is an easy-going cruise that brings a little slice of paradise within reach.
7 night Cruise
from
$
2335
per person share twin Interior w/ Virtual Balcony
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 21 Dec 2027
Explore Royal Beach Club Lelepa & South Pacific
Royal Beach Club Lelepa & South Pacific
Escape to the South Pacific on a sun-soaked getaway from Brisbane, with plenty of time to unwind at sea and a taste of tropical island life. Discover Vila, Vanuatu, where laid-back island vibes, local culture and beautiful scenery await, then spend a day at Royal Beach Club Lelepa, surrounded by turquoise waters and pristine beaches. With relaxing days on board, warm island hospitality and the chance to switch off and soak up the sunshine, this is the perfect short escape to paradise.
7 Night Cruise onboard Ovation of the Seas®
Departure date: 04 Feb 28
Ports of Call: Brisbane, Australia – Boarding | Cruising | Cruising | Vila, Vanuatu – Tendered | Royal Beach Club Lelepa – Tendered | Cruising | Cruising | Brisbane, Australia
From $1305 per person twin share Interior w/ Virtual Balcony Stateroom
From $1605 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $1669 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
Departure date: 31 Mar 28
Ports of Call: Brisbane, AustraliaPort Vila, VanuatuRoyal Beach Club Lelepa, Vanuatu, Brisbane, Australia
From $1555 per person twin share Interior w/ Virtual Balcony Stateroom
From $1759 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $1935 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
7 night Cruise
from
$
1305
per person share twin Interior w/ Virtual Balcony
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 4 Feb 2028
Explore Brisbane to Seattle
Brisbane to Seattle
Cross the South Pacific on an unforgettable voyage from Sydney to Honolulu. Along the way, discover the tropical paradise of Papeete, the lush beauty of Moorea, and the sacred island of Raiatea before arriving in Hawaii.
Combining pristine lagoons, vibrant island cultures, and endless ocean vistas, this extraordinary voyage is the perfect escape for those seeking the beauty and serenity of the South Pacific.
24 Night Fly Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
5669
per person share twin Interior w/ Virtual Balcony
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 10 Apr 2027
Explore Brisbane, Royal Beach Club Lelepa, & Vanuatu
Brisbane, Royal Beach Club Lelepa, & Vanuatu
Swap the everyday for a tropical escape from Brisbane to the beautiful islands of Vanuatu. Enjoy relaxing days at sea before discovering Luganville, where lush landscapes, crystal-clear waters and island charm invite you to slow down and explore. Then spend time at Royal Beach Club Lelepa, surrounded by pristine beaches and the stunning turquoise waters of the South Pacific. With plenty of sunshine, time to unwind and beautiful island scenery along the way, this is the perfect excuse to take a break and enjoy a little slice of paradise.
7 night cruise
from
$
1775
per person share twin Interior Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 29 Oct 2027
Explore Sunshine & Reef
Sunshine & Reef
Sailing from the vibrant river city of Brisbane, you’ll swap the everyday for a relaxed tropical escape along Queensland’s sun‑drenched coast. Drift into Airlie Beach with its brilliant white sands, discover the lush, tropical beauty of Cairns from Yorkey’s Knob, and soak up the remote charm of Willis Island before cruising back to Brisbane. Along the way you’ll enjoy idyllic beaches, crystal‑clear waters and breathtaking coral reefs – an easy blend of chilled‑out downtime and soft adventure in the tropics.
Ready to set sail for Queensland’s sunshine and reef? Chat with your local House of Travel consultant to start planning your Queensland Coastal Explorer cruise.
11 Night Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
2629
per person share twin Interior Stateroom
Flights additional
Flights additional
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 18 Nov 2027
93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5
"We gave Peter a complicated itinerary at short notice and he delivered on every level."
John Everett"Efficient and prompt replies. Cassandra gave us flight options that suit, taking great care and considerations on flight details, seating, visas etc."
Mei"Mya was brilliant. Very prompt and provided lots of information and very happy to continue with dealing with smaller issues."
Timothy James
Cassandra Lyes-Peterson
House of Travel Ellerslie
I have been in the Travel Industry for over 10 years, starting off primarily selling Australia, then moving to House of Travel in the Product Department where I was for 4 years as a South Pacific Destination Expert. In April 2023, I was given an opportunity to work here at House of Travel Ellerslie in a retail role. Here I have discovered a love of creating and curating holidays for all types of travellers to ensure they have the best possible experiences while there.
Cassandra
Wendy Harrison
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
I am an adventure seeker with a passion for exploring the world and experiencing everything it has to offer. I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting experiences and have a particular love for small group tours and adventures. Whether it's cruising in the Galapagos Islands or exploring new cities, I love the intimacy and camaraderie that comes with traveling in small groups.
When I'm not adventuring, you can often find me at live sports and events, cheering on my favourite teams and soaking up the excitement of the crowd. Or I'm equally at home soaking up the sun during a beautiful island beach holiday.
I also have a love for cruising and have had the opportunity to explore new destinations such as the Mediterranean, the coastlines of Spain and Portugal, the Rhône and Saône Rivers in Southern France, canal boating in England, and cruising across the Tasman. All while enjoying the comforts and amenities of life on the water.
One of my favourite pastimes is people watching whether it's from a cafe in Paris or on the streets of New York. For me, there is nothing more fascinating than observing the unique and diverse cultures of the world and the interactions of the people within them. I'm always seeking out new experiences and adventures, driven by a deep curiosity and a thirst for knowledge and understanding.
Wendy
Angela Malone
House of Travel Albany
The best holiday experience is a blend of organised activity along with a sense of discovery.
Bespoke holidays are my specialty.
Exploring off the beaten track destinations where you feel like a local yet welcomed as a guest creates treasured memories.
Angela
Kali Abbott
House of Travel Prestons
My passion for travel begun when living in London. I was constantly booking getaways to explore all UK and Europe have to offer and I have not stopped exploring since!
Coming home, I have been privileged to take many long breaks to explore different parts of the world. - Some highlights include USA and Tahiti.
Now having a family, I see travel in different light and really enjoy slowing down and embracing every moment.
Travel is for everyone; the world has so much to offer!
I joined the travel industry just over 6 years ago and have helped many people book their dream holidays, I can't wait to help you with yours!
Kali
Our Brisbane travel blogs
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Brisbane FAQS
How far is Brisbane from New Zealand?
Brisbane is approximately a 3 to 4 hour flight from major New Zealand cities like Auckland, making it one of the easiest Australian city breaks for Kiwi travellers.
When is the best time to visit Brisbane?
Brisbane is a year-round destination thanks to its subtropical climate. The most popular time to visit is from March to May and September to November, when temperatures are warm but comfortable and there's less rainfall.
How many days do you need in Brisbane?
3 to 5 days is ideal to explore Brisbane's highlights, including South Bank, the city centre and nearby day trips like Moreton Island or the Gold Coast.
Is Brisbane a good destination for families?
Yes, Brisbane is very family-friendly, with attractions like South Bank's lagoon, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, river cruises and easy access to theme parks on the Gold Coast.
Can you visit Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast from Brisbane?
Yes, both are easy day trips. The Gold Coast is about 1 hour south, while Sunshine Coast is around 1 to 1 and a half hours north, making Brisbane a great base to explore the region.
Do Kiwis need a visa to visit Brisbane?
No, New Zealand passport holders do not need to apply for a visa before travelling to Australia. We always recommend checking official government websites if you are a non-New Zealand passport holder and for any travel updates
What currency is used in Brisbane?
Australia uses Australian dollars (AUD). Credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted.
What should I pack for Brisbane?
Pack lightweight clothing for warm weather, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear and sun protection. A light jacket is useful for cooler evenings, especially in winter.
Is travel insurance recommended for Brisbane?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for Kiwi travellers, and we offer a range of options. Speak to your local House of Travel specialist about travel insurance options to suit you.
What is the time difference between Australia and New Zealand?
Brisbane is usually 2 hours behind New Zealand and does not observe daylight saving, so the difference can be 3 hours in the summer.
Brisbane is usually 2 hours behind New Zealand and does not observe daylight saving, so the difference can be 3 hours in the summer.
What is the best thing to do in Brisbane?
Top experiences include exploring South Bank, visiting the Brisbane River precinct, climbing the Story Bridge, discovering local markets and taking a day trip to nearby islands or beaches.
How do you get around Brisbane?
Brisbane is easy to navigate using public transport, including trains, buses and ferries. The CityCat ferry is a popular and scenic way to explore along the river.
Is Brisbane expensive for Kiwi travellers?
Brisbane can be more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, especially for accommodation and dining, making it a great-value Australian city break.
Can you swim in Brisbane?
Yes, you can swim at South Bank's Streets Beach (a man-made lagoon) or take a short trip to nearby beaches on the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast.
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