Navigation
Back

Sydney, Australia

Discover Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, the city skyline and much more.

Road along the coast

From beach holidays to city breaks, a Sydney holiday offers it all.

With its world‑famous Darling Harbour, golden beaches and vibrant city life, Sydney, Australia offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and urban adventure. From the sparkling waters of Bondi Beach and coastal walks to rainforest trails and a skyline anchored by iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Sydney is one of Australia’s most iconic destinations.

A Sydney holiday suits every type of traveller, whether you’re planning a family escape, a romantic couples’ getaway or an action‑packed trip with friends. Spend your days spotting wildlife, surfing at legendary beaches, cruising the harbour or enjoying fresh seafood at the iconic Sydney Fish Market. When the sun sets, Sydney comes alive with rooftop bars, waterfront dining and buzzing nightlife precincts.

From laidback beach suburbs to lively inner‑city neighbourhoods, Sydney delivers endless variety and unforgettable experiences year‑round.

Ready to start planning your Sydney holiday?

Chat with our Sydney travel specialists and book your dream Sydney holiday, tailored to suit your travel style.

Plane Stabiliser Icon

Flight time

Sydney is just a quick 3.5-hour flight from Auckland, making it a convenient destination for a city break or a longer holiday.

Calendar Icon

Best time to go

The ideal times to visit Sydney are September to November and March to May. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Watch Icon

Time difference

Sydney is 2 hours behind New Zealand, so there’s a slight time difference to keep in mind when planning your activities.

Our favourite things to do in Sydney

Sydney skylinee

From Ballet to Broadway

A night at the Sydney Opera House is nothing short of magical.

Read more
View of blue mountains

Explore beyond the city

Escape from the rat race and immerse yourself in the beautiful surrounding region.

Read more

Experience Sydney like never before

This experience is one not to be missed!

Read more
Art Gallery

Admire the Art Gallery of New South Wales

Sydney’s museums and galleries are full of fascinating stories, from stunning classical and contemporary art to Aboriginal artefacts and cool scientific specimens

Read more
Woman reaching for food from platter

From coffee to cocktails at Barangaroo

Just four minutes from Wynyard Station, Barangaroo is Sydney’s ultimate food lover's paradise!

Read more
Ariel view of waves breaking on the shore

Best. Coastal Walk. Ever!

The Aussie dream. Think surf, sunshine, Bondi beach and summertime brunch.

Read more
View of Sydney Harbour

Family ferry-tale.

Do what the locals do and travel on the harbour highway.

Read more
View of car driving on road over water

Hit the gas and head for the coast

Escape the hustle of a city as happening as Sydney with a coastal roadie.

Read more

Your go-to guide for all things Aussie - Download our Australia Brochure

Expert tips, insider info and bucket-list inspiration for your next adventure

Meet our Sydney specialists

See all See more
Sarah Jeffries

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 

Nicky de Clifford

Nicky de Clifford

House of Travel Merivale

Having spent the last 30 years in the Travel Industry I can safely say "I love my job" !!

Getting to put together dream holidays is very rewarding and it's great to see so many more Kiwis getting out to see this amazing world of ours...

I love to tailor holidays that are uniquely personal to you. Every person has different needs, wants and "must do's" for their holiday. Nothing is cookie cutter in the world of travel so being able to put together an itinerary that is bespoke and personal is rewarding for myself and for you, the traveller.

My favourite destinations would be Europe (especially France and Italy), South East Asia (especially Vietnam and Thailand) and of course our Island neighbours. I have been to Fiji numerous times and every time I just love it.
But there are so many places I have yet to travel to and I look forward to sharing my travel stories along the way.

I look forward to working with you..

Nicky

Sarah Henderson

Sarah Henderson

House of Travel Christchurch City

Sarah's passion for her career and professional manner is reflected in her efficiency when taking care of your business travel arrangements. It is no surprise that Sarah is consistently recognised as one of the Top 10 Consultants for the House of Travel Group in New Zealand, including being one of the legends in the Hall of Fame!

"I love making travel simple for my client's. I know exactly where they like to sit on each aircraft type; their favourite hotels to stay and all the nitty gritty details to make travel less stressful." 

Having recently celebrated working at House of Travel Christchurch City for 20 years, Sarah has extensive experience for all travel scenarios and is committed to finding the best possible solution for all her clients - even when issues are beyond her control. 

When not at her desk, Sarah loves competing in the weekly pub quiz and on the weekends you will find her planting more roses in her 150-year-old Homestead garden. 

Favourite place to visit: Disneyland 
Next place to visit: Paris and someday, Russia

Sarah

Teri Campbell

Teri Campbell

House of Travel Greymouth

What truly sets me apart is that I believe in creating travel experiences as unique as you are. I take the time to understand your preferences, your dreams, and even those little quirks that make your ideal trip special. 

It’s not just about booking flights and hotels; it’s finding that hidden gem of a restaurant in Barcelona or securing the best view of the Pyramids in Egypt, I’m committed to delivering experiences that go beyond the ordinary. 

I also pride myself on being incredibly accessible and responsive. If a last-minute change or unexpected challenge arises, I’m just a phone call or message away, ready to jump in and ensure everything goes smoothly. 

My goal is to make every moment of your trip memorable, stress-free, and tailored just for you.

Teri

FAQS

Why is Sydney a popular destination for Kiwi travellers?

Sydney is popular with Kiwi travellers for its iconic landmarks, beaches, food scene and major events. Plus short flight times to Sydney and iconic year‑round experiences that suit both short breaks and longer holidays.

 

How long is the flight from New Zealand to Sydney?

The flight time from Auckland to Sydney takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, with regular services also available from Wellington and Christchurch.

 

How many days do you need for a Sydney holiday?

A 3 to 5-day Sydney holiday is ideal for city highlights and nearby beaches, while 7 days or more allows time for coastal walks, day trips and neighbourhood exploration.

 

What is the best time of year to visit Sydney?

Sydney is a year‑round destination, but September to May is especially popular thanks to warm weather, festivals, beach conditions and major sporting events.

 

How to find the best holiday package to Sydney & NSW?

We've got that covered for you! Visit our Sydney & NSW deals section on our website or sign up to get the hottest deals sent straight to your email.

Do Kiwis need a visa to travel to Sydney?

No, New Zealand passport holders do not need to apply for a visa. We always recommend staying up to date on government websites for any changes, or information about non-New Zealand passport holders.

 

Is Sydney expensive for Kiwi travellers?

Sydney can suit a range of budgets, with free attractions, public transport options and varied accommodation, alongside competitive flights from New Zealand.

 

What should I pack for a Sydney holiday?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, light layers, sun protection and a light jacket, as Sydney’s weather can change between mornings and evenings.

 

Where to stay in Sydney?

There are plenty of amazing places to stay in Sydney, depending on what you like. If you want to be close to the action, the CBD has plenty of hotels and apartments near the main attractions. If you love the beach, you can't go wrong with Bondi or Manly, where you can enjoy the sun, sand and surf. For a more laidback vibe, check out the Blue Mountains or the Hunter Valley - both stunning destinations with cosy accommodation options.

 

What are the things to do in Sydney?

There is no shortage of things to do in Sydney, with so much on offer right at your doorstep. If you're planning a holiday in Sydney, explore our Sydney and surrounds travel guide crafted with help from our Sydney experts to make the most of your trip. Take a stroll along Circular Quay and soak up the atmosphere. Circular Quay has some of the city’s best restaurants. Only a 10 minute stroll from the Sydney Town Hall, Darling Harbour is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious harbourside meal or experience the energetic nightlife. Sydney's must-see spots include the Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach and the Royal Botanic Garden. In NSW, explore the Blue Mountains and the Hunter Valley wine 

 

Do I need travel insurance for Sydney?

Absolutely, we highly recommend travel insurance for your trip to Sydney. We provide a range of travel insurance options suitable for travel to Australia. Find more information here.

 

Can I use New Zealand dollars in Sydney?

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. Most credit and debit cards are widely accepted, as well as via digital wallets.

What are the must‑do attractions in Sydney?

Top attractions include the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, Luna Park, coastal walks, harbour cruises and historic areas like The Rocks.

 

Is Sydney easy to get around without a car?

Yes, Sydney has extensive trains, buses, ferries and light rail, making it easy to explore the city and key attractions without hiring a car. Though hiring a car is a great option if you want to venture further. 

 

Can you do day trips from Sydney?

Yes, Sydney is a great base for day trips to the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley wineries, Central Coast, and Southern Highlands.

 

How can I get around in Sydney?

Sydney is well connected with public transport systems including trains, buses, and ferries. The Opal card is a convenient payment method for all public transport. For shorter stays, rideshare services like Uber and taxis are also available.

 

Where to shop in Sydney?

Sydney is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from major department stores to unique local markets. In the CBD, find Myer and David Jones, along with popular high‑street brands, while Pitt Street Mall and Westfield Sydney offer a wide mix of fashion and dining. The historic Queen Victoria Building (QVB) is a must for luxury boutiques. On weekends, explore The Rocks Markets and Paddington Markets for unique finds. Hot tip: Paddy’s Markets, near Chinatown and Darling Harbour, is ideal for bargain shopping and souvenirs.

 

What are some family-friendly activities in Sydney?

Sydney is a fantastic family holiday destination with plenty of activities for all ages. Visit Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Luna Park. Venture further, to the Blue Mountains for outdoor adventures like bushwalking and scenic railway rides. Enjoy beach days at Bondi or Manly, and discover the interactive museums and parks throughout the city and region. For a fantastic family day out hop on the ferry to visit the zoo and Watsons Bay. Enjoy classic fish and chips at Doyles by the harbour, or head to the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel for their own delicious take on this seaside favourite, paired with a tempting cocktail menu.

Customer holidays snaps

Best. Sydney Holidays. Ever!

Follow us!
Subscribe

Want the insider word on all things travel?

Sign up below and be the first to hear about out hottest holiday deals, flights steals, and essential travel hints and tips from out team of travel specialists.

Consultant Consultant Consultant

Experience all things Sydney, Australia