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 BreakFree Alexandra Beach
Sunshine Coast
BreakFree Alexandra Beach
Return flights
7 nights
from
$
1059
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids 2-11 yrs)
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore BreakFree Grand Pacific Caloundra
Sunshine Coast
BreakFree Grand Pacific Caloundra
Return flights
7 nights
from
$
1079
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids 2-11 yrs)
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore ULTIQA Shearwater Resort
Sunshine Coast
ULTIQA Shearwater Resort
Return flights
7 nights
from
$
1499
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
Explore Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas
Sunshine Coast
Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas
Return flights
7 nights
Breakfast daily
from
$
2089
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
$
785
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids 2-11 yrs)
Meet our Sunshine Coast specialists
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
Sarah Jeffries
House of Travel Morrinsville
Hi, I’m Sarah—a Matamata local with a passion for making your travel dreams come true!With over nine years of experience as a travel consultant, I specialise in creating personalised journeys that leave lasting memories.
Working remotely from Matamata, I combine local charm with global expertise, bringing the world right to your doorstep.
Travel is not just my profession—it’s my passion. As an avid explorer, I’ve fallen in love with some incredible destinations.
London has captured my heart with its royal landmarks, from the grandeur of Buckingham Palace to the storied Tower of London. Navigating the city on the iconic Underground is a breeze, making every corner of this vibrant city accessible. As a lifelong Harry Potter fan, visiting the Cotswolds and exploring filming locations like Lacock Abbey Cloisters (aka Hogwarts!) was pure magic.
In Asia, my adventures have taken me to many countries, but the Philippines stands out. Swimming with whale sharks and soaking up the island vibes were unforgettable experiences. It’s a destination rich in culture, beauty, and value—a must-see!
When it’s time to unwind, I love nothing more than a relaxing resort holiday. Picture this: a good book, a cocktail in hand, and the laid-back charm of the South Pacific.
As a new mum, I’ve developed a knack for finding the best family-friendly resorts. Our recent family holiday to Fiji was a dream! We stayed at the Outrigger, and it was absolutely faBULAous—perfect for little ones and parents alike.
Whether you’re craving a peaceful beach retreat, an exhilarating adventure, or a family escape, I’m here to make it happen.
My goal? To craft a travel experience tailored just for you, full of unforgettable moments and stress-free planning.
Let’s turn your travel dreams into reality. Life’s short—let’s make sure your story is one worth watching.
Ready to explore? I can’t wait to help you plan your next journey!
Sarah
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
Jo Coolen
House of Travel Kapiti Coast
For a long time, I've told people I have the best job in the world and I still stand by that.
What could be better than turning peoples dreams into reality? I never know what the day will bring and isn't variety the spice of life?
My travel journey started a bit later in my life, so I haven't been everywhere YET, but I am having a damn good crack at it, gathering local knowledge along the way.
Jo
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