Flight time
A 4-hour flight from Auckland will land you in Melbourne, one of Australia’s most vibrant cities.
Experience Melbourne's highlights: Culture, food, events, city experiences and more.
Melbourne’s electric city vibe makes an impression from the moment you arrive, setting the tone for an unforgettable Melbourne holiday.
Known for its vibrant culture, world‑class dining and iconic laneways, Melbourne, Australia is a city shaped by creativity, curiosity and constant discovery. From bustling city streets to hidden laneways and historic arcades, every corner reveals something new.
Immerse yourself in Melbourne’s lifestyle, whether that means sipping wine in intimate wine bars, dining at renowned restaurants, browsing independent boutiques or experiencing the electric atmosphere of a live sporting event. Food, fashion, art and sport are woven into everyday life here, making Melbourne one of Australia’s most visited and talked‑about cities.
Step beyond the CBD to explore Melbourne’s diverse neighbourhoods. Wander Lygon Street for classic Italian flavours, soak up the creative energy of Fitzroy or enjoy bayside walks, beaches and cafés in St Kilda. Melbourne also serves as the perfect base for exploring Victoria, with easy access to winery regions, natural hot springs, dramatic coastlines and charming alpine villages.
Whether you’re planning a short city break or a longer Australian escape, a Melbourne holiday offers culture, experiences and variety in every direction.
Check out our latest Australia holiday deals or speak to your local House of Travel Melbourne specialist today.
A 4-hour flight from Auckland will land you in Melbourne, one of Australia’s most vibrant cities.
The best times to visit Melbourne are during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November. These months offer mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods and cultural attractions.
Melbourne is 2 hours behind New Zealand, so you’ll need to set your watch back slightly.
As a 17 year old, I headed off to Finland on a student exchange for a year, my first ever overseas trip and the start of my passion for travel.
Whether it’s a quick jaunt across the Tasman, an adventure
through Vietnam or a guided coach tour of Europe, I love working with you
to create the perfect holiday.
Having been in the industry for over 30 years, I have an extensive knowledge of airfares, and travel providers, I combine that with the knowledge of my returning customers and the wisdom of the House of Travel collective to craft your travel.
There sure is a lot you need to know and I pride myself on keeping up to date with industry trends and changes. That may be new destinations to visit, beautiful places to stay or changes in travel requirements.
So get in touch and let me help make your travel dreams come true.
Toni
Having worked in the Travel Industry for 9 years and counting, I am incredibly passionate about detail and no trip is too small!
I have lived in London & Perth, both opening destinations for me to explore! My favourite trips to date were Greece and Thailand.
Every part of the process excites me, from simple flights, group holidays, to your bucket list trips!
I enjoy getting to know my clients and I understand that no detail is too small and warm prompt service is key to delivering great customer experiences.
Cherry
I am delighted to share the exciting news of my return to House of Travel after a brief break from the travel industry. I am thrilled to continue my travel career, which spans over 17 years. It all began when I entered the industry as a travel consultant and eventually progressed to assistant office manager. I developed a strong fascination with the wholesale operation, which inspired me to delve deeper into that specific aspect of the business.
This experience further ignited my desire to embark on my second Overseas Experience (O.E.) As a result, I left New Zealand and had the opportunity to work as a travel agent in both Australia and Ireland. Upon my return to New Zealand, I seized a valuable position as a sales representative for Malaysian Airlines before finally joining House of Travel at the beginning of 2017.
During my travels, I have been fortunate to explore 18 countries, and among them, Hawaii holds a special place as one of my favorite destinations. Exploring the Waikele premium outlets, basking in the sun on beautiful beaches, snorkelling with turtles along the Maui coastline, and embarking on the exhilarating Haleakala Zipline adventure—this destination offers the perfect all-in-one holiday experience for me.
Cruising, indulging in luxury travel, and enjoying beach breaks are my passions, although I am not averse to a touch of adventure. Witnessing the awe-inspiring Chichen Itza Mayan ruins in Mexico and conquering the ascent of Mount Kinabalu in Sabah were both remarkable personal achievements.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my profession is assisting clients in creating their ideal travel experiences. I take great pleasure in hearing about their favorite moments and highlights upon their return.
There is nothing like having an outgoing and versatile member on a team—and Andy is ours. His approachable, honest style fosters strong relationships and consistently positive experiences for clients, suppliers, and colleagues alike.
Travel has always been a defining part of Andy’s life. He caught the travel bug early - 3 formative years of living in the USA during his childhood hardwired his love for travel. Since then, he has taken every opportunity to see the world, often venturing to remote and remarkable destinations. Whether trekking through the Patagonian Andes, wandering the piazzas of Italy, or visiting family spread around the globe, Andy is truly in his element.
With nearly ten years in the travel industry, Andy has had the opportunity to experience an exceptional range of destinations and build deep, practical knowledge. No matter where you want to go, he brings expert insight and thoughtful advice to help make your journey genuinely unforgettable.
“I can help you visit anywhere and experience anything—you're only limited by how far your imagination can stretch.”
Years in the industry: 10
Countries visited: 12
Favourite destination: Amalfi Coast
Next destination on the list: Poland
“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 truly is the best way to broaden the mind. It allows you to experience and learn from different cultures and walks of life. Life is short; travel often.
My Travel Tips
My Top Three Favourite Destinations
Italy
The food, history, people, dramatic coastlines, and mountains—Italy deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list.
USA
With its extraordinary diversity of cultures and experiences, you could spend a lifetime exploring the United States and still not see it all.
Patagonia
Challenging to reach, but the dramatic landscapes that greet you make every moment of the journey worthwhile.
What’s in My Suitcase
Andy
Why is Melbourne a popular destination for Kiwi travellers?
Melbourne is popular with New Zealand travellers for its culture, food scene, major events and easy flight access. It’s ideal for short breaks and longer stays, offering laneways, shopping, sport and nearby day trips.
How long is the flight from New Zealand to Melbourne?
Direct flights from Auckland to Melbourne take around 4 hours, with regular services also available from Wellington and Christchurch.
How many days do you need in Melbourne?
What is the best time of year to visit Melbourne?
If you want to experience Melbourne's culture and cuisine, nightlife and arts then, travel between March and May or September and November, when the weather is mild and the city is full of life. Enjoy the spring and autumn colours in Melbourne's parks and gardens, and explore its diverse neighbourhoods.
Where to stay in Melbourne?
Melbourne offers a range of accommodation to suit every budget. The CBD is perfect for those who want to be close to major attractions and public transport. For a more bohemian vibe, consider staying in Fitzroy or Carlton. Southbank and Docklands offer modern hotels with stunning city views.
What are the things to do in Melbourne?
Name your passion and Melbourne can match it. Explore Melbourne’s eclectic precincts and fringe suburbs, and discover quirky restaurants for affordable, filling lunches; coffee worth boasting about, underground art, rooftop bars, green spaces, fancy places and so much more.
Melbourne is the gateway to Victoria’s world-class wineries, natural springs, peninsulas, spectacular coastline and alpine towns. Don't miss a visit to St Kilda Beach, the Melbourne Zoo and the historic Queen Victoria Market. There is no shortage of things to do in Melbourne, with so much to offer right on your doorstep. If you're planning a holiday in Sydney, explore our Melbourne travel guide crafted by our Melbourne experts to make the most of your trip.
How to find the best holiday package to Melbourne?
Check out our Melbourne deals or sign up for our newsletter to get the latest holiday package deals sent straight to your email. Or, speak to your local House of Travel Melbourne specialist to book in your Melbourne holiday.
What should I pack for my trip to Melbourne?
Melbourne's weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers. Include comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket and an umbrella. In the summer months (December to February) bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. In the winter (June to August), pack warmer clothing and a coat.
Do I need travel insurance for Melbourne?
Yes, we highly recommend having travel insurance for your trip to Melbourne. We offer a range of travel insurance options suitable for travel to Australia. Find more information on our website.
Can I use New Zealand dollars in Melbourne?
No, 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. Otherwise, most credit and debit cards are widely accepted, as well as via digital wallets.
Is Melbourne easy to get around without a car?
Yes, Melbourne is easy to navigate using trams, trains and buses, especially within the CBD, where free tram zones make getting around simple.
Where is the best place for shopping in Melbourne?
Melbourne is a shopper's paradise with a variety of options. Visit Bourke Street Mall for high-street fashion, Chadstone Shopping Centre for luxury brands and Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce and unique souvenirs. Explore the laneways and arcades in the CBD for boutique shopping and quirky finds.
Where are the best places to eat and drink in Melbourne?
Melbourne is Australia's culinary capital so whether you're craving Italian, Asian or something else, Melbourne has you covered. You'll find mouth-watering restaurants and cafes all over the city, but here are some of our favourites.
For a taste of Italy, head to Lygon Street in Carlton and enjoy pizza, pasta and gelato. For a variety of Asian flavours, check out Chinatown in the CBD and sample dumplings, noodles and more.
For the best brunch in town, don't miss Fitzroy and Collingwood, where you'll find hip cafes and cool bars. Make sure you try the best coffee and bagels in Melbourne at Manchester Press café in a converted warehouse in Rankins Lane - it's usually packed, so get there early.
What are some family-friendly activities in Melbourne?
Melbourne is a great destination for families. There's plenty of things to do for the whole family in Melbourne from interactive museums and kids' festivals to zoos and wildlife parks. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens, explore the interactive exhibits at Scienceworks and the Melbourne Museum. For a burst of excitement, take a trip to Luna Park in St Kilda for amusement rides and games.
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