Discover a different Australia
Our favourite Signature Journey experiences
These are the trips that go beyond the brochure. Handpicked for their wow factor, our Top 15 Signature Journeys take you from iconic must-sees to places you didn’t even know you were dreaming of. Think luxury rail, remote lodges, gourmet trails, and cultural moments you’ll never forget.
Check out our Signature Journeys below!

River, Rail & Cruise: The Great Australian Traverse 1
Expedition Bucket List: Beyond the Tracks 1
Vicky Baker
House of Travel High Street Lanes, Christchurch CBD
Angela Delany
House of Travel Taupo
Bula, Bonjour, Talofa, Konnichiwa – and welcome!
From the moment I could dream, I dreamed of travel. At just 17, I set out on
that path by diving into my first travel course, and I’ve never looked back.
For the first decade, I poured my heart into everything South Pacific – those
sparkling waters, warm smiles, and sun-soaked cultures became my world.
Now, my map has expanded far beyond the Pacific, and I’m proud to say I sell
the entire world. And what a breathtakingly vast world it is! Over the past 30
years, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to explore some of its most magical
corners – Samoa, Bali, Vietnam, Hawaii, Italy, and Switzerland are just a few
of the places that have left footprints on my soul.
But this journey isn't just about me. It’s about you – your dreams, your adventures, your once-in-a-lifetime moments. I’m here to ignite your excitement, guide your decisions, and help piece together your perfect travel jigsaw. Whether you’re hopping over to Australia, meandering through the Scottish Highlands in a small group, or gliding past alpine peaks on a Swiss rail tour – I’ll be right beside you, making it all seamless.
There’s nothing quite like nabbing that dream tour, then weaving in the best
flights, stopovers, and secret gems to create an itinerary that’s more than a
trip – it’s an experience. Over the years, I’ve learned something simple but
powerful: every place is unique, kindness connects us all, and life’s most
precious souvenirs are the memories we make.
So let’s start building yours.
Angela
Mike (Buzz) Thomson
House of Travel Hobsonville
With 20 years experience in the travel industry both here and abroad I use this knowledge every day to create unforgettable journeys for my clients.
I'd love to hear what your plans are and together we'll create a well organised memorable trip.
Mike
Maree Thompson
House of Travel Mount Maunganui
From the first travel I did as a teenager I have wanted to travel the world, experience the food, absorb the culture and learn the history!!!
I have always been passionate about creating the ultimate holidays and feel that makes me the best planner of your holidays that I can be!!
I had been selling travel for over 20 years when I felt something else was needed and to the leap to be the retail manger of House of Travel Papamoa. I feel I have never looked back and enjoy leading a fantastic group of people!!
I love my job!!! I love the fact that no one holiday is ever the same and also thrive on a challenge of a complex itinerary, round the world flight or something out of the norm.
I think the benefit you get with me is the experience I have had planning and travel and the places I have travelled.
I have travelled extensively and in particular done a lot around New Zealand, Australia, South Pacific Islands, USA and Europe and find that travel opens your mind to another world full of new experiences, new tastes and an appreciation for life in general.
I have a rule that every trip I do I need to pick one unique thing to do on holiday that is un-usual or you would not do on another holiday .... I have been hot air ballooning, have been on a segway tour, have helicoptered out to an island etc.
My Travel Tips
* I am a bit of a IT geek so always travel with an adaptor that has USB ports for my IWatch, iPhone and iPad.
*Have a store of great apps that help with travel, packing, maps, closest toilet etc.!!
*Always keep in touch with your travel agent so they can keep you up to date with deals that are out for your next holiday.
*Cash passports are a MUST as safe and easy way to travel.
The best holidays are definitely created together so would love to get you in for an appointment and have a discussion about your travel dreams.
Maree