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Italy

La Dolce Vita, living the sweet life!

Venice

A land of timeless art, culinary delights, and scenic beauty

Ciao! Passion seeps into all aspects of life here – you can hear it in the opera, taste it in lovingly prepared pasta, and see it in action as the Italians promenade across their piazzas, talking loudly and proudly with their hands. In Rome and Milan, life zooms by on Vespas, while Venice and Florence dazzle with their unique charms. In the countryside, things slow down - ideal for savoring wine, long lunches, and sunflower fields. Enjoy Tuscany’s scenic hills, historic Pompeii, and pastel coastal villages. On the coast, villages washed in pastel colours cling to cliffs; and in the Italian Alps, elegant villas overlook tranquil lakes. No wonder Italy was home to so many inspired painters and composers.

Chat to our Italy travel specialists and let’s start planning your belissimo holiday today!

DID YOU KNOW?

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Flight time.

Flying from Auckland to Italy usually takes around 24 hours, including a stopover. The journey is long, but the art, culture, and cuisine of Italy await you.

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Best time to go.

The best times to visit Italy are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and the chance to see Italy at its most beautiful.

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Time difference.

Italy is 10 hours behind New Zealand, so you’ll experience a substantial time difference upon arrival.

Our favourite things to do in Italy

Vespa

See Rome or Tuscany on a vespa

Want to explore Rome like a local?

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Ravioli Pasta

Learn to cook (and eat) like an Italian!

Go for an Italian Cooking class when in Italy!

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Pizza

Attend pizzafest in Naples

If you're borderline addicted to pizza, you're not alone.

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Vatican

Start your day with breakfast at the Vatican

Treat yourself to a VIP experience in Rome!

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Markets

Head to the markets

Experience Rome's oldest market at the Campo dei Fiori, which serves up fresh seafood, vegetables, fruit, spices and homewares daily from Monday to Saturday.

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Tuscany

Live like a local and hire a villa in Tuscany

One of the best experiences in Tuscany is to stay in a villa.

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View of Cinque Terre

Try the best basil pesto

Explore the stunning villages of Cinque Terre and taste the best basil pesto!

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Burano

Visit the outer Venetian islands

No trip to Venice is complete without a visit to its prized islands—Murano and Burano.

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Amalfi Coast

Hiking the Amalfi Coast

For something active and different - go for this popular hike on the Amalfi Coast!

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Meet our Italy specialists

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Jay Irvine

Jay Irvine

House of Travel Halswell

Travel has always been a passion of mine, but what I enjoy most is helping others experience the excitement that comes with planning their next adventure. Whether it's a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, a family getaway, a cruise, or a quick escape, I love taking the stress out of the planning process so my clients can simply look forward to their trip.

As a Travel Consultant with House of Travel, I've been fortunate to experience a wide variety of travel styles first-hand. From ocean cruising and independent travel to small group journeys and fully escorted tours, I understand that no two travellers are the same. I've explored destinations throughout Australia, Europe, Asia, the South Pacific and the USA, giving me genuine first-hand knowledge that I can share with my clients.

Australia remains one of my favourite destinations, with its incredible mix of vibrant cities, stunning coastlines and unforgettable regional experiences. Cruising is another personal passion, and I enjoy helping clients find the perfect ship and itinerary, whether it's their very first cruise or they're seasoned travellers looking for their next adventure.

I believe the best holidays are built around the people taking them. That's why I take the time to understand what my clients enjoy, what inspires them, and what they want from their travels. My goal is simple—to create seamless, memorable holidays while providing honest advice, personalised service, and support every step of the way.


Jay

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

Angela Taverner

Angela Taverner

House of Travel Hamilton City

With over 40 years of travel experience, including 30 years living and working in the USA, I’ve developed a deep passion for showcasing the beauty and diversity of the United States. But my love of travel goes far beyond that. Travel is not just a career for me—it's a lifelong journey that has shaped my understanding of the world and its many cultures.

I thrive on helping my clients discover unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and I have a special fondness for authentic, remote locations that offer a genuine connection to the culture and landscape.

My adventures have taken me to the vast sands of Morocco and Egypt, where I’ve explored ancient ruins and vibrant markets. I’ve trekked the Inca Trail in Peru and hiked to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, experiencing firsthand the stunning landscapes and welcoming communities. 

Whether it’s trekking through the mountains of Nepal or uncovering hidden gems in Peru, I love guiding travellers to places that offer more than just sightseeing—they offer a chance to truly connect with the world.

I find great joy in helping my clients turn their dream holidays into reality, whether they’re after iconic landmarks or remote locations that are rich in culture and adventure.

Through my work as a travel agent, I create experiences that go beyond the ordinary, helping travellers discover not only new places but new perspectives.

Let me help you craft a journey that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.


Angela 

Charlotte Chalman

Charlotte Chalman

House of Travel Invercargill

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

During my career, I have hit some ultimate highs- being the only New Zealand finalist in the prestigious Avis Travel Scholarship in 2019, winning the CLIA Rising Star award in 2020, being a finalist for the House of Travel Rookie of the Year in 2020 (not awarded to anyone due to COVID), multiple internal sales awards and of course getting to see some amazing countries through travel adventures. 

In recent years, I have taken to much more off the beaten track travel, exploring Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and China and a epic three-week safari through Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana and South Africa. 

Although I did sneak in a wee three-week coach trip in Europe as well-we all need some creature comforts! 

I have loved 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 now work from home but venture into the office regularly to see clients (by appointment only). I do love a good face to face catch up!

I would love to hear what adventures you have planned, whether close to home or somewhere in the weird and wonderful, 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 journey. I look forward to meeting you! 

Charlotte

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