House of Travel

27/04/2025

we always knew Emma had long legs but what has Hong Kong done to them?

24/04/2025

🌿🎖️This Friday, 25 April, we pause to remember and honour all those who have served and sacrificed for our country — not only the ANZACs, but every New Zealander and who has fought to protect the freedoms we cherish today.

No matter where we are in the world, these stories of courage and sacrifice remain close to our hearts.

🌺 Our store will be closed this Anzac Day long weekend as we take time to reflect and pay our respects.

At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.

22/04/2025

🌅🐘 Wish You Were Here Wednesday – Victoria Falls & Safari Magic 🦒🌿

One of our lucky clients recently ticked off a true bucket list adventure — staying at the stunning Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, just outside of town, perfectly positioned to enjoy both the iconic Vic Falls and maximise their up-close animal encounters 🐘🦓.

But the highlight?
✨ Spending 5 unforgettable nights at Kapama Buffalo Camp, including one incredible night on an open-air tree platform — just you, the sunset, the stars, and the sounds of the African wild. Complete with a private chef to cook dinner before leaving you to soak up the serenity. 🌅🍷

A magical blend of adventure, wildlife, and once-in-a-lifetime memories. 💛

22/04/2025

Experience the iconic Supercars Repco Bathurst 1000 by rail! We can get you there in style with our unique Bathurst Race’N Rail package.

Your experience includes:
✅ Reserved Grandstand Seat to the race Saturday and Sunday
✅ 3 nights in Bathurst aboard the Southern Aurora Vintage Rail Journey train
✅ Select drinks onboard the train
✅ Return coach transfers from the train to the race
✅ All dinners onboard. Breakfast on Saturday, Sunday and Monday
✅ Departs Sydney Central Station 10 Oct 25

What are you waiting for?
👩‍✈️ Contact a specialist consultant
⏰Hurry - Until sold out
*T&C's Apply.

21/04/2025

🌍💚 Happy Earth Day from House of Travel! 🌱✈️

Today we celebrate the beautiful planet we get to explore — from the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific, to the ancient forests of Europe, to the majestic wildlife of Africa. 🌿🌊🐘

As travellers, we’re lucky to experience the wonders of the world — and with that comes the responsibility to protect them. Whether it's supporting eco-friendly accommodations, offsetting carbon emissions, or simply respecting local environments and cultures, every small choice makes a difference.

Let’s travel thoughtfully, tread lightly, and keep this incredible world thriving for future explorers 💚

19/04/2025

🐣💜 Happy Easter from all of us at House of Travel! ✈️🌸

We hope you’ve had a fantastic long weekend filled with good company, great food, and maybe even a few chocolate treats! 🍫🐰

As the Easter break wraps up, now’s the perfect time to start dreaming about your next escape. Wherever you're thinking of heading, we’re here to help make it happen.

Here’s to more adventures ahead! 🌏🧳

19/04/2025

✈️ If you had to name the best airport in the world…

For an incredible 13th time, Singapore Changi has been crowned the World’s Best Airport at the 2025 Skytrax Awards! 🏆🌏

With its butterfly garden, rooftop pool, free movie theatre, and world-class shopping – it’s no surprise Changi takes top spot again.

Here’s how the Top 10 Airports in the World for 2025 ranked:
1️⃣ Singapore Changi 🇸🇬
2️⃣ Hamad International, Qatar 🇶🇦
3️⃣ Tokyo Haneda, Japan 🇯🇵
4️⃣ Incheon, South Korea 🇰🇷
5️⃣ Tokyo Narita, Japan 🇯🇵
6️⃣ Hong Kong International 🇭🇰
7️⃣ Paris Charles de Gaulle, France 🇫🇷
8️⃣ Rome Fiumicino, Italy 🇮🇹
9️⃣ Munich, Germany 🇩🇪
🔟 Zurich, Switzerland 🇨🇭

Have you been through any of these top-tier terminals? Which is your favourite? Let us know in the comments 👇

18/04/2025

17/04/2025

🌿✨ Madrid’s Secret Gardens: Where History Blooms 🇪🇸

While most visitors flock to the UNESCO-listed Parque del Retiro, Madrid holds a treasure trove of hidden green gems that offer a peaceful escape from the buzz of the city.

🌳 Príncipe de Anglona Gardens
Tucked behind high walls in La Latina, this elegant retreat once belonged to a 17th-century palace. Designed by painter and landscaper Javier de Winthuysen, it features manicured hedges and fountains — and is now neighbour to a fine dining restaurant.

🌸 Huerto de las Monjas (Jardín del Palacio O'Reilly)
Just steps from Puerta del Sol lies one of Madrid’s best-kept secrets. Once tended by Cistercian nuns, this serene courtyard survived the demolition of the adjoining convent in the 1970s and remains a quiet haven amid the city bustle.

🎨 Capricho Park
Built in 1784 by the Duke and Duchess of Osuna, this park blends English, French and Italian garden design. In the 18th century, it attracted artists like Francisco de Goya, who even painted for its palace. Today, it’s still the perfect place for a thoughtful wander.

🪻 Madrid may be known for grand boulevards and flamenco rhythm, but take a moment to seek out its secret gardens — where beauty, history and inspiration quietly grow.

17/04/2025

Cheers!!!

16/04/2025

🌸 Spring in Bonn? There’s only one place to be… 🇩🇪

While Bonn is famously the birthplace of Beethoven and home to fascinating sights like the House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany and performances by the Beethoven Orchestra Bonn, it’s in April that the city truly blooms!

Head to Heerstraße, nestled in Bonn’s charming old town, where a tunnel of vibrant pink cherry blossoms transforms the street into a dreamscape. 🌸🌸
Planted in the 1980s to revitalise the area, the trees now draw visitors from around the world — and they’re a must-see for any springtime traveller.

🎻 History, music, and a sprinkle of floral magic? Yes please!

15/04/2025

📍Wish You Were Here Wednesday with Tracey's clients, Jodi and Brian ✈️

“The trip was really good... I knew Dubai was big – but I didn’t realise how big! And taxis aren’t expensive like they are here!”

There may not be many words, but the photos say it all – sun, cityscapes, and unforgettable memories 😍

Thanks for sharing your adventure with us, Jodi and Brian!

#

15/04/2025

🍁 Taste, explore, and experience Toronto like a local 🇨🇦

Don’t let the soaring skyscrapers fool you — Canada’s largest city is actually a patchwork of personality-packed neighbourhoods. 🏙️✨

🥡 Head to Kensington Market, where Caribbean, Latin American, Vietnamese and European flavours meet vintage boutiques and cool coffee spots. Just next door, Chinatown serves up bustling street markets and unbeatable eats.

🎨 Art lovers, you’re in for a treat — the Art Gallery of Ontario boasts a jaw-dropping 90,000-piece collection from First Nations artists to European masters. Prefer your art outdoors? Graffiti Alley in Queen West offers ever-changing walls of creativity.

🍷 HOT TIP: Make time for a day trip — Niagara Falls is just 1.5 hours away, and the Niagara Peninsula wine region is the perfect stop on the way!

15/04/2025

The Book of Mormon is now lighting up Sydney with laughter, music, and a whole lot of heart. 🎭 ✨

This award-winning musical is a hilarious and outrageous journey you won't forget.

Get ready to laugh, sing and maybe even question everything - The Book of Mormon is the bold Broadway hit that's got the whole world talking.

🎟 Check out our amazing Sydney package with show tickets on sale now.
📞 Talk to our specialist consultants today
⏰ Sale ends 27 April 25

*T&C's Apply

15/04/2025

Adelaide Awaits – A City Full of Surprises.

Whether you’re chasing world-class wine, or a laid-back city vibe, Adelaide has it all.

Experience a 5 day gourmet getaway from $1109 per person, share twin. 🍇

Plus, time your trip right and you might catch Illuminate Adelaide, the Adelaide 500 Supercars, Tasting Australia and more – just a few of the exciting events lighting up the city throughout the year. 🎉

Get ready to explore Adelaide your way.

*T&C's Apply.

13/04/2025

🇯🇵 Who’s jealous of Emma? 🌸
Having a fabulous time in Japan 🇯🇵
Here she is visiting Hiroshima and Miyajima island.
Stunning experiences and weather!
🌸 Looks like she struck it right for cherry blossom season too.
Can’t wait to she returns and she’ll be looking forward to sharing her Japan experiences with you.

10/04/2025

🎉 Feedback Friday 🎉

"Zoe was friendly and efficient. When I put the money in the wrong account she had it sorted in record time. As I had a bad previous experience with booking tickets over the internet, I decided to go with House of Travel and Zoe made the experience a good one. I will always do it this way from now on."

Thank you for the lovely feedback! We're so pleased Zoe could turn your travel booking experience around. If you're after expert support and stress-free planning, House of Travel is here to help! ✈️

17/12/2024

🎁 Give the Gift of Travel!

Still scratching your head to find the perfect gift for the family members who are hard to buy for? Why not treat them to a House of Travel Gift card – trust us, you’ll end up being their favourite and it will be their most loved Christmas gift!

Adventures, memories, and dreams all wrapped up in one perfect present. 🎁💜

Find out more here - https://bit.ly/4iDkpHK

Don't wait! Sort out your gift cards now. Check out our Christmas opening hours here - https://bit.ly/4fCZKB3

Wishing you and your loved ones ‘happy holidays’. 🎄

09/12/2024

🎄🇺🇸 Dreaming of a festive NYC holiday? ✨

Kelly-Ann from House of Travel Lower Hutt recently got back from an epic holiday in the Big Apple and it was nothing short of magical! From sparkling holiday lights on Fifth Avenue to the roaring excitement at MetLife Stadium 🏈 and cosy pedicab rides 🚴‍♀️ through the city streets, her NYC trip was packed with holiday cheer and bucket-list moments!

🗽 Here’s what Kelly-Ann loved the most:

• Soaking in the beauty of the iconic Rockefeller Centre Christmas tree as ice skaters twirled beneath its twinkling lights.
• Strolling by Macy’s enchanting holiday window displays—make NYC feel like a winter wonderland.
• Grabbing a coffee and walking through Central Park taking in all that is has on offer.
• Indulging in that classic New York-style pizza... yum! 🍕

💜 HOT Tip: Thinking about Europe? Kelly-Ann recommends NYC is one of the best stopover options with direct flights from NZ to JFK! Take your time to soak up NYC’s festive vibes before continuing your journey, you’ll thanks me later!

Thinking of planning your NYC adventure? Connect with Kelly- Ann or one of our USA travel specialists to make your holiday dreams come true!

👉 https://bit.ly/3BvPKeB

29/11/2024

🎄✨Ever wondered what’s it like travelling to Europe at this time of year?

Suzanne & Dave from House of Travel The Square have just returned from a dreamy cruise journey aboard the Scenic Crystal, gliding from Nuremberg to Amsterdam. And yes, Europe at this time of year is MAGIC! Fewer crowds, magical Christmas markets, and festive cheer around every corner—what's not to love?

Spend your evenings wandering the Christmas Markets at dusk, with twinkling lights, music, roasted chestnuts, and Glühwein filling the air with festive cheer.

Here’s what Suzanne & Dave loved the most:

🎄 Trip Highlights:
- Strolling through Rothenburg’s fairy-tale streets amongst falling snowflakes, twinkling Christmas lights and markets.
- Visiting medieval Bamberg, filled with holiday cheer, winding streets, and festive charm.

🏰 Unique Experiences:
- A private tour of a Baron’s castle near Miltenberg, featuring frescoes from the Crusades and incredible WWII history.
- A live glassblowing demo on board, creating beautiful Christmas baubles—an unexpected treat!

💜 HOT Tip: Winter in Europe? Yes, please! Suzanne & Dave recommend embracing the magical holiday atmosphere, with twinkling lights, festive markets, and charming, less crowded towns. 🥂

⛪Inspired to experience the magic for yourself? Our Europe holidays are on sale now! Or get in touch with one of our Europe specialists today - https://bit.ly/3VbFkr6

26/11/2024

🌍✈️ Planning a UK holiday in 2025? 🇬🇧

From 8 January 2025, New Zealand passport holders heading to the UK visa-free will need to complete an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before they fly. This will be mandatory for all New Zealanders and in addition to any further visa's you may require. I.e. working visa.

🗓️ Passport holders will be able to apply for an ETA from today, 27 November 2024! So you can get ahead of the game and tick this off your travel checklist.

The UK ETA will cost 10GBP pp and will take approx. 3 working days to process. For more information, please see the details here: https://apply-for-an-eta.homeoffice.gov.uk/how-to-apply

04/11/2024

Sindy from House of Travel New Plymouth just got back from a vibrant, culture-packed holiday to South Korea and recommend this place as a total must-visit! 🇰🇷

Sindy spent 7 days in Korea, exploring the vibrant streets of Seoul, charming villages, delicious local cuisine, and even enjoying a temple stay where she met a monk! Here are some of her favourite must-do's and insider tips!💜

📍 Sindy’s Must-Do's:
• Wander through Seoul's Food Street for endless street food and local treats. From black sesame lattes to spicy kimchi, every bite was a treat. And don’t miss the bingsu— an epic shaved ice dessert that’s perfect for cooling off!
• Take a bullet train to Jeonju and immerse yourself in its traditional village vibe.
• Join a hands-on kimchi making class! 🥬
• Stay in a temple in Gyeongju for a taste of serene Korean culture, complete with chanting and a tea session with a monk. 🏯
• Explore Busan's coastal temples like Haedong Temple and indulge in torch-brûléed marshmallow ice cream by the sea! 🍦

✈️ Sindy’s Top Travel Tips:
• Pack an umbrella and layers – Korean weather can be full of surprises, but that won’t stop the fun! 🌧️
• Book popular experiences in advance, like kimchi classes and temple stays, as they fill up fast!
• Be adventurous with food. From Bingsu to seafood markets, every meal is a unique experience. 🍚

💜 HOT Tip:
Add a day or two to explore Busan’s vibrant markets and serene coastal views. Make sure you go cruising through Busan's night lights and fireworks. You’ll love the mix of city buzz and scenic beauty!

Feeling inspired? Sign up to our emails to be the first to know about South Korean adventures! 👉https://bit.ly/48CQkmR

22/10/2024

Sail in First-Class Luxury 💜 Setting sail on an ultra-luxury cruise is like upgrading to first class—once you’ve had a taste of that VIP treatment, there’s no going back! 🛳

Whether you're celebrating a major milestone, ticking off dream destinations, or just indulging in pure elegance, once you’ve cruised like this, nothing else comes close. 🙌

👇 Our luxury cruises currently on sale! https://bit.ly/3YxpKIF

From breathtaking voyages to hidden gems around the globe, Regent Seven Seas cruises are designed to wow both first-timers and seasoned explorers alike. 🌅🌟

🛳 Ready to cruise? Connect with one of our Cruise Specialists today and snag exclusive offers on Regent Seven Seas sailings before they're gone! ⏳

CLIA Australasia

17/10/2024

Naomi from House of Travel Milford recently returned from a once-in-a-lifetime family holiday in Alaska and have some amazing tips to share! 💜

🚢 Naomi and family sailed with NCL and loved the Free at Sea packages, perfect for families. Their itinerary took them through Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait, and Skagway—with 22 hours of daylight in July! 🌞

📍 Naomi’s Must-Do's:
• Whale watching in Juneau 🐋
• The White Pass Railway in Skagway 🚂
• Flying on the longest zip rider in the world at Icy Strait—don't forget to prebook! 🚡
• Spotting bears and wildlife on the train from Seward to Anchorage 🐻

✈️ Top Travel Tips:
• Spend a few days in Vancouver before the cruise. Air NZ flies direct!
• Pack layers for changing weather—warm on the ship, chilly on shore.
• Pre-book must-see excursions, but don't forget to explore the townships on foot to save some $$.

💜HOT Tip: Add a few days to visit Anchorage and take the scenic train through Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness, glaciers, and wildlife. Don’t miss the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre for up-close encounters with local animals!

Inspired? Plan your Alaskan adventure today! 👉Our Alaskan cruises are on sale right now – https://www.houseoftravel.co.nz/cruises

Australasiaa

15/10/2024

🌊 MYTHS BUSTED! 🌊

Think cruising isn’t for you? 🤔 You might be surprised! 🚢 We’re keen to highlight a few of the biggest myths we hear about cruising! 🏖️✨

Swipe through the graphics 👉 to discover facts from fiction! 💡 Keen to get onboard?

Keen to get onboard? Check out our cruise deals – https://bit.ly/3Y9piyZ

CLIA Australasia

09/10/2024

Imagine waking up each morning to a brand-new city or town, all from the comfort of your cozy river cruise cabin. No need to keep unpacking—just settle in and explore a different destination each day. It’s the perfect way to experience the world, one magical stop at a time!

Here are a few of our favorite river cruises we think you’ll love 💜

Pack your bags and get onboard, our river cruises are on sale
👉 https://bit.ly/3Y2Gh5K

08/10/2024

Our wonderful Pauline from HOT Cruise team just returned from an unforgettable holiday on the Jewels of the Rhine cruise sailing from Amsterdam to Basel on the gorgeous Emerald Dawn 🚢

Pauline shares “A river cruise is a fantastic way to see new places. Everything is looked after for you, and you only need to unpack once. You get a lovely introduction to different towns and can decide which ones you’d like to visit again for a longer stay.” 💜

🍰Trip Highlight:
Feeling completely immersed in the stunning countryside and charming towns we visited. The onboard cuisine was simply divine, and the staff went above and beyond with their attentive service. Imagine relaxing on the top deck, cruising down the Rhine, and witnessing the everyday life along the riverbanks. Pure bliss! 🌿

👟 Hot Tips:
- Pack those comfy walking shoes! 🥾
- Be ready for all kinds of weather. ☔️☀️
- Don't miss the delightful afternoon tea! 🍵🧁

👍 Why We Recommend It:
The best thing about this cruise were the ports and the included guided tours. Emerald teams up with local guides to provide an interesting visit of the town/city. They include gratuities, port tours and beer and wine with meals. Enjoy active mornings exploring new places and tranquil afternoons relaxing. The perfect balance! 🌞

Inspired to river cruise? Our river cruises are on sale right now. 👉https://bit.ly/3XXVULH

CLIA Australasia

03/10/2024

🎉✈️ Flight Upgrade Competition LUCKY LAST WINNERS! 🎉

The final boarding call has been made, and we’re thrilled to announce the last round of lucky winners in our Flight Upgrade Competition with Singapore Airlines to Europe! 🎉

✨CONGRATULATIONS to our winners 🏆 Louisa and David Shannon from Masterton who are NOW FLYING PREMIUM ECONOMY to London and BUSINESS CLASS return from Paris on Singapore Airlines – whoop whoop!

A massive congratulations to all our winners who’ve scored a premium upgrade on their return flights – what an incredible experience awaits! 🙌

💜 Stay tuned and follow us for more exciting competitions and giveaways in the future!

01/10/2024

Does your ideal holiday include wining and dining in style, or is getting up close and personal with nature more your style? Visiting lots of new places or exploring at your own pace? 🌎

It may surprise you, but there is a type of cruise🛳 to suit every holiday style and budget!

Whether it's experiencing the elegance of an ultra-luxury ocean cruise, exploring historic medieval castles on a river cruise 🚤, or setting foot on the untouched beauty of Antarctica on an expedition cruise ❄️🐧, each offers a unique adventure.

What does your dream cruise holiday look like? Tell us in comments below 👇

CLIA Australasia

28/09/2024

🚢 Get READY! Something special is sailing your way this October!

Stay tuned for all the amazing surprises we have in store—your dream cruise awaits! 🛳️💙

25/09/2024

🎉✈️ Flight Upgrade Competition WINNERS! 🎉

Premium Economy and Business Premium passengers now boarding! We are thrilled to announce the second round winners of our Flight Upgrade Competition on Singapore Airlines to Europe! 🎉

✨CONGRATULATIONS to our winners, who will now enjoy an upgraded return flight experience on Singapore Airlines – whoop whoop!

🏆John Bishop from Christchurch NOW FLYING BUSINESS CLASS to London

🏆 Ken Daldy & Sandy Buchholtz from Morrinsville NOW FLYING PREMIUM ECONOMY to Amsterdam

🏆 Yvonne & John Gibson from Kaikoura NOW FLYING BUSINESS CLASS to London

💜It’s not too late, there are still chances to WIN! There are 2 more return flight upgrades up for grabs, we’ll be drawing our lucky last winners next week!

Book your Singapore Airlines Europe flights with House of Travel by 30 September and you could be our next winner travelling in style! Find out more here: https://www.houseoftravel.co.nz/on-sale/uk-europe

24/09/2024

🌍 Touring is the BEST Way to Travel 🚌

Imagine no google maps, no planning stress, and definitely no “are we there yet?” moments. Just comfy seats, great company, stunning views, and someone else doing all the planning for you. 🙌

🚌 Why Globus Touring is a Game Changer:

- First-class access! – You’ll get to skip the lines at iconic landmarks and dive straight into the action. No waiting, just WOW moments. 😍

- More time, more adventure! – Don’t just see the Eiffel Tower, stroll through the park beneath it. Don’t just visit Venice, take time to get lost in its charm. ⏳

- Everything’s sorted – Accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, and a few meals? Done. Worry about deciding which gelato flavour to try first in Rome. 🍦

- Local gems, minus the FOMO – You’ll go to places only the locals know about. (Secret wine tasting in Tuscany? Yes, please! 🍷)

- New friends, new memories – Whether you're a solo traveller, a couple or with a group, you'll meet fellow adventurers, and who knows? You might just make lifelong friends along the way.

The best part? You can book ‘em today with House of Travel! Hit the link to learn more and to check out all the tours — we’re talking Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Ireland, just to name a few 👉 https://bit.ly/3XWz8VZ

19/09/2024

Premium Economy and Business Premium passengers now boarding! We are thrilled to announce the first round winners of our Flight Upgrade Competition on Singapore Airlines to Europe! 🎉

✨CONGRATULATIONS to our winners, who will now enjoy an upgraded return flight experience on Singapore Airlines - Ooh la la!

🏆Graham Wilson from New Plymouth NOW FLYING PREMIUM ECONOMY to Copenhagen

🏆Jan Gibson and Rosa Westgarth from from Wanaka NOW FLYING PREMIUM ECONOMY to Paris

💜But the excitement doesn't end here—there are still chances to WIN! There are 6 more return flight upgrades up for grabs this month, we’ll be drawing new winners every week!

Book your Singapore Airlines Europe flights with House of Travel by 30 September and you could be our next winner travelling in style! Find out more here: https://www.houseoftravel.co.nz/on-sale/uk-europe

19/09/2024

A GREAT BIG THANK YOU - #1 FOR BRAND EXPERIENCE

We don’t like to brag, but we’re super proud to have been recognised as New Zealand’s best brand for customer experience in Kantar’s Customer Leadership Index survey.

This recognition means the world to us because they reflect our dedication to our customers, our customer first approach and enriching lives through travel.

When you travel with us you aren’t just a booking reference number, you become part of the House of Travel family. We believe that holidays are super special. We believe every moment counts, from big adventures to the smallest details that can make your experience extraordinary. Our experienced and passionate owner operators and consultants take the time understand exactly what you are looking for from your travels, and we go the extra mile to make holidays unforgettable.

So thank you New Zealand, we are truly humbled.

18/09/2024

Dreaming of Celebrating a Milestone Birthday on the Shores of Nice?

Brydie from House of Travel Westport just got back from a very special holiday through Europe to celebrate her 30th birthday! 🎉✈️🌍 From London to Rome, Positano to Paris, and even a dreamy sunset on the beach in Nice, Brydie’s journey was pure magic! 🏖️

🚀 Brydie's Top Tip: Travel to Europe in spring! 🌸🍃 "In September, European kids are back to school, the weather is mild and places are quieter," she says. Plus, it's the perfect time to snag great deals on flights and accommodation!

🍹 Brydie's trip highlight: Soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Nice and enjoying a dreamy sunset on the beach! 🌅🍹 "Watching the sunset with a wine on the beach in the south of France was an unforgettable ‘pinch me’ moment,". And make sure to go to the street markets in Nice!

💎HIDDEN GEMS
- Don’t miss the local ceramic shops in Positano
- Visit Waka Bar in Nice – NZ owned!
- Never go past a Hop on Hop Off Bus if it is an option. It’s a great way to see a city and listen to the history and you learn so much.

Inspired to plan your Europe adventure?
Check out our Europe deals here 👉 https://bit.ly/3z3pjvQ
Or chat to one of our Europe specialists here 👉 https://bit.ly/3Xv5mGr