Flight time.
Getting to Queensland from Auckland take about 5 hours.
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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.
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.
Time difference.
Queensland operates 3 hours behind New Zealand, so there will be a time difference to adjust to upon arrival.
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Explore Sense Noosa North Shore
Noosa
Sense Noosa North Shore
5 night Private House Stay
from
$
2595
total per holiday home (based on up to 4 people). Flights are additional
Explore Luxury Gold Coast Holiday Homes
Gold Coast
Luxury Gold Coast Holiday Homes
4 night Luxury Holiday Home Rental
from
$
4569
total per holiday home (based on up to 8 people). Flights are additional
Explore Scenic Rim Trail 4 Day Walk
Queensland
Scenic Rim Trail 4 Day Walk
4 nights
4 Day Walk
from
$
4199
per person share twin
Flights additional
Flights additional
Explore Scenic Rim Trail 2 Day Walk
Queensland
Scenic Rim Trail 2 Day Walk
2 nights
2 Day Walk
from
$
2099
per person share twin
Flights additional
Flights additional
Explore 13 Day Arnhem Land Wetlands & Wildlife Guided Holiday with Outback Spirit 2027
Arnhem Land
13 Day Arnhem Land Wetlands & Wildlife Guided Holiday with Outback Spirit 2027
12 Nights
Sightseeing
Meals
Outback Spirit guided tour
from
$
17,075
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore 13 Day Cape York Wilderness Adventure Guided Holiday with Outback Spirit 2027
Cape York
13 Day Cape York Wilderness Adventure Guided Holiday with Outback Spirit 2027
12 Nights
Sightseeing
Meals
Outback Spirit guided tour
from
$
15,845
per person share twin. Flights are additional
EXPERIENCE THE UNEXPECTED
Explore Southern Great Barrier Reef Roadtrip: The Epic South-to-North Journey - Suggested Itinerary
Southern Great Barrier Reef
Southern Great Barrier Reef Roadtrip: The Epic South-to-North Journey - Suggested Itinerary
6 night itinerary
Self drive
Sightseeing
QUEENSLAND ROAD TRIP
Explore Capricorn Coast: Adventure by the Sea - Suggested Itinerary
Capricorn Coast
Capricorn Coast: Adventure by the Sea - Suggested Itinerary
7 night itinerary
Self drive
Sightseeing
EXPLORE, UNWIND , DISCOVER
Explore Journey through the Capricorn Coast - Suggested Itinerary
Capricorn Coast
Journey through the Capricorn Coast - Suggested Itinerary
6 night itinerary
Self drive
Sightseeing
Explore Scenic Rim Trail 4 Day Walk
Queensland
Scenic Rim Trail 4 Day Walk
4 nights
4 Day Walk
from
$
4199
per person share twin
Flights additional
Flights additional
Explore Scenic Rim Trail 2 Day Walk
Queensland
Scenic Rim Trail 2 Day Walk
2 nights
2 Day Walk
from
$
2099
per person share twin
Flights additional
Flights additional
HOT EXCLUSIVE
Explore Brisbane, Royal Beach Club Lelepa, & Vanuatu
Brisbane, Royal Beach Club Lelepa, & Vanuatu
A relaxed South Pacific getaway from Brisbane, featuring tropical stops in Luganville and Lelepa Island, with plenty of easy sea days before returning refreshed to Brisbane.
7 Night Onboard Voyager of the Seas:
Departure date: 29 Oct 27
From $1775 per person twin share Interior Stateroom
From $1925 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $2695 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
Departure date: 04 Feb 28
From $1239 per person twin share Interior Stateroom
From $1499 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $1889 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
2027/ 28 Sailings
from
$
1239
per person share twin Interior Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 29 Oct 2027
Explore Brisbane, Port Vila, Royal Beach Club Lelepa
Brisbane, Port Vila, Royal Beach Club Lelepa
A relaxed tropical getaway from Brisbane, with easy days at sea and island time in Port Vila and Lelepa Island. Enjoy sun-soaked days, warm island hospitality and a laid-back pace before returning to Brisbane refreshed and recharged.
Royal Beach Club℠ Lelepa, opening in October 2027, will be Royal Caribbean’s® first exclusive cruise destination in the South Pacific. Located on the island of Lelepa in Vanuatu, the destination offers complimentary entry with access to two pristine beaches, including a family-friendly shoreline and an adults-only retreat, plus areas designed for relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy unlimited island dining and explore a scenic Nature Trail, all included with their cruise fare.
7 night Cruise
from
$
1379
per person share twin Interior Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 31 Mar 2028
Explore Short Escapes
Short Escapes
Escape to stunning destinations with 4 or 6 night voyages departing from Hobart or Cairns. Relax aboard comfortable vessels as you explore breathtaking coastlines, vibrant marine life, and charming ports. Perfect for a quick getaway, these journeys offer a refreshing break filled with natural beauty and unforgettable moments.
Coastal Adventures: Tasmania - 4 Night Onboard Coral Discoverer
Hobart to Hobart
10 Jan - 14 Jan 27
From $6065 per person share twin Main Deck (Cat. B) Stateroom
Port of calls: Hobart, Bruny Island, Maria Island, Freycinet National Park, Hobart
Coastal Adventures: Tasmania - 6 Night Onboard Coral Discoverer
Hobart to Hobart
14 Jan - 20 Jan 27
From $9769 per person share twin Main Deck (Cat. A) Stateroom
Port of calls: Hobart, Bruny Island, Maria Island, Freycinet National Park, Port Davey, Hobart
Coastal Adventures: Great Barrier Reef - 4 Night Onboard Coral Discoverer
Cairns to Cairns
02 Nov - 06 Nov 26
From $5989 per person share twin Main Deck (Cat. A) Stateroom
Port of calls: Cairns, Hinchinbrook Island, Geranium Passage Reefs, Dunk Island, Cairns
Expedition Cruise
from
$
6065
per person share twin Main Deck Stateroom
Flights additional
Flights additional
Cruising with
Coral Expedition Cruises
Departs 2 Nov 2026
SAVE UP TO 10%
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
Explore Tropical Odyssey between Indonesia and North East Australia
Tropical Odyssey between Indonesia and North East Australia
Cruise through the stunning Indonesian archipelago and northern Australia, where island-hopping brings you face to face with Komodo dragons, vibrant coral reefs, and rich local cultures. Departing from Bali, you’ll discover wild landscapes, remote traditions, and unforgettable encounters in some of the world’s most untouched corners.
The wildlife encounters are possible experiences and cannot be guaranteed.
Your luxurious small ship Le Soléal embodies the French art of living with modern and elegant design along with cutting-edge technology.
15 Night Expedition Cruise
from
$
23,425
per person share twin
Upper Deck Stateroom
Flights are additional
Upper Deck Stateroom
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Ponant Explorations
Departs 4 Dec 2026
Explore Circumnavigation Series
Circumnavigation Series
Explore Australia Like Never Before with Coral Expeditions’ Circumnavigation Series
Set sail on the ultimate Australian adventure with Coral Expeditions’ Circumnavigation Series, an epic voyage of discovery that unveils the rich tapestry of the continent’s coastlines. Departing from Cairns and Hobart, these immersive journeys offer a rare opportunity to explore remote shores, vibrant coastal communities, and iconic natural wonders – all from the comfort of a small expedition ship.
Whether you're cruising tropical reefs and ancient rainforests in the north or navigating the wild Southern Ocean past rugged islands and pristine national parks, each voyage is a curated blend of culture, nature, and history. With expert guides, warm hospitality, and a spirit of true exploration, discover Australia from an entirely new perspective.
Limited departures. Extraordinary destinations. A voyage of a lifetime awaits.
Circumnavigation of Tasmania - 14 Nights Onboard Discoverer
Hobart - Hobart
06 Feb 27
Other departure dates: 20 Feb 27 & 06 Mar 27
From $17,445 per person share twin Main Deck (Cat. A) Stateroom
Limited Availability
Port of calls: Hobart, Maria Island, Freycinet Peninsula, Flinders Island, Kent Island Group, Tamar River Valley & Launceston, Stanley, King Island, West Coast Cruising, Port Davey, Bruny Island, Tasman Peninsula, Port Arthur, Hobart
For the cruise that’s right for you, call one of our expert agents today!
2027 Sailings
from
$
17,445
per person share twin Main Deck (Cat. A) Stateroom
Flights are additional
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Coral Expedition Cruises
Departs 6 Feb 2027
Explore Carnival Queensland Cruises 2026
Carnival Queensland Cruises 2026
Sail to the best of Queensland with flexible departures. Discover Willis Island’s remote beauty, explore reef and rainforest in Cairns, and unwind in Airlie Beach, gateway to the Whitsundays. A perfect mix of nature, adventure, and coastal charm.
4-Night Airlie Beach
Carnival Encounter
Based on departure 15 Nov - 19 Nov 26
From $735 pp share twin Inside Stateroom
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
6-night Willis Island, Airlie Beach & Cairns
Carnival Encounter
Based on departure 05 Sep - 11 Sep 26
From $1005 pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
7-night Willis Island, Airlie Beach & more
Carnival Encounter
Based on departure 26 Sep - 03 Oct 26
From $2649 pp share twin Ocean Suite
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
9-Night Moreton Island, Willis Island, Cairns & Airlie Beach
Carnival Adventure
Based on departure 10 Aug - 19 Aug 26
From $1245 pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
4-night to 9 -night sailings
Onboard Carnival
from
$
735
per person share twin
Inside Guarantee Stateroom
Flights are additional
Inside Guarantee Stateroom
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Carnival Cruise Line
Departs 26 Sep 2026
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.
Esther Ru Bay
House of Travel Papamoa
For over 20 years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of helping people explore the world. From weekend getaways to once-in-a-lifetime journeys, I’ve sent travelers to every corner of the globe—each trip teaching me something new and deepening my passion for travel planning.
What I love most is working with people to craft experiences that go far beyond just itineraries and bookings. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family adventure, a cultural deep dive, or a soul-searching solo trip, I take the time to understand what matters most to you. Together, we create meaningful, memorable journeys that you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.
In the past few years, the travel landscape has changed dramatically. Flight disruptions, evolving health regulations, and new requirements have made things more complicated than ever. But with experience comes adaptability. We've become experts at staying ahead of the curve—navigating changes with confidence, keeping you informed, and ensuring your plans stay on track no matter what.
My goal is simple: to take the stress out of travel so you can focus on the joy of discovery. From the moment we start planning to the moment you return home, I’m here to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable.
Travel might be more complex today—but that’s exactly why having someone in your corner makes all the difference. Let’s plan something amazing.
Esther
Sarah Newton
House of Travel Albany
Life is a collection of moments and memories.
Both planning your travel and the journey itself should be enjoyable. I find joy in working with travellers to build holidays that are perfect for them.
Sarah
Rhonda Bignell
House of Travel Ferrymead
Travel is a passion for me, I have been in travel for quite some time (too long to remember) from Corporate to Leisure.
I aim to help people no matter what their plans are to create the best holiday experience possible. I enjoy being part of our travellers experience and making the whole process as easy as possible & to create fantastic memories that are special and will last a lifetime for themselves and their families.
I have travelled to some amazing places, but one stands out, the 6 months I spent working on Antarctica at McMurdo Station is a highlight & backpacking through India was a challenge.
From visiting the many aspects of Australia, Asia, South Africa & South America to basking in the sun on the Maldives or hitting the beaches and shopping in Thailand I would love to help you create some new stories & memories. I love active holidays and have followed the Moto GP / Formula 1 and the Isle of Man TT was particularly exciting. Followed by walking up on Mt Kinabalu was another eventful trip.
However, every great adventure starts with a plan, and I would be honoured to help you with that plan, whether you take the road less travelled or one of the many roads that lead to Rome.
I look forward to helping you to create more wonderful stories and memories in the coming years.
Rhonda
Carly Dorrington
House of Travel Papamoa
As a passionate globetrotter, I've explored the corners of the world with my three adventurous children and alongside friends and family, indulging in everything from backpacking escapades to luxurious resort retreats and exhilarating cruises.
My journey through the tapestry of travel experiences has been enriched by my upbringing in England and my time spent living amidst the captivating landscapes of Western Australia. It's these diverse backgrounds that have instilled in me a profound love for travel and a deep understanding of the intricacies of exploring different cultures and landscapes.
My journey through countless destinations has ignited a fervent dedication to curating unforgettable travel experiences, not just for myself, but for fellow wanderlust souls seeking to fulfil their travel dreams. Whether you're yearning for the rugged thrill of backpacking, the tranquil family getaways, the opulence of fancy resorts, or the serene luxury of cruising, I'm here to weave together the perfect itinerary tailored to your desires.
I want to take the stress out of the planning so you can focus on the excitement of your trip. I am highly organised and like to ensure everything has been thought of and accounted for. Communicating clearly along the way with you so you feel confident and reassured.
I would love to help you with your next journey....wherever it may be!
Carly
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