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Australia & New Zealand Highlights
Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki
Great Barrier Reef
Sydney, Australia
Koala at the Kuranda Koala Gardens
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Hobbiton Movie Set
Barron Falls
Blue Penguins
Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables
Tour Dates & Pricing
Enjoy the New Zealand Alps, Queenstown, the Great Barrier Reef, and magnificent wildlife on this 20-day tour. In the Land Down Under, look forward to three nights in beautiful Sydney, three nights in Melbourne, and three nights in Australia’s tropical north. In New Zealand, spend three nights on the North Island and four nights on the South Island exploring a variety of natural wonders including a Milford Sound cruise and spectacular Huka Falls. We even tour the Hobbiton™ Movie Set and attend a Maori Cultural performance!
Choose Your Departure Year:
Day 1 : Depart the USA
Following our included flight to Los Angeles International Airport, we meet our Tour Director and board an Air New Zealand flight bound for New Zealand. Enjoy tasty meals and attentive service.
Day 2 : New Zealand Bound
When we cross the International Date Line, we lose a calendar day.
Day 3 : Auckland
This morning we arrive in Auckland, the largest Polynesian city in the Southern Hemisphere. After clearing customs we enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city including America’s Cup Village, lively Queen Street, and the Harbor Bridge. We visit Kelly Tarlton’s SEA LIFE Aquarium, a top attraction. We see the world’s largest sub-Antarctic penguin colony display, the magical Seahorse Kingdom, and take an underwater journey to discover a diverse collection of aquatic life up-close. We take a pleasant countryside drive to the riverside city of Hamilton and arrive at our lodging at the Novotel Hamilton Tainui Hotel. One of the country’s fastest growing cities, Hamilton is the perfect place to experience friendly Kiwi hospitality.
Day 4 : Hobbiton & Lake Taupo
We travel to Alexander Sheep & Cattle Farm in Matamata, a combination working sheep farm and Hobbiton™, The Shire™ from Middle-earth™. Our visit includes a drive through the picturesque 1,250-acre farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges and a guided tour of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. The set has been completely rebuilt and remains as it was seen in these films. During our tour we see Hobbit Holes™, The Green Dragon Inn™, the mill, the double-arched bridge, and other structures and gardens built for this beloved imaginary world. For lunch, we enjoy a traditional pasture-to-plate meal at The Red Barn, a 500-acre working dairy farm. Originally built at the turn of the previous century as a livery stable for horses journeying across the greater Waikato, The Red Barn showcases the very best of New Zealand cuisine and country hospitality. Later this afternoon we arrive in the town of Taupo that sits next to New Zealand’s largest lake. Taupo is home to award-winning attractions, activities, and breathtaking lake and mountain views. Our lodging for two nights is at the Hilton Lake Taupo, featuring spacious rooms overlooking the thermally heated pool. Dinner is at the hotel’s elegant Bistro Lago.
Day 5 : Orakei Korako & Maori Concert
We begin with a visit to Orakei Korako, one of the finest thermal areas in the world. On our walk through the Hidden Valley, we’ll see silica terraces, boiling pools, geysers, and a rare geothermal cave. After lunch at leisure in Taupo’s town center, we cruise the Waikato River and witness impressive Huka Falls, New Zealand’s most visited natural wonder. Tonight we enjoy an authentic Maori hangi feast including a customary cooking method that prepares food in an underground pit oven followed by powerful song and dance from the traditional culture.
Day 6 : Gateway to Fiordland
This morning we fly to the South Island and travel through sheep-filled farmland to Te Anau, the “Gateway to Fiordland” and closest town to Milford Sound. This town is on the shores of beautiful Lake Te Anau, the serene deep water of this largest lake on the island bordered by virgin forest. Enjoy the spectacular backdrop of Mount Luxmore and the Murchison Mountains. Tonight we dine at the MacKinnon Restaurant and overnight at the Distinction Te Anau Hotel.
Day 7 : Milford Sound Cruise
Today we travel deep into Fiordland National Park where the beech forests reach the road’s edge and snow-capped peaks tower above. We journey through the beautiful Eglinton Valley to the Homer Tunnel before descending through the spectacular Cleddau Canyon, reaching Milford Sound. Our cruise takes us past Mitre Peak, rising over 5,500 feet. We’ll pass by the phenomenal Stirling Falls and Bowen Falls. Cascading at more than 500 feet, these falls flow from valleys formed by receding glaciers. Watch for sea lions and a variety of birds. We return to Te Anau and continue our journey, crossing pasturelands to the Millennium Hotel Queenstown for a relaxing two-night stay. Queenstown sits on the rippling shores of the South Island’s Lake Wakatipu, set against the dramatic 7,000-foot Remarkables mountain range.
Day 8 : Queenstown
Enjoy a private homemade breakfast at the Kiwi & Birdlife Park. After breakfast we have the rare opportunity to meet New Zealand’s most iconic bird. Specially designed nocturnal houses allow us to view the kiwi during the day. Later we visit the historic and picturesque “gold rush” settlement of Arrowtown, viewing the Kawarau River suspension bridge where bungee jumpers come for thrills from all over the world. The remainder of the day is free to enjoy New Zealand’s adventure capital with jet boating, golf, picturesque walks, and abundant restaurants and shops in one of the most scenic settings in the world.
Day 9 : Southern Alps
This morning we travel across the Fruitlands of Central Otago, famous for the production of summer fruits like apricots, peaches, nectarines and plums. We travel over Lindis Pass and through the tussock-covered plains of Mackenzie Country towards Mount Cook National Park. The park has some of the most spectacular peaks in the Southern Alps. We drive along Lake Pukaki to Lake Tekapo, nestled among snowy peaks. The glacial blue waters of this lake are among the most photographed sights in New Zealand. We stop to view the Church of the Good Shepherd and the bronze statue of a sheep dog, erected as a tribute to the important role played by these animals in the development of high country farming. We cross the picturesque farmland of the Canterbury Plains en route to our overnight accommodations at the Distinction Christchurch Hotel.
Day 10 : Australia
Today we bid farewell to New Zealand and fly to Sydney, Australia’s most vibrant city. On arrival we transfer to our comfortable three-night home at the central Rydges World Square Hotel.
Day 11 : Sydney Sights & Opera House
This morning we discover Sydney’s many interesting landmarks. View the famous Harbor Bridge, the longest single span bridge in the world. Enjoy the Royal Botanic Gardens, Hyde Park, bustling Kings Cross, and popular Bondi Beach. We’ll tour the Sydney Opera House, one of the great manmade wonders of the modern world. During our luncheon in the Sydney Tower Revolving Restaurant we see panoramic views of the harbor and city. Later there’s time to visit Darling Harbor, Sydney’s most popular destination for leisure and entertainment, with more than 40 restaurants, cafes, museums, parks, theaters, and specialty shops.
Day 12 : Harbor Cruise & The Rocks
We enjoy Sydney’s sparkling waterfront playground during a delightful Captain Cook Harbor Cruise. Gain a glimpse of the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge, sail past pristine parks, golden beaches, and charming harborside neighborhoods. Later we visit The Rocks, Sydney’s original city center and now one of its most affluent districts. Enjoy the beautifully restored buildings, spectacular views across the harbor, and quaint cobblestone pathways of this historic neighborhood.
Day 13 : Tropical Cairns
Today we fly to tropical Cairns in Far North Queensland. This is the gateway city to many of Australia’s natural wonders including the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy three pleasant nights at The Flynn Hotel Cairns adjacent to the waterfront esplanade. This stunning five-star hotel features three restaurants and bars, glass swimming pools, and Eléme Day Spa and Wellness Center.
Day 14 : Kuranda Scenic Train & Skyrail
Enjoy one of the most spectacular rail excursions in the world on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Our journey reveals lush, wondrous World Heritage rainforest, steep ravines, and picturesque waterfalls within Barron Gorge National Park. Later we visit the fascinating Kuranda Koala Gardens. This award-winning native Australian wildlife attraction features some of Australia’s most popular wildlife. A highlight is the unique opportunity to actually hold a koala and hand-feed tame kangaroos and wallabies. After lunch at Frogs Restaurant we have the choice of visiting Birdworld Kuranda or the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary. There’s time to visit the Kuranda Heritage Markets before we descend the MacAlister Range on Skyrail, a 4.7 mile gondola cableway. Enjoy spectacular views of the rainforest, Coral Sea, and lush Cairns Highlands as we glide over the dense rainforest canopy.
Day 15 : Great Barrier Reef & Scenic Helicopter Ride
We experience one of the highlights of our tour, a visit to the Great Barrier Reef. We cruise to Moore Reef located on the outer edge of the reef, the world’s largest living organism. The reef is one of Australia’s greatest national treasures and stretches more than 1,200 miles along the coast. We view vividly colored tropical fish and coral from the reef viewer, underwater observatory, and glass-bottom boat. Learn about the interesting fish and marine life that inhabit this underwater wonderland. Enjoy breathtaking sights of the Great Barrier Reef on a scenic helicopter ride. Swim, snorkel, or relax in this beautiful marine setting.
Day 16 : Melbourne
We fly to the charming Victorian capital of Melbourne, renowned for its lovely parks and gardens. Our three-night home is at the Oaks on Market. The remainder of the day is free to wander along Southbank’s waterfront and Crowne Casino precinct or Melbourne’s famous hidden laneways and pedestrian arcades.
Day 17 : Penguin Parade & Wildlife Park
This morning we travel through the picturesque Yarra Valley to sample chocolates at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. The chocolatiers at work create over 150 different types of chocolate. Later we visit Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary, home to over 200 species of Australian birds, mammals, and reptiles in a natural setting. Next we go to Phillip Island, a sanctuary for seals and birds. Our day concludes with perhaps our most unique wildlife encounter as we witness the world-famous penguin parade. As the sun sets over this beautiful landscape we’ll get an up-close and personal view of the world’s smallest penguins as they return home to one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia.
Day 18 : Melbourne Star & Mitre Tavern
Today our guided city tour of Melbourne includes Fitzroy Gardens, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Queen Victoria Market, and a view of the impressive Parliament House and the Shrine of Remembrance. Later we soar above the city on the giant Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and dine at the historic Mitre Tavern Steakhouse located in the city’s oldest building.
Day 19 : Los Angeles
We bid farewell to Australia. Cross the International Date Line and regain a day, arriving in Los Angeles early in the afternoon. Accommodations are near LAX International Airport.
Day 20 : Homeward
This morning our adventure comes to an end, but the friendships and memories will last forever.
October 18, 2021 - November 6, 2021
Occupancy
Price Per Person
Double
$8799
Single
$10399
Final Payment Date: 08/04/2021
October 25, 2021 - November 13, 2021
Final Payment Date: 08/11/2021
Airport Pickups
Choose a State:
Birmingham - Birmingham Municipal Airport
Fayetteville/Bentonville - Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport
Little Rock - Little Rock National Airport
Phoenix - Sky Harbor International Airport
Los Angeles - Los Angeles International Airport
Orange County - John Wayne Airport
San Diego - San Diego International Airport
San Francisco - San Francisco International Airport
Denver - Denver International Airport
Hartford - Bradley International Airport
Washington - Ronald Reagan National Airport
Washington - Washington Dulles International
Fort Lauderdale - Fort Lauderdale International Airport
Fort Myers - Southwest Florida International Airport
Jacksonville - Jacksonville International Airport
Miami - Miami International Airport
Orlando - Orlando International Airport
Tallahassee - Tallahassee Regional Airport
Tampa - Tampa International Airport
West Palm Beach - Palm Beach Gardens
Atlanta - Hartsfield International Airport
Cedar Rapids - Eastern Iowa Airport
Des Moines - Des Moines International Airport
Boise - Boise Airport
Chicago - O'Hare International Airport
Moline - Quad City Airport
Evansville - Evansville Regional Airport
Fort Wayne - Fort Wayne International Airport
Indianapolis - Indianapolis International Airport
South Bend - South Bend International Airport
Wichita - Mid-Continent Airport
Lexington - Blue Grass Field Airport
Louisville - Louisville International Airport
Baton Rouge - Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport
Lafayette - Lafayette Regional Airport
New Orleans - New Orleans International Airport
Shreveport - Shreveport Regional Airport
Boston - Logan International Airport
Baltimore - Baltimore Washington International
Detroit - Wayne County Airport
Grand Rapids - Gerald R. Ford International Airport
Kalamazoo - Kalamazoo-Battle Creek Airport
Lansing - Capital Region International Airport
Saginaw - MBS International Airport
Duluth - Duluth International Airport
Minneapolis - Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport
Rochester - Rochester International Airport
Kansas City - Kansas City International Airport
Springfield - Springfield-Branson National Airport
St Louis - Lambert St. Louis International Airport
Gulfport - Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport
Jackson - Jackson International Airport
Billings - Billings Logan International Airport
Bozeman - Bozeman-Yellowstone International Airport
Missoula - Missoula County Airport
Charlotte - Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Greensboro - Piedmont Triad International Airport
Raleigh - Raleigh-Durham International Airport
Bismarck - Bismarck Airport
Fargo - Hector International Airport
Grand Forks - Grand Forks International Airport
Lincoln - Lincoln Airport
Omaha - Eppley Airfield
Newark - Newark International Airport
Albuquerque - Albuquerque International Airport
Las Vegas - McCarran International Airport
Albany - Albany International Airport
Buffalo - Buffalo-Niagara International Airport
New York - Kennedy International Airport
New York - La Guardia Airport
Rochester - Greater Rochester International Airport
Syracuse - Hancock International Airport
Cincinnati - Cincinnati-NKY International Airport
Cleveland - Hopkins International Airport
Columbus - John Glenn Columbus International Airport
Dayton - Dayton International Airport
Oklahoma City - Will Rogers World Airport
Tulsa - Tulsa International Airport
Portland - Portland International Airport
Allentown - Lehigh Valley International Airport
Harrisburg - Harrisburg International Airport
Philadelphia - Philadelphia International Airport
Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh International Airport
Charleston - Charleston International Airport
Greer - Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport
Rapid City - Rapid City Regional Airport
Sioux Falls - Sioux Falls Regional Airport
Knoxville - McGhee-Tyson Airport
Memphis - Memphis International Airport
Nashville - Nashville International Airport
Austin - Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Dallas - Dallas/Ft Worth International
Houston - George Bush Intercontinental
San Antonio - San Antonio International Airport
Salt Lake City - Salt Lake City International Airport
Norfolk - Norfolk International Airport
Richmond - Richmond International Airport
Seattle - Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
Spokane - Spokane International Airport
Appleton - Appleton International Airport
Baldwin - Groome Transportation
Eau Claire - Groome Transportation
Green Bay - Austin Straubel International Airport
Hudson - Groome Transportation
La Crosse - Groome Transportation
Madison - Dane County Regional Airport
Menomonie - Groome Transportation
Milwaukee - Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport
Mosinee - Central Wisconsin Airport
Charleston - Yeager Airport
Tour days tend to be shorter in length, at a relaxed pace, and include lots of unscheduled time for leisure. Expect standing and walking for extended periods of time on flat surfaces, mostly low altitudes, and consistent temperatures.
Tour days usually move at a leisurely pace. Some days’ scheduled activities last longer than others. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on occasionally uneven terrain. You may experience changes in altitude or temperature.
Tour days tend to be long, move at a consistent pace, and may include long travel days. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on uneven surfaces. Some destinations may have changes in altitude and/or temperature.
Tour days tend to be long, move at a brisk pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on uneven surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.
Tour days tend to be long, move at a vigorous pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on rough surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.