Exceptional Australia and New Zealand
The land down under and the land of the long white cloud offer once in a lifetime opportunities, sensational scenery, unforgettable encounters and some of the world's best food and wine. This epic journey sees you travel through New Zealand before heading to Australia to explore the south and east coast.
Journey highlights
-
The most luxurious and exclusive way to discover the highlights of the Antipodes
-
With spectacular weather, this itinerary is a great option for Christmas holidays, either just for a couple or for a family with children over 6
-
Discover the marine giants of New Zealand with a whale watching trip in Kaikoura
-
Enjoy the abundant seasonal produce the Kiwis are so proud of, and so famous for
- Exceptional itinerary:A harmonious blend of authenticity and superlative luxury, our Exceptional Journeys are designed for the discerning traveller, providing unparalleled insider access and exclusive luxury private experiences
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
As you are combining Australia and New Zealand, the weather patterns vary. To get the most out of the destinations of both countries, the best time to visit is between April and October but it is still well worth a visit the rest of the year.
Itinerary
-
At a Glance
On arrival in Auckland catch a short ferry across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island.
A stones throw from Auckland but a world away in pace, Waiheke offers the perfect respite after a long international flights. Spend the time exploring the islands main town - a hub for artists or take to the coastline to enjoy sensational walks. The main draw of Waiheke is however the food and wine and a plethora of artisan suppliers and wineries litter this small island.Where to stay
The Boatshed (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
More Experiences in This Area
-
At a Glance
Fly south to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. Famous for its bubbling craters and mud-pools, the town of Rotorua offers a variety of experiences form traditional spas to adventurous mountain biking, the world-famous movie set of Hobbiton is nearby as is the largest freshwater lake in New Zealand, Lake Taupo. We have included an evening experience at Te Puia, were you will enjoy a guided tour of the geothermal landscape learning about the geology and Maori history of the area before witnessing a traditional Maori performance.
Where to stay
Solitaire Lodge (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
/791387-te-puia-te-puia-daytime-experience.jpeg)
/689282-rainbow-springs-and-kiwi-encounter-central-north-island-new-zealand-australasia-australasia.jpeg)
-
At a Glance
Next, fly across the Cook Straight to the vastly different South Island. Start in Kaikoura, famed for being the home to a wide variety of marine mammals including sperm and minke whales as well as orcas. Here we have included a shared whale watching cruise, but there is also the option to take a scenic flight, and make sure to sample some of the regions freshest seafood including Kaikoura’s namesake, crayfish.
Where to stay
Hapuku Lodge (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
-
At a Glance
Your last stop in New Zealand will be the adventure capital of Queenstown. Spend a few days here exploring the region. Take a cruise along Lake Wakatipu in a vintage steamboat along with accompanying BBQ lunch (included), soar above the clouds on a helicopter trip to the nearby Sounds or glaciers, go jet boating or just take in the stunning alpine scenery. Dare to plunge from the highest bungee jump in New Zealand or enjoy a thrilling 4WD out around Mt Aspiring National Park – the options in New Zealand’s adventure capital are endless.
Where to stay
Eichardt’s Private Hotel (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
/804084-milford-sound-milford-sound-fly-nature-cruise-on-milford-sound.jpeg)
-
At a Glance
The next destination on your grand tour of the antipodes is Sydney. Spend a few nights here exploring the historical Rocks District, littered with boutique shops, cafes and wine bars or head to the beautiful botanical gardens full of wild flora and fauna. During your time in the cosmopolitan city of Sydney we have included an iconic cruise around the harbour. Explore hidden bays and coves as you enjoy this scenic cruise allowing you to discover the city from a different angle.
Where to stay
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
-
At a Glance
From Sydney, fly north to the paradise island of Hamilton in the heart of the Whitsundays on the Great Barrier Reef. Spend your days swimming in the crystal-clear reef or head out on snorkelling adventures to outer islands. Visit Whitehaven Beach and learn how to sail or take a boat out for the weekend. With a multitude of accommodation options on Hamilton Island, this defines the true Australian island experience.
Where to stay
Hamilton Island Beach Club (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
-
At a Glance
Next fly to the tropical city of Cairns for one night before continuing your journey to the red centre.
Where to stay
Crystalbrook Riley (1 night)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
-
At a Glance
From the palm trees and golden beaches of Queensland, fly west to the arid plains of the Red Centre and the monolithic rock known as Uluru. The outback is where you will witness true Aboriginal sentiment. Learn about the cultural significance of Ayers Rock on a guided tour around the base of Uluru or head to the skies and enjoy a scenic flight over neighbouring Kata Tjuta. Enjoy an iconic Table 131 dinner under the stars at Uluru where you will enjoy a traditional Australian feast accompanied by a didgeridoo performance (included). The perfect way to end your outback experience.
Where to stay
Longitude 131 (2 nights)
Price Guide: (Per Person based on double occupancy and includes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 2025 | £14,600 | £2,200 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | £15,600 | £2,300 | plan your trip |
| December 2025 | £15,600 | £2,300 | plan your trip |
| January 2026 | £15,600 | £2,300 | plan your trip |
| February 2026 | £15,600 | £2,300 | plan your trip |
| March 2026 | £14,600 | £2,200 | plan your trip |
| April 2026 | £14,600 | £2,200 | plan your trip |
| May 2026 | £14,600 | £2,200 | plan your trip |
| June 2026 | £13,600 | £2,000 | plan your trip |
| July 2026 | £13,600 | £2,000 | plan your trip |
| August 2026 | £13,600 | £2,000 | plan your trip |
| September 2026 | £14,600 | £2,200 | plan your trip |
-
October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£14,600
Deposit from*£2,200
-
November 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£15,600
Deposit from*£2,300
-
December 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£15,600
Deposit from*£2,300
-
January 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£15,600
Deposit from*£2,300
-
February 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£15,600
Deposit from*£2,300
-
March 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£14,600
Deposit from*£2,200
-
April 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£14,600
Deposit from*£2,200
-
May 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£14,600
Deposit from*£2,200
-
June 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£13,600
Deposit from*£2,000
-
July 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£13,600
Deposit from*£2,000
-
August 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£13,600
Deposit from*£2,000
-
September 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£14,600
Deposit from*£2,200
- plan your trip
Experiences in this tour
-
![Shotover Jet]()
View ExperienceShotover Jet (Shared)
Nothing you've experienced will have you prepared for the thrill and excitement of a Shotover Jet ride! From the moment the accelerator hits the floor your adrenaline hits the roof as you speed in mere centimetres of water along the famous Shotover River.
-
![Solitaire Lodge - Visit the Tarawera Thermal Springs]()
View ExperienceSolitaire Lodge - Visit the Tarawera Thermal Springs
Enjoy an early morning visit to the Tarawera thermal springs during your stay at Solitaire Lodge. Best accessed before breakfast, you will travel by launch boat to bathe in the soothing hot springs of Lake Tarawera.
-
![Learn to Surf at Bondi Beach]()
View ExperienceLearn to Surf at Bondi Beach
Enjoy a day learning to surf the waves of the famous Bondi Beach in Sydney. The ideal introduction to Australia for the whole family.
-
![Aboriginal]()
View ExperienceAuthentic Aboriginal Tour
In the company of a local indigenous elder and an experienced guide, discover Sydney’s ancient Aboriginal roots and learn all about the significance of land, flora and fauna on this traditional experience.
-
![Te Po Indigenous Evening Experience]()
View ExperienceTe Po Evening Experience at Te Puia (Shared)
Immerse yourself in Maori culture with an evening of storytelling, food and entertainment, as well as a chance to visit some of Rotorua’s stunning natural sights.
-
![Sydney by Bike]()
View ExperienceExplore Sydney by Bike - Half Day Tour
On this cycling tour around cosmopolitan Sydney your guide will take you to famous sights, yet will ensure you get off-the-beaten track and will take you on an adventure suited to your interests.
-
![Private Wine Tour - Private Boutique Wine Tour of Central Otago]()
View ExperiencePrivate Boutique Wine Tour of Central Otago
Tailored exactly to your needs and wishes, this privately guided winery tour is designed especially for the discerning wine lover in mind.
-
![Te Puia - Te Puia Daytime Experience]()
View ExperienceTe Puia Daytime Experience (Shared)
Home to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Te Puia is a cultural centre just 5-minutes from the centre of Rotorua. Immerse yourself in Maori culture and visit the Pohutu Geyser during your visit to the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley.
-
![Half Day Sydney Tour]()
View ExperienceEssential Sydney
Experience Sydney one of the world's most vibrant cities on this personalised guided tour, taking in Sydney's iconic sights, unique suburbs and beaches.
/703452-shotover-jet-central-otago-and-the-southern-lakes-new-zealand-australasia-australasia.jpeg)
/791386-te-po-indigenous-evening-te-po-indigenous-evening-experience.jpeg)
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. Call us on 020 8682 5060 to start planning your holiday.
Why Scott Dunn for Luxury Tours?
Unique to You
- We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are bespoke to you.
- We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.
Seamless Service
- Global offices in the UK, US, Singapore, and Hong Kong for 24/7 seamless service.
- We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.
Carefully Curated Collection
- We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
- Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.
Luxury in Every Sense
- We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
- Awarded Condé Nast Traveller’s Top Travel Specialists in the World 13 years in a row.