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.

1. Days 1-3: 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.

   Accommodation: The Boatshed (2 nights)

2. Days 3-5: 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)

3. Days 5-7: 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)

4. Days 7-10: 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)

5. Days 10-13: 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)

6. Days 13-16: 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)

7. Days 16-17: 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)

8. Days 17-19: 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)

Waiheke Island, Rotorua, Kaikoura, Queenstown, Sydney, Whitsundays, Cairns and Uluru