Flight time
A 4-hour flight from Auckland will land you in Melbourne, one of Australia’s most vibrant cities.
Got a passion? Melbourne’s got a match!
Melbourne’s buzzing energy will have you falling head over heels from the moment you arrive. From bustling thoroughfares to quirky laneways and charming arcades waiting to be discovered, this city is filled with delightful surprises at every turn.
Dive straight into Melbourne’s vibrant lifestyle, whether that’s sipping vino at cosy wine bars, treating your tastebuds at iconic eateries, catching a thrilling game, or hunting down one-of-a-kind finds in colourful boutique stores.
Venture beyond the CBD and explore Melbourne’s diverse neighbourhoods: wander Lygon Street for a true taste of Italy, soak up Fitzroy’s creative vibes, or stroll the sands and sample seaside life in St Kilda. And when you’re ready for more, Melbourne is your gateway to Victoria’s vine-tastic wineries, soothing natural springs, breathtaking coastlines, and alpine villages straight out of a fairytale.
Chat to our Melbourne travel specialists today to create your perfect holiday.
Best time to go
The best times to visit Melbourne are during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November. These months offer mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods and cultural attractions.
Time difference
Melbourne is 2 hours behind New Zealand, so you’ll need to set your watch back slightly.
1 FREE night
Explore Rydges Melbourne
Australia
Rydges Melbourne
Flights
4 Nights
from
$
1059
per person share twin
Flying with
Qantas
Our favourite things to do in Melbourne
Wander through Melbourne's hidden laneways
Melbourne's lively laneways have an Alice in Wonderland feel - you never know what lies around the next corner.
Cruise the famous Great Ocean Road
Hire a car, grab some snacks and cue up Spotify for what might be most staggeringly beautiful drive you’ll make.
Do a classic “dine and dance” evening onboard a steam train
Get date night back on track when you step into the romance of train travel onboard Puffing Billy.
Feast in Little Italy
If you want real parmesan, cut from the block, grated over your pasta with a twist of style, Lygon Street is the place ot go.
Shop 'til you drop!
The shopping and fashion culture of Melbourne is one that is almost impossible to keep up with, but it is so fun to try!
Game, set, match
Love Tennis? There's no better time to visit than mid-to-late January when the Australian Open takes over for two weeks.
Go behind the scenes at Melbourne’s sporting venues
Take an unforgettable guided tour of the MCG and visit the National Sports Museum to discover what makes Australia such a great sporting country.
Take a day trip to Yarra Valley
Did you even go to Melbourne if you didn’t make the 1-hour trip to Yarra Valley?
GOLF LOVERS
Explore 4 Day Yarra Valley Golf Getaway
Victoria
4 Day Yarra Valley Golf Getaway
4 Nights
Car hire
Golf
from
$
1199
per person share twin. Flights are additional
POPULAR
Explore MJ the Musical - Melbourne
Melbourne
MJ the Musical - Melbourne
3 nights
A Reserve admission ticket
from
$
499
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Melbourne Flower Show Tour
Melbourne
Melbourne Flower Show Tour
Return International flights
5 nights
Fully escorted tour
from
$
5250
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
SELLING FAST!
Explore PS Australian Star 3 Night Discovery Cruise
Victoria
PS Australian Star 3 Night Discovery Cruise
3 Night Cruise
Sightseeing
Return Train Transfers
from
$
2679
per person share twin. Flights are additional
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Jason McKay
House of Travel Nelson
As the proud Owner Operator of House of Travel Nelson, I lead a small but passionate team dedicated to taking care of all your travel needs.
I primarily work on the Orbit World Travel side of our business, specialising in business and group travel. But as a traveller myself, I love chatting with customers and the team about their upcoming adventures — there’s nothing better than sharing in the excitement of a great trip!
Travel has played a huge role in my life. From years of family holidays to the Gold Coast and Fiji, where the kids spent hours in the pool or on the playground, to unforgettable highlights like Disneyland (they were 10 and 12 — the perfect age!), followed by a relaxing week in Mexico. These days, with older kids, we’re seeking more adventure. Our recent trip to Vietnam was a standout — from the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the peaceful beauty of Hoi An's lanterns and Halong Bay. If you haven’t been, it’s a must!
Next on my list? Europe. While I’ve done a couple of quick trips
in the past, I’m keen to take the time to explore the diverse cultures and rich
history of the places I’ve spent years helping others discover.
Whether your trip is big or small, come in and see us at House of Travel Nelson — we’ll make sure it’s your best one yet.
Hayley Mundy
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
After 30 years selling travel, its still a buzz creating fabulous holidays, watching my clients anticipation and being a part of the planning, knowing the excitement they have towards 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 really changed over the last few years, so let me help you navigate this new travel era, and create a holiday to remember, with the backing of an incredible House of Travel team.
Hayley
Louise Stephens
House of Travel Christchurch City
With over 26 years in various roles in the travel industry, Louise's international knowledge and experience is wide-ranging and her logistical and organizational skills are exceptional.
Louise loves being able to create packages and experiences for clients and then deliver them onsite to see them enjoying the experiences beyond their expectations. Louise has been a part of the team that have taken New Zealand Supporters to multiple Commonwealth Games and Olympics along with Rugby and Netball World Cups.
While sports travel is still Louie's first love, over the past three years she has worked more in our Conference Management side of HOT Events. Working alongside the team in managing corporate conferences covering all aspects from destination research and contracting, through to registration administration and onsite event management.
When not talking sport at the desk, Louise is off being active - taking her two dogs (and husband) for long walks and runs in the stunning hills around Christchurch.
Favourite place to visit: Switzerland
Next place on the list to visit: Canada
Louise
Hannah Brown
House of Travel Wanaka
Always with a smile I will be just as excited and passionate about your future adventures as you are! Originally from the UK I've spent the last 10 years travelling around the globe before finally settling in heavenly New Zealand.
Here I've turned the joy of travel into a profession I love. I enjoy nature, the beach, spending time with loved ones and exploring new places especially on the open road or by cruise.
I believe the biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams!
To me, traveling is so much more than a simple trip or relaxing vacation; it is a journey that always leaves me transformed and forever changed by the experiences presented. I have had the pleasure of visiting too many countries to count from backpacking on a shoestring budget around Asia to going all out on a private luxury adventure filled holidays such as trekking Machu Pichu!
My firsthand recommendations will ensure that your destination choices, no matter how uncommon, are always extraordinary. No matter what you are looking for, whether it’s a bucket list adventure or something that completely takes you off the grid, you can count on me to open doors to the most exceptional experiences and enhance every travel adventure.
Hannah
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FAQS
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. Don't forget to check out Federation Square, St Kilda Beach, the Melbourne Zoo, and the Queen Victoria Market.
Where are the things to do in Melbourne?
Name your passion and Melbourne can match it. Explore Melbourne’s eclectic precincts and fringe suburbs and dive in to uncover quirky restaurants for cheap, filling lunches; coffee worth boasting about; underground art; hidden dens and rooftop bars; green spaces; fancy places; and some good yarns along the way.
Melbourne is the gateway to Victoria’s world-class wineries, natural springs, peninsulas, spectacular coastline and alpine villages. 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 & NSW, explore our Melbourne travel guide crafted with help from our Melbourne experts to make the most of your trip.
How to find the best holiday package to Melbourne?
Visit our Melbourne deals section on our website or sign up for our newsletter to get the latest holiday package deals sent straight to your email.
Where to stay in Melbourne?
Melbourne offers a range of accommodations 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 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 bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. In the winter (June to August), pack warmer clothing and a coat.
Do I need travel insurance for Melbourne?
Yes, it is highly recommended to have 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. Most credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
Do I need to hire a car to get around in Melbourne?
Hiring a car is not essential in Melbourne as it has extensive public transport system, which includes trams, trains, and buses. The free City Circle Tram is great for getting around the CBD. However, we recommend renting a car if you plan to explore the beautiful regional Victoria.
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.
How can I get around Melbourne without a car?
Melbourne has an efficient public transport system. Use trams, trains, and buses to get around the city. The Myki card is a convenient way to pay for all public transport. For shorter trips, consider rideshare services like Uber and taxis.
Where are the best places in Melbourne for food and drink?
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. If you are looking for some fun and excitement, take a trip to Luna Park in St Kilda for amusement rides and games.
