Melbourne Cup 2026
Race day thrills, premium stays, and all the Melbourne Cup excitement in one package
Experience the excitement of Melbourne Cup 2026 with premium holiday packages including official event tickets, accommodation, and exclusive race day experiences. Held at Flemington Racecourse on 3 November 2026, the Melbourne Cup Carnival is Australia’s most iconic racing event, combining world-class sport, fashion, and entertainment in the heart of Melbourne.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the world’s most celebrated racing events. Melbourne Cup 2026 is set to be an unforgettable blend of sport, style, and entertainment.
Secure your Melbourne Cup holiday today and experience it all live.
Melbourne Cup Packages 3
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
Bridget Hanrahan
House of Travel Prestons
Bridget has an amazing collection of knowledge from 19 years creating wonderful itineraries for all her clients. She takes the role of research very seriously from finding the finest cocktail to ensuring everyone has the best activity tips!
Her knowledge in cruising, as well as other adventure and family travel combined with her easy approachable manner takes the pain out of planning your trip of a lifetime.
"Designing unique travel experiences is my passion. My attention to detail and always looking for exclusive options ensures that all client's experiences are seamless right from the initial enquiry".
When Bridget is not pouring over brochures for inspiration, you can find her having a game of tennis, finding the next best HOT Chocolate, or spending time with her family.
"Travel is the healthiest addiction" - Anonymous
Why I love travel:
For me life is about experiences, not things! I love exploring new places, cultures, environments. I see travel for me as an addiction - I just can't stay away and helping people is so rewarding.
My travel tips:
- Travel as soon as you can, don't delay as life is too short.
- If you want an adventure head to Antarctica or the Arctic before anywhere else.
- Always carry a change of clothes, any valuables and medication in your carry-on luggage. The House of Travel online brochures are a great source of information when planning your journey then we can finetune your holiday for you.
My top 5 destinations:
- Africa- Serengeti plains!!! Perfect place to go to create family memories with our young adult kids! Adventure to encounter wildlife and camping in the Serengeti!
- Dubai- the mix of culture, sights, architecture, markets, desert and the malls - even though shopping is not my thing.
- Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska - I was incredibly fortunate to have a family holiday in Canada, Alaska, Las Vegas and California and I'll never forget rafting on the Nenana River, rounding a bend to see a moose and her two calves taking a drink …. we all forgot to keep paddling; it was an incredible sight!
- Rome - the history and the chaos of a bustling city it offers so much culture with a cool vibe.
- Thailand - I lived near Chiang Mai as an exchange student many years ago and have been back to the country three times. It is great for families, couples, singles with so much to see and do.
What's in my suitcase?
- Happiness - I'm always in my happy place as soon as I travel.
- Active wear - Our holidays always include adventure and plenty of travel.
- A copy of my passport and insurance policy number and phone number, in case I lose my carryon bag and phone.
Bridget
Rachael Singh
House of Travel Morrinsville
My love for travel started with adventures shared with family and friends which taught me the importance and significance of creating meaningful memories.
Over the years I've been lucky enough to explore vibrant cities, serene countryside along with some memorable sporting events and horse racing!
Whether you're planning a relaxing getaway, a sports adventure or a family holiday, I'm here to make your dream trip a reality. With a keen eye for detail and a love for planning, I'll work with you to create a personalised itinerary that matches your interests, pace and budget.
Every adventure requires a first step...Lets make your next adventure unforgettable!
Rachael
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
Contact us
Can't find the perfect package? Contact our team to create a custom Melbourne Cup experience tailored to your needs.