Flight time.
Brisbane is only a 3 - 4hour flight from New Zealand, so you can be enjoying riverside dining and great shopping, in no time.
Why visit Brisbane? Best things to do and see.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed Brisbane city break, a riverfront escape with friends or using the city as a gateway to Queensland’s top attractions, Brisbane blends laidback charm with vibrant urban energy. As one of Australia’s fastest‑growing cities, Brisbane offers the perfect blend of culture, nature and lifestyle - all set along the winding Brisbane River.
There's a 101 reasons to visit Brisbane, from alfresco dining precincts and buzzing rooftop bars to riverside walks and immersive cultural experiences. Brisbane is a destination where there’s always something to discover - explore local markets, cruise the river at sunset or dine at award‑winning restaurants overlooking the city skyline.
Discover world‑class galleries, iconic attractions and seamless access to nearby islands and hinterland escapes. It’s this effortless mix of experiences that makes Brisbane a must‑visit for Kiwi travellers.
Riverfront living, cultural precincts and outdoor experiences.
Brisbane’s lifestyle is built around its subtropical climate, with year‑round sunshine perfect for getting outdoors. South Bank is the city’s cultural heart, home to Queensland’s best galleries and museums, plus a man‑made lagoon, parklands and a buzzing dining scene. Nearby, the Brisbane River offers scenic cruises, kayaking and riverside cycling paths that showcase the city from a different perspective.
For those who love city experiences with a local feel, neighbourhoods like Fortitude Valley and New Farm deliver boutique shopping, live music and a thriving café culture. Climb the Story Bridge for panoramic views or explore Howard Smith Wharves, where heritage meets modern dining right on the water.
Beyond the city, Brisbane is the ideal base for day trips. Discover Moreton Island’s crystal‑clear waters and sand dunes, explore the Scenic Rim’s lush hinterland or venture north to the Sunshine Coast and south to the Gold Coast - all within easy reach.
Whether you’re looking to explore culture, unwind in the sunshine or experience a little of everything, Brisbane is the ultimate destination that balances city sophistication with Queensland’s signature laidback lifestyle.
Ready to start planning your Brisbane holiday?
Explore our latest Brisbane deals or speak to our knowledgeable Brisbane travel specialists today to start planning your perfect Queensland escape.
Best time to go.
The best time to visit Brisbane is from March to May and September to November, when temperatures are warm but comfortable with low rainfall.
Time difference.
Brisbane 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 things to do near Brisbane
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Looking for a wild day out?
Located in Currumbin, just 20 kms south of Gold Coast, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary offers interactive experiences with Australian wildlife.
Go beyond the beaches
Trade in the surf for serene trails and mountain air – nature’s calling.
Surf, stroll, and soak up the views
Experience the wild beauty of a natural headland in the heart of the Gold Coast.
Food glorious food
Grab your appetite and spend a weekend eating your way along the Scenic Rim food trail from Brisbane to the Gold Coast.
Sip your way through the valley vineyards
Don’t sleep on the Gold Coast wine region—it’s a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered!
Soar high at the epic Pacific Air Show!
Get ready for the ultimate family adventure!
Captain your own adventure
Grab your crew, pack the snacks, and let the good times roll on the open water!
Best. Food. Ever!
Sip on cocktails, feast on the catch, and soak in the vibes!
Taste the world in the Gold Coast
From Bangkok to Barcelona, your flavour journey starts here!
More than a 'surfers' paradise!
Pop on your Captain's Hat, pack the picnic.
Explore Scenic Rim Trail 4 Day Walk
Queensland
Scenic Rim Trail 4 Day Walk
4 nights
4 Day Walk
from
$
4199
per person share twin
Flights additional
Flights additional
Explore Scenic Rim Trail 2 Day Walk
Queensland
Scenic Rim Trail 2 Day Walk
2 nights
2 Day Walk
from
$
2099
per person share twin
Flights additional
Flights additional
Cruising to Brisbane 4
Explore Fiji to Brisbane
Fiji to Brisbane
Escape to the sun-drenched South Pacific on a journey filled with tropical beauty and island charm. Depart from Lautoka and discover the crystal-clear waters of Champagne Bay, before exploring the vibrant culture of Port Vila.
Continue to the idyllic shores of Lifou and the French-inspired flair of Nouméa, before arriving in the lively riverside city of Brisbane.
With turquoise lagoons, swaying palms, and warm island hospitality, this voyage is the perfect tropical escape.
11 Night Luxury Cruise
from
$
15,979
per person share twin Vista Suite
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Silversea Cruises
Departs 11 Feb 2027
HOT EXCLUSIVE
Explore Brisbane, Royal Beach Club Lelepa, & Vanuatu
Brisbane, Royal Beach Club Lelepa, & Vanuatu
A relaxed South Pacific getaway from Brisbane, featuring tropical stops in Luganville and Lelepa Island, with plenty of easy sea days before returning refreshed to Brisbane.
7 Night Onboard Voyager of the Seas:
Departure date: 29 Oct 27
From $1775 per person twin share Interior Stateroom
From $1925 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $2695 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
Departure date: 04 Feb 28
From $1239 per person twin share Interior Stateroom
From $1499 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $1889 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
2027/ 28 Sailings
from
$
1239
per person share twin Interior Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 29 Oct 2027
Explore Brisbane, Port Vila, Royal Beach Club Lelepa
Brisbane, Port Vila, Royal Beach Club Lelepa
A relaxed tropical getaway from Brisbane, with easy days at sea and island time in Port Vila and Lelepa Island. Enjoy sun-soaked days, warm island hospitality and a laid-back pace before returning to Brisbane refreshed and recharged.
Royal Beach Club℠ Lelepa, opening in October 2027, will be Royal Caribbean’s® first exclusive cruise destination in the South Pacific. Located on the island of Lelepa in Vanuatu, the destination offers complimentary entry with access to two pristine beaches, including a family-friendly shoreline and an adults-only retreat, plus areas designed for relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy unlimited island dining and explore a scenic Nature Trail, all included with their cruise fare.
7 night Cruise
from
$
1379
per person share twin Interior Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 31 Mar 2028
Explore Carnival Queensland Cruises 2026
Carnival Queensland Cruises 2026
Sail to the best of Queensland with flexible departures. Discover Willis Island’s remote beauty, explore reef and rainforest in Cairns, and unwind in Airlie Beach, gateway to the Whitsundays. A perfect mix of nature, adventure, and coastal charm.
4-Night Airlie Beach
Carnival Encounter
Based on departure 15 Nov - 19 Nov 26
From $735 pp share twin Inside Stateroom
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
6-night Willis Island, Airlie Beach & Cairns
Carnival Encounter
Based on departure 05 Sep - 11 Sep 26
From $1005 pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
7-night Willis Island, Airlie Beach & more
Carnival Encounter
Based on departure 26 Sep - 03 Oct 26
From $2649 pp share twin Ocean Suite
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
9-Night Moreton Island, Willis Island, Cairns & Airlie Beach
Carnival Adventure
Based on departure 10 Aug - 19 Aug 26
From $1245 pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view current pricing, itinerary and availability
4-night to 9 -night sailings
Onboard Carnival
from
$
735
per person share twin
Inside Guarantee Stateroom
Flights are additional
Inside Guarantee Stateroom
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Carnival Cruise Line
Departs 26 Sep 2026
93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5
"Our consultant full of helpful tips, with lots of knowledge, and great communication skills, and with all the booking details and confirmations/checks being emailed, it made the whole travel process a breeze."
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Mike (Buzz) Thomson
House of Travel Hobsonville
With over 25 years' experience in the travel industry- both here in New Zealand and internationally- I bring a depth of knowledge and insight that helps turn great ideas into truly unforgettable journeys.
From hidden gems to seamless itineraries, I use my experience every day to design travel that's tailored, thoughtful, and practical.
I'd love to hear about your plans, whether you're just starting to dream or ready to book.
Together, we'll create a well-organised, memorable trip that's perfectly suited to you- so all you need to do is enjoy the journey.
Mike
Lesley Masters
House of Travel Lower Hutt
Why book with me?
Because your holiday deserves more - it deserves care, tailored advice, and personal attention every step of the way.
With over 20 years of experience as a travel consultant, I specialise in designing trips that fit your needs perfectly, whether it's a fun family escape to the Gold Coast or a complex, multi-country adventure across the globe. I'm here to handle the details, solve the unexpected and make sure your travel experience is seamless from start to finish.
Travel isn't just my job - it's my lifelong passion. Since catching the travel bug at age 12 on a trip to England, I've explored around 35 countries, discovering the joys of rail journeys, river and ocean cruises, guided tours and solo travel. This hands-on experience means I can give you first-hand tips and recommendations.
My favourite destinations include Italy, England and Niue, but truly, I've fallen in love with almost everywhere I have explored. Next on my list? Japan, Samoa and Sri Lanka - always planning, always exploring, so I can share the very best with you.
I feel privileged to work in such an exciting, dynamic industry, and I'd love to help to plan your next unforgettable holiday. Let me take care of everything - so all you have to do is enjoy.
Lesley
Kelly-Ann Thomas
House of Travel Lower Hutt
Travel ignites the fire in my belly, daily and I'm lucky enough to turn holiday dreams into unforgettable experiences.
I specialise in family travel, group getaways, solo adventures, and special interest trips, helping clients craft memories that last a lifetime.
A recent highlight was travelling to New York with my sister, followed by Japan, and a Christmas in Bali with my family.
Whether I'm working with long-time clients or meeting new faces each week, I'm always excited to bring personalised travel dreams to life.
Passionate about what I do, I'm always ready for the next adventure - both for my clients and my own family.
Kelly-Ann
Cheryl Edwards
House of Travel Albany
I’ve been fortunate to
travel extensively and live in some amazing cities.
I'd love to inspire you to travel more by drawing on my personal experiences
& knowledge to make your dreams a reality
As a travel agent with 30+ (gulp) years of experience, I’ve learned that
no two journeys are ever the same—and that’s what keeps this job exciting.
While travel is one of life’s greatest pleasures, planning it can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s where I come in. I’ll take care of every detail so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories.
"Because life’s too short not to see the world"
Cheryl
Our Brisbane travel blogs
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Brisbane FAQS
How far is Brisbane from New Zealand?
Brisbane is approximately a 3 to 4 hour flight from major New Zealand cities like Auckland, making it one of the easiest Australian city breaks for Kiwi travellers.
When is the best time to visit Brisbane?
Brisbane is a year-round destination thanks to its subtropical climate. The most popular time to visit is from March to May and September to November, when temperatures are warm but comfortable and there's less rainfall.
How many days do you need in Brisbane?
3 to 5 days is ideal to explore Brisbane's highlights, including South Bank, the city centre and nearby day trips like Moreton Island or the Gold Coast.
Is Brisbane a good destination for families?
Yes, Brisbane is very family-friendly, with attractions like South Bank's lagoon, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, river cruises and easy access to theme parks on the Gold Coast.
Can you visit Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast from Brisbane?
Yes, both are easy day trips. The Gold Coast is about 1 hour south, while Sunshine Coast is around 1 to 1 and a half hours north, making Brisbane a great base to explore the region.
Do Kiwis need a visa to visit Brisbane?
No, New Zealand passport holders do not need to apply for a visa before travelling to Australia. We always recommend checking official government websites if you are a non-New Zealand passport holder and for any travel updates
What currency is used in Brisbane?
Australia uses Australian dollars (AUD). Credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted.
What should I pack for Brisbane?
Pack lightweight clothing for warm weather, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear and sun protection. A light jacket is useful for cooler evenings, especially in winter.
Is travel insurance recommended for Brisbane?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for Kiwi travellers, and we offer a range of options. Speak to your local House of Travel specialist about travel insurance options to suit you.
What is the time difference between Australia and New Zealand?
Brisbane is usually 2 hours behind New Zealand and does not observe daylight saving, so the difference can be 3 hours in the summer.
Brisbane is usually 2 hours behind New Zealand and does not observe daylight saving, so the difference can be 3 hours in the summer.
What is the best thing to do in Brisbane?
Top experiences include exploring South Bank, visiting the Brisbane River precinct, climbing the Story Bridge, discovering local markets and taking a day trip to nearby islands or beaches.
How do you get around Brisbane?
Brisbane is easy to navigate using public transport, including trains, buses and ferries. The CityCat ferry is a popular and scenic way to explore along the river.
Is Brisbane expensive for Kiwi travellers?
Brisbane can be more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, especially for accommodation and dining, making it a great-value Australian city break.
Can you swim in Brisbane?
Yes, you can swim at South Bank's Streets Beach (a man-made lagoon) or take a short trip to nearby beaches on the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast.
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