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Exceptional Accommodations
Sunset Penguin Parade at Phillip Island
Milford Sound Cruise
Māori Cultural Performance & Feast
Hobbiton™ Movie Set
Embark on the ultimate tour of these two Southwest Pacific islands, featuring 12 days in Australia and 10 days in New Zealand. In the Land Down Under, look forward to three-night stays in beautiful Sydney, Victorian Melbourne, rugged Tasmania, and Queensland's tropical north. Explore the Great Barrier Reef on a spectacular cruise and helicopter flight. Venture along Sydney's famous harbor, tour the iconic Sydney Opera House, and witness a variety of native wildlife at Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary, Natures Wonders, and Koala Gardens. In New Zealand, spend three nights on the North Island and six nights on the South Island. Immerse yourself in rich history with a visit to Larnach Castle & Gardens, tour the famous Hobbiton™ Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings, and discover a variety of natural wonders, including a Milford Sound cruise and the Orakei Korako Thermal Park.
Trip overview may vary by departure.
Highlights
Explore Tasmania
Discover Australia’s island state, where every corner holds natural wonders and historical gems. Find your adventurous side as we walk above the ancient treetops at Tahune Forest Airwalk with bird’s-eye views of the vast Huon River Valley below
Great Barrier Reef & Scenic Helicopter Ride
What would a voyage to Australia be without a visit to its greatest natural wonder? The reef is one of the country’s greatest national treasures and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, stretching more than 1,200 miles along the coast. Dolphins, whales, dugongs, sea turtles, and over 1,500 species of fish call this place their home. Enjoy a swim, snorkel, semi-submersible observatory, glass-bottom boat ride, and helicopter flight.
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Board a historic train for an awe-inspiring journey through Barron Gorge National Park in Far North Queensland’s World Heritage-listed rainforest. Travel through narrow valleys between steep hillsides with cascading waterfalls while taking in views of otherworldly beauty that can only be witnessed on this railway. We also enjoy a stop at tropical Kuranda Village to browse local goods at its famous markets.
- Day 1: Depart the USAFollowing our included flight to Los Angeles International Airport, we meet our Tour Director and board an Air New Zealand flight bound for Australia. Enjoy tasty meals and attentive service.
- Day 2: Australia BoundWhen we cross the International Date Line, we lose a calendar day.
- Day 3: MelbourneEarly this morning we arrive in Auckland and transfer to our flight bound for Australia. We clear customs in the charming Victorian capital of Melbourne renowned for its lovely parks and gardens. The remainder of the day is free to wander along Southbank’s Waterfront precinct, visit the Victorian Art Center, Crown Casino, or Chinatown.
- Day 4: Melbourne Tour & Welcome LunchAfter an included breakfast, we embark on our guided city tour of Melbourne. Some of the highlights we visit include Fitzroy Gardens, Flinders Street Station, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Queen Victoria Market, and Parliament House. Our next stop is the Royal Botanic Gardens, an integral part of this area’s biodiversity since it was founded in 1846. Here, we have time to stroll through a collection of over 8,500 species of plants from around the world. We then gather at Bear Brass for a wonderful Welcome Lunch before spending the remainder of the day at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
- Day 5: Penguin Parade & Wildlife ParkThis 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 set in a natural environment. 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.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 6: TasmaniaOur day begins with a flight to Hobart, Tasmania's wild and untamed wonders await. Nearly one third of the Island State is protected within its 14 national parks. We visit Richmond, one of Australia’s most historic villages, to take in the nostalgic charm of colonial days that’s present in the Georgian mansions, cottages, convict jail, bridge, and Catholic church. Later, we tour Hobart and enjoy breathtaking views of the town from Mount Wellington. This evening, we check in to our hotel for the next few nights and enjoy a wonderful, included dinner.
Meals Included: Dinner
- Day 7: Eco-Cruise & Port ArthurToday’s adventure kicks off with a spectacular three-hour guided eco-cruise along the spectacular coastline of Tasman National Park. Experience the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere, enter deep-sea caves, and see playful dolphins, hundreds of seals, and various bird species, including albatross. After an included lunch, we visit the Port Arthur Historic Site. This settlement was a bold experiment and ground-breaking attempt to reform and rehabilitate the colony’s convicts. Port Arthur was a key part of the colonial system of convict discipline, but it was much more than just a prison. As we walk within the site, the powerful, personal stories of convicts, soldiers, and free settlers and their families reveal themselves to us.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
- Day 8: Tahune AirWalkThis morning, we stroll through the treetops of pristine forest at the Tahune Forest AirWalk. The steel walkway footbridge averages up to 90 feet above the forest floor with the last section, the cantilever, sitting 150 feet above the Huon River. We then enjoy a lunch of locally inspired dishes at the charming, historic Kermandie Hotel with fantastic food and views. Afterwards, we tour the picturesque Huon River Valley and visit the Wooden Boat Center to marvel at the beautiful timber boats that have been crafted by hand for 25 years before we return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
- Day 9: Tropical CairnsToday, we depart Hobart and 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. Our accommodations at the Crystalbrook Flynn in Cairns are adjacent to the waterfront and esplanade. This stunning five-star hotel has everything you need to enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure with three restaurants and bars, glass swimming pools, and the Eléme Day Spa and Wellness Center.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 10: Kuranda Scenic Railway & SkyrailThis morning, we board the Kuranda Scenic Railway to enjoy one of the most spectacular rail excursions in the world. Our journey reveals lush, wondrous World Heritage rainforest, steep ravines, and picturesque waterfalls within Barron Gorge National Park. Later we visit the Kuranda Koala Gardens for an opportunity to pet a koala and hand-feed tamed kangaroos and wallabies. After lunch, we visit Birdworld Kuranda, a natural habitat of over 60 native species including the endangered and stately cassowaries. There’s also time to visit the colorful Kuranda Heritage Markets before we descend the MacAlister Range on the gondola cableway, Skyrail. Listen for the sounds of the sulfur crested cockatoo, and enjoy spectacular views of the rainforest highlands, Cairns, and the Coral Sea as we glide over dense forest canopy. We then return to our luxurious hotel for the evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
- Day 11: Great Barrier Reef & Scenic Helicopter RideToday, we experience a top highlight of our tour, a visit to one of the seven wonders of the natural world, the Great Barrier Reef. We cruise to the outer edge of the reef and discover the world’s largest living organism. This is the largest coral reef system in the world and one of Australia’s greatest national treasures, stretching 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 fish and marine life in this underwater wonderland and enjoy unrivaled birds-eye views on an included scenic helicopter flight.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
- Day 12: SydneyWe fly to Sydney, Australia’s most vibrant city. On arrival we transfer to our hotel and the remainder of the day is free.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 13: City Sights & Opera HouseThis 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 man-made wonders of the modern world. Enjoy lunch today in The Rocks, Sydney’s original city center and now one of its most affluent districts. Marvel at beautifully restored buildings and spectacular views across the harbor. This neighborhood’s quaint cobblestone pathways are home to colorful markets filled with more than 200 eclectic shops selling locally-produced home wares, beauty products, and original photography, art, crafts, and jewelry.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 14: Harbor CruiseToday, we enjoy Sydney’s sparkling waterfront playground during a delightful harbor cruise sailing past pristine parks, golden beaches, and charming harborside neighborhoods. During our luncheon in the Infinity at Sydney Tower, 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.
Meals Included: Lunch
- Day 15: Christchurch, New ZealandWe bid farewell to Australia this morning and fly to Christchurch, located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. We arrive late afternoon to check in to our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure
- Day 16: Glacial Lakes & Southern AlpsThis morning, we travel through picturesque patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains and enter the Geraldine foothills and expansive Mackenzie Country. We stop to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd overlooking Lake Tekapo’s pristine waters where we view the bronze statue of a sheep dog, symbolizing the important role these animals have played in the development of high country farming. We then drive along Lake Pukaki’s shimmering, turquoise glacial waters while enjoying the spectacular backdrop of Mount Cook and the Southern Alps. We journey over Lindis Pass and through the tussock-covered plains of Mackenzie Country to the Fruitlands of Central Otago, famous for its summer fruit production including apricots, peaches, nectarines, and plums. Our memorable day ends at the Millennium Hotel Queenstown in the city situated on the rippling shores of Lake Wakatipu and set against the dramatic 7,000-foot Remarkables mountains.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 17: Kiwi ParkAfter breakfast at the hotel, we visit Kiwi Park for a rare opportunity to meet New Zealand’s most iconic bird, the kiwi, in specially designed nocturnal houses that allow us to view them during the day. Later, we visit the historic “gold rush” settlement of Arrowtown and stop at 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.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 18: Milford Sound CruiseToday, we travel to Fiordland National Park through beech forests and the beautiful Eglinton Valley to the Homer Tunnel before descending through Cleddau Canyon, reaching Milford Sound. Our cruise takes us past Mitre Peak, rising over 5,500 feet, as well as the phenomenal Stirling and Bowen Falls. Cascading more than 500 feet, these falls flow from valleys formed by receding glaciers. Watch for majestic wildlife throughout our journey, such as sea lions and a variety of birds. Our accommodations tonight are nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau with a spectacular backdrop of Mount Luxmore and the Murchison Mountains.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 19: Larnach Castle & DunedinFollowing breakfast, we depart Te Anau and travel through some of New Zealand’s most populated sheep country. Passing by Lumsden and Gore, we arrive in Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage and Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Enjoy lunch on your own and gaze upon some of the city’s iconic attractions, such as Speights Brewery, the University of Otago, the world’s steepest street, and First Church of Otago. Afterwards, we visit the historic Larnach Castle & Gardens, nestled on picturesque Otago Peninsula. With its exciting and, at times, scandalous and tragic history, our self-guided tour of the castle and gardens offers a vision of the past and present. Marvel at magnificent carved ceilings, antiques, and breathtaking views. We then return to Dunedin for an evening at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 20: Natures Wonders and Toitū Settlers MuseumToday, we travel to Natures Wonders for an amazing wildlife experience. This family-owned conservation has a focus on restoring nature, with all native trees planted on the 650 acres of protected land. Throughout our guided tour, we see some of the world’s rarest penguins in their natural habitats, along with fur seals and albatross. Later, we visit the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, dedicated to telling the story of the Dunedin people whose character, culture, technology, art, fashion, and transportation shaped the surrounding area and New Zealand’s first great city. Tonight, we come together for an included dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 21: Lake TaupoThis morning, we fly to the North Island and transfer to the quaint town of Taupo, located on the edge of New Zealand’s largest lake. Taupo is home to awardwinning attractions, activities, and breathtaking lake and mountain vistas. Our lodging is at Hilton Lake Taupo, featuring spacious rooms overlooking the heated pool. Enjoy dinner tonight at a local favorite, Vine Eatery & Bar.
Meals Included: Dinner
- Day 22: Orakei Korako & Maori ConcertWe begin our day with a visit to Orakei Korako, one of the finest thermal areas in the world. On our walk through the Hidden Valley, we see silica terraces, boiling pools, geysers, and a geothermal cave. After lunch at leisure in Taupo’s town center, we cruise the Waikato River and witness the impressive Huka Falls, New Zealand’s most visited natural wonder. Tonight, we enjoy an authentic Māori 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.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 23: Hobbiton™ & The Red BarnWe spend the first half of our day at Alexander Sheep & Cattle Farm in Matamata, a working sheep farm and home to Hobbiton™, The Shire™ from Middle-earth™. Our visit includes a drive through the picturesque 1,250-acre farm with spectacular views across 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, we take a pleasant drive to Cambridge in the heart of rural Waikato, an inviting country town characterized by quaint charm and tree-lined streets. Tonight, we have the evening at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
- Day 24: AucklandThis morning, we travel to Auckland, the largest Polynesian city in the Southern Hemisphere. We visit SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, one of the city’s top attractions. Here, we view the world’s largest sub-Antarctic penguin colony display and the magical Seahorse Kingdom, then take an underwater journey to discover a diverse collection of aquatic life up close. After an included lunch, we ascend Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower, the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand, offering breathtaking views in every direction. Later, we embark on a brief sightseeing tour of the city including American’s Cup Village, lively Queen Street, and the Harbor Bridge, before heading to the airport for our evening flight to Los Angeles. We cross the International Date Line and gain a day, arriving early in the afternoon.
Meals Included: Lunch
- Day 25: Homeward
Oct 14 - Nov 7, 2025
$15,299
per person
$12,999
per person
Jul 31, 2025
Tour Director:
Directors are not guaranteed and subject to change.
What's Included
All Accommodations
- 3 nights in Melbourne
- 3 nights at the Vibe Hotel Hobart
- 3 nights at Crystalbrook Flynn in Cairns
- 3 nights at the Rydges World Square Hotel in Sydney
- 1 night at Distinction Christchurch Hotel
- 2 nights in Queenstown
- 1 night at Distinction Te Anau Hotel
- 2 nights at Distinction Dunedin Hotel
- 2 nights at Hilton Lake Taupo
- 1 night at Hidden Lake Hotel in Cambridge
- 1 night near the Los Angeles International Airport
Attractions & Highlights
- Melbourne sights
- Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary
- Penguins at Phillip Island
- Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
- Hobart & Historic Richmond
- Tasman Island Cruise
- Port Arthur Historic Site
- Tahune Forest AirWalk feat. Huon River Valley
- Wooden Boat Center
- Tropical Cairns
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
- Kuranda Koala Gardens featuring "Cuddle a Koala" & Souvenir Photo
- Choice of Birdworld Kuranda or Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
- Ride Kuranda Scenic Railway
- Great Barrier Reef cruise, scenic helicopter flight, reef viewer & glass-bottom boat (subject to weather)
- Captain Cook Harbor Cruise
- Christchurch, New Zealand
- Queenstown & Lake Wakatipu
- Kiwi Park
- Fiordland National Park
- Larnach Castle & Gardens
- Natures Wonders
- Dunedin city tour
- Toitū Otago Settlers Museum
- Huka Falls River Cruise
- Orakei Korako Thermal Park
- Hobbiton™ Movie Set
- SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium
- Auckland Sky Tower
30 Excellent Meals
- Tropical breakfasts in Cairns
- Lunch at Frogs Restaurant in Kuranda
- Lunch at the Sydney Tower
- Dinner at the MacKinnon Restaurant in Te Anau
- Dinner at Vine Eatery & Bar in Taupo
- Maori cultural performance & feast in Taupo
- Pasture-to-plate dining experience at The Red Barn in Karapiro
Learn more about what's included with the Holiday Advantage.
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