Australia and New Zealand Uncovered (Wellington to Cairns) (2024)

Begin your journey by immersing yourself in the vibrant cultures of New Zealand and Australia. Experience the unique blend of wildlife and urban life, deeply rooted in tradition yet constantly evolving. Discover the rich heritage of the South Pacific, exploring the Maori lifestyle and the Aboriginal roots of Australia.

Arrive in Wellington, New Zealand's vibrant capital, where the Maori culture pulses through the city. Enjoy the seaside charm and gourmet cuisine as you explore this colorful city. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a delightful welcome dinner.

Experience a traditional Maori powhiri, a ceremonial welcome, and marvel at the intricately carved wakas. Gain exclusive access to an archaeological site and savor a Hangi dish, a traditional Maori meal. Explore the roots of Maori culture at the Te Papa Museum.

Sail across the picturesque Cook Strait to the South Island, surrounded by lush mountains. Arrive in Nelson, the island's oldest city, and enjoy an evening at leisure exploring its vibrant art scene and culinary delights.

Visit the lively Nelson Market, where you can chat with artisans and explore Kiwi crafts. Continue to Kaiteriteri, a coastal paradise, and sail through the stunning Abel Tasman National Park. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the scenic Anchorage Bay.

Travel to Punakaiki to witness the unique limestone formations known as Pancake Rocks. Feel the ocean spray as waves crash against these natural wonders. Enjoy a beachfront dinner at your hotel, surrounded by dramatic landscapes.

Begin your day in Hokitika, exploring the stunning Hokitika Gorge. Return to town for a tour and some leisure time. Later, travel to Franz Josef, where you can search for New Zealand jade or explore the local shops and eateries.

Choose your adventure in Franz Josef. Explore the glacier with a local guide or visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre to learn about kiwi conservation. Enjoy free time to relax, perhaps soaking in the thermal waters of the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools. Conclude your day with dinner at the hotel.

Travel through lush rainforests and along the wild west coast, with breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and the Southern Alps. Pause in Wanaka, a tranquil town by a mountain-lined lake, before continuing to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world, where you'll stay for the next three nights.

Experience the rugged beauty of the Hollyford Valley and cruise along the dramatic Milford Sound. Marvel at the towering cliffs and natural splendor. After the cruise, you may opt for a scenic flight back to Queenstown, offering spectacular views of the Southern Alps.

Enjoy a day of adventure in Queenstown. Consider an optional tour on Lake Wakatipu aboard a coal-fired steamship, followed by a BBQ lunch and a sheepdog demonstration. The day is yours to explore as you wish.

Bid farewell to New Zealand and fly to Sydney, Australia's largest city. Begin your Australian adventure in this bustling metropolis, known for its vibrant waterfront and iconic landmarks.

Embark on a city tour of Sydney, exploring the historic Rocks neighborhood and the bustling Circular Quay. Stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens and delve into Aboriginal culture. Enjoy a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House, followed by a dinner cruise through Sydney Harbour as the sun sets.

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Sydney with your hop-on, hop-off bus passes. Visit Bondi Beach for its surf culture, explore local museums, or take in the sights at Darling Harbour. The day is yours to explore this vibrant city.

Fly to Adelaide, the cosmopolitan heart of South Australia. Indulge in a wine tasting at the eccentric d'Arenberg Cube, known for its unique architecture and vibrant surroundings. Discover why this winery is dubbed the 'Willy Wonka of Wines.'

Embark on a culinary journey through the Barossa Valley, renowned for its fine food and wine. Visit a local farmstead for a private cooking demonstration, followed by a tour and tasting at the historic Seppeltsfield Winery. Enjoy a delicious lunch amidst the vineyards.

Fly to Uluru, where the massive red rock rises majestically from the earth. Explore the base of Uluru on a guided tour, learning about the Aboriginal heritage. In the evening, enjoy the Sounds of Silence dinner under a starry sky, overlooking this iconic natural wonder.

Say farewell to the outback and fly to Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Spend the evening at leisure, exploring this tropical city and preparing for your underwater adventure.

Sail to the Low Isles aboard a high-speed catamaran to explore the Great Barrier Reef. Choose from a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, sunbathing, or taking a glass-bottomed boat tour. Meet with a marine biologist or join a heritage trail walk on the island.

Embark on a short cruise to a wetland environment, where Traditional Aboriginal Owners welcome you with a ceremony. Learn about native foods, bush medicines, and ancient traditions. Spend the afternoon at leisure in Cairns, and enjoy a farewell dinner reflecting on your journey.

Conclude your unforgettable tour of New Zealand and Australia. Reflect on the diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and memorable experiences as you prepare for your journey home.