Hot deals: Low fares for kids

Under $300

Children can fly to Honolulu, Los Angeles or San Francisco from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch for $299 each - but their fares must be booked by March 21. Travel is valid between April 19 and May 12 this year and the child or children must travel with an adult. Adult fares start at $1249 to Honolulu and $1599 to Los Angeles or San Francisco. Airport taxes and surcharges are not included.

Contact: Destinations Unlimited, (09) 4141680.

Under $680

A three-night stay in Sydney from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch is priced from $679 a person, twin-share, and the sting of departure taxes is eased with a $A99 ($105) food and beverage Grace Hotel voucher for those who include a Saturday night in the package. The hotel is the Grace Hotel Situation - a fully restored Art Deco building in the heart of Sydney's central business district. This package is valid for travel up to August 4, or between August 16 and 31, and must be purchased by March 31.

Contact: House of Travel, 0800 838 747.

Under $1080

Four nights in Adelaide with return airfares from Auckland are priced at $1079 a person, double-share, and the package includes three days' car hire.

Your pre-payable costs such as the New Zealand departure tax, other taxes and surcharges, are also included (at $183 a person).

This package must be booked by March 15 and travel must be completed by March 31.

Contact: Destinations Unlimited, (09) 4141680.

Under $170

A one-bedroom apartment - with continental breakfast - in the heart of Christchurch is $169 a night for two people when booked through Internet travel company, Wotif.com. Usually more than $300 a night, the Quest Christchurch accommodation is just a step away from where you can catch the city's old-style tram and take a tour to the major attractions. Contact: Wotif.com booking service, 0800 441 092, or book this deal on-line at Wotif.