Best Travel Agents in Hastings: Plan Your Dream Trip with These Top 5 Experts
Hastings, nestled in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, is a vibrant hub where locals and visitors alike dream of exploring the world, from New Zealand’s stunning landscapes to far-flung international destinations. The best travel agents in Hastings offer personalised expertise to craft seamless, stress-free travel experiences, whether you’re planning a family holiday, a business trip, or an adventure abroad. These professionals combine local knowledge with global connections to secure the best deals and tailored itineraries.
We’ve selected five exceptional travel agencies in Hastings, each renowned for their professional service, industry accreditations, and dedication to customer satisfaction. From bespoke luxury escapes to budget-friendly getaways, these experts ensure your journey is unforgettable. Read on to discover the perfect travel agent to bring your travel dreams to life!
1. Best Travel and Cruise
About the Business
Best Travel and Cruise, established in 1976 by Garth Best, is a leading travel agency located at 104 Market Street South in Hastings. With nearly five decades of experience, this family-run business, now led by Bill and Christine Sheppard and their son Frazer, holds a prestigious status as a top Air New Zealand agency. Their team of experienced consultants, many with over 20 years in the industry, specialises in creating tailored travel experiences, earning a reputation for exceptional service and reliability.
Key Services / What They Offer
Best Travel offers comprehensive travel planning, including international and domestic flights, cruises, escorted tours, and adventure holidays. They specialise in corporate travel, family vacations, and bespoke itineraries to destinations like Paris, New York, and the Maldives. Services include booking flights, hotels, car rentals, and activities, with expert guidance on travel insurance and visa requirements. Their team provides 24/7 support for itinerary changes, leveraging strong relationships with airlines and suppliers to manage disruptions.
Who It’s For
Ideal for families, professionals, and adventure seekers planning international or domestic trips. Perfect for corporate clients needing seamless business travel, as well as holidaymakers seeking customised experiences like cruises or cultural tours in Hawke’s Bay and beyond.
What to Expect
Expect a personalised, professional experience with a dedicated consultant who takes time to understand your travel preferences. Best Travel offers detailed consultations, often in their welcoming Hastings office, and crafts itineraries that balance budget and desires. Their team handles complex logistics, such as multi-destination trips, and provides clear updates on bookings. Clients benefit from their expertise in navigating travel disruptions, with consultants like Christine Sheppard known for managing flight changes efficiently. Their service is backed by a satisfaction guarantee.
Standout Features
- Nearly 50 years of experience as a top Air New Zealand agency.
- 24/7 support for itinerary changes and travel disruptions.
- Specialised corporate travel division for business needs.
- Bespoke itineraries for adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Customer Feedback
Clients praise their reliability. One traveller says, “Christine at Best Travel rebooked my flights three times from Australia—stress-free and amazing service!” Another notes, “Linda planned our UK family trip perfectly, even booking our coach—above and beyond!”
Why Choose Them?
Best Travel and Cruise’s long-standing expertise, personalised service, and strong industry connections make them a top choice for travel agents in Hastings. Their ability to manage complex itineraries and disruptions ensures a seamless travel experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: www.besttravel.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
2. Bespoke Travel
About the Business
Bespoke Travel, based in Havelock North near Hastings, is a boutique travel agency dedicated to crafting personalised travel experiences. Led by a team with CLIA Master Cruise Consultant accreditation, they are TAANZ-approved and part of the Hawke’s Bay Tourism Partner Programme. Their focus on tailored itineraries and community involvement, including sponsoring local events like the Peak Trail Blazer, has earned them a strong reputation in the region.
Key Services / What They Offer
Bespoke Travel specialises in bespoke travel planning, offering tailored holidays for adventure, culture, relaxation, and wildlife experiences. They provide cruise packages, escorted tours, and corporate travel services, with expertise in destinations like Fiji, Australia, and Europe. Services include flight and hotel bookings, travel insurance, and visa assistance, with a focus on small ship cruising and unique experiences like wildlife safaris or cultural tours.
Who It’s For
Perfect for couples, groups, and businesses seeking customised travel experiences. Ideal for those planning cruises, escorted tours, or unique adventures, as well as corporate clients needing efficient travel solutions in Hastings and Hawke’s Bay.
What to Expect
Expect a highly personalised service with a consultant who designs your trip around your interests, from adrenaline-pumping activities to serene cultural explorations. Bespoke Travel offers in-person or virtual consultations, delivering detailed itineraries with clear pricing. Their team coordinates all logistics, ensuring seamless transitions between flights, accommodations, and activities. Their cruise expertise shines, with tailored recommendations for small ship voyages, and their community ties add a local touch to their service.
Standout Features
- CLIA Master Cruise Consultant and TAANZ-approved status.
- Specialised in small ship cruising and bespoke itineraries.
- Community involvement with local event sponsorships.
- Tailored corporate travel for business efficiency.
Customer Feedback
Clients appreciate their attention to detail. One traveller says, “Bespoke planned our Fiji cruise perfectly—every detail was spot-on!” Another notes, “Their team crafted a unique European tour for our group—unforgettable and seamless.”
Why Choose Them?
Bespoke Travel’s focus on personalised, high-quality itineraries and cruise expertise makes them a standout for travel agents in Hastings. Their boutique approach ensures your trip is uniquely yours, delivered with professional care.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: www.bespoketravel.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
3. House of Travel Hastings
About the Business
House of Travel Hastings, located on Heretaunga Street East, is part of New Zealand’s largest travel agency network, with over 300 consultants nationwide. Their Hastings team, accredited by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), is known for its passion for travel and deep local expertise. Awarded Canstar Blue’s Most Satisfied Customers Award for Travel Agents, they excel in creating memorable holidays with a focus on customer satisfaction.
Key Services / What They Offer
House of Travel provides full-service travel planning, including flights, cruises, guided tours, and holiday packages to destinations like Wellington, Marlborough, or Europe. They offer family holidays, romantic getaways, and corporate travel, with expertise in booking accommodations, activities, and travel insurance. Their mobile app provides easy access to itineraries and deals, and their consultants offer insights into local experiences, such as Hawke’s Bay wine tours or international cultural festivals.
Who It’s For
Suitable for families, couples, and business travellers seeking reliable, comprehensive travel services. Ideal for those planning domestic getaways, international adventures, or group tours, as well as clients who value award-winning service in Hastings.
What to Expect
Expect a professional, friendly team that starts with a thorough consultation to understand your travel goals. House of Travel offers tailored itineraries, leveraging their network to secure competitive deals on flights and accommodations. Their consultants provide detailed travel plans, accessible via their app, and offer ongoing support for changes or issues. Their award-winning communication ensures you’re informed at every step, making planning stress-free and enjoyable.
Standout Features
- Canstar Blue’s Most Satisfied Customers Award winner.
- Part of New Zealand’s largest travel agency network.
- Mobile app for easy itinerary access and deals.
- IATA-accredited consultants with local expertise.
Customer Feedback
Clients commend their service. One family says, “House of Travel planned our South Island tour perfectly—every detail was covered!” Another notes, “Their team found us great cruise deals and handled all the bookings—fantastic experience.”
Why Choose Them?
House of Travel Hastings’ award-winning service, extensive network, and user-friendly tools make them a top pick for travel agents in Hastings. Their expertise ensures a seamless, memorable travel experience tailored to your needs.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: www.houseoftravel.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
4. Flight Centre Hastings
About the Business
Flight Centre Hastings, part of a global network with over 450 stores, is a well-established travel agency on Heretaunga Street West. Their team of experienced travel experts, accredited by the Travel Agents Association of New Zealand (TAANZ), is passionate about crafting seamless travel experiences. Known for their competitive pricing and comprehensive services, Flight Centre has been serving Hastings for over two decades, helping clients explore New Zealand and beyond.
Key Services / What They Offer
Flight Centre offers a wide range of travel services, including cheap flights, holiday packages, cruises, and car hire through partners like Hertz and Avis. They specialise in adventure tours, family holidays, and business travel, with destinations ranging from Queenstown to Sydney. Their services include travel insurance, visa assistance, and itinerary planning, with a focus on flexibility and personalised recommendations to suit your budget and interests.
Who It’s For
Perfect for budget-conscious travellers, families, and professionals seeking competitive deals. Ideal for those planning adventure holidays, international trips, or hassle-free business travel, as well as clients who value a global network with local expertise in Hastings.
What to Expect
Expect a dynamic, customer-focused experience with consultants who offer expert advice tailored to your travel needs. Flight Centre provides in-store or online consultations, delivering detailed itineraries with flexible booking options. Their team secures competitive fares and handles logistics like car rentals and insurance, ensuring a smooth journey. Their global network allows for quick resolution of travel issues, and their service is known for being friendly and approachable.
Standout Features
- Part of a global network with over 450 stores.
- Competitive pricing on flights, cruises, and packages.
- TAANZ-accredited consultants for trusted service.
- Flexible booking options and car hire partnerships.
Customer Feedback
Clients appreciate their deals. One traveller says, “Flight Centre found us cheap flights to Australia—saved us hundreds!” Another notes, “Their team planned our family cruise with ease—great recommendations and service.”
Why Choose Them?
Flight Centre Hastings’ global reach, competitive pricing, and personalised service make them a leading choice for travel agents in Hastings. Their expertise ensures you get the best value and a stress-free travel experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: www.flightcentre.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
5. World Travellers Hawke’s Bay
About the Business
World Travellers Hawke’s Bay, located in Hastings, is an independently owned agency within the World Travellers cooperative, with over 25 years of local travel industry experience. Their team of passionate consultants, accredited by TAANZ, is dedicated to creating unique, reliable travel experiences. Known for their local expertise and personalised service, they cater to Hastings residents seeking authentic, well-planned holidays.
Key Services / What They Offer
World Travellers offers tailored travel planning, including airfares, cruises, rail journeys, and small-group tours. They specialise in adventure travel, skiing holidays, and food-focused tours, with destinations like New Zealand’s South Island, Europe, and Asia. Their services include booking accommodations, activities, and travel insurance, with after-hours support for itinerary changes. They also provide biking and cultural tours, ensuring immersive experiences.
Who It’s For
Great for adventure enthusiasts, couples, and groups seeking unique travel experiences. Ideal for those planning rail journeys, cultural tours, or domestic holidays, as well as clients who value local, independent expertise in Hastings.
What to Expect
Expect a warm, personalised service with consultants who are deeply knowledgeable about travel. World Travellers offers flexible consultations, either in their Hastings office or by phone, delivering custom itineraries that reflect your interests. Their team handles all logistics, providing detailed travel plans and after-hours support for peace of mind. Their local insights ensure authentic experiences, such as recommending hidden gems in Hawke’s Bay or international destinations.
Standout Features
- Over 25 years of local travel industry experience.
- Specialised in adventure, rail, and cultural tours.
- TAANZ-accredited, independently owned agency.
- After-hours support for travel changes.
Customer Feedback
Clients value their expertise. One traveller says, “World Travellers planned our biking tour in Europe—every detail was perfect!” Another notes, “Their team found us a great rail journey deal—local knowledge made all the difference.”
Why Choose Them?
World Travellers Hawke’s Bay’s local expertise, unique travel offerings, and independent approach make them a top choice for travel agents in Hastings. Their personalised service ensures your holiday is authentic and memorable.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: www.worldtravellers.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Next Adventure with Hastings’ Best Travel Agents
Hastings’ travel agents bring expertise and passion to every trip, crafting seamless itineraries that turn your travel dreams into reality, whether exploring Hawke’s Bay or venturing abroad. From Best Travel and Cruise’s decades of experience to World Travellers’ unique adventure tours, these five top agencies offer personalised solutions to suit every traveller’s needs.
Ready to plan your next getaway? Contact one of these Hastings travel experts today for a free consultation and discover how they can create a stress-free, unforgettable journey. With their skills and dedication, your perfect trip is just a booking away!
Helpful Information About Hastings Travel Agents
Planning a trip from Hastings, New Zealand, is easier when you work with an experienced local travel agent. Whether you’re dreaming of an international escape to Europe or a weekend getaway to Napier or Taupō, Hastings travel agents can offer tailored advice, exclusive deals, and personalised service. Their local expertise, combined with global industry partnerships, helps ensure your travel plans are smooth, well-coordinated, and suited to your preferences.
Many travel agencies in Hastings are TAANZ-accredited, providing a layer of financial protection and trust for travellers. From organising escorted tours to booking flights, cruises, and rental vehicles, these professionals manage the entire planning process. Their knowledge of nearby Wellington International Airport connections and regional attractions like Cape Kidnappers also means you’ll get insider tips for both domestic and international journeys.
Choosing the Right Travel Agent in Hastings
- Look for travel agents who are accredited by organisations like TAANZ or IATA to ensure professionalism and consumer protection.
- Choose a travel consultant who has experience with the type of trip you’re planning—whether it’s a family holiday, cruise, corporate travel, or adventure tour.
- Consider their knowledge of local features, such as Hawke’s Bay vineyards, regional airports, and seasonal travel patterns that could impact your itinerary.
- Ask about after-hours or emergency support in case you face unexpected changes during your trip.
- Read client reviews and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction and service levels.
- Check whether they offer free consultations or travel planning tools like mobile apps or destination guides to enhance your experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hastings Travel Agents
Are travel agents in Hastings more expensive than booking online?
Not necessarily. Many Hastings travel agents can access wholesale rates, exclusive packages, and special deals that are not available to the general public. In some cases, they may actually save you money while also providing expert advice and support.
Can a travel agent help with both international and domestic travel?
Yes, most travel agents in Hastings are equipped to plan trips both within New Zealand and overseas. Whether you’re booking a weekend trip to Rotorua or a holiday to Europe or Asia, they can manage all the logistics, including flights, accommodations, and activities.
How do I know if a travel agent in Hastings is trustworthy?
Look for affiliations with reputable industry bodies like TAANZ (Travel Agents Association of New Zealand) or IATA. These designations indicate that the agency follows professional standards and offers consumer protections, giving you more peace of mind.
Do travel agents provide assistance if plans change or are disrupted?
Yes, one of the biggest advantages of using a travel agent is their ability to assist with itinerary changes or disruptions like weather delays, cancellations, or emergencies. Many agents offer 24/7 support or after-hours service to help when you need it most.
Is it necessary to meet a travel agent in person?
While in-person consultations can be helpful, many Hastings travel agents also offer virtual appointments or phone consultations. This flexibility makes it easy to plan your trip from anywhere, whether you’re located in Frimley, Parkvale, or nearby Havelock North.
