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Tropical North Queensland

Where the rainforest meets the reef

Cairns, Australia, Snorkeling The Great Barrier Reef

Tropical North Queensland is nature’s ultimate thrill ride—wild, vibrant, and totally unforgettable. Where else can you snorkel the Great Barrier Reef in the morning and wander through the world’s oldest rainforest by afternoon? This slice of paradise is home to not one, but two World Heritage-listed wonders—and enough adventure to fill your camera roll and your soul.

Think laid-back vibes, palm trees swaying, and friendly locals who know how to live life outdoors. Cairns and Port Douglas are your go-to hubs, not just for reef trips and rainforest walks, but also for wild adventures to the Gulf of Savannah and Cape York if you're feeling extra bold.

The weather? Always warm. The lifestyle? Effortlessly chill. Whether you're kicking back on a sun-drenched beach, getting pampered at a rainforest retreat, chasing waterfalls, or white-water rafting down the Barron River—there’s no wrong way to holiday here.

And it’s not just the landscapes that are diverse. The mix of cultures, food, and local stories adds even more colour to this already vibrant part of the world. So pack your sense of wonder—Tropical North Queensland is calling!

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Flight time

Flying from New Zealand to Cairns takes around 5 and a half hours with direct flights available from Auckland with Air New Zealand or from Christchurch with Jetstar. Alternatively, you can connect via Brisbane with multiple daily flights to Cairns available.

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Best time to go

From April to November, Tropical North Queensland has warm, sunny days with low humidity—perfect for snorkelling, exploring the Daintree Rainforest, and alfresco dining. This dry season offers ideal conditions for swimming, reef tours, and outdoor adventures, with fewer crowds from April to June and peak travel periods from July to September. From December to March, the region experiences a tropical summer with hot, humid weather and frequent rainfall. While this is the wet season, it’s also when the rainforest is at its most lush, and waterfalls are flowing—great for nature lovers.

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Time difference

Tropical North Queensland is 2 hours behind New Zealand (or 3 hours during daylight saving). This small time difference is easy to adjust to, making for a seamless transition.

Our favourite experiences

Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef

Explore one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, teeming with vibrant coral and marine life.

Read more

Explore the Daintree Rainforest

Discover the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, filled with unique wildlife, lush greenery, and ancient plants.

Read more
Port Douglas

Take a scenic drive along the Great Barrier Reef Coast

Cruise the Captain Cook Highway from Cairns to Port Douglas for stunning ocean views and charming seaside towns.

Read more

Our Queensland blogs

Meet our Queensland specialists

Jay Irvine

Jay Irvine

House of Travel Barrington

With my own experience in travel, along with my corporate background as well.

I have been able to book a wide variety of trips ranging from flop and drop holidays through to sport events and everything in between.

Jay

Monique McKechie

Monique McKechie

House of Travel Nelson

Hello there! You may be asking, "Why choose me?" Truth be told, I've never been one to wax lyrical about myself. But ask me about travel—my real passion—and I could chat with you for hours, sharing experiences and hearing about yours!

I'm tremendously honored to have been part of the travel scene for 15 fabulous years. This isn't just work for me; it's a love affair that defies reason. The joy of facilitating someone's journey is unparalleled. Travel is the key to personal growth, offering insights that enhance our souls and let us cherish the beauty of our world.

I pride myself on my unwavering dedication to delivering exactly what you're seeking. I live for those moments when clients find the joy and ease in travel, and I’m dedicated to ensuring you get the holiday you’ve been dreaming of.

If you’re on the lookout for a travel consultant who truly cares and stands by you throughout—and beyond—your journey, look no further. I'll make sure that every detail aligns perfectly with your desires, from selecting the ideal ship or tour to finding the right accommodation. Reach out, and let's brainstorm your next adventure together.


Monique

Chanel Gray

Chanel Gray

House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square

From a young age I dreamed of taking adventures and exploring the world, and my passion has continued to grow the more places I have visited.

I love sharing my knowledge and experience with clients, and helping them plan their dream trips.

I'm a passionate traveler & always look forward to planning the next trip, whether it's for my clients or myself.

So far I've visited over 33 countries & experienced many types of travel including independent, small group tours, coach touring & cruising.


Chanel

Jasmine Camplin

Jasmine Camplin

House of Travel Timaru

I have been in the Travel Industry since 2014 and have worked in various roles in the industry since then including an Online Call Center, Airline and in Corporate. I am now here at House of Travel Timaru putting all my knowledge to good use helping YOU create your dream Holiday.

I have been lucky enough to have travelled to Rarotonga, Samoa and Australia (Gold Coast & Sydney) and have a vast knowledge of all of these fun places with my most favorite place being Rarotonga!

I thrive off Customer Satisfaction, seeing my customers walk out the door with their documents in hand and smiles on their faces excited to embark on their adventure fills me with immense joy. I cannot wait to help you plan and book your holiday!

Jasmine

Best. Holidays. Every!

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