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Queensland, Australia

Explore Queensland from lush rainforest to sparkling reef.


The best of Queensland from tranquil hinterland escapes to relaxing beach getaways.

Known as the Sunshine State, Queensland is a tropical paradise, famous for its epic surf, tropical wildlife, vibrant cities, ancient rainforests and world-renowned Great Barrier Reef. Stretching across nearly 7,000 kilometres of golden coastline, Queensland boasts a variety of unforgettable experiences for adventure seekers, honeymooners, families and luxury travellers alike. From laidback coastal towns to outback landscapes and reef adventures, Queensland destinations harmonise natural beauty with rich culture, indigenous heritage and year-round warm weather.

The ultimate playground, discover all there is to do on the Gold Coast, from iconic theme parks to beachfront eateries, hinterland trails and premium shopping. 

Heading north, visit the electric river city of Brisbane, Queensland’s capital, known for its outdoor lifestyle, abundant parklands, rooftop dining and cultural precincts. Venture upwards still to Sunshine Coast, and swim fin-to-fin with humpback whales and turtles. Explore the eclectic Eumundi markets, and chase awe-inspiring waterfalls, volcanic peaks and artisan villages.

Following the coastline, K’gari boasts other-worldly views like the majestic turquoise waters, intriguing shipwrecks and kaleidoscopic snorkelling, while Tropical North Queensland is renowned for its unforgettable world underwater - Great Barrier Reef. Marvel at the natural beauty of Cairns and Whitsundays as you take in the white sand, lazy palms and mesmerising azure waters.

Wherever you choose to visit, every Queensland destination delivers a perfect blend of culture, natural beauty and fresh coastal cuisine.

 

Your Queensland escape starts here.

Discover our latest deals or talk to our expert House of Travel Aussie specialists to plan the perfect holiday.

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Flight time.

Getting to Queensland from Auckland take about 5 hours.

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Best time to go.

The best time to visit Queensland are during the dry seasons (May to October). This time of year offers warm, sunny weather and lower humidity, ideal for beach escapes, reef experiences, and outdoor activities.

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Time difference.

Queensland operates 3 hours behind New Zealand, so there will be a time difference to adjust to upon arrival.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Queensland located?

Queensland is located in north‑eastern Australia, stretching from the tropical north near the Great Barrier Reef to the subtropical south, bordering New South Wales, the Northern Territory and South Australia.

 

How long is the flight from New Zealand to Queensland?

Flights from New Zealand to Queensland typically take 3 to 4 hours, with direct services from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch to Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Cairns.

 

What are the most popular destinations in Queensland?

Queensland’s most popular destinations include Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Cairns, Port Douglas and the Whitsundays, with many Kiwi travellers visiting more than one region per trip.

 

Is Queensland good for family holidays?

Yes, Queensland is one of Australia’s best family holiday destinations, known for its theme parks, safe beaches, wildlife experiences and family‑friendly resorts.

 

What is the best time of year to visit Queensland?

The most popular time to visit is from May to October, when Queensland offers warm days, lower humidity and ideal conditions - perfect for New Zealanders escaping the Kiwi winter. Remember, Queensland has tropical and subtropical climates, meaning their winter is their dry season and their summer experiences tropical downpours. 

 

How much time do you need to explore Queensland?

A 7 to 10 day holiday is ideal for one or two destinations, while two weeks or more allows visitors to combine cities, beaches and tropical regions.

Do New Zealanders need a visa to visit Queensland?

No, New Zealand passport holders do not need to apply for a visa before travelling. We always recommend checking official government websites if you are a non-New Zealand passport holder and for any travel updates 

 

Is Queensland expensive for New Zealand travellers?

Queensland caters to all budgets, with good value flights, accommodation options and holiday packages making it a popular and affordable choice for Kiwi travellers.

Public transport, like trams, most trains and most busses do have 50 cent fares, making it accessible and convenient for everyone. 

 

What is the best way to get around Queensland? 

The best way to get around Queensland depends on your itinerary, but for most visitors, especially those covering multiple destinations, a combination of flying, driving and local public transport works best.

Queensland is a large state, so domestic flights are the quickest option for travelling between major regions like Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Cairns and the Whitsundays. Within cities and coastal areas, hire cars offer the most flexibility, making it easy to reach beaches, theme parks, national parks and hinterland areas at your own pace.

In Brisbane and South East Queensland, public transport - including trains, buses and trams - are reliable, affordable and convenient for getting around city centres and nearby suburbs.

For island destinations like Hamilton Island or Fraser Island (K’gari), ferries and organised transfers are the most practical way to travel. Many travellers use a mix of transport options to balance time, cost and convenience, especially on longer Queensland holidays.

 

What to pack for a Queensland holiday?

For a Queensland holiday, pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, a hat and high‑SPF, reef-safe sunscreen for the warm climate. Bring sunglasses, insect repellent and a reusable water bottle, plus a light jacket for cooler evenings or hinterland areas. Remember Queensland's climate is tropical and subtropical, meaning the winter is their dry season and the summer experiences tropical downpours. 

Can you swim year‑round in Queensland?

Yes, swimming is possible year‑round across much of Queensland, especially on the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and tropical north, with warm water temperatures even in winter. Stinger season is between November to May, so be sure to wear a stinger suit or take extra caution when you do water-based activities. 

 

What is there to do in Queensland?

Queensland offers a huge range of experiences for every type of traveller, from beach lovers to adventure seekers.
Relax on iconic beaches along the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Tropical North Queensland, explore natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and Whitsundays, or enjoy family‑friendly attractions, including world‑famous theme parks and wildlife experiences on the Gold Coast.
Brisbane offers epic shopping, dining and cultural experiences, while the hinterland and outback provide opportunities for hiking, waterfalls, wineries and scenic road trips.
With warm weather year‑round, Queensland is ideal for outdoor activities, island escapes and relaxed coastal holidays.

Meet our Queensland specialists

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Charlotte Campbell

Charlotte Campbell

House of Travel Papamoa

Travel has been an integral part of my life for over 20 years, and I can't imagine pursuing anything else.  This year, I proudly celebrate my 17th year with House of Travel Papamoa, where I truly love being a 'hottie.' Our store boasts a fantastic team culture that makes coming to work a joyful experience every day.

I find immense satisfaction in crafting bespoke itineraries that transform my clients' dreams into reality.  While the USA remains my favourite destination, my travels have also taken me through the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, the enchanting South Pacific, vibrant Australia, diverse Europe, and picturesque Canada and Alaska. This year (2024), I had the incredible opportunity to experience the magic of South Africa, where witnessing wildlife in their natural habitat is nothing short of breath-taking. Being on safari brings you so close to majestic animals, just meters away, creating unforgettable memories. 

Remember, your holiday begins the moment you step through our door. I invite you to share your vision of the perfect getaway—how it looks and feels, any research you've conducted, and your essential must-haves. The more we delve into your aspirations together, the more extraordinary your holiday will be!


Charlotte

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

Kali Abbott

Kali Abbott

House of Travel Prestons

My passion for travel begun when living in London. I was constantly booking getaways to explore all UK and Europe have to offer and I have not stopped exploring since!

Coming home, I have been privileged to take many long breaks to explore different parts of the world. - Some highlights include USA and Tahiti. 

Now having a family, I see travel in different light and really enjoy slowing down and embracing every moment. 

Travel is for everyone; the world has so much to offer!

I joined the travel industry just over 6 years ago and have helped many people book their dream holidays, I can't wait to help you with yours!


Kali

Kelly-Ann Thomas

Kelly-Ann Thomas

House of Travel Lower Hutt

Travel ignites the fire in my belly, daily and I'm lucky enough to turn holiday dreams into unforgettable experiences. 

I specialise in family travel, group getaways, solo adventures, and special interest trips, helping clients craft memories that last a lifetime. 

A recent highlight was travelling to New York with my sister, followed by Japan, and a Christmas in Bali with my family. 

Whether I'm working with long-time clients or meeting new faces each week, I'm always excited to bring personalised travel dreams to life. 

Passionate about what I do, I'm always ready for the next adventure - both for my clients and my own family. 

Kelly-Ann 

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