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UK & Ireland

Castles, Pints, and Scenic Splendour!

United Kingdom Belle Tout Lighthouse

A blend of historic charm and scenic landscapes

Are you ready for an adventure that will take you across two of the most amazing and diverse islands in Europe? Journey to the UK and Ireland, where you will discover a world of wonders, from bustling cities to breathtaking scenery, from ancient history to modern culture and from Christmas markets to summer river cruises.

Whether you want to shop till you drop in London, chase Nessie in Scotland, sip Guinness in Dublin, or explore the Game of Thrones locations in Northern Ireland, you’ll find something to suit your fancy in these two islands. 

The UK and Ireland are full of surprises and delights. Chat to our UK & Ireland travel specialists and together, let’s start planning your perfect holiday today!

DID YOU KNOW?

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Flight time.

Flying from Auckland to the UK & Ireland usually takes around 24 hours, including a stopover. It’s a long journey, but historic cities, rich culture, and unforgettable landscapes await you

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Best time to go.

The best times to visit the UK and Ireland are during late spring to early summer (Late March to June) and early autumn (September to October). These months offer mild temperatures, longer daylight hours, and ideal conditions for exploring cities, countryside, and costal regions.

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Time difference.

UK & Ireland are 12 hours behind New Zealand in winter (Apr-Sep) and 13 hours behind New Zealand in summer (Oct-April), so plan for a noticeable time difference.

Our favourite things to do in the UK & Ireland

Warner Bros Harry Potter

Visit Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio

While in London make sure you go to to the Warner Bros. Studio – The Making of Harry Potter Tour. It is incredible, even if you are not huge Harry Potter fans.

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Rainbow behind Stonehenge

Best. Daytrip. Ever!

Take a daytrip to Stonehenge.

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Buckingham Palace

A rare peek inside Buckingham Palace

A "must-do" when in London!

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Castle in Ireland

Stay in a castle

Live like royalty!

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Train

All aboard the Harry Potter experience!

The Jacobite Steam Train is hands down one of the world’s most epic rail journeys, taking you on an 84-mile round trip through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands.

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West End London

Catch a classic show in London’s West End!

Ready for a spectacular night out?

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Penny Lane Liverpool

Dive deep into "Beatlemania"

Beatles – Liverpool experience

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Seats at Anfield Stadium

Feel the thrill of the Premier League Live

Join in with the chants at an atmospheric football match.

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Canterbury Canal England

A must-do British experience

Think canal cruising in a narrowboat is boring? Think again—it's the perfect way to enjoy a British summer!

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Sample some local brews

Discover how the world-famous brews are made at the Guinness Storehouse or Jameson Distillery Bow St.

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Meet our UK & Ireland specialists

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Chris Fifield

Chris Fifield

House of Travel Christchurch City

Chris has travelled the globe several times over... with his 30 plus years' experience in the industry he is unquestionably efficient and knowledgeable when it comes to organising any form of travel!

Chris' passion for his career is evident in all holidays he organises. His personal travel experiences compliment his leisure travel background, as he can think outside the box logistically and ensure that all your travel needs are met, and you are guided throughout your journey. 

"Whether your travel dreams are exploring the rugged West Coast of New Zealand to a luxury break in Fiji, I am 100% committed to ensuring you have the best experience planning and fulfilling your dream holiday." 

Outside of work, you will find Chris in the great outdoors having fished his way throughout New Zealand, hiked the Inca Trail in Peru, skied the Canadian Rockies, just to name a few. 

Years in the industry: 37 
No. of countries visited: 40+ 
Favourite place to visit: Western Canada
Next place on the list to visit: Bali

Work, save, travel, repeat. 


Why I love travel: 

There is so many different cultures to experience and history that goes way beyond New Zealand's few hundred years of course - stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed all over the world.


My travel tips:

  • If you are there - do it. Travel is all about experiences that create wonderful memories, so don't regret not doing something because you were concerned about the price - the bank won't mind and you will talk about it for years to come. 
  • Pack light as you can always find a laundromat - though I do need to take me own advice! 
  • Find the most comfortable walking shoes you can find and break them in before you go. You will probably do lots of walking in some countries .... old European cobbled streets can take a toll. 
  • Be prepared to and learn how to tip so you don't get thought of as a bad tourist - most of the world tips for service and yet it's so foreign to us, but very important to do so. 


My top 5 favourite destinations: 

  • Pacific Islands - a close tropical beach escape. The rest of the world dreams of these exotic locations and they are just there for us. 
  • Canada - amazing wilderness experiences on a grand scale.
  • Italy - organised chaos! I just love the expressive personalities of the people, as well the fabulous food and drink and amazing history. 
  • Vietnam - a bit of everything from great beaches to amazing food and stunning rural scenery and different minority cultures.
  • Mediterranean Cruise - why not take your hotel with you - wake up each day with a new culture and experience to be had - this is the place to cruise!

What's in my suitcase:

  • Too much - I must do better!
  • One universal adaptor and a 4 plug New Zealand multi box


Chris


Jo Coolen

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

Megan McCall

Megan McCall

House of Travel Christchurch City

Megan brings to the team a fantastic sense of humour and positive attitude along with a wealth of international knowledge from her own travels throughout the world. 

Whether it be a business meeting in Singapore, or coordinating a sports team travelling to international competitions; Megan's extensive expertise with airlines and airfares is first class. 

"I understand what is important to you and your organisation for all your business travel needs."

Megan's wealth of travel knowledge with 30 years travel industry experience is an asset to our team. See for yourself how Megan's easy, welcoming, and professional approach provides confidence for any travel requirement. 

Favourite place to visit: Thailand 
Next place on the list to visit: USA

Megan

Sarah Martelli

Sarah Martelli

House of Travel Rotorua

My love for travel began early - at 19, I left New Zealand with a one-way ticket to London to start my OE, and I've never looked back. I spent eight years living overseas, including four incredible years in London, where I explored Europe extensively. (Barcelona still has my heart!) 

I began my travel career in Melbourne in 2004, and knew I'd found my dream career. Even know, I still smile every day coming to work - I truly LOVE what I do. 

I did step away from the travel industry for a few years to raise my family, but the pull of travel was simply too strong. Coming back confirmed what I already knew: there is nothing else I would rather be doing. No two days are ever the same, and helping to create someone's dream holiday is a true privilege. 

Helping clients plan their adventures brings me so much joy. I specialize in point-to-point Europe itineraries, and I'm especially passionate about tours and cruising. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a multi-generational family holiday, a tailor-made Europe itinerary or a cruising holiday, I'll work with you to create a trip that fits within your budget and needs.

I pride myself on attention to detail and prompt turnaround times with my work. I believe I also go above and beyond for my clients - many now see me more as a friend, because we've built such strong relationships. Whether it's your first trip or your tenth, I'm here to make your journey smooth, exciting, and unforgettable from start to finish.

I'm known for being friendly, bubbly, and a great listener. I'll take the time to understand your needs and offer thoughtful advice and suggestions to make your trip the best it can be. 

I live on our dairy farm in Reporoa with my Husband Mathew and our three young children, who go to school in Rotorua. We are a busy sporting family, so I understand the #mumlife juggle and the importance of taking time out for a well-earned holiday, either as a family or for a lush couples' getaway! 

Some of our favourite family trips have been around Vietnam and to the theme parks on the Gold Coast, and next on our list with the kids Hawaii. For my husband and I, our favourite recent couples getaway trips were to Bali and Malaysia - beachfront cocktails, yes please! Next on our wish list is the Maldives, I have been there 20 years ago so I think it’s time we went back!

Don't just dream about it - lets start planning. Get in touch today and let me turn your travel dreams into your next boarding pass.


Sarah

  • Top Retail Consultant Finalist 2024
  • Silver Sales Award 2025 
  • Gold Sales Award 2026


Follow me on my socials! 


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