Tropical North Queensland is nature’s ultimate thrill ride—wild, vibrant, and totally unforgettable. Where else can you snorkel the Great Barrier Reef in the morning and wander through the world’s oldest rainforest by afternoon? This slice of paradise is home to not one, but two World Heritage-listed wonders—and enough adventure to fill your camera roll and your soul.
Think laid-back vibes, palm trees swaying, and friendly locals who know how to live life outdoors. Cairns and Port Douglas are your go-to hubs, not just for reef trips and rainforest walks, but also for wild adventures to the Gulf of Savannah and Cape York if you're feeling extra bold.
The weather? Always warm. The lifestyle? Effortlessly chill. Whether you're kicking back on a sun-drenched beach, getting pampered at a rainforest retreat, chasing waterfalls, or white-water rafting down the Barron River—there’s no wrong way to holiday here.
And it’s not just the landscapes that are diverse. The mix of cultures, food, and local stories adds even more colour to this already vibrant part of the world. So pack your sense of wonder—Tropical North Queensland is calling!
Flying from New Zealand to Cairns takes around 5 and a half hours with direct flights available from Auckland with Air New Zealand or from Christchurch with Jetstar. Alternatively, you can connect via Brisbane with multiple daily flights to Cairns available.
From April to November, Tropical North Queensland has warm, sunny days with low humidity—perfect for snorkelling, exploring the Daintree Rainforest, and alfresco dining. This dry season offers ideal conditions for swimming, reef tours, and outdoor adventures, with fewer crowds from April to June and peak travel periods from July to September. From December to March, the region experiences a tropical summer with hot, humid weather and frequent rainfall. While this is the wet season, it’s also when the rainforest is at its most lush, and waterfalls are flowing—great for nature lovers.
Tropical North Queensland 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.
Explore one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, teeming with vibrant coral and marine life.
Discover the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, filled with unique wildlife, lush greenery, and ancient plants.
Cruise the Captain Cook Highway from Cairns to Port Douglas for stunning ocean views and charming seaside towns.
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
Departs 26 Sep 2026
For as long as I can remember, travel has always been a huge part of my life. I grew up travelling multiple times a year, so it's no surprise I chose a career in the travel industry to carry this on in my adult life!
My love of travelling and experiencing different cultures is what drives me to create bespoke travel itineraries for all of my clients. I truly believe that travel sparks our imagination, feeds our curiosity, and reminds us how much we all have in common.
I have explored various parts of the world along with our own backyard and will continue to do this to not only fulfil my desire to travel more but also to advance my knowledge of locations that may be of interest to my clients.
Excelling your needs, wants and expectations before, during and after travel is my main priority. I would love to create a truly amazing trip and memories that will last you a lifetime!
Olivia
What truly sets me apart is that I believe in creating travel experiences as unique as you are. I take the time to understand your preferences, your dreams, and even those little quirks that make your ideal trip special.
It’s not just about booking flights and hotels; it’s finding that hidden gem of a restaurant in Barcelona or securing the best view of the Pyramids in Egypt, I’m committed to delivering experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
I also pride myself on being incredibly accessible and responsive. If a last-minute change or unexpected challenge arises, I’m just a phone call or message away, ready to jump in and ensure everything goes smoothly.
My goal is to make every moment of your trip memorable, stress-free, and tailored just for you.
With a passion for travel,
I love making travel dreams a reality. Whether you're looking for a relaxing
getaway in Fiji or an adventurous European river cruise, I can help you plan
the perfect trip.
The expertise of a travel specialist can do wonders for your holiday
preparations. Let me be that person for you.
Vanessa
In the 28 years of owning House of Travel Christchurch City, I have successfully developed a passionate and award-winning team of travel specialists. Our holiday specialists can take you to the destinations that you have dreamed of and let you know inside information that will enrich your travel experience. The highly experienced business travel division will exceed your expectations leaving no stone unturned to ensure a seamless travel experience every time. We also have a fantastic HOT Events team that can take care of your conference, team building or any event requirement you might have from a planned dinner event to incentive or recognition programme.
From my beginnings in customer sales and service, travelling to over 60 countries, my primary focus is overseeing all divisions, and growing our every popular Sporting Events Programmes. A highlight is delivering a highly successful games campaigns with our New Zealand Olympic Travel team. This includes all New Zealand Team Athlete Travel to providing a family and friends programme as well as a world class corporate offering for sponsors.
I am however most proud of the team for us being awarded three top awards at the National Travel Industry Awards - Best Retail Travel Agency in New Zealand, Best Travel Consultant in New Zealand, Best Groups Team in New Zealand.
Great holidays are made better together with the House of Travel Christchurch City team.
Start here
Let us help you find the perfect holiday or deal. Here’s how to get in touch...
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.
By signing up, you have read or have an opportunity to read the Privacy Policy, and you agree to the provisions of the Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up, we’ll be in touch soon!
Hold on a sec, adventurer! We didn't quite catch your email. Sign up again to unlock your travel dreams!
Sign up below and be the first to hear about our hottest holiday deals, flight steals, cruise deals and essential travel hints and tips from our team of travel specialists.
By signing up, you have read or have an opportunity to read the Privacy Policy, and you agree to the provisions of the Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up, we’ll be in touch soon!
Hold on a sec, adventurer! We didn't quite catch your email. Sign up again to unlock your travel dreams!
