8 Overseas Destinations Less Than An 8-Hour Flight Away

1. Queenstown, New Zealand

Approximately three hours flight from Sydney, Queenstown is one of New Zealand's hotspots for those who don't want to spend more than four hours on a plane. This quick and easy international getaway offers adventurous outdoor activities such as extreme jet boat rides, zipline tours and local wine tours. Thrillseekers may also be tempted by the bungee jumping options available in and around the town, primarily A.J. Hackett's 'Nevis Bungy' - New Zealand's highest bungee at 134m, where jumpers travel out on a cable car to a platform suspended over a gorge. Scary? We think so. Worth a try? One hundred per cent. Fun fact: entrepreneur A.J. Hackett, earned himself a Guinness World Record for the "highest commercial bungee jump" back 2007 when he jumped 233m from the Macau Tower in China.

2. Isle of Pines, New Caledonia

Less than an eight-hour flight from both Melbourne and Sydney airports, New Caledonia is a relaxing getaway for worn-out Australians. Known as the 'Jewel of the Pacific', the Isle of Pines offers crystal clear waters surrounded by tall pine trees. No words can describe how magical and serene this place really is, you'll have to see it to believe it. Why not book a day sail on the bay, or snorkel in the pristine waters on your next trip?

3.Auckland, New Zealand

Approximately four hours from Melbourne and Sydney, Auckland is the perfect spot for an international holiday for those just wanting to get out of their city and experience something a little bit different. Auckland offers many activities for the curious tourist, including sightseeing attractions such as the dormant volcano, Mount Eden (free to visit) and Waiheke Island - also featuring some fantastic wineries. If you want to get out of the city, for under an hour's drive you can check out Waitomo Glowworm caves and for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit fans, why not visit the Hobbiton movie set?

4. Port Vila, Vanuatu

With flights less than eight hours from both Melbourne and Sydney, Port Vila is the ultimate relaxation location for individuals wanting to get away quickly. Located in Vanuatu, Port Vila pairs exotic scenery with beaches and offshore islands to explore. While you're there, book in some local activities to truly experience Vanuatu's true beauty. This includes short day safaris, day trips to Blue Lagoon and snorkelling on islands offshore.

5. Denpasar, Bali

For a cultural getaway, Melbourne and Sydney both offer non-stop flights to Bali, less than a eight hours on a direct flight. Bali has many cultural and historical sites on offer if you are really looking for a unique holiday. This includes sites to visit such as Sakenan Temple on the island of Serangan, and the Jagatnatha Temple that is adjacent to the town's public museum. These cultural experiences will immerse you in the local life, and you canlearn the historical significance of Bali's temples. Expedia has created a list of the top 20 things to do whilst in Denpasar. Covering quad biking, white water rafting, exploring monkey forests and joining cycling tours, there really are no shortage of activities here!

6. Jakarta, Indonesia

From Melbourne and Sydney you can hop on a non-stop flight to Indonesia for just under eight hours in the air! If you are on a holiday budget, Indonesia is a fantastic place to book, starting with affordable accommodation. You can find accommodation at three to four-star resorts for less than $100 a night, making Jakarta a go-to spot for a relaxing and well-budgeted getaway. Jakarta offers unique cultural experiences with many historical landmarks and temples, providing many options to immerse yourself in the local culture and the historical significance of the city.

7. Seminyak, Indonesia

Just over six hours from Sydney, the city of Seminyak located in Bali is the perfect retreat for those wanting a holiday, and not spend more than eight hours on a plane. Known as the most stylish resort area of Bali, Seminyak will not disappoint. With its upscale resorts and breathtaking beaches, you can enjoy your perfect getaway in paradise. Why not book your flight to Seminyak over Skyscanner today?

8. Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Less than an eight-hour flight from both Melbourne and Sydney is Port Moresby, located in Papua New Guinea. Pairing beautiful nature with historical elements, Port Moresby is a unique location to visit. With many nature parks including the National Orchid Gardens, Port Moresby Nature Park, Varirata National Park and Hombrum Bluff Lookout, to name a few, Port Moresby provides a laid-back experience that's culturally different. Other landmarks worth the trip are Parliament Haus, Bomana War Cemetery and the Old Parliament Building. If you're visiting during September you can check out the annual Hiri Moale Festival, spanning three days from around the 16th. The festival celebrates the shift in trade winds that historically brought traders home from the Gulf region and the Motu people (native inhabitants of Papua New Guinea) race giant canoes near Ela Beach.

Lock in some great flight deals through Skyscanner, or alternatively, research some local top rating hotels to experience your best stay at wotif.com.

Now that you've got some great ideas for an overseas trip, why not read 8 Ways you can Actually Relax on Holiday to really get the most out of it!