All the things you love
and none of the things you don't
Our local knowledge makes the difference for your bespoke holiday through New Zealand or Australia. Your journey Down Under starts here.
What is your preferred comfort class?
Why choose First Class?
- A wide and long lie flatbed
- Privacy often with a suite you can close from others
- Delicious meals, when it suits you
- A fine assortment of wines, spirits and beverages
- A large personal TV screen
- First Class lounges
- A lot of frequent flyer and status points
- Extra luggage
- Chauffeur service with some airlines
When you seek the most comfort from your flights to New Zealand, we work with leading airlines. As a specialist in travel to New Zealand and Australia, we know the best route options, airlines, seats onboard, connections and time to travel.
Flying in luxury. The best comfort in the sky. A lie flatbed, plenty of space and privacy. Whether you choose a private suite or a pod, you will be ensured a good night's rest. An exceptional wine list. A variety of food options, extra luggage and deluxe inflight entertainment.
There are endless options, which one is right for you? With our expertise and knowledge, we will ensure you fly to New Zealand in the most pleasurable way possible.
Since 1 April 2019, we are carbon offsetting all of our client’s flights and car driving whilst they are on holiday.
Did you know?
We choose Cathay Pacific because they fly the most modern and cleanest aircraft, which have achieved a 40% reduction in the air in recent decades. Including land logistics, a total of 20%. And technological developments are continuing.
Good to know
Andrew Morten, the founder of TravelEssence, has a background in Environmental Management. He received his MBA in 2005 and graduated with the highest distinction. His thesis on small-scale tourism and sustainability was the basis for the concept of the company, which is still the same today.
"My favourite stopover location is Hong Kong. It boasts old-fashioned Chinese neighbourhoods combined with a modern, Western influence, and it is very easy to get around."
Nicole, Travel specialist
Useful facts
Visa and passports
When travelling outside of Europe, there is a list of countries that require a visa, and New Zealand is part of that list. But, not to worry this process is quick and easy.
The NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Authority) can be applied for via the New Zealand Immigration website or via the NZeTA app.
Please allow up to 72 hours for processing time. You will be required to have a passport that is valid for 6 months or more, to travel to New Zealand.
Clean Aircraft
We use aircraft that are equipped with HEPA - High-Efficiency Particle Filters. HEPA filters are able to catch most airborne particles, which means the risk of catching something on an airborne plane is actually lower than many other confined spaces. They are similar to the standard used in hospitals. In fact, the air is cleaner and less contaminated than most office buildings.
New Zealand's time zones
New Zealand is divided into two time zones. New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) and Chatham Standard Time (CST). The North and South Island use NZST and the nearby Chatham Islands use CST. During the summer months, daylight saving hours are observed and the clocks are put forward one hour. This occurs from the last Sunday in September till the first Sunday in April.
Packing your bags
We will organise your dream trip to New Zealand and all you need to do is pack your bags! However, it is vital that you pack correctly to ensure you make the most of your holiday DownUnder. Where are you going? What kinds of activities will you be doing? What season will it be? These are all important factors to consider.
We recommend that you definitely bring comfortable walking shoes and clothes. Pack a good quality sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. If you are concerned about insects, pack insect repellent too. A waterproof jacket is handy, as well as your swimwear and a towel (depending on where you are going). If you have any tours booked, please double-check what you may need.
And always check with your airline prior to your departure what your baggage limits are. However, for most airlines, the weight per piece should not exceed 32kg. Unless notified and approved in advance (e.g. for wheelchairs or medical supplies).
Required vaccinations
The New Zealand borders will be open to passport holders from the UK for purposes such as tourism as of 1 July 2022. To travel to New Zealand, you are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. You are considered fully vaccinated in New Zealand if you have received two doses of any Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved or TGA recognised COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days apart, and are at least 7 days post their second dose. If you have any questions, check with your doctor and with the New Zealand Department of Health before leaving home.
Flying to New Zealand & jet lag
Jet Lag is inevitable if you are going to travel to New Zealand. This is of course due to the time difference. However, there are a number of things you can do to reduce the effect of jet lag. This way you can adjust your day and night rhythm and keep moving on board. When you talk to us in person, we can give you our expert advice on how to suffer the least from jet lag.
Discover more about travelling with your partner
All the things you love
and none of the things you don't
Our local knowledge makes the difference for your bespoke holiday through New Zealand or Australia. Your journey Down Under starts here.
Contact us
We would love to discuss your dream journey