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Gold Coast

Go the Goldie!


Sun, surf, and fun

From golden sands and epic surf at world-famous beaches, to the thrills and spills of top-notch theme parks and the glittering skyline of Surfers Paradise, this vibrant city is the ultimate playground.

But there’s even more magic beyond the beach.,Imagine yourself exploring lush hinterland trails, diving into mouthwatering culinary delights, or getting your heart racing with a rollercoaster ride . And with over 160 amazing experiences - from vibrant markets and whale-watching cruises to rainforest adventures - all within 30 minutes, the Gold Coast truly offers something for everyone.

Planning a Gold Coast holiday? Come and talk to our Gold Coast travel specialists today.

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Flight time.

The Gold Coast is only a 3.5 - 4hour flight from New Zealand, so you can be enjoying the sun and surf in no time.

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Best time to go.

The best time to visit the Gold Coast is from May to October, when the weather is comfortable for both beach days and theme park adventures.

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Time difference.

The Gold Coast 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 in the Gold Coast

Koala sleeping in the tree

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.

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River Valley

Go beyond the beaches

Trade in the surf for serene trails and mountain air – nature’s calling.

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Whale breaching from water

Surf, stroll, and soak up the views

Experience the wild beauty of a natural headland in the heart of the Gold Coast.

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Food and drink with beach view

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.

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People clinking wine glasses

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!

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Soar high at the epic Pacific Air Show!

Get ready for the ultimate family adventure!

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Sunset on the river

Captain your own adventure

Grab your crew, pack the snacks, and let the good times roll on the open water!

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People eating seafood and drinking wine with a beach background

Best. Food. Ever!

Sip on cocktails, feast on the catch, and soak in the vibes!

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Miami Marketta

Taste the world in the Gold Coast

From Bangkok to Barcelona, your flavour journey starts here!

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Duffy Boat

More than a 'surfers' paradise!

Pop on your Captain's Hat, pack the picnic.

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93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"I changed our original dates by a couple of days and Hannah went out of her way to find flights for our changes. I thought she was very helpful."

Valerie

"Rachel always goes above and beyond what is expected of her, no matter how big or small our booking is and always looks at alternatives."

Moira

"Listened to what we wanted and followed up promptly"

Rose

Meet our Gold Coast specialists

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Rhonda Bignell

Rhonda Bignell

House of Travel Ferrymead

Travel is a passion for me, I have been in travel for quite some time (too long to remember) from Corporate to Leisure. 

I aim to help people no matter what their plans are to create the best holiday experience possible. I enjoy being part of our travellers experience and making the whole process as easy as possible & to create fantastic memories that are special and will last a lifetime for themselves and their families.

I have travelled to some amazing places, but one stands out, the 6 months I spent working on Antarctica at McMurdo Station is a highlight & backpacking through India was a challenge.

From visiting the many aspects of Australia, Asia, South Africa & South America to basking in the sun on the Maldives or hitting the beaches and shopping in Thailand I would love to help you create some new stories & memories. I love active holidays and have followed the Moto GP / Formula 1 and the Isle of Man TT was particularly exciting. Followed by walking up on Mt Kinabalu was another eventful trip.

However, every great adventure starts with a plan, and I would be honoured to help you with that plan, whether you take the road less travelled or one of the many roads that lead to Rome.

I look forward to helping you to create more wonderful stories and memories in the coming years.

Rhonda

Andy Gosnell

Andy Gosnell

House of Travel Christchurch City

There is nothing like having an outgoing and versatile member on a team and Andy is ours! His easy and honest approach makes for an enjoyable relationship and experience for clients, suppliers and all the team. 

Travel has always been a constant in Andy's life. 

Andy first developed a love for travel early, living in the USA for 3 years from the age of 5. After this he has taken every opportunity, travelling the world to some of its most remote spots. Whether he is trekking in the Patagonian Andes, strolling the piazzas of Italy, or visiting family spread across USA, Asia, Europe and the Pacific, Andy's in his element. 

Being in the travel industry for almost 7 years has given Andy a great opportunity to visit amazing places and diversify his knowledge, so no matter where you want to go, he will have some expert advice to make your trip unforgettable. 

"I can help you visit anywhere and experience anything, your only limited by how far your imagination can stretch."

Years in the industry:
No. of countries visited: 10 
Favourite place to visit: Amalfi Coast
Nest place on the list to visit: Yosemite, California

Not all those who wander are lost - J.R.R. Tolkien. 


Why I love travel: 

The places I see and the people I meet, travel really is the best way to broaden the mind. It allows you to experience and learn from all cultures and walks of life. Remember life is short, travel often. 


My travel tips: 

  • If you are always early, you are never late. 
  • Prebook as much as possible before you go and schedule rest days on long trips.
  • Live courageously - you miss 100% of the opportunities you don't take. 


My top 3 favourite destinations: 

  • Italy - The food, the history, the people, the stunning coastlines, and mountains. Italy should be on everyone's bucket list. 
  • USA - With a multitude of cultures to experience and adventures to be had, you could spend your life just in the USA and not see everything. 
  • Patagonia - A challenge to reach, the landscapes that will great you make every minute of the journey worth the effort. 


What's in my suitcase: 

  • Kindle/E-reader - it is easy to pack, light to carry, and has a long battery life; this is an essential on all my trips. 
  • Noise cancelling headphones - perfect for noisy flights and airports. 
  • Travel plug adapter - easy to forget but a must have.

Andy

Melanie Hubber

Melanie Hubber

House of Travel Ferrymead

I am passionate about sustainable travel for the future. 

My entire career of 30 years has been in travel sales and tourism. I have travelled overseas more than a hundred times to over 70 countries and 6 continents for personal holidays, business and leisure.

I've made my home in London, Dorset, Chamonix and Auckland. I settled back in my home town of Christchurch after being away for five years. 

I love travel and how it enriches lives and provides a livelihood for people and communities around the globe. I love helping to inspire and inform clients, who care about the impact their choices have on local communities and the environment, and who want to have a great holiday. 

Sustainable doesn't mean you can't have luxury! My personal holidays always have a sense of adventure, you will find me on a beach or mountain or taking in a cultural experience to make the most of a destination. 

I personally rate train travel one of the best ways to casually explore, there's nothing I love more than checking in at a downtown railway station off to a new destination. I think travel provides new perspectives and respect for different cultures and values are par for the course. We can always find common ground when we are prepared to go out of our comfort zone. 

Why book your travel with me? I am a CLIA certified Cruise Master and dedicated to helping you with your travel plans. I have the tools and the networks available to assist with all styles of travel experiences you may be looking for. 

Mel

Bridget Hanrahan

Bridget Hanrahan

House of Travel Prestons

Bridget has an amazing collection of knowledge from 19 years creating wonderful itineraries for all her clients. She takes the role of research very seriously from finding the finest cocktail to ensuring everyone has the best activity tips!

Her knowledge in cruising, as well as other adventure and family travel combined with her easy approachable manner takes the pain out of planning your trip of a lifetime. 

"Designing unique travel experiences is my passion. My attention to detail and always looking for exclusive options ensures that all client's experiences are seamless right from the initial enquiry". 

When Bridget is not pouring over brochures for inspiration, you can find her having a game of tennis, finding the next best HOT Chocolate, or spending time with her family. 

Years in the industry: 19+ 
No. of countries visited: 25 
Favourite place to visit: Africa

"Travel is the healthiest addiction" - Anonymous


Why I love travel: 

For me life is about experiences, not things! I love exploring new places, cultures, environments. I see travel for me as an addiction - I just can't stay away and helping people is so rewarding. 


My travel tips: 

  • Travel as soon as you can, don't delay as life is too short. 
  • If you want an adventure head to Antarctica or the Arctic before anywhere else. 
  • Always carry a change of clothes, any valuables and medication in your carry-on luggage. The House of Travel online brochures are a great source of information when planning your journey then we can finetune your holiday for you. 


My top 5 destinations: 

  • Africa- Serengeti plains!!! Perfect place to go to create family memories with our young adult kids! Adventure to encounter wildlife and camping in the Serengeti!
  • Dubai- the mix of culture, sights, architecture, markets, desert and the malls - even though shopping is not my thing. 
  • Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska - I was incredibly fortunate to have a family holiday in Canada, Alaska, Las Vegas and California and I'll never forget rafting on the Nenana River, rounding a bend to see a moose and her two calves taking a drink …. we all forgot to keep paddling; it was an incredible sight!
  • Rome - the history and the chaos of a bustling city it offers so much culture with a cool vibe. 
  • Thailand - I lived near Chiang Mai as an exchange student many years ago and have been back to the country three times. It is great for families, couples, singles with so much to see and do. 


What's in my suitcase?

  • Happiness - I'm always in my happy place as soon as I travel.
  • Active wear - Our holidays always include adventure and plenty of travel. 
  • A copy of my passport and insurance policy number and phone number, in case I lose my carryon bag and phone. 

Bridget



Best. Holidays. Ever!

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FAQS

What is the best time of year for Kiwis to visit the Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast is a fantastic destination year- round, with nearly 300 days of sunshine each year! We recommend visiting during the months May-October when the weather is warm, sunny, dry and more calm making it ideal to escape the winter in New Zealand and enjoy beach and water activities. We’d recommend avoiding the summer months December-February when there’s high humidity, rainfall & short tropical storms that occur, and during November over the course of three weeks when the city experiences ‘Schoolies’ with crowds of school graduates.

Where to go on holiday in the Gold Coast?
If you're planning a holiday in the Gold Coast, explore our Gold Coast travel guide and find out how to make the most of your time on your beach holiday.

How to find the best holiday package to Gold Coast?
We've got that covered for you! Visit our Gold Coast deals section on website or sign up to get the hottest deals sent straight to your emails here.

Where to stay in the Gold Coast? 
Choosing where to stay on the Gold Coast can be tough, with so many great options that are all close to beautiful beaches! Surfers Paradise offers high rises, shopping, restaurants and a bustling nightlife. Broadbeach oozes a modern and sophisticated style, with a wide range of accommodation, endless restaurant choices & stylish shopping precincts. Burleigh is a favourite with locals and has a thriving restaurant scene, cool vibe and the lush Burleigh National Park to explore, Coolangatta for relaxed beach vibes and for nature lovers Currumbin is perfect.

What should I pack for my trip to the Gold Coast?
Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. If visiting during winter (June to August), we recommend including a light jacket for cooler evenings.

Do I need travel insurance for Gold Coast?
Absolutely, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for your travel, we provide a range of travel insurance options suitable for travel to Gold Coast. 

Can I use New Zealand dollars on the Gold Coast?
No, while New Zealand is a popular destination for kiwis, you will need to exchange your New Zealand dollars (NZD) for Australian dollars (AUD). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange bureaus. All credit cards & debit cards are accepted.

How can I get around the Gold Coast without a car?
The Gold Coast has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams (G-link), and the Airtrain from Brisbane Airport. You can also use rideshare services like Uber and taxis. For longer stays, make sure you get a go card as that can be used for buses, trams, and trains. 

What is there to do on the Gold Coast?
As kiwis favourite holiday spot, you’ll find there are many things to do on the Gold Coast. Whether you love beaches and sunbathing, thrill-seeking activities or shopping and dining, the Gold Coast has something for everyone. Go kayaking down the pristine waterways, visit a theme park, explore the lush Hinterland or simply just relax on the sand - the choice is yours! You can even enjoy a few sporting events if you time your holiday right!

What are some family-friendly activities on the Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast is the ultimate family holiday destination, and whilst its five theme parks offer all the thrill rides, stunt shows and favourite character encounters you could wish for, there’s plenty more on offer. Get to know the locals at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, hit the broadwater for Jet Boating fun, explore Thunderbird Park in the Tamborine Mountain for high ropes courses for all ages, take in a dinner show at the Outback Spectacular or just enjoy the beaches at Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

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