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Sydney

Let the good times roll!

Road along the coast

Sun, sand and a splash of adventure

Golden beaches, dazzling turquoise waters, and lush rainforest trails, Sydney effortlessly blends natural beauty with city excitement. With one of the world’s most iconic skylines set against a stunning coastal backdrop, this Aussie favourite is buzzing with endless possibilities.

From fun-filled family days to unforgettable nights out with your best mates, Sydney delivers the perfect escape for every type of traveller. Spot wildlife, catch some waves, savour the freshest seafood, or dance the night away in vibrant urban hotspots.

Connect with our Sydney travel specialists and let’s find your perfect adventure. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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View of blue mountains

Explore beyond the city

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

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Experience Sydney like never before

This experience is one not to be missed!

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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

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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!

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Ariel view of waves breaking on the shore

Best. Coastal Walk. Ever!

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

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View of Sydney Harbour

Family ferry-tale.

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

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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.

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93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"Madison was helpful and thorough as she searched for my flights. I feel confident in the arrangements made."

Heather

"Michelle is detail oriented, has great ideas to offer, is full of handy pointers/tips and tricks. Michelle is also very prompt in replying to any requests or queries."

Karyn

"Jess was great to work with. She quickly provided us with a quote and tailored it to meet our specific needs."

Adrianne

Meet our Sydney specialists

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Charlotte Chalman

Charlotte Chalman

House of Travel Invercargill

Travel -it broadens our views, creates lasting memories and allows you to take a break from the ordinary.

In recent years, I have taken to much more adventurous travel, heading to Central Asia and exploring Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, exploring much of Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Shanghai and looking forward to our next adventures in Africa.

I love travelling with my family and seeing my teenage girls minds blown by the experiences they have in different countries - different ways of living, different foods, different cultures, amazing sites (and sights!) and really seeing what is important to other people outside of NZ.

I love hearing about the epic adventures people have planned and love helping pull things together to give you your Best Holiday Ever. Give me a call or send me an email to get started on your next journey.

Charlotte

Melanie Hubber

Melanie Hubber

House of Travel Ferrymead

I am passionate about sustainable travel for the future. 

My entire career of 30 years has been in travel sales and tourism. I have travelled overseas more than a hundred times to over 70 countries and 6 continents for personal holidays, business and leisure.

I've made my home in London, Dorset, Chamonix and Auckland. I settled back in my home town of Christchurch after being away for five years. 

I love travel and how it enriches lives and provides a livelihood for people and communities around the globe. I love helping to inspire and inform clients, who care about the impact their choices have on local communities and the environment, and who want to have a great holiday. 

Sustainable doesn't mean you can't have luxury! My personal holidays always have a sense of adventure, you will find me on a beach or mountain or taking in a cultural experience to make the most of a destination. 

I personally rate train travel one of the best ways to casually explore, there's nothing I love more than checking in at a downtown railway station off to a new destination. I think travel provides new perspectives and respect for different cultures and values are par for the course. We can always find common ground when we are prepared to go out of our comfort zone. 

Why book your travel with me? I am a CLIA certified Cruise Master and dedicated to helping you with your travel plans. I have the tools and the networks available to assist with all styles of travel experiences you may be looking for. 

Mel

Rachael Wood

Rachael Wood

House of Travel Hornby

I understand that travel is more than just a destination; it’s a journey of discovery, relaxation, and fun! My mission is to craft a seamless and stress-free experience tailored just for you, so you can savor every moment without the hassle.

Rachael

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

Best. Holidays. Ever!

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FAQS

What is the best time of year to visit Sydney ?
Sydney is a great destination year-round and there’s always something going on in Sydney. As one of the world’s top cities to visit, Sydney has a vibrant buzz year-round with its endless list of high profile events, iconic landmarks, popular beaches and stunning harbour. 

What are the things to do in Sydney?
There is no shortage of things to do in Sydney, with so much to offer right on your doorstep. If you're planning a holiday in Sydney & NSW, explore our Sydney & 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, the Hunter Valley wine 

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.

Where to stay in Sydney & NSW?
There are so many amazing places to stay in Sydney & NSW, 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 laid-back vibe, why not check out the Blue Mountains or the Hunter Valley? They are both stunning destinations with cosy accommodation options.

What should I pack for my trip to Sydney?
Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather, especially if visiting during summer. Include swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for beach days. If visiting during winter (June to August), pack a warm jacket and layers for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city and natural parks.

Do I need travel insurance for Sydney?
Absolutely, it is highly recommended to have 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 & NSW?
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.

Do I need to hire a car to get around in Sydney?
We recommend hiring a car can be useful for exploring regional NSW, such as the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, and coastal areas.

How can I get around in Sydney?
Sydney has extensive public transport system, 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?
As an absolute shopper’s paradise, there are seemingly endless options in Sydney whatever you’re looking for, from the CBD’s colossal department stores, Myer and David Jones to high street favourites such as Topshop and Zara. Visit Pitt Street Mall for high-street and designer stores, the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) for luxury boutiques in a historic setting, and Westfield Sydney for a wide range of brands and dining options. For unique finds, explore The Rocks Markets and Paddington Markets on weekends. HOT TIP!  Paddy's Market, which sells an eclectic mix of food, cheap clothes and even cheaper souvenirs (kangaroo scrotum anyone?) sits conveniently close to Chinatown and Darling Harbour, both of which are walkable.  

What are some family-friendly activities in Sydney & NSW?
Sydney & NSW are fantastic family holiday destinations with plenty of activities for all ages. In Sydney, visit Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, and Luna Park. Explore 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 & 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.

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