Flight time.
Getting to Northern Territory from New Zealand takes about 3 hours.
Discover stunning landscapes when you book your holiday to Northern Territory, Australia.
Experience the raw beauty of Northern Territory holidays, where vast desert landscapes, rich Aboriginal culture and world‑famous natural icons come together in the heart of Australia. From the spiritual atmosphere of Uluru and the striking domes of Kata Tjuta to the wetlands, waterfalls and wildlife of Kakadu National Park, this is a destination that delivers truly once‑in‑a‑lifetime moments.
Step into one of the world’s oldest living cultures as you explore sacred sites, ancient rock art and storytelling landscapes that have shaped the region for tens of thousands of years. Whether you’re watching the colours of Uluru change at sunrise, cruising through Kakadu’s crocodile‑filled waterways or soaking up the dramatic sunsets of Arnhem Land, every experience feels deeply connected to each place.
If you’re planning holidays to Northern Territory, Australia, the region offers a diverse mix of experiences. Enjoy Darwin’s relaxed tropical vibe and waterfront dining, uncover the rugged charm of Alice Springs and the Red Centre, or venture off the beaten track on an unforgettable Outback adventure. From guided tours and scenic flights to cultural experiences and national park explorations, the Northern Territory invites you to slow down, disconnect and discover Australia at its most authentic.
Ready to explore Australia’s Outback?
Speak to your local House of Travel Aussie specialist to start planning your Northern Territory holiday and discover a destination that stays with you long after you return home.
Best time to go.
The best times to visit the Northern Territory are during the dry season (May to October). These months provide warm days, cooler nights, and minimal rainfall, ideal for exploring national parks, outback landscapes, and cultural sites.
Time difference.
Northern Territory operates 3 hours and 30 minutes behind New Zealand, so there will be a time difference to adjust to upon arrival.
EARLYBIRD DEAL
Explore 7 Day Fully Escorted Tour to Australia's Red Centre
Northern Territory, Uluru
7 Day Fully Escorted Tour to Australia's Red Centre
Fully escorted tour
Return Flights
Door to door transfers
6 Nights
Select meals
Sightseeing
from
$
10500
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore 4 Day Longitude 131° Escape
Northern Territory
4 Day Longitude 131° Escape
3 Nights
Return Ayers Rock Transfers
Scenic flight
Tours
from
$
9549
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 4 Day Explore Around Uluru
Northern Territory
4 Day Explore Around Uluru
3 Nights
Tours
from
$
2149
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 13 Day Arnhem Land Wetlands & Wildlife Guided Holiday with Outback Spirit 2027
Arnhem Land
13 Day Arnhem Land Wetlands & Wildlife Guided Holiday with Outback Spirit 2027
12 Nights
Sightseeing
Meals
Outback Spirit guided tour
from
$
17,075
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 4 Day Red Desert Awakening
Northern Territory
4 Day Red Desert Awakening
3 Nights
Tours
from
$
1499
per person share twin. Flights are additional
SELF DRIVE
Explore 6 Day Red Centre Tracks
Northern Territory, Red Centre
6 Day Red Centre Tracks
5 Nights
Car hire
Tours
from
$
1999
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 4 Day Darwin & Litchfield Waterfalls
Northern Territory
4 Day Darwin & Litchfield Waterfalls
3 Nights
Tours
from
$
869
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 4 Day Uluru & Kings Canyon
Northern Territory
4 Day Uluru & Kings Canyon
3 Nights
Tours
from
$
1579
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 4 Day Uluru & Field of Light
Northern Territory
4 Day Uluru & Field of Light
3 Nights
Tours
from
$
1259
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Saltwater Country & Culture
Saltwater Country & Culture
Journey through the remote cultures and coastlines of the
Tiwi Islands, Arnhem Land, the Gulf, Cape York and the Torres Strait.
This voyage journeys deep into remote saltwater country, engaging with communities and celebrating people and culture well beyond art centre visits. Here, ancient knowledge offers enduring solutions to modern challenges, as personal stories reveal Indigenous agency, ingenuity and the cultural skills that continue to sustain thriving communities.
Alongside these rich cultural connections, the voyage explores an environmental tapestry. From internationally recognised wetlands to striking red volcanic landscapes, and onward to geologically diverse coastlines alive with marine and bird life.
13 Night Cruise onboard Coral Adventurer
Darwin to Cairns
02 Oct - 15 Oct 26
From $21,179 per person share twin Coral Deck Stateroom
Ports of Call: Darwin, Melville Island, RAMSAR Wetlands, Elcho Island, Daliwuy Bay, Port Bradshaw, At Sea, Thursday Island & Pajinka, Masig (Yorke) Island, Mer (Murray) Island, Sea Day, Stanley Island, Cairns
Other dates available: 08 Sep - 21 Sep 27
13 Night Expedition Cruise
from
$
21,179
per person share twin Coral Deck Stateroom
Flights are additional
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Coral Expedition Cruises
Departs 2 Oct 2026
Jan Arthurs
House of Travel Kapiti Coast
Having worked in the industry for over 30 years I still thrive on the excitement that builds as I help plan travel adventures both for my clients and of course myself.
Hearing the anecdotes and stories on your return home continues to feed my wanderlust passion. I love the challenge of a tricky flight itinerary, and travel destinations of the beaten track.
My passion for exploration and
dedication to service will ensure you experience your dream holiday.
Jan
Alyssa Kane
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
After achieving my New Zealand Level 5 & 6 Diplomas in Travel and Tourism, I’m excited to have joined the team at House of Travel Rotorua back in December 2022 - not even Covid could derail my dreams of becoming a travel consultant.
My years of studying and my personal experience of travelling to Australia on family holidays has fuelled my passion for creating unforgettable holidays. I spend my days designing holidays within New Zealand, Australia, the South Pacific and Asia, and I absolutely love arranging cruise holidays. Working with you to create your perfect getaway is what I enjoy the most, so bring me your dream holiday, and we can build it together! Leave me to focus on the details, so that you can relax and have your best adventure yet!
Alyssa
Hayley Mundy
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
After more than 30 years selling travel, it still gives me such a buzz to create fabulous holidays. I love watching my clients' anticipation build, being part of the planning, sharing in the excitement of their journey - and of course hearing all about it when they return. It's almost as good as being on the trip with them!
Travel has changed a lot in recent years, and that's exactly why it pays to have an expert in your corner. As a senior, award-winning travel consultant at one of New Zealand's best-rated travel agencies, House of Travel The Crossing, I'm here to take the stress out, and the fun in!!
From complex airfares and cruise itineraries to boutique stays, family getaways and once-in-a-lifetime adventures, I'll help you navigate this new era of travel with confidence - keeping an eye on the details, the fine print, and the "what ifs", so you can focus on the excitement.
Let's create a holiday to remember - fabulous, seamless, and perfectly you.
Hayley
Chloe McKellar
House of Travel Wellington City
Hi all - please note that I am on maternity leave until September 2026 :)
Customer service has always been drilled into me. After begging my way
into a cafe job at 14, I then spent 12 years working in the hospitality
industry supervising restaurants and managing specialty cafes which also
founded my love for all different types of foods.
After spending 3 years in Melbourne, 6 months in South East Asia and a few
years in the UK I finally made the switch to the travel industry where I have
been able to share my love for travel and customer service ever since.
I made it through the dark years of COVID in the industry which has led me to
know to dig that little bit deeper into my clients' travel plans to create that
perfect trip, and ensure we really have the best option for you in terms of
comfort, reliability, and service. As we just don't know what is round the
corner, do we!
I've travelled extensively across Southeast Asia, UK and Europe, spent a lot of
time exploring properties in Fiji (and relaxing by the beach), road tripped in
California and in 2024 I visited South Africa in Feb, Japan, South Korea and
Taipei! I've got many more places on my bucket list to visit, but if I haven't
been, I've got a superb team of people behind me who have and we'll work out
the best trip for you! My ultimate passion when I travel is trying local foods,
and finding the best possible places to have that authentic experience that we
wouldn't be able to have at home. So if that resonates with you, I'd love to
hear from you and let's put together your foodie adventure, together :)
Chloe
Get Inspired for your next escape
Northern Territory FAQs
Where is the Northern Territory located in Australia?
The Northern Territory is in central and northern Australia, stretching from the tropical Top End (Darwin) to the Red Centre (Alice Springs and Uluru).
How far is the Northern Territory from New Zealand?
Most trips from NZ take around 6 to 9 hours total travel time, with connections via Australian cities like Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne.
What is the Northern Territory best known for?
The NT is famous for its iconic outback landscapes, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kakadu National Park and unique Aboriginal culture, along with dramatic sunsets and wildlife.
When is the best time to visit the Northern Territory from NZ?
Top End, Darwin and Kakadu experience their dry season during May to October which also offers the coolest and least humid temperature. The Red Centre - Uluru and Alice Springs experience milder temperatures, ideal for exploring, from April to October.
Is the Northern Territory good for a bucket-list or adventure holiday?
Yes. The NT is one of Australia’s top destinations for once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including visiting Uluru, outback road trips and guided cultural tours.
How long should I spend in the Northern Territory?
Plan for at least 5 to 7 days for one region (Top End or Red Centre), or 10 to 14 days to experience both.
Do New Zealanders need a visa to visit the Northern Territory?
No. NZ passport holders do not require a visa to enter Australia.
What airports do you fly into in the Northern Territory?
The main gateways are Darwin Airport (Top End) and Alice Springs Airport (Red Centre).
Are there direct flights from NZ to the Northern Territory?
There are typically no direct flights, so travellers connect via cities like Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne.
What currency is used in the Northern Territory?
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD), with cash, EFTPOS and credit cards widely accepted through out the region.
What should I pack for the Northern Territory?
Pack for heat and sun: light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent and sturdy shoes for walking. Include layers for cooler desert mornings and evenings.
Is travel insurance recommended for the Northern Territory?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended, especially for remote travel, guided tours, and weather-related disruptions.
Do I need a car in the Northern Territory?
For flexibility, hiring a car or joining a guided tour is recommended, especially in the Red Centre and Top End where attractions are spread out.
What are the top things to do in the Northern Territory?
Must-do experiences include seeing Uluru at sunrise or sunset, exploring Kata Tjuta, visiting Kakadu National Park, cruising through Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) and experiencing Aboriginal cultural tours.
Can you visit Uluru independently?
Yes. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is accessible by road, though many visitors choose guided tours for deeper cultural insight and convenience.
Is the Northern Territory safe for tourists?
Yes, but conditions can be extreme. Travellers should stay hydrated, follow safety signage, avoid swimming where crocodiles may be present and check weather conditions.
What wildlife can you see in the Northern Territory?
Wildlife includes kangaroos, dingoes, crocodiles, wallabies and a wide variety of birdlife, especially in national parks.
Can you swim in the Northern Territory?
It depends on the location. Some designated areas are safe, but in many Top End waterways, swimming is restricted due to crocodiles, so always follow local advice and signage.
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