Exceptional Australia and New Zealand
Waiheke Island, Rotorua, Kaikoura, Queenstown, Sydney, Whitsundays, Cairns and UluruThe 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.
At a glance
The most luxurious and exclusive way to discover the highlights of the Antipodes
With spectacular weather, this itinerary is a great option for Christmas vacations, 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
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 vacations, 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
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.
Price Guide: (Per Person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| May | $21,000 | $5,300 | plan your trip |
| June | $19,600 | $4,900 | plan your trip |
| July | $19,600 | $4,900 | plan your trip |
| August | $19,600 | $4,900 | plan your trip |
| September | $21,000 | $5,300 | plan your trip |
| October | $21,000 | $5,300 | plan your trip |
| November | $22,400 | $5,600 | plan your trip |
| December | $22,400 | $5,600 | plan your trip |
| January | $22,400 | $5,600 | plan your trip |
| February | $22,400 | $5,600 | plan your trip |
| March | $21,000 | $5,300 | plan your trip |
| April | $21,000 | $5,300 | plan your trip |
-
May
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$21,000
Deposit from*$5,300
-
June
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$19,600
Deposit from*$4,900
-
July
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$19,600
Deposit from*$4,900
-
August
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$19,600
Deposit from*$4,900
-
September
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$21,000
Deposit from*$5,300
-
October
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$21,000
Deposit from*$5,300
-
November
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,400
Deposit from*$5,600
-
December
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,400
Deposit from*$5,600
-
January
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,400
Deposit from*$5,600
-
February
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$22,400
Deposit from*$5,600
-
March
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$21,000
Deposit from*$5,300
-
April
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 vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$21,000
Deposit from*$5,300
- plan your trip
Itinerary
Auckland and the Coromandel
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.
Central North Island
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.
Accommodation: Solitaire Lodge ( 2 nights )Canterbury and the West Coast
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.
Accommodation: Hapuku Lodge ( 2 nights )Central Otago and the Southern Lakes
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.
Accommodation: Eichardt’s Private Hotel ( 3 nights )New South Wales
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 harbor. Explore hidden bays and coves as you enjoy this scenic cruise allowing you to discover the city from a different angle.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney ( 3 nights )Queensland
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 snorkeling 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.
Accommodation: Hamilton Island Beach Club ( 3 nights )Cairns, Queensland, Australia
Next fly to the tropical city of Cairns for one night before continuing your journey to the red center.
Accommodation: Riley Cairns ( 1 night )Northern Territory
From the palm trees and golden beaches of Queensland, fly west to the arid plains of the Red Center 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 neighboring 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.
Accommodation: Longitude 131 ( 2 nights )Call us on 858 523 9000 to start planning your holiday.
Experiences included in this itinerary
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A private tour of Hobbiton - A Tolkien Day Out
Enter the world of Tolkien and discover the magical setting made famous by The Lord of the Rings trilogy and The Hobbit. Once quoted by Peter Jackson as being 'a slice of ancient England', discover the hobbit holes on a guided tour of the movie set.
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Berowra Waters Inn Sydney Sea Plane Experience
Accessed solely by boat or seaplane in a stunning waterfront setting, Berowra Waters Inn is Sydney’s most famous gastronomic destination. The fine dining experience offers an incredible seven course degustation menu designed by Chef Brian Geraghty.
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Best of Both Worlds - Private Half Day Tour
Experience the Great Barrier Reef from both above and below sea level and indulge in this ultimate reef experience with the best of Reefworld and Whitehaven Beach in one unforgettable day.
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Best of Food and Wine in the Southern Highlands
Spend a day enjoying fine wine and artisan produce in New South Wales' Southern Highlands - a lesser known but equally impressive wine producing region of Australia.
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Bike the Wineries of Central Otago
Explore the vineyards and scenic wine lands of Central Otago by bike on this self-guided winery tour and visit some of the region’s most well-known wineries.
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Cruise Like A Local
When in Sydney getting out on to the harbor is a must. Depart in style from Circular Quay on a 52 foot motor yacht and embark on a four hour cruise taking in the famous sights as well as the lesser known coves and beaches of the harbor.
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Dolphin Encounter off the coast of Kaikoura - Shared
Make one of life's dream a reality and not only watch dolphins in the wild but get the chance to swim with them as well, just off the coast of Kiakoura.
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Exclusive Gourmet Food and Wine on Waiheke - Shared
Waiheke Island located in Auckland’s Hauruki Gulf is renowned for its verdant vineyards, empty beaches and freshly caught seafood. Explore this island escape on a guided food and wine tour.
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Explore Sydney by Bike - Half Day Tour
Explore Sydney by bike on this exhilarating privately guided cycling tour around Australia's most cosmopolitan city.
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Journey to the Heart
Experience the spectacular Great Barrier Reef and the world-famous Heart Reef from up above on this exclusive helicopter tour. You'll get to experience the iconic Heart Reef from above and below in an unforgettable way.
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Kayaking with Seals in Kaikoura - Shared
Each year in Kaikoura New Zealand fur seal pups can be seen resting and playing in the fresh water while their mothers are out at sea fishing. Enjoy a guided kayaking excursion to watch these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
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Learn 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.
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Longitude 131 - Helicopter above Uluru
Enjoy a breathtaking private helicopter journey over Uluru and Kata Tjuta, one of the world's most iconic and spectacular scenes.
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Longitude 131:Table 131 and Field of Light Experience
Watch the red ochre hue of Uluru darken as the sun lowers and the mesmerising Field of Light is revealed before you. Enjoy an outback feast style with accompanying wines before enjoying a tour of the night sky from Longitude's resident astronomer.
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Luxury Sailing on Sydney Harbour
When in Sydney getting out on to the harbor is a must. Cruise the harbor in style on a sailing boat and embark on a four hour cruise taking in the famous sights as well as the lesser known coves and beaches of the harbor.
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My Sydney Detour
This hidden and private guided tour of Sydney really gets you away from the conventional sights of Sydney. With your specialist guides and unique vehicle, explore through the eyes of two locals and learn all about Sydney from a different perspective.
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Private 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.
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Private Queenstown Full Day Sightseeing
Discover the South Island in a full day’s expedition in luxury SUV. Explore the regions varied attractions on this private tour with experienced guide.
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Pure Rotorua Experience (Private)
Experience the best of Rotorua, with a scenic helicopter flight, immersive encounter with a Maori community and a flight to the lunar landscape of the White Island, topped off with a luxury sailing trip to soak in the geothermal waters of the hot pools.
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Quintessentially Sydney
This full day tour of Sydney is designed for guests who not only want to see the iconic sites of Australia's most prominent city but also to meet the locals and get under the skin of New South Wales' cosmopolitan capital.
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Sail and Snorkel to Whitehaven Beach from Hamilton Island
On the Edge is a large, spacious sailing catamaran design especially for day sailing adventures throughout Queensland's Whitsunday Islands.
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Shotover 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 centimeters of water along the famous Shotover River.
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Solitaire 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.
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Sydney for Kids
A great day out exploring Sydney for the whole family. Learn how to make Australian chocolate before heading to the famous beach Bondi where the whole family can learn to surf. Can be tailored to suit your specific desires.
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Sydney's Food and Wine Trail
Sydney is fast becoming recognised for its amazing food and wine offering and a privately guided off-the-beaten track gourmet tour is one of our top choices for this mesmerising city.
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Te 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.
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Te Puia Daytime Experience (Shared)
Home to the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Te Puia is a cultural center just 5-minutes from the center of Rotorua. Immerse yourself in Maori culture and visit the Pohutu Geyser during your visit to the Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley.
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TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak with Gourmet BBQ Lunch (Shared)
Discover Queenstown’s pioneering history as you travel across Lake Wakatipu aboard the 103-year old steamship TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue lunch.
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Waiheke Island Private Art Tour
Waiheke is currently home to over 100 working artists. Pre-eminent sculptor Dennis O'Connor came to Waiheke 40 years ago and has since gathered around him a number of like minded painters, potters and glass makers who are inspired by the island.
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Whitehaven Indulgence Helicopter Experience
A private helicopter day trip flying over the Whitsunday Islands for a beach landing on Whitehaven Beach, followed by a delicious picnic lunch.
Your Hotels
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.
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 858 523 9000 to start planning your vacation.
Why Scott Dunn?
At Scott Dunn, we live and breathe travel. An insatiable appetite to discover the world runs through everything we do. We relish the planning and revel in the detail. We know it’s the smallest touches that make the biggest difference, and we stop at nothing to make every trip not only exceptional but totally unique.
- Every itinerary is crafted from scratch, based around exactly what’s important to you
- Packed full of unique experiences, hand-picked by our journeys team
- Expert local guides enrich your experience in every destination
- Your own dedicated Travel Specialist who will take care of every detail of your trip
- We have a 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- We offer flexibility and financial protection to give you total peace of mind