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Sydney

Let the good times roll!

Road along the coast

Sun, sand and a splash of adventure

Golden beaches, dazzling turquoise waters, and lush rainforest trails, Sydney effortlessly blends natural beauty with city excitement. With one of the world’s most iconic skylines set against a stunning coastal backdrop, this Aussie favourite is buzzing with endless possibilities.

From fun-filled family days to unforgettable nights out with your best mates, Sydney delivers the perfect escape for every type of traveller. Spot wildlife, catch some waves, savour the freshest seafood, or dance the night away in vibrant urban hotspots.

Connect with our Sydney travel specialists and let’s find your perfect adventure. 

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Flight time

Sydney is just a quick 3.5-hour flight from Auckland, making it a convenient destination for a city break or a longer holiday.

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Best time to go

The ideal times to visit Sydney are September to November and March to May. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

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Time difference

Sydney is 2 hours behind New Zealand, so there’s a slight time difference to keep in mind when planning your activities.

Our favourite things to do in Sydney

Sydney skylinee

From Ballet to Broadway

A night at the Sydney Opera House is nothing short of magical.

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View of blue mountains

Explore beyond the city

Escape from the rat race and immerse yourself in the beautiful surrounding region.

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Experience Sydney like never before

This experience is one not to be missed!

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Art Gallery

Admire the Art Gallery of New South Wales

Sydney’s museums and galleries are full of fascinating stories, from stunning classical and contemporary art to Aboriginal artefacts and cool scientific specimens

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Woman reaching for food from platter

From coffee to cocktails at Barangaroo

Just four minutes from Wynyard Station, Barangaroo is Sydney’s ultimate food lover's paradise!

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Ariel view of waves breaking on the shore

Best. Coastal Walk. Ever!

The Aussie dream. Think surf, sunshine, Bondi beach and summertime brunch.

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View of Sydney Harbour

Family ferry-tale.

Do what the locals do and travel on the harbour highway.

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View of car driving on road over water

Hit the gas and head for the coast

Escape the hustle of a city as happening as Sydney with a coastal roadie.

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93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"very informative and knowledgeable. Easy to communicate with"

Denise

"Prompt efficient service. I had made a mistake and she told me what I needed to do to correct my error."

Annemarie

"Kelly is lovely. Friendly and welcoming. We appreciate her approach to our fussy requests."

Robert

Meet our Sydney specialists

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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

Alison Jenkins

Alison Jenkins

House of Travel Hamilton East

Having a love of travel, I completed a Bachelor of International Tourism Management in 2013.

After a 6 month stint working at Walt Disney World in Florida I returned to NZ and started my career in the travel industry.

After three years I was feeling the itch to travel again so I decided to embark on my second OE and moved to the UK. Living and working there allowed me to travel Europe extensively and my favourite country to date would be Poland. I returned to NZ in 2020.

Alison
Laura Cook

Laura Cook

House of Travel Whanganui

Hey there!

I’m Laura, the smiley face you’ll spot as soon as you walk through our office door. With a serious case of wanderlust, I’ve done it all —lived abroad, cruised the seas, island-hopped, and even cruised around South Africa on the back of a motorbike. But let me tell you about my ultimate love affair Africa!

For three incredible years, I bounced between Australia and South Africa, exploring every corner of the country, often on the back of a motorbike. I’ve sat with elephants for hours, watched big cats hunting, and slept under the stars in the middle of a game reserve. My heart belongs to the wild, and if you’re an animal lover like me, trust me, Africa will capture yours too.

Nothing lights me up more than helping people experience this magic. The more I learn, the more excited I get about sharing these adventures with you! Whether it’s a dream safari, a relaxing cruise, or an off-the-beaten-path escape, I’m here to bring your travel dreams to life.

Let’s make your adventure happen!

Laura

Lisa Grunsell

Lisa Grunsell

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

With over 30 years in the travel industry, I still get that same excitement when creating holidays for my clients.

My extensive travel knowledge, combined with personal experiences, allows me to transform your dreams into reality.

Travel has truly been life-changing for me, from the diverse cultures to the countless continents I’ve explored. I would love to share that joy with you.

I invite you to come and chat with me—I’m here to make booking your holiday as easy and stress-free as possible. 

Lisa

Best. Holidays. Ever!

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FAQS

What is the best time of year to visit Sydney ?
Sydney is a great destination year-round and there’s always something going on in Sydney. As one of the world’s top cities to visit, Sydney has a vibrant buzz year-round with its endless list of high profile events, iconic landmarks, popular beaches and stunning harbour. 

What are the things to do in Sydney?
There is no shortage of things to do in Sydney, with so much to offer right on your doorstep. If you're planning a holiday in Sydney & NSW, explore our Sydney & surrounds travel guide crafted with help from our Sydney experts to make the most of your trip. Take a stroll along Circular Quay and soak up the atmosphere. Circular Quay has some of the city’s best restaurants. Only a 10 minute stroll from the Sydney Town Hall, Darling Harbour is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious harbourside meal or experience the energetic nightlife. Sydney's must-see spots include the Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, and the Royal Botanic Garden. In NSW, explore the Blue Mountains, the Hunter Valley wine 

How to find the best holiday package to Sydney & NSW?
We've got that covered for you! Visit our Sydney & NSW deals section on our website or sign up to get the hottest deals sent straight to your email.

Where to stay in Sydney & NSW?
There are so many amazing places to stay in Sydney & NSW, depending on what you like. If you want to be close to the action, the CBD has plenty of hotels and apartments near the main attractions. If you love the beach, you can't go wrong with Bondi or Manly, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. For a more laid-back vibe, why not check out the Blue Mountains or the Hunter Valley? They are both stunning destinations with cosy accommodation options.

What should I pack for my trip to Sydney?
Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather, especially if visiting during summer. Include swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for beach days. If visiting during winter (June to August), pack a warm jacket and layers for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city and natural parks.

Do I need travel insurance for Sydney?
Absolutely, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for your trip to Sydney. We provide a range of travel insurance options suitable for travel to Australia. Find more information here.

Can I use New Zealand dollars in Sydney & NSW?
No, you will need to exchange your New Zealand dollars (NZD) for Australian dollars (AUD). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange bureaus. Most credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

Do I need to hire a car to get around in Sydney?
We recommend hiring a car can be useful for exploring regional NSW, such as the Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, and coastal areas.

How can I get around in Sydney?
Sydney has extensive public transport system, including trains, buses, and ferries. The Opal card is a convenient payment method for all public transport. For shorter stays, rideshare services like Uber and taxis are also available.

Where to shop in Sydney?
As an absolute shopper’s paradise, there are seemingly endless options in Sydney whatever you’re looking for, from the CBD’s colossal department stores, Myer and David Jones to high street favourites such as Topshop and Zara. Visit Pitt Street Mall for high-street and designer stores, the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) for luxury boutiques in a historic setting, and Westfield Sydney for a wide range of brands and dining options. For unique finds, explore The Rocks Markets and Paddington Markets on weekends. HOT TIP!  Paddy's Market, which sells an eclectic mix of food, cheap clothes and even cheaper souvenirs (kangaroo scrotum anyone?) sits conveniently close to Chinatown and Darling Harbour, both of which are walkable.  

What are some family-friendly activities in Sydney & NSW?
Sydney & NSW are fantastic family holiday destinations with plenty of activities for all ages. In Sydney, visit Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, and Luna Park. Explore the Blue Mountains for outdoor adventures like bushwalking and scenic railway rides. Enjoy beach days at Bondi or Manly, and discover the interactive museums and parks throughout the city and region. For a fantastic family day out hop on the ferry to visit the zoo and Watsons Bay. Enjoy classic fish & chips at Doyles by the harbour, or head to the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel for their own delicious take on this seaside favourite, paired with a tempting cocktail menu.

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