Navigation
Back

Our Latest Victoria Deals

Melbourne, Yarra Valley & surrounds

Our Latest Victoria Deals

Our best Melbourne packages right now, created by our travel experts to offer you incredible holidays at serious value.

More Australia Deals

Melbourne Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Melbourne a popular destination for Kiwi travellers?

Melbourne is popular with New Zealand travellers for its culture, food scene, major events and easy flight access. It’s ideal for short breaks and longer stays, offering laneways, shopping, sport and nearby day trips.

 

How long is the flight from New Zealand to Melbourne?

Direct flights from Auckland to Melbourne take around 4 hours, with regular services also available from Wellington and Christchurch.

 

How many days do you need in Melbourne?

A 3 to 5 day trip is perfect for exploring Melbourne’s city highlights, while 7 days or more allows time for day trips to places like the Great Ocean Road or Yarra Valley.

What is the best time of year to visit Melbourne?

If you want to experience Melbourne's culture and cuisine, nightlife and arts then, travel between March and May or September and November, when the weather is mild and the city is full of life. Enjoy the spring and autumn colours in Melbourne's parks and gardens, and explore its diverse neighbourhoods. 

 

Where to stay in Melbourne?

Melbourne offers a range of accommodation to suit every budget. The CBD is perfect for those who want to be close to major attractions and public transport. For a more bohemian vibe, consider staying in Fitzroy or Carlton. Southbank and Docklands offer modern hotels with stunning city views.

 

What are the things to do in Melbourne?

Name your passion and Melbourne can match it. Explore Melbourne’s eclectic precincts and fringe suburbs, and discover quirky restaurants for affordable, filling lunches; coffee worth boasting about, underground art, rooftop bars, green spaces, fancy places and so much more. 

Melbourne is the gateway to Victoria’s world-class wineries, natural springs, peninsulas, spectacular coastline and alpine towns. Don't miss a visit to St Kilda Beach, the Melbourne Zoo and the historic Queen Victoria Market. There is no shortage of things to do in Melbourne, with so much to offer right on your doorstep. If you're planning a holiday in Sydney, explore our Melbourne travel guide crafted by our Melbourne experts to make the most of your trip. 

 

How to find the best holiday package to Melbourne?

Check out our Melbourne deals  or sign up for our newsletter to get the latest holiday package deals sent straight to your email. Or, speak to your local House of Travel Melbourne specialist to book in your Melbourne holiday. 

What should I pack for my trip to Melbourne?

Melbourne's weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers. Include comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket and an umbrella. In the summer months (December to February) bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. In the winter (June to August), pack warmer clothing and a coat.

 

Do New Zealanders need a visa to travel to Melbourne?
No, New Zealand passport holders do not need to pre‑apply for a visa. We recommend staying up to date on an official government website for advice on non-New Zealand passport holders or for any updates. 
Is Melbourne expensive for New Zealanders?
Melbourne suits a range of budgets, with affordable accommodation, free attractions and competitive flight deals making it good value for Kiwi travellers.

Do I need travel insurance for Melbourne?

Yes, we highly recommend having travel insurance for your trip to Melbourne. We offer a range of travel insurance options suitable for travel to Australia. Find more information on our website.

 

Can I use New Zealand dollars in Melbourne?

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. Otherwise, most credit and debit cards are widely accepted, as well as via digital wallets.

Is Melbourne easy to get around without a car?

 

Yes, Melbourne is easy to navigate using trams, trains and buses, especially within the CBD, where free tram zones make getting around simple.

What neighbourhoods should visitors explore?
Visit Fitzroy for its creative scene, St Kilda for beaches and cafés, and Lygon Street for Italian dining and culture.
Can you do day trips from Melbourne?
Yes, Melbourne is a great base for day trips to the Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley wineries, Mornington Peninsula and alpine regions.

 

Where is the best place for shopping in Melbourne?

Melbourne is a shopper's paradise with a variety of options. Visit Bourke Street Mall for high-street fashion, Chadstone Shopping Centre for luxury brands and Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce and unique souvenirs. Explore the laneways and arcades in the CBD for boutique shopping and quirky finds.

 

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Melbourne?

Melbourne is Australia's culinary capital so whether you're craving Italian, Asian or something else, Melbourne has you covered. You'll find mouth-watering restaurants and cafes all over the city, but here are some of our favourites.

For a taste of Italy, head to Lygon Street in Carlton and enjoy pizza, pasta and gelato. For a variety of Asian flavours, check out Chinatown in the CBD and sample dumplings, noodles and more. 

For the best brunch in town, don't miss Fitzroy and Collingwood, where you'll find hip cafes and cool bars. Make sure you try the best coffee and bagels in Melbourne at Manchester Press café in a converted warehouse in Rankins Lane - it's usually packed, so get there early.

 

What are some family-friendly activities in Melbourne?

Melbourne is a great destination for families. There's plenty of things to do for the whole family in Melbourne from interactive museums and kids' festivals to zoos and wildlife parks. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens, explore the interactive exhibits at Scienceworks and the Melbourne Museum. For a burst of excitement, take a trip to Luna Park in St Kilda for amusement rides and games.

Meet our Victoria specialists

See all See all
Niamh Matthews

Niamh Matthews

House of Travel New Plymouth


I have been so lucky to live and work all around the world and travelling has given me so many incredible experiences, memories and friends over the years. I am so excited to use my knowledge and experience to help you create some amazing memories through travel. 

Niamh

Hayley Mundy

Hayley Mundy

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

After more than 30 years selling travel, it still  gives me such a buzz to create fabulous holidays. I love watching my clients' anticipation build, being part of the planning, sharing in the excitement of their journey - and of course hearing all about it when they return. It's almost as good as being on the trip with them!

Travel has changed a lot in recent years, and that's exactly why it pays to have an expert in your corner. As a senior, award-winning travel consultant at one of New Zealand's best-rated travel agencies, House of Travel The Crossing, I'm here to take the stress out, and the fun in!!

From complex airfares and cruise itineraries to boutique stays, family getaways and once-in-a-lifetime adventures, I'll help you navigate this new era of travel with confidence - keeping an eye on the details, the fine print, and the "what ifs", so you can focus on the excitement. 

Let's create a holiday to remember - fabulous, seamless, and perfectly you. 


Hayley


Maree Thompson

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

Bridget Hanrahan

House of Travel Prestons

Bridget has an amazing collection of knowledge from 21 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. 

Years in the industry: 21+ 
No. of countries visited: 26
Favourite place to visit: Africa

"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



Best. Holidays. Ever!

Inspired to travel to Fiji? Connect with one of our travel specialists

Subscribe

Want the insider word on all things travel?

Sign up below and be the first to hear about out hottest holiday deals, flights steals, and essential travel hints and tips from out team of travel specialists.

Consultant Consultant Consultant

Our Latest Victoria Deals