SOUTH AUSTRALIA
South Australia is a bit of a hidden gem for Kiwis who have traditionally visited the eastern gateways on their holidays to Australia. In fact, a direct flight to Adelaide from Auckland is only 50 minutes longer than flying to Melbourne, and it’s well worth the extra time in the air. Known as the ‘20 minute city’, Adelaide is the gateway to all there is to see and do in South Australia. It is both cultural and cool, and its superb shopping, beaches, history and restaurants are not to be missed.
It seems like all roads lead to wine and food in South Australia. From Adelaide there are nine distinct wine regions within 90 minutes drive, none more famous than the Barossa wine region located less than an hour drive from the CBD.
Known as the ‘20 minute city’, Adelaide is the gateway to all there is to see and do in South Australia. It is both cultural and cool, and its superb shopping, beaches, history and restaurants are not to be missed.
Foodies love the sights, tastes and smells of the Adelaide Central Market. Regarded as the ‘pantry of the city’, it’s the perfect place to stop and pick up supplies for your stay.
Shopaholics feel right at home on Rundle Mall, Adelaide’s shopping heart. At the end of the day you can soak up the atmosphere in one of more than 700 restaurants along Adelaide’s eat streets – try Gouger St, Rundle St or Hutt St.
Take a wander down North Terrace, regarded as Adelaide’s cultural boulevard and home to the city’s grandest treasure houses. It’s a heartland of art, history, knowledge and people. You’ll fi nd the State’s Art Gallery, SA Museum (home to the largest collection of Aboriginal artifacts in Australia), Library and Botanic Gardens, which are all free to visit.
From the city centre it’s just a 20 minute tram ride to the beachside suburb of Glenelg. This seaside playground is always buzzing with people enjoying the sand, sea, foreshore parks, cafés and local entertainment. Stroll along the jetty, browse through the hundreds of shops and dine at sidewalk cafes along Jetty Road.
In the Adelaide Hills, a stop at the German village of Hahndorf is recommended. Lined with jacaranda trees, the main street’s quaint and historic stone buildings are fi lled with art and craft galleries, cellar doors, antique shops, German bakeries, chocolate shops, pubs, cafés and a fantastic cheese cellar.
Another popular region just 1 hour from Adelaide is the majestic Murray River. Take an escorted river cruise on an historic paddlewheeler or, if you feel like creating your own adventure, get a group of friends together and captain your own luxury houseboat as you cruise the Murray River.
Whatever you choose to do on your holiday, South Australia boasts an outstanding variety of places to see and experiences to enjoy. You’ll find vast landscapes, dazzling uncrowded beaches, varied wildlife and friendly locals who always have time for a chat. So what are you waiting for? Pick up a few bottles of local wine, stock up on local produce and pack your cossie because in South Australia you’ve got all the elements of a perfect holiday!
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Carmel Layton
House of Travel Nelson
Hi, I’m Carmel Layton. Travel has been a huge part of my life from my first trip overseas as a 6 year old to travelling independently in my twenties and I have travelled to over 72 countries around the world, it has always been a key ingredient in my life.
I am an experienced and passionate travel professional with over 15 years in the industry. From a short South Pacific getaway to a trip around the globe, I look forward to helping you realise your travel dreams.
Torin Wilson
House of Travel High Street Lanes, Christchurch CBD
With over 12 years of experience in the travel industry and a proud gold award to my name, I’m passionate about discovering and sharing unique destinations with my clients. I believe that every journey should be special, which is why I take the time to understand your preferences and curate experiences that truly resonate with you. Let’s explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path adventures together—because travel is about creating unforgettable memories!
Torin
Kelly-Ann Patterson
House of Travel Lower Hutt
I'm seen as a great relationship builder who is passionate about people and their travel adventures. I've travelled extensively both on my own and with my two teenage boys. Rarely go to any place twice as there's too much of the world to see.
I don't have a specific favourite destination as it's all about new frontiers for me and stepping outside of my comfort zone.
I've been in the industry for 20+ years including 5 years working for Air New Zealand where I gained a wealth of knowledge which I'm finding invaluable in the complex world of airfares post COVID.
Contact me - always up for a chat!
Kelly-Ann
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
Best. Holidays. Ever!
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