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Tasmania, Australia

Discover wild landscapes, fresh flavours and unforgettable experiences on a Tasmania holiday.

Freycinet National park nature walk, Tasmania, Australia
Cradle Mountains Credit Cultivate Productions
Gordon Dam Tasmania
Cradle Mountains Credit Tourism Tasmania And Rob Burnett
Tasmanian Wild Seafood Adventures Cr Dearna Bond
Every Man And His Dog Vineyard Cr Tourism Au

The best ways to explore Tasmania: Self-drive holidays, adventure experiences and cultural immersion.

A holiday to Tasmania delivers a refreshingly different Australian experience. Australia’s island state is famous for its unspoiled wilderness, dramatic coastlines, intriguing history and unique wildlife, including the iconic Tasmanian devil. From coastal walks and national parks to vibrant local markets and heritage towns, Tasmania blends natural beauty with culture and charm.

Tasmania is also one of Australia’s standout food destinations. Cool‑climate wines, farm‑fresh produce, artisan cheeses, sweet berries and exceptional seafood are all part of the experience. Whether you’re tasting your way through cellar doors, visiting local farms or enjoying paddock‑to‑plate dining by the water, food plays a central role in any Tasmania holiday.

Thanks to its compact size and scenic roads, Tasmania is perfect for a self‑drive holiday, especially for Kiwi travellers. In a week, you can explore rainforests, beaches, mountains and historic sites, all within easy driving distance. With more time, slow the pace and uncover hidden bays, national parks and charming regional communities.

Adventure and relaxation go hand in hand. Kayak along sheltered coastlines, hike world‑class wilderness trails, take a river cruise or join guided tours that showcase Tasmania’s rugged landscapes. In Hobart, don’t miss MONA - the Museum of Old and New Art - one of Australia’s most talked‑about cultural attractions.

Easy to reach from New Zealand and less crowded than mainland destinations, Tasmania appeals to couples, families and travellers seeking a slower, nature‑focused escape. From food and wine to wild scenery and culture, a holiday to Tasmania offers something truly special.

Ready to plan your Tasmania adventure?

From wine regions and wilderness to coastal drives and cultural icons, a holiday to Tasmania is whatever you want it to be. Speak to our Tasmania travel specialists and start planning your best holiday ever.

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Flight time

A direct seasonal flight from Auckland gets you to Hobart in under 4 hours. For more flexibility year-round, hop over to Melbourne or Sydney and connect domestically to the Tasmania's boutique airports.

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Best time to go

The best times to visit Tasmania are during summer (December to February) and early autumn (March). These periods provide the warmest weather and longer days, perfect for exploring natural landscapes and historic towns.

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Time difference

Hobart 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.

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Meet our Tasmania specialists

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Chanel Gray

Chanel Gray

House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square


From a young age I dreamed of taking adventures and exploring the world, and my passion has continued to grow the more places I have visited.

I love sharing my knowledge and experience with clients, and helping them plan their dream trips.

I'm a passionate traveler & always look forward to planning the next trip, whether it's for my clients or myself.

So far I've visited over 33 countries & experienced many types of travel including independent, small group tours, coach touring & cruising.


Chanel

Emma Chappell

Emma Chappell

House of Travel Timaru

Planning and organizing are my forte, and combined with a love for exploring being a travel consultant is the perfect fit! I love sharing my customers excitement and making their holiday dreams come true!

Emma

Lisa Cooper

Lisa Cooper

House of Travel Rangiora

My passions are travel & people which is why I love what I do! I love to share in the excitement of your travel planning and help create your dream holiday! I also understand there is not a one size fits all for travel and will ensure your holiday is individualised to you!

I've been lucky enough to visit so many amazing countries of the world and I would love to help you do the same whether it is a family trip to Aussie, a river cruise in Europe, relaxing Island getaway or an adventurous safari in Africa. 

My office hours are: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9am -3pm

Lisa

Jared Wilson

Jared Wilson

House of Travel Christchurch City


No. of countries visited: 40+ 

Favourite place to visit: Anywhere in South America

Next place on the list to visit: Kenya


Quote: “Never pass up a bathroom”

About me: With over 2 years of solo travel across 40+ countries, I am passionate about immersing myself in new cultures and uncovering the unique experiences each destination has to offer. Fluent in Spanish, Latin America is my particular area of experience and expertise. Whether you're after an exciting adventure or a peaceful getaway, I’m committed to designing a memorable and seamless trip tailored specifically to you. 

Why I love travel: It allows me to escape the sometimes repetitive nature of daily life. I enjoy experiencing new places or returning to ones that I love. I like making connections with people from places around the world and having experiences that can’t be replicated.

My travel tips:

  • Meet the locals Almost all of my favourite and most cherished travel experiences have involved meeting and making friends with the local people. It is a sure-fire way to have a more unique and intimate holiday experience.
  • When in Rome A cliché but one to that will enrich your travel, observe how the locals live and learn from it. Try the local brew or dish, join in on the fun. Also respect local customs and traditions, this will allow a richer and safer experience.
  • Expect the unexpected- Be ready for unforeseen circumstances that will inevitably occur at some point during a trip. If you are expectant and prepared for troublesome scenarios you can save yourself a lot of grief. After all, you want to make your break from reality as stress free as possible.

My top 3 favourite destinations:

  • Colombia- An up and coming travel destination, a country cursed with the reputation earned from its past. It is extremely geographically diverse and amazing bang for your buck. I still haven’t found a country with warmer and friendlier people.
  • Spain- A country full of amazing destinations to discover, with a rich history and a world class gastronomical scene. The fun loving people, the nightlife and the picturesque towns with uniquely their Spanish architecture are a must experience.
  • Mexico- Mexico is a country which is truly fascinating, an amazing place to get to know. It’s a big country with lots to explore - like the US it is made up of states (32), the more you see the more you’ll want to see. It is full of the most beautiful places you’ve never heard of. The locals are extremely friendly and of course the cuisine one of the best and most famous on the globe.

What’s in my suitcase:

  • Spare phone, cables and a travel adaptor- Fact is electronics are a very important travel tool and to be prepared is important so you don’t have to go in the dark.
  • A Journal- A great way to record all the little details and memorable moments. When moving fast and or experiencing a lot we naturally forget things. Writing it down will help to recall in future and also to have what you’ve written forever is something special.
  • Travel cubes- Will help you to keep your suitcase nice and organised for easy packing and ultimately will save you time making things easier to find.

My most memorable travel stories:

  • Walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain together with part of the Camino Portugues from Lisbon to Porto – totalling 1200kms. My hiking shoes broke so I did the last 1000kms in Sandals.
  • Doing a 32 day Top Deck bus tour around Europe. Easily one of the best months of my life full of laughs and all round good times. I made some strong friendships and saw a lot in such a short space of time.


Jared

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Tasmania FAQs

Where is Tasmania located in Australia?
Tasmania is an island state located south of mainland Australia, below Victoria. It’s known for its wild landscapes, national parks and cool-climate food and wine.

 

How far is Tasmania from New Zealand?
From New Zealand, Tasmania is usually reached via connecting flights through Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane, with total travel time around 6 to 8 hours depending on connections.

 

What is the best time to visit Tasmania from NZ?
The best time is November to April, when temperatures are milder and ideal for exploring. December to February (summer) is peak season, while autumn (March to May) is popular for food, wine and scenic drives.

 

Is Tasmania good for a nature or outdoor holiday?
Yes. Tasmania is one of Australia’s top destinations for nature lovers, with over 40% protected wilderness, including Cradle Mountain, Freycinet National Park and the Bay of Fires.

 

How long should I spend in Tasmania?
Most travellers spend 7 to 10 days to explore key regions like Hobart, Launceston, Freycinet, and Cradle Mountain without rushing.

 

Is Tasmania suitable for a road trip?
Absolutely. Tasmania is ideal for a self-drive holiday, with scenic routes, short driving distances and easy access to national parks and small towns.

Do New Zealanders need a visa to visit Tasmania?
No. NZ passport holders do not require a visa to enter Australia.

 

What airport do you fly into in Tasmania?
The main airports are Hobart Airport (south) and Launceston Airport (north), both served by domestic flights from major Australian hubs.

 

Are there direct flights from NZ to Tasmania?
There are generally no regular direct flights from New Zealand to Tasmania, so most travellers connect via Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane.

 

What currency is used in Tasmania?
Tasmania uses the Australian Dollar (AUD), and cash, EFTPOS and credit card payments are widely accepted across cities and regional areas.

 

What should I pack for Tasmania?
Tasmania’s weather can change quickly, so pack layers, a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing - even in summer, especially for alpine areas.

 

Is travel insurance recommended for Tasmania trips?
Yes. Travel insurance is recommended to cover medical care, cancellations and rental car excess, particularly for outdoor and driving holidays.

Do I need a car in Tasmania?
Yes. Hiring a car is highly recommended, as many of Tasmania’s highlights are in regional or remote areas not easily accessed by public transport.

 

What are the top things to do in Tasmania?
Highlights include exploring Cradle Mountain, hiking in Freycinet National Park, visiting Wineglass Bay, discovering MONA in Hobart and driving along the East Coast to the Bay of Fires.

 

Is Tasmania safe for tourists?
Yes. Tasmania is considered very safe, but travellers should be mindful of changing weather conditions, especially when hiking or driving in remote areas.

 

Can you see wildlife easily in Tasmania?
Yes. Tasmania is one of the best places in Australia to spot native wildlife, including wombats, wallabies, Tasmanian devils and birdlife - especially at dawn and dusk.

 

Is Tasmania expensive compared to mainland Australia?
Tasmania can be moderate in cost, with accommodation and dining ranging from boutique luxury to budget-friendly. Car hire and regional travel can add to overall costs.

 

Do I need to book national park entry in advance?
You don’t need to book most parks in advance, but you will need a Tasmania Parks Pass, which can be purchased online or at entry points.

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