Australia and New Zealand Vacation Specialists for North Carolina
We at Go Walkabout Travel are your Australia and New Zealand Vacation Specialists for North Carolina.
Need help planning your next big trip to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, The Cook Islands, or French Polynesia? We’re here for you.
Our boutique luxury travel advisors have over 30 years of first-hand experience with South Pacific travel, from flights and tours to car rentals. We know our regions, culture, people, customs, landscapes, etc.
Our Specialists were born and raised in Australia and New Zealand, so we know the best of what all the countries we specialize in have to offer.
We frequently travel for inspections and to keep our knowledge up to date. We know it’s never just about the destination, so we use our years of experience in Australia and New Zealand to create a personalized itinerary that best fits your interests.
Go Walkabout is a full-service travel agency that can plan your trip from scratch. We’ll work closely with you to handcraft a bespoke itinerary perfect for you and your travel needs.
Planning a holiday with us is easy! Check out the tips below from our travel experts on what to consider when planning your dream vacation.
Do U.S. Passport Holders Need a Visa for Australia?
Yes. U.S. passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before travelling to Australia.
The ETA is linked electronically to your passport and allows short-term visits for tourism or business purposes. It must be approved prior to departure, as airlines will verify this before boarding.
We strongly recommend applying for your ETA before finalizing any non-refundable travel arrangements. While approvals are typically straightforward, entry authorization is granted by the Australian Government and is not automatically guaranteed.
Applications are completed directly through official Australian Government channels. During the planning process, we will advise you when it is time to apply and provide guidance if required.
Do U.S. Passport Holders Need a Visa for New Zealand?
U.S. passport holders do not require a traditional visa for short-term tourist travel to New Zealand. However, they are required to obtain an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) prior to departure.
The NZeTA must be approved before boarding your flight and is recommended to be obtained before purchasing non-refundable airline tickets. Approval is typically straightforward; however, it is a pre-travel authorization and is not guaranteed.
Applications can be completed online through the official New Zealand Government website.
We will remind you of this requirement during the planning process and can guide you through the application if needed. It remains the traveler’s responsibility to ensure all entry requirements are approved prior to departure.
Please note that U.S. passport holders transiting through New Zealand en route to another destination are also required to obtain an NZeTA. Transit passengers are not required to pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).
Important Things to Know Before Applying for an Australia or New Zealand Visa
Before applying for your ETA or NZeTA, ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. As a general precaution, we recommend having at least six months’ validity remaining beyond your return date, as some airlines enforce this requirement. Your passport must also be in good condition. Passports that are torn, water-damaged, excessively worn, or have damaged biometric pages may be rejected by airlines or immigration authorities.
We strongly recommend obtaining your Australian ETA or New Zealand NZeTA before purchasing any non-refundable airline tickets. While approvals are generally straightforward, these authorisations are pre-travel approvals only and do not guarantee entry. Final admission is determined by immigration officials upon arrival.
When should I book my trip from the USA to Australia or New Zealand?
For a fully customized itinerary, I recommend reaching out at least nine months prior to departure. For peak seasons, special events, or highly sought-after lodges and experiences, contacting us even earlier is advisable.
These are long-haul destinations with limited inventory in certain regions, and the best properties and touring options do secure well in advance. Even if flight schedules or accommodation availability have not yet been released, we can begin discussing your plans, preferred routing, timing, and overall vision.
Thoughtful planning is what allows your journey to flow seamlessly. The earlier we begin, the more options we have available to design something exceptional.
Will I need a connecting flight from North Carolina?
If you are departing from Raleigh-Durham International (RDU) or Charlotte/ Douglas (CLT) International Airport, we can typically arrange a direct flight to a major international gateway for your onward journey to Australia or New Zealand.
If you are travelling from other North Carolina airports such as Wilmington, Jacksonville, Fayetteville, or Winston-Salem, a domestic connection may be required before joining your long-haul international flight.
We will review all available routing options and coordinate your flights to ensure practical connection times, reliable schedules, and the best overall value.
What airlines fly from North Carolina to Australia or New Zealand?
Several airlines fly to these destinations, and we have listed the best options below.
Fly on Air New Zealand:
Air New Zealand is one of our favorites as they have great connections to Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific Islands, so you can enjoy some combination trips with them.
Fly with QANTAS:
Qantas, or the flying Kangaroo as we Aussies call it, usually have more direct flights from Los Angeles, New York, and Dallas into Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. QANTAS also have a direct flight from New York to Auckland, New Zealand.
Flying with Fiji Airways:
Fiji Airways is another great airline for those wishing to stop in Fiji on their way to or from Australia or New Zealand.
Other options for flying from the US to the South Pacific:
In addition to the primary carriers servicing Australia and New Zealand, several major U.S. airlines operate long-haul routes to the region. These flights are typically nonstop between the U.S. gateway city and your arrival destination.
Unlike some international carriers, most U.S. airlines do not offer complimentary stopover programs en route. However, many travellers enjoy flying with the national or local airline of the country they are visiting. From the moment you board, the crew, service style, cuisine, and overall atmosphere begin to reflect your destination, creating a sense that your holiday has already begun.
Upon arrival, you will then connect seamlessly with local airlines for your onward travel within Australia or New Zealand.
We will review all routing options and recommend the airline and schedule that best aligns with your preferences, timing, and overall itinerary design.
How long is the flight from Raleigh or Charlotte to Australia?
Without considering the domestic flight from the USA to your International flight departure point, the nonstop flight from Los Angeles to Sydney, Australia, is approximately 15 hours.
How long is the flight from Charlotte or Raleigh to New Zealand?
Flying time from Houston to Auckland with Air New Zealand is approx. 15 hours.
How far ahead should I check in for my flights to New Zealand, Australia, or the South Pacific Islands?
For long-haul international flights, we recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 to 3.5 hours prior to departure. International departures can involve longer security lines, documentation checks, and boarding procedures, so allowing extra time helps ensure a smooth start to your journey.
Please note that in some countries you will clear immigration on departure as well as on arrival. This can add additional processing time at the airport, particularly during peak travel periods.
If you find yourself through security earlier than expected, it is far better to relax in the departures area and enjoy a coffee or a drink than to begin your holiday feeling rushed or stressed.
For domestic flights within Australia or New Zealand, we recommend arriving at least 2 hours prior to departure. Some airlines close check-in and baggage drop earlier than travelers expect, and late arrival at the airport can result in being denied boarding.
As always, please refer to your airline’s specific check-in guidelines prior to travel.
How long should I allow when connecting from a domestic flight to an international flight?
When connecting between domestic and international flights, allowing adequate time is essential. Some airports are very large, and transferring between terminals or gates can take longer than expected. In many cases, you may also need to collect luggage, change terminals, clear security again, or complete exit immigration procedures before your international departure.
Weather, air traffic delays, and operational changes can also affect schedules, so it is never advisable to plan tight connections when transferring from a domestic flight to a long-haul international service.
Where possible, we book flights on a single through-fare ticket rather than on separate airline tickets. This means that if a delay occurs, the operating airline is responsible for assisting with rebooking and ensuring you are accommodated on the next available service.
Connection times are carefully reviewed at the time of booking, taking into account airport layout, minimum connection requirements, and seasonal weather patterns. Our goal is to provide a balance between efficiency and peace of mind.
What should I do if my flight is delayed or re-scheduled?
On the day of departure, always monitor your flight status directly through the departure airport’s official website or your airline’s app. Do not rely solely on earlier notifications, as schedules can change throughout the day.
If your flight is delayed and you are already at the airport or have checked in, the airline and airport staff are in control of your booking. Please speak directly with airline staff for immediate assistance regarding rebooking, gate changes, or updated departure information.
If a delay affects your arrival into Australia or New Zealand, particularly where you are connecting to a tour, private transfer, cruise, or car hire, we will liaise with our local suppliers to advise them of your updated arrival time where possible.
This is one of the advantages of booking through a professional travel advisor. Should unexpected changes arise, you are not managing the situation alone.
How Bad Is Jet Lag Flying from the U.S. to Australia or New Zealand?
Jet lag is common when travelling to the South Pacific, particularly after crossing multiple time zones.
If you arrive in the morning, it is important to get outside in natural daylight as soon as possible. Go for a walk, stay gently active, and resist the temptation to nap for long periods. Your arrival day does not need to be overly scheduled, but aim to stay awake until evening and go to bed according to the local time. This will help your body adjust more quickly.
Many travelers find that jet lag is more noticeable on the return journey home from Australia, New Zealand, or the Islands. We strongly recommend allowing a minimum of one full day before returning to work, though more time is often advisable depending on the length of your trip and how your body adjusts.
A little recovery time at home makes a significant difference.
Where Should I Stay When Visiting Australia?
Australia offers an excellent range of accommodation options, from internationally recognised hotel brands to distinctive boutique properties and world-class luxury lodges.
When designing your itinerary, we place strong emphasis on selecting centrally located accommodation in major cities. Staying in the heart of the city allows you to walk to restaurants, waterfront areas, cultural sites, and shopping precincts without constantly relying on transport. Location can significantly enhance your overall experience.
For longer stays, a thoughtful mix of hotels and well-appointed apartment-style accommodation can provide additional space and convenience, particularly if you would appreciate access to laundry facilities during your journey.
It is also important to consider luggage limits on some regional and scenic flights within Australia, which can influence how accommodation transitions are planned.
For those seeking something truly memorable, Australia offers exceptional luxury experiences, including private island and reef stays in the Whitsunday Islands and other iconic destinations.
Each itinerary is carefully tailored to suit your travel style and preferences, ensuring the accommodation complements the overall flow and quality of your journey.
Where Should I Stay When Visiting New Zealand?
New Zealand offers an exceptional range of accommodation, from internationally acclaimed luxury lodges and boutique hotels to charming, owner-operated bed and breakfasts.
We carefully select properties based on location, views, service levels, and how they fit within the overall flow of your itinerary. In key destinations, staying centrally located allows easy access to restaurants, waterfront areas, and touring departures.
For a truly authentic experience, we often recommend including at least one countryside or farm stay. Spending a night on a working farm or rural estate offers insight into local life and provides a peaceful contrast to city and touring days.
Every accommodation choice is thoughtfully matched to your travel style to ensure your New Zealand journey feels seamless, comfortable, and memorable.
Are There Different Time Zones in Australia and New Zealand?
Australia operates across multiple time zones. In addition, some Australian states observe Daylight Saving Time while others do not, which can create time differences between neighbouring states during certain months of the year.
New Zealand operates on a single national time zone, although it does observe Daylight Saving Time nationwide.
If your itinerary involves travel between different regions, we clearly note any time zone changes within your custom designed itinerary so you are never caught off guard.
Can I book a private tour in Australia or New Zealand?
Yes. Private touring is available throughout Australia and New Zealand and can be incorporated seamlessly into your itinerary.
Whether you would prefer a privately guided full-day excursion, a specialist experience such as food and wine touring, wildlife encounters, or a multi-day journey with a dedicated driver-guide, we can arrange it.
Private touring offers flexibility, a more in-depth experience, and the ability to travel at your own pace. Each experience is carefully selected to align with your interests and overall travel style.
If there is something specific you would like to include, simply let us know. We will design the experience accordingly.
Do you book Group Tours to Australia and New Zealand?
Yes. We can arrange tailor-made group itineraries for private groups travelling together, whether for family gatherings, milestone celebrations, special interest travel, or small escorted journeys.
If you prefer to join an existing fully guided coach tour, we can also recommend and book reputable operators that align with your travel style and expectations.
For private group travel, we coordinate accommodations, touring, transportation, and special experiences to ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
Can I Combine Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific in One Trip?
Planning a journey that combines Australia, New Zealand, and perhaps a South Pacific island requires careful coordination, but that is exactly what we specialize in.
Whether you would like to pair Australia and New Zealand in one seamless itinerary or include a relaxing island stay enroute to break up the long-haul journey, we design the routing so it flows naturally from one destination to the next.
Multi-country travel involves coordinating international and domestic flights, transfer timings, touring schedules, and accommodation transitions. Every detail is reviewed to ensure the journey feels effortless rather than rushed.
We also work with trusted local partners in each country, providing on-the-ground support should you require assistance while travelling.
When designed properly, a multi-country journey does not feel complicated. It feels beautifully connected.
How Do We Begin Planning Our Trip to Australia or New Zealand?
Start by reviewing our Process page to understand how we work. When you are ready, complete the Contact form with as much detail as possible about your proposed dates, travel style, and expectations.
Designing a seamless journey to Australia, New Zealand, or the South Pacific takes time. The earlier we begin planning, the greater the availability of preferred accommodations, touring options, and flight routings.
We specialize in designing carefully curated journeys from North America to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, and the Cook Islands. Each itinerary is thoughtfully structured to reflect your interests, pace, and overall vision for the trip.
Whether you are celebrating a milestone, planning a multi-generational journey, marking a retirement, or simply ready for an extraordinary long-haul experience, we coordinate every element of your travel arrangements from start to finish.
Once we begin, you will be guided step-by-step through the planning process with clear communication and expert recommendations.
Let’s begin the conversation.