Australia and New Zealand Travel Tour 426

1. Red eye flight to Sydney. || 40.79083094625075, -111.97713130398836

1. Breakfast at hotel

2. 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM - Melbourne City Tour

A beautiful city tour of the city center and surrounding areas, during which we will see: Federation Square, the sports precinct with the MCG and Rod Laver Arena, Fitzroy Park and its gardens, where we will walk to Captain Cook's Cottage (admission not included), St. Patrick's Cathedral (visit when permitted), the famous Albert Park, where the Formula 1 championship is held in March, and the St. Kilda neighborhood with its long panoramic pier, as well as views of Brighton Beach and its colorful boat houses. On the way back to the city center, we will see the Yarra River and the Southbank precinct, and we will be dropped off here at Riverside Quay.

3. Lunch (not included)

4. Skydeck (on own). || -37.820745057521634, 144.96489131532346

In 38 seconds at 285 meters high at Melbourne Lookout, Skydeck 88, the tallest tower in the city with its golden dome (the last 10 floors are covered in 24-karat gold, and the tower can sway up to 600 mm in strong winds, but not because there are 330,000 liters of water in tanks on the 90th and 91st floors to prevent further movement). Once up there, you can take photos of the city in general, or pay an optional entrance fee to enter The Edge, a glass cube suspended in the air from the 88th floor, or take some fun photos at Vertigo.

5. 1:30 PM - Phillip Island. || -38.48480372622002, 145.20041700225863

The first stop is a visit to the Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park, where we will see koalas in their natural habitat and other native Australian species. We will pass through the town of Cowes. We will enjoy unforgettable views of Seal Rock and Nobbies. We will arrive at Phillip Island Nature Park 30 minutes before the penguins arrive at the beach. Enjoy this unique spectacle where we watch the penguins return to their nests after a day of feeding in the sea, from a tiered platform facing the beach. It includes an Underground Experience, allowing you to view the penguins from an underground tunnel, protected from the rain, without disturbing them.

6. Transfer back to hotel

7. Free time

8. Night in Melbourne

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -33.83830713355551, 151.20866370494508

2. Free day

Spend the day as a free day relaxing at the hotel or exploring on your own.

3. Night in Sydney

1. Flight to Sydney. || -33.877278215223264, 151.20502002392493

Sydney is Australia's largest city, known for its stunning harbor, iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and beautiful beaches such as Bondi and Manly. A vibrant cultural and economic hub, it offers a mix of modern city life and natural beauty.

2. Transfer from airport to hotel

3. Hotel check in. || -33.83830713355551, 151.20866370494508

4. Free time

5. 12:45 PM - Meet at hotel lobby

6. 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM - Depart for 5 Hour City Tour

Starting around the area known as the Rocks, our first stop (stop 1) is under the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. From there we will have a short walk around the Rocks and board the bus again for our next stop. Next stop will be at Mrs Macquarie’s chair(stop 2) for the best views of the harbour and the best photo of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge together. Once we leave Mrs Macquaries Chair we will pass the Australian Royal Navy in Wooloomooloo and continue to the exclusive Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. Passing via Rushcutters Bay, Double Bay, Rose Bay and all the way to Whatsons Bay ( stop 3). Once we arrive at the charming suburb of Whatsons Bay we will go for a short “bush walk” with gorgeous views of Sydney Harbour on one side and the open Pacific ocean on the other. We will end our walk at “ The Gap” the main and only entrance to Sydney Harbour. We will continue our tour to the famous Bondi Beach(stop 4) where we can have a short stop for restrooms and a coffee. From Bondi Beach we will return to the hotel.

7. Free time

8. Night in Sydney

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -33.83829926630956, 151.20864967614892

2. Free day 

Spend the day as a free day or join the optional tour.

3. Hunter Valley Wine Tour (arrive to meeting point on own). || -33.498848367666305, 150.93566430196162

Begin your Hunter Valley Wine Tour with breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour as you cross the iconic Harbour Bridge, en route to one of Australia’s premier wine regions, the Hunter Valley. Our tour offers a remarkable showcase of the region, featuring a carefully curated selection of food and wine experiences designed to delight your senses—there’s something for everyone! The c is renowned for its Semillon, but it also boasts award-winning varieties like Shiraz, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Verdelho. Stroll through picturesque vineyards and visit boutique cellar doors for an immersive wine-tasting experience. Each cellar door has been handpicked for its commitment to exceptional customer service and the quality of its wines, offering two tastings before lunch and one in the afternoon. For lunch, enjoy a delicious café-style meal at Cypress Lakes, set against the stunning backdrop of Hunter Valley Village. After your meal, take some time to explore the unique boutique shops and galleries, and indulge in local produce with an educational cheese-making session at the Hunter Valley Cheese Factory. If time allows, consider visiting the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company, The British Lolly Shop, Kissofire Hunter Valley Liqueurs, or The Garden Cellars; any additional tastings will be at your own expense. Conclude your day at our favourite boutique cellar door, saving the best for last. Enjoy a structured tasting led by a vineyard representative, showcasing their exquisite range of wines. After a day filled with memorable experiences and camaraderie among fellow wine lovers, we’ll begin our journey back to Sydney. Rest assured, we’ll provide comfort stops along the way, ensuring you can relax after a day of indulgence. You’ll return to the city with ample time to grab a meal or catch a show. *The tour operator reserves the right to alter the itinerary route and winery stops due to unforeseen circumstances, such as group sizes, special events and cellar-door closures in the Hunter Valley and Pokolbin area. With more than 80 different wineries in the region, here’s a list of wineries we frequently rotate between: Ernest Hill Wines, Hanging Tree Wines, Irongate Estate, Savannah Estate, Constable, Tempus Two/Roche, Mount View Estate, Tintilla Estate, and Mistletoe. Enjoy wine tastings at 3–4 boutique wineries, a delicious café lunch with a drink, and a local produce cheese tasting platter, all in a relaxed small-group setting. Travel in comfort with air-conditioned minibus transport, hosted by an experienced driver-guide who provides engaging local commentary, with convenient pick-up and drop-off at selected Sydney inner-city locations.

4. Free time

5. Night in Sydney

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -33.83830713355551, 151.20866370494508

2. Transfer from hotel to airport

3. 11:45 AM - 1:45 PM - Flight from Sydney to Cairns

4. Arrival in Cairns. || -16.92086543285255, 145.77460517445346

5. Transfer to hotel for hotel check in. || -16.92279958801772, 145.78023672474643

6. Free time

7. Night in Cairns

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -16.92279958801772, 145.78023672474643

2. 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM - Traditional Daintree National Park Tour (transportation and local guide included). || -16.30128847034636, 145.2479776803797

This 9-hour cultural and nature tour takes you to Cooya Beach (Kuyu Kuyu), a traditional hunting and fishing ground of the Kuku Yalanji people. There, you’ll join one of the Kubirri Warra brothers on a guided walk through the beach, mudflats, and mangroves. Learn age-old fishing and gathering methods with the chance to catch your own bush tucker (food) along the way. Next, you’ll visit the stunning Mossman Gorge and be welcomed to Kuku Yalanji land with a traditional Aboriginal smoking ceremony—meant to offer protection and cleanse your spirit during your visit. Then, venture into the World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park, home to one of the most ancient and diverse rainforests on the planet. Enjoy a gentle walk through this lush landscape, following well-maintained boardwalks, forest trails, and footbridges. Along the way, you’ll take in views of cascading waterfalls, majestic mountain ranges, and vibrant plant life. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the region’s ecosystem, wildlife, and cultural heritage. The day concludes with your return to Port Douglas and a transfer back to your accommodation. Hartley's Crocodile Adventures Visit Included.

3. Free time

4. Night in Cairns

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -16.92279958801772, 145.78023672474643

2. 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM - Snorkeling (arrive to meeting point on own). || -16.484403186191376, 145.4605866736627

No need to wait in line for your boarding pass—simply head straight to the vessel, as guests will receive a digital boarding pass with all the necessary details the afternoon before departure. Boarding begins at 8:15 AM with final boarding at 8:45 AM from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal, and the tour returns at 5:00 PM. Operated by the award-winning Reef Magic, this full-day experience departs directly from Cairns to the Reef Magic activity pontoon located on the outer Great Barrier Reef. As the newest and most technologically advanced pontoon on the reef, it offers guests five hours to explore the wonders of the reef, both above and below the water. Included in your tour are all snorkelling equipment, a marine biology presentation onboard, a fish feeding and identification session with a marine biologist, access to the underwater observatory, glass bottom boat tour, semi-submarine tour, use of the sundeck, freshwater showers and changing rooms, a hot and cold buffet lunch, tea, coffee, drinking water, and both morning and afternoon tea. Guests are encouraged to bring swimmers, a towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and extra cash or a credit card for onboard purchases.

4. Free time

5. Night in Cairns

1. Breakfast at hotel

2. Transfer from hotel to airport. || -16.877562383059704, 145.74995665339566

3. Flight from Cairns to Sydney

4. Transfer from airport to hotel for check in

5. Free time

For a free afternoon, we recommend strolling along Elizabeth St, Bourke St Mall, and exploring Collins Street, which boasts international fashion brands. Or, head to Victoria Market, which offers fruit, vegetables, clothing, and craft stalls. You can take the free electric tram that runs through the city center and Docklands if you don't want to walk. Or, you can choose to stroll through the Botanic Gardens and Alexandra Gardens. If you're interested in architecture and history, explore the city center's lanes and arcades, such as Block Arcade and Royal Arcade, majestic examples of Victorian architecture converted into galleries of boutiques and exquisite cafes. For shopping, there are endless opportunities at the Emporium Mall and the Melbourne Central Shopping Centre, with the department stores David Jones and Myers, Zara, and H&M. Or, visit the Melbourne Museum, which showcases an interesting display of Aboriginal history, next to the Royal Exhibition Building.

6. Night in Sydney

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -33.83830713355551, 151.20866370494508

2. Flight from Melbourne to Sydney

3. 6-7 Hour Blue Mountains Tour. || -33.24092948732277, 150.48830285865378

Time management on the Blue Mountains tour is very important as from 1:30 pm the traffic built up starts in the West of Sydney and we could easily sit in traffic for 01 hours incurring in extra payment to the coach company and the guide.

4. 8:00 AM - Meet Tour Guide in hotel lobby

5. 8:15 AM - Tour Departure

6. 9:30 AM - Arrive at Scenic World (Scenic Railway, Cableway ticket included and Skywalk). || -33.728353108053156, 150.3009232434631

7. 11:30 PM - Leave for Photo Shop at Echo Point

8. 12:00 PM - Leura for Lunch (not included)

9. 1:15 PM - Back at the Coach

10. 1:30 PM - Coach leaves for Sydney

11. Hotel check in. || -33.83829926630956, 151.20864967614892

12. Free time

13. Night in Sydney

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -16.92279958801772, 145.78023672474643

2. Transfer from hotel to airport. || -16.877562383059704, 145.74995665339566

3. Flight from Cairns to Queenstown. || -45.01971804100172, 168.7453297324712

4. 4:40 PM - Arrival

5. Meet and Greet. Transfer from airport to hotel for check in. || -45.0378006918237, 168.64206096130857

6. Lake Wakatipu Tour with Gourmet Dinner (arrive to meeting point on own, Uber works well). || -45.059772457006524, 168.6238721820205

This evening, board the TSS Earnslaw vintage ship to cruise the Lake Wakatipu to the Walter Peak High Country Farm. At Walter Peak High Country Farm’s Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, enjoy a dinner service featuring the finest local produce, expertly grilled over a wood-fired BBQ. Relax in the historic Colonel’s Homestead, where colonial architecture, manicured gardens, and breathtaking alpine views set the scene for an unforgettable dining experience. Our seasonal menu showcases a selection of fresh salads, vegetables, succulent meats, and seafood, with vegetarian dishes and indulgent desserts to not miss out on. Walter Peak High Country Farm, on the western shores of Lake Wakatipu, is steeped in history. Its sheltered bays were used as camping sites by Maori travelling to the Mararoa and Oreti Rivers on Moa hunting and pounamu (greenstone) gathering expeditions. European settlement commenced in the 1860s with initial farming attempts by Von Tunzelman. Stock deaths, snowstorms and lack of money eventually forced him off the land. Following a quick succession of owners, Walter Peak Station was taken over in the late 1880s by the Mackenzies. This family is credited with developing many of the principles of successful high-country farming during their 80 years working the property. At its peak, the station was one of New Zealand’s most famous, with 170,000 acres, 40,000 sheep and up to 50 full-time employees. The original homestead block of Walter Peak Station is now known as Walter Peak High Country Farm. Over time, various permanent homes were established, and these included the Colonel’s Homestead with its beautiful lakeside gardens. Originally built in 1902, it was carefully reconstructed in 1977 following an accidental fire. After your meal (included), enjoy a sheep shearing and farm dog demonstration and wander through the beautiful lakeside gardens before cruising back to Queenstown. Upon return to the main town wharf, walk back to the hotel.

7. Night in Queenstown

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -45.0378006918237, 168.64206096130857

2. 7:00 AM - Hotel pick up and bus transfer to Milford

3. 7:00 AM - 7:30 PM - Full Day in Milford. || -44.57866218328576, 167.804894543322

The journey travel southwest, with views of Lake Wakatipu and green farmland of Southland, towards Fiordland region.  We stop at Te Anau for a morning coffee or tea (optional) and photos of Lake Te Anau.  From here we travel another 2 hours to Fiordland National Park and Milford.  The journey is very panoramic: see Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley and cross the Homer Tunnel to descend to the fiord between mountains and deep forests.  On a rainy day, there are many waterfalls that can be seen from the coach windows. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Milford Sound with a relaxed and scenic cruise that explores the full length of this iconic fiord. As you journey through its breathtaking landscapes, a specialist nature guide will share fascinating insights into the region’s history and wildlife. Feel the cool mist of cascading waterfalls up close, marvel at towering rock faces, and keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and the rare Fiordland crested penguins. Lunch included onboard. 

4. Fly back to Queenstown

In the afternoon, fly back to Queenstown by plane, and enjoy the views of the glaciers, valleys, Dart River and mountains, a bird eye view of Lake Wakatipu before landing at Queenstown Airport. This 35’ flight is weather dependent.

5. Free time

6. Night in Queenstown

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -45.0378006918237, 168.64206096130857

2. 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM - 2 Hour Jet Boat Tour (arrive to meeting point on own, Uber works well). || -44.83553313661503, 168.38622607742246

4. Free time

5. Night in Queenstown

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -45.0378006918237, 168.64206096130857

2. 7:00 AM - Transfer from hotel to airport

3. 9:20 AM - 11:10 AM - Flight to Auckland

4. 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM - Flight to Rotorua

5. Arrival in Rotorua. || -38.10833050767791, 176.3156064896219

Rotorua, a town set on its namesake lake on New Zealand's North Island, is renowned for its geothermal activity and Maori culture. In Te Puia’s Whakarewarewa Valley, there are bubbling mud pools and the 30m-tall Pohutu Geyser, which erupts many times daily. It’s also home to a living Maori village and the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, with traditional wood carving and weaving schools.

6. Transfer to hotel

7. Hotel check in. || -38.13828686031998, 176.2558386609584

8. Free time

9. Night in Rotorua

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -38.13828686031998, 176.2558386609584

2. 8:00 AM - Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland with local guide and transportation. || -38.35805826674248, 176.36894148113905

We depart to visit Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland., 27 kms from Rotorua. Sculptured out of volcanic activity and thousands of years in the making, Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland is considered to be New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse geothermal sightseeing attraction. You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape – the key to what you see lies below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18-sq. km. The Lady Knox Geyser is presented daily at 10.15am. This unique geyser can reach up to heights of 10-20 metres. See and learn about the magnificent workings of the Lady Knox geyser from our wonderful team. After this experience, we have a look at the Blue and Green Lakes.

3. Skyline Gondola in Rotorua with Buffet Lunch (arrive to meeting point on own). || -38.11027580044847, 176.22189389462014

Then we take your to Skyline Gondola in Rotorua, where a buffet lunch is served in the restaurant at the top, with panoramic views. This will be an additional $62 per person.

4. 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM - Te Ra Guided Tour with Buffet Dinner

Discover awe-inspiring geysers, bubbling mud, and lush native bush during our guided Te Rā experience. Get up close to Pōhutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the kiwi in a specially designed nocturnal enclosure at the Kiwi Conservation Centre, dedicated to preserving this iconic bird. Dive deeper into Māori heritage at the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, where students hone traditional skills in weaving, wood, stone and bone carving. Our wānanga (school) serves as a beacon for indigenous culture. Our knowledgeable guides will share their Māori traditions and heritage with you, passing down ancestral stories and insights along the way. Savour a delicious buffet at the Pātaka Kai Restaurant & Bar, which overlooks a geothermal wonderland. Enjoy freshly sourced produce, traditionally cooked meats and vegetables, kai moana (seafood), and a selection of sweet desserts. Be captivated by a cultural performance in the beautifully carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. The performance includes a pōhiri (traditional Māori welcome), waiata (song), mōteatea (chant), poi, and haka. Wrap up the evening with a stroll back into the geothermal landscape while sipping on hot chocolate. Experience a night that will enlighten you - see, hear and taste Māori culture

5. Free time

6. Night in Rotorua

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -38.13828686031998, 176.2558386609584

2. 8:30 AM - Depart from Rotorua

We depart Rotorua to travel to Matamata, a region of farms and racing horses industry. 

3. 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM - The Hobbiton Movie Set. || -37.87137367816241, 175.6832452780703

Visit Hobbiton Movie Set where The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies were filmed. When location scouts found the Alexanders' spectacular 1250 acre sheep and beef farm just outside of Matamata, it was clear this would be the perfect setting for Sir Peter Jackson's adaptation of these classic works by J.R.R. Tolkien. Stroll through the setting and discover the magic of these hobbit holes. Located on Bagshot Row™, these Hobbit Holes offer an authentic glimpse into the charming dwellings of Hobbits going about their daily lives in the Shire™. Mind your head as you wander and weave through the maze of rooms and hallways, all constructed with a Hobbit’s stature in mind. Intricate hand-painted details and carvings adorn the walls, complemented with a plethora of colourful hand-stitched linens and decorative flourishes throughout. Hints of the inhabitants’ family lineage is seeded throughout, with heirlooms and trinkets from generations of Hobbits from yesteryear, a well-stocked pantry with all the fixings to cater for their seven daily meals, and a cracking hearth all give a peek into the lives these halflings lead…Enter one of them to see the interior décor.  Sip an ale or ginger beer at the Green Dragon Pub.

4. Hobbiton Buffet Lunch

5. 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM - Waitomo Cave Guided Tour. || -38.26056713082737, 175.10364671366915

Discover an ancient world 30 million years in the making and marvel at Mother Nature’s light display. Explore the cave by foot before embarking on a boat ride, gliding silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. Experience the serene ambience as you enter this galaxy of tiny living lights. The glowworm (Arachnocampa Luminosa) is unique to New Zealand, making the Waitomo Glowworm Caves an absolute must-do. See thousands of these tiny creatures as they radiate their unmistakable luminescent light in a subterranean world. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves tours are made up of two levels. The upper chamber is dry and decorated with stunning, delicate cave formations, and the lower level consists of stream passages, glowworms and the Cathedral, the tallest chamber in the cave. We travel along the underground steam onboard a small boat in silence, to appreciate the “starry night” at the cave. 

6. 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM - Transfer to Auckland

Continue your journey to Auckland for aprox 2 hrs, with drop off at your hotel

7. Arrival in Auckland and hotel check in. || -36.85270278983111, 174.76070697624255

8. Free time

9. Night in Auckland

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -36.85270278983111, 174.76070697624255

2. 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM - Auckland Tour with local guide and transportation. || -36.851828758578584, 174.76898038282462

We travel up the main shopping area of Queen St, past Auckland University and through Auckland’s historic areas and into the city park known as The Domain where there are some great photo opportunities. We continue through the picturesque suburb of Ponsonby, known for its historic buildings, before heading over the Harbour Bridge to the North Shore. Here you can stroll on a beautiful beach with views out across the Waitemata harbour to Rangitoto Island. Next there is a short drive through historic Devonport to get to the panoramic views over Auckland that you can only get from the extinct Devonport volcanoes – often considered the best views of Auckland city and harbour. Then travel back over the Harbour Bridge to stop at Westhaven Marina, one of the largest marinas in the Southern Hemisphere, with views through the yacht masts to the city skyline and views back to the harbour bridge.

3. Free time

4. Night in Auckland

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -36.85270278983111, 174.76070697624255

2. Free day

Spend the day as a free day relaxing at the hotel or exploring on your own.

3. 10:00 AM - 4:45 PM - Optional Waiheke Island (arrive to meeting point on own). || -36.79553768011473, 175.10115018433441

Check in at Auckland’s Downtown Ferry Terminal. 10 AM Waiheke ferry to Waiheke Island. Upon arrival, meet your coach for a tour of the island renown for their craft and wineries, and laid-back life, also home to some luxury lodges. Enjoy an olive oil tasting at Allpress Olive Groves, followed by a two-course lunch and a glass of wine at Batch Winery. Head up to Cable Bay Vineyards for a tasting and finally wind your way back to your last stop with a wine tasting at Mudbrick Vineyard. At 4 PM, the tour ends at Matiatia Ferry Terminal to catch the Fullers360 Waiheke Walk-up ferry from pier 1, back to downtown Auckland. (Wineries to visit will be confirmed upon booking request, as it may varies from time to time due to private events and weddings). This will be an additional $160 per person. 

4. Optional All Black Experience Auckland Tour

Your time at the All Blacks Experience will include a 90 minute guided tour where you learn what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. This will include learning the story and feeling the passion behind the All Blacks haka, up close and personal. You can then test your rugby skills against All Blacks and Black Ferns in our hands on, interactive zone. This will be an additional $42 per person.

5. Optional Weta Unleashed Experience

A jaw-dropping, senses-shattering, awe-inspiring adventure into the heart of movie magic! Get hands-on and immerse yourself in an extraordinary world of practical effects, props and larger-than-life sets. On our award-winning tour, you can explore three movie projects imagined by our crew and uncover how we bring big screen concepts to life. Discover a mind-blowing world of robots, monsters, dinosaurs and more—step right into the action tosee, play and experiencemovie-making up close. This tour will be an additional $34 per person.

6. Free time

7. Night in Auckland

1. Breakfast at hotel. || -36.85270278983111, 174.76070697624255

2. Transfer from hotel to airport

3. Flight check in. || -45.019611867405004, 168.74527072380565

4. Departure from New Zealand