Flight time
Flying from Auckland to Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore) takes around 4 hours. You can also fly to Brisbane and hire a car to drive to the Coast.
From sunrise swims to starry hikes – this coast has it all
Leave only footprints, take unforgettable memories. The Sunshine Coast’s 100km of golden shoreline is where lazy beach days, wildlife wonders and hinterland magic collide – just an hour north of Brisbane.
From the bougie beach vibes of Noosa to Mooloolaba’s foodie scene and the relaxed charm of Caloundra, each coastal town has its own tale to tell. But the real surprises lie just inland: rainforest waterfalls to chase, volcanic peaks to hike, and artisan villages to explore.
This is a place where you can snorkel alongside turtles one day and swim fin-to-fin with humpback whales the next – Australia’s first swim-with-whales experience is right here.
And let’s not forget the flavours – local produce that travels from paddock to plate faster than you can say “another craft beer, thanks.” Think breezy cafes, thriving farmers markets and seriously good breweries.
Ready for a sun-soaked escape that’s anything but ordinary? Chat to your House of Travel consultant and start planning your holiday.
Best time to go
Visit from September to November for warm days, and fewer crowds - best for swimming, exploring and alfresco dining. December to February is whale season and best for beach weather but it is peak holiday season so book early! March to May is great for hinterland walks and waterfalls with mild temperatures and clear skies. June to August is the best for crisp mornings and sunny days, and is also whale migration season.
Time difference
Sunshine 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 Sunshine Coast
Discover the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland feels a world away from their sandy shores, but in reality, it’s just a short 30-minute drive from the coastline
Discover Sunshine Coast's epic food scene
The restaurant scene is buzzing here and we guarantee you’ll be able to taste the sunshine.
Australia Zoo - Home of the Crocodile Hunter!
Just 45-minutes drive from Mooloolaba, this world-famous zoo—founded by the legendary Steve Irwin—offers up-close encounters with kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles.
Watch the sunset from the water
Take in the pink and orange hues of the sun going down while gliding along the Mooloolaba River.
Explore Noosa National Park
Discover scenic walking trails, spot dolphins, whales (June-October), sea turtles, and even koalas in the wild.
Explore Mantra Mooloolaba
Sunshine Coast
Mantra Mooloolaba
Return flights
7 nights
from
$
1569
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids 2-11 yrs)
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore Mantra Mooloolaba
Sunshine Coast
Mantra Mooloolaba
Return flights
7 nights
from
$
1819
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore Mandolin Beachfront Resort
Sunshine Coast
Mandolin Beachfront Resort
7 nights
7 day car hire
Bluey's World Tickets
from
$
769
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids 2-11 yrs)
Meet our Sunshine Coast specialists
Jason McKay
House of Travel Nelson
As the proud Owner Operator of House of Travel Nelson, I lead a small but passionate team dedicated to taking care of all your travel needs.
I primarily work on the Orbit World Travel side of our business, specialising in business and group travel. But as a traveller myself, I love chatting with customers and the team about their upcoming adventures — there’s nothing better than sharing in the excitement of a great trip!
Travel has played a huge role in my life. From years of family holidays to the Gold Coast and Fiji, where the kids spent hours in the pool or on the playground, to unforgettable highlights like Disneyland (they were 10 and 12 — the perfect age!), followed by a relaxing week in Mexico. These days, with older kids, we’re seeking more adventure. Our recent trip to Vietnam was a standout — from the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the peaceful beauty of Hoi An's lanterns and Halong Bay. If you haven’t been, it’s a must!
Next on my list? Europe. While I’ve done a couple of quick trips
in the past, I’m keen to take the time to explore the diverse cultures and rich
history of the places I’ve spent years helping others discover.
Whether your trip is big or small, come in and see us at House of Travel Nelson — we’ll make sure it’s your best one yet.
Bridget Smith
House of Travel Ashburton
I have a high passion for travel and helping customers find their dream location. There is so much to learn with travel and experiencing it is the best way to learn!
Bridget
Cherone Wilson
House of Travel Howick
Travel has been a constant in my life since my OE started with a classic Contiki trip through Europe, followed by working in London and traveling through the UK, Turkey, Egypt, and Israel. I also spent a year working in Iceland—a now trendy travel hotspot—before returning to New Zealand.
In 2000, my family moved to the middle east living in both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, which provided an exciting base for exploring nearby destinations. We had unforgettable holidays in Austria, France, the UK, Cyprus, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and Kenya.
Returning to New Zealand marked a new chapter of travel, this time without children. Recent adventures have included Vietnam, India, China, Peru, and Cambodia.
My travel career started with Singapore Airlines and since 2019 I’ve been consulting at House of Travel in Howick. I love talking and connecting with clients, listening to their travel dreams and turning them into memorable experiences.
Whether you're looking for an island getaway, relaxing cruise or an exciting adventure, I’m here to help you plan the perfect trip.
Travel is an adventure that brings the world to life.
Cherone
Kirsty Howlett
House of Travel Palmerston North: Broadway
I love that travel experiences gives you lasting memoires. I've worked in almost every area of the travel industry over the last 30 years and have a wealth of experience to help plan your next trip!
Kirsty
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