House of Travel

27/06/2025

Next up in our Meet the Team series is SUNNY!

Sunisa (aka Sunny) 🌸✈️

Originally from Thailand, with a heart as warm as her spice tolerance (1:10—seriously!), Sunny brings grace, humour, and genuine hospitality to every client interaction.
With a natural curiosity and can-do attitude, she loves helping you plan your next adventure—Nothing is ever too much trouble.
She’s explored much of Asia and Aussie hotspots and she’s always ready to share her insider tips!
She’s our resident blackboard artist, Stitch superfan, a big foodie, and our in-house “cool grandma” (hot water bottle always on hand).
Sunny finds joy in the little things—and brings that joy to everyone around her.
If you’re looking for help with planning your itinerary & would love to have a welcoming start to your journey —Sunny’s your girl! 😊

Here’s what she’d love to share with us -

“ Where’s ‘Home’ for you ? “
My home and heart will aways be in New Zealand with my parents and 1 younger brother, but of course my 2nd home will be Thailand where the rest of my family are (in saying that my mum has 12 sisters and 12 brothers in Thailand – so I have many places to stay/visit haha)

Describe your travel style in 3 words ?
Food, history, and nature

Dream trip you’re planning in your head.
A white Christmas in Switzerland ! Imagine just being able to experience the food and culture while in the admis of beautiful white snow with some hot wine in hand and of course doing the magical Switzerland Alps Train!

Your top 3 destinations so far & why ?
Thailand– Amazing food and rich in history ! Driving into the cultural where you’ll be able to visit temples and palace and many many street food stalls !
Vietnam – From the Mekong River to delicious food paradise!
America (Los Angeles) – Who can say no to shopping and the theme parks!

What do you love most about being a travel agent ?
Being a travel agent is rewarding, because it combines a love for travel and with the joy of helping others experience the world and creating memorable journeys !

Suni’s here Mon – Friday 830am to 530pm.
Do drop in and Say Hie!
If you’d like to book a consult, please email Sunny on [email protected]

See you around! 😊

27/06/2025

🌍 Where in the World is SAM!? 🌍
She’s off on an amazing journey… but can you guess where?
👇 Drop your guess in the comments below!
🎉 One lucky correct answer will be drawn next week to win a bottle of our exclusive HOT Prosecco – cheers to that! 🥂

Good Luck !🍀👍
Happy weekend everyone!

19/06/2025

Happy Matariki!

In celebration of the Maori New Year, our stores will be closed today. Our teams will be taking a break to reflect on the year that’s been and gathering with friends and family to celebrate and look forward to what the New Year will bring. For most of us we see exciting adventures on the horizon. 💜

How are you celebrating Matariki?✨🌟

19/06/2025

** Our office will be closed this long weekend **
We’ll be back Monday 23rd June 8:30am

Have a lovely long weekend everyone ✨

19/06/2025

A new direct service between Auckland and Buenos Aires, Argentina is being launched by China Eastern Airlines!! ✈️
🇦🇷☀️🇦🇷☀️🇦🇷☀️🇦🇷☀️🇦🇷☀️🇦🇷☀️🇦🇷☀️🇦🇷☀️🇦🇷☀️
The service will begin in December this year. Since Air NZ stopped flying to Buenos Aires back in 2019 we have really missed this entry into South America.
Picture is of Buzz in B.A back in 2018 before heading to the Iguazu Falls.
The initial plan will see two services per week from Shanghai Pudong Airport to Auckland, which will fly onward to Buenos Aires Ezeiza Airport.

This is in addition to the airline’s current daily Shanghai to Auckland service. China Eastern Airlines also operate flights from Hangzhou to Auckland and from Hangzhou via Sydney to Auckland.

19/06/2025

HOT HACKS 🔥
Cook Islands Edition 🏝

Check out House of Travel’s David Simms Best. Cook Islands Holiday Tip. Ever! 💜

And if you’d prefer more of a dessert treat, ask us where to find the best crepes filled with bananas and topped with Baileys! Yummm!”

What’s your best Cook Islands holiday hack? ☀

18/06/2025

🎬✨ Celebrating Our People – Welly-wood Style! ✨🎬

Over 770 team members from our retail stores, HOT HQ, and our valued partner suppliers gathered in Wellington for an unforgettable celebration of people, passion, and performance at our Annual Awards Event.

Festivities kicked off with our fast-paced supplier ‘speed dating’ day, where our retail consultants connected with key partners to upskill and share insights, then we came together to recognise and celebrate our people.

Congratulations to all of our award winners. Among those recognised, some of the major award recipients included:

- Supreme Customer Champion Store: House of Travel Whanganui
- Supreme Customer Champion Consultant: Alana Dresner, House of Travel Tauranga
- Consultant of the year: Brendon Maguire, House of Travel Nelson
- Store of the year: House of Travel Motueka
- Top Small Store 2025: House of Travel Kapiti Coast
- Top Medium Store 2025: House of Travel Motueka
- Top Large Store 2025: House of Travel Papamoa

Huge thanks to our incredible preferred partner suppliers and of course to our amazing customers – our teams, love nothing more than bringing your travel dreams to life and creating your Best. Holidays. Ever!

18/06/2025

“He most recently helped Mike & I get 27 friends and family to Rarotonga for a 50th which also turned out to be a surprise wedding for our guests.
Buzz went the extra mile & arranged the groups extra-curricular activities, Island transfers and special little gifts for all of our rooms booked.
HOW GOOD! “

“It is now our son’s turn working closely with ‘Ellie’ to get him to Europe next month for his first Contiki.
Ellie’s hot little tips & advice for Blake so far have been invaluable”

“House of Travel HOBSONVILLE, you simply are the BEST!!!!”

From surprise weddings in paradise to first solo Contiki adventures — whatever the trip, whatever the vibe… we got you covered. ✈️🌍💫

18/06/2025

This months article in The Westerly

House of Travel Hobsonville
With the European summer in full swing there has been no shortage of clients booking incredible journeys with us. Just like you, each trip is unique, and we can tailor make flights that don’t exist anywhere online or with less experienced travel agents.

We’re great at booking multi-stop around the world fares. Some recent trips we have booked are Auckland – Singapore- Germany- Brazil – Chile - Auckland

Auckland – Vancouver – London – Singapore – Auckland

Auckland – Dubai – Barcelona – London – New York – Hawaii – Auckland

Auckland – Budapest (overland) Amsterdam – Singapore – Sydney -Auckland

Most of these examples are not much more than a return flight to London Other examples of a well-planned trip are flying into one place and back from another. This is great for people on a river cruise, backpacking, Mediterranean cruise etc as travelling in one direct saves time and money. A rookie mistake is flying in and out of the same airport and then doubling back at the end costing time and money.

Booking with us is so easy and convenient, whether you have time to pop in and see us in-store, over the phone or in exchange of emails. We are well set up to make the process as easy as possible, no matter where you are. Some of our clients are even overseas. With the security of a physical store, experienced consultants, 100% Kiwi business owner operated, TAANZ bonded and local, who better to be your travel agent wingman? Your ideas + our knowledge = better holidays. Please keep us in mind when planning and booking your next trip.

Now in two locations with our Travel Agency located at 225 Hobsonville Point Road (09 416 0700) and our dedicated Cruise Centre at 144 Hobsonville Point Road. (09 941 3330)

Led by two of the industry's most experienced cruise gurus, Sam and Talita will be here to guide you through the exciting world of cruising whether it’s your 1st or 50th they’ll have your back every step of the way.

15/06/2025

LAST DAY FOR CANS AND DRIED GOODS 😍 is Monday 16th June.
So far you super generous people have helped to fill 7 Boxes. We have totally blown away by this and Rotary have to sending a team around on Friday to fill the back of an SUV. 🙌🙌🙌
Most Needed Items:
• Canned fish
• Baked beans & spaghetti
• Canned vegetables
• Canned fruit
• Soup
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Spreads (e.g. peanut butter, jam)
• Rice
• Pasta
• Breakfast cereals

14/06/2025

All dressed up at our annual gala.

14/06/2025

A Day in Wellywood – House of Travel Style! 🎬🌟

What. A. Day! From non-stop laughs thanks to comedy legends Paul Ego and Justine Smith, to big wins and big inspo – we soaked it all in with huge smiles and serious team spirit. (RockBand theme nailed it, thank you very much, Buzz 🎸).

We’re buzzing with pride as we celebrate a night of achievements, connection and some seriously generous prizes – Talita scored a dreamy river cruise 🛳️ (jealous? just a bit!). Our awesome suppliers absolutely spoilt us – thank you!

Suzanne Paul took the stage and reminded us all that the true power lies in showing up and saying YES to life. Her story of bouncing back from bankruptcy at 50 was the ultimate mic drop moment. Her motto?
👉 “The secret to changing your life is not knowing what to do, but knowing you have to do it. 5-4-3-2-1 Just Do It!”

Oh, and speaking of doing… ✈️ Air NZ and Qantas hooked us up with some cracking agent fares – the world’s practically begging us to come visit.

We laughed, we learnt, we won, we wowed – and we’re not done yet. The party’s just getting started! 🥂

12/06/2025

It was a great night hosting the planning evening for this years ArtPoint . If you are keen to take part there is still plenty of time and new comers are welcome. Just head over to https://artpoint.co.nz/ for more information.

04/06/2025

🛫 New direct flight alert! You’ll soon be able to hop from Christchurch to Adelaide direct with Air New Zealand! 🦘
Think: Waipara Pinot 🍷 meets Barossa Shiraz, punting to kangaroo spotting 🦘, flat whites to fine art 🎨.

Our very own Chris Atkinson from HOT Hornby has just returned from Adelaide - and wow! He shares his top must dos...
🧀 Barossa Valley day trip? A must. Wine, lunch, unforgettable views.
🌳 City ringed by 29 parks - the Parklands Trail is a full-day adventure (or dip into a section).
🍸 Leigh & Peel Streets = nightlife central. Hidden bars, small plates, buzzing vibes.
🛒 Adelaide Central Market is foodie heaven - and it's about to double in size.

The first flight is set to take off on Monday 27 October 2025, with two flights a week operating direct through to Friday 27 March 2026.
Check our more inspiration and great value deals 👉 https://bit.ly/3SwKtsj
South Australia’s calling - and your tastebuds are packing.

27/05/2025

Happy International Burger Day! 🍔

From Tokyo’s teriyaki burgers to Argentina’s choripán-inspired stacks — burgers are a global obsession!

We want to know … Where in the world did you have your Best. Burger. Ever! 🍔🏙

Was it a classic cheeseburger in NYC, a spicy lamb burger in Morocco, or something totally unexpected?

Drop your top burger destination and what made it unforgettable in the comments!

Let’s build the ultimate international burger bucket list. 🧾

27/05/2025

DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND – AN ADDITIONAL NEW SHOW DATE HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED!

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo marches exclusively into Auckland in February 2026 – 19th, 21st and new date 20th Feb!

Featuring over 1,000 of the world’s finest performers, led by the magnificent Massed Pipes and Drums from UK Military regiments! Experience a full-scale production that brings together Scottish bagpipes, stirring anthems, massed military bands, tattoo dancers and world class cultural acts from across the globe! 🎆

Packages including a B-Reserve admission ticket + 1 night accommodation starting from just $489pp double share + so much more! Don’t miss out - these will march out fast! You can now enjoy this spectacular event on the 19th, 20th & 21st of February 2026!

Check out our packages here: 👉www.houseoftravel.co.nz/edinburgh

16/05/2025

JUST ANNOUNCED 🥁

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo marches exclusively into Auckland in February 2026!

Featuring over 1,000 of the world’s finest performers, led by the magnificent Massed Pipes and Drums from UK Military regiments! Experience a full-scale production that brings together Scottish bagpipes, stirring anthems, massed military bands, tattoo dancers and world class cultural acts from across the globe! 🎆

Packages including a B-Reserve admission ticket + 1 night accommodation starting from just $489pp double share + so much more! Don’t miss out - these will march out fast!

Check out our packages here: 👉 www.houseoftravel.co.nz/edinburgh

15/05/2025

HOT Auckland City Shares the Love with Mercy Hospice — One Bikkie at a Time

House of Travel is proud to support Hospice Awareness Week, and the Auckland City team marked the occasion the sweetest way they know how — with a cup of tea and a bickie!

Each day, Mercy Hospice’s beloved tea trolley offers patients and families a comforting drink and a small treat. It’s a simple gesture that brings a moment of warmth and connection to those navigating end-of-life care — a reminder that even the smallest kindnesses can make a big difference.

Thanks to the generosity of the teams at HOT Auckland City, HOT Auckland HQ, and Orbit Auckland, we’ve donated over 40 packets of biscuits to help keep the tea trolley well-stocked and ready to brighten more days.

To find out more about Hospice and how you can help 👉 hot.co.nz/hospice/hospice-new-zealand

House of Travel has proudly supported Hospice New Zealand since 2005 — a partnership grounded in compassion, care, and community.

09/05/2025

YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST! EXCITING NEWS...

Trafalgar is taking to the water! Yes, you heard right... Trafalgar has unveiled two brand-new European river cruises that will set sail in April 2026 cruising the iconic Rhine and Danube rivers.

Past travellers who have toured with Trafalgar , Uniworld, Insight Vacations, and AAT Kings also receive a 10% discount.

What are you waiting for? Hurry, secure your spot on the river today!
Find our launch offers here 👉 Link in comments.

08/05/2025

Ever dreamed of kayaking through Antarctic ice or exploring the remote islands of the South Pacific? Join us for a live virtual event at 11:30am NZST, Thursday 15 May, and discover how Seabourn’s 5-star luxury expedition cruises turn those dreams into reality. 🌍✨

We’ll bust the myths, spill the secrets, and show you why this is one of the most exciting, unforgettable ways to see the world — champagne in hand, of course. 🥂

PLUS, all attendees will receive an exclusive House of Travel offer for Seabourn expedition cruises.

Can’t make it live? No problem! Register anyway and we’ll send you the recording straight to your inbox — so you can watch in your own time, from the comfort of your couch.

Register now 👉 https://www.houseoftravel.co.nz/seabourn-webinar-may-2025 your wanderlust adventures start here!

06/05/2025

✈️New route, new possibilities!



We always go ‘quokkas” when we hear new routes being announced. Qantas’s new Auckland to Perth route is expected to be operational by 7th December 2025. A great full-service option on an A330 for those heading to South Africa, easier, faster connections to Europe — less hassle, more adventure. And for those hopping the ditch to visit friends and family or wanting to sample to wonders of WA a little competition typically means cheaper fares!

Heading to Perth? Our team have compiled some of their fave experiences check them out here 👉 https://bit.ly/433cmwP

Where will you go with this 'new' route?

05/05/2025

🌟 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐀 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬!🌟

We are absolutely thrilled, overwhelmed, and beyond proud to celebrate our incredible winners from Saturday night’s National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA). Each of these outstanding individuals has demonstrated exceptional dedication, passion, and talent — a true testament to the strength, spirit, and calibre of the House of Travel family 💜

🏆 Retail Rookie of the Year – Zoe Robinson, HOT New Plymouth
🏆 Retail Consultant of the Year – Belinda Fifield, HOT Christchurch City
🏆 Corporate Rookie of the Year – Abigail Gorman, Orbit World Travel Christchurch
🏆 Customer Advocacy Award – Debbie Kelly, Orbit World Travel Auckland
🏆 Corporate Consultant of the Year – Sarah Henderson, House of Travel Christchurch City
🏆 Corporate Travel Agency Manager of the Year – Andrea Russell, Orbit World Travel Auckland

These wins are more than individual accolades — they reflect the collective strength, dedication, and professionalism that define the House of Travel group. Your achievements highlight the impact of investing in people, fostering excellence, and staying true to our purpose.

To everyone across our network and the wider industry: thank you for continuing to raise standards, support one another, and champion the value of travel. Together, we move the industry forward!