New Zealand & Australia Sample Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 : Depart USA

• Check in for your overnight flight to New Zealand

Day 2: En Route

• Cross the International Date Line and lose one day en route (which you'll recover on your return)

Day 3: Auckland

1 night Stamford Plaza, Auckland. Dinner.

• Arrive in Auckland, meet your guide, and transfer to your centrally located hotel
• Spend the rest of the day at leisure
• Enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel

Full Day Itinerary

On your arrival into Auckland, you will be met by our local representative and assisted to your private coach.

Known as the 'City of Sails', Auckland city extends over a narrow isthmus between the Waitemata Harbor on the Pacific Ocean, and the Manukau Harbor on the Tasman Sea.  Auckland has spectacular natural features, including 49 dormant volcanoes.  This cosmopolitan city has a population of around 1.4 million and the city’s subtropical climate, lush vegetation and easy access to the coast and outdoor activities consistently earns it a place in the top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys.   A melting pot of 190 different ethnicities, Auckland is the world’s biggest Polynesian city.  This diversity is reflected in the lively arts and culture scene, a wide range of food and craft markets, vineyards, a hip cafe culture and outstanding restaurants.  The dozens of islands of the Hauraki Gulf form a distinctive aspect of the Auckland landscape and provide a magnet for boaties, fishing enthusiasts and hikers.  En route to your hotel today, enjoy a City Sightseeing Tour including Auckland Museum and the Sky Tower.

Auckland’s War Memorial Museum shares exciting stories of the Pacific, New Zealand's people, the flora, fauna and land forms of the unique island within a memorial dedicated to those who have sacrificed their lives.  Located in one of New Zealand's most outstanding historical buildings, boldly situated in the Auckland Domain, enjoy a central city garden and encounter exhibitions that will excite you with the artistic legacy and cultures of the peoples of the Pacific; the monumental carvings, buildings, canoes and taonga (treasures) of the Maori and the diversity of cultures which now combine to form the rich tapestry of race, nationality and creed which is modern New Zealand.

A truly captivating experience awaits at Auckland's Sky Tower.  At 328 meters, it is the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand and offers breathtaking views for up to 80 kilometers in every direction.  Travel up in the glass-fronted lifts to one of the three spectacular viewing platforms, including the Sky Deck at 220 meters.

Day 4: Auckland – Waitomo - Rotorua

2 nights Millennium Hotel or similar, Rotorua.   Breakfast.

• Visit Waitomo Caves, New Zealand's most famous glowworm caverns
• Drive to Rotorua and check into your hotel

Full Day Itinerary

Leave the city by private coach, travel via the southern motorway and cross the Bombay Hills, before descending into the fertile Waikato Plains.  You travel through the small town of Ngaruawahia, home of the Maori King before then leaving the main highway, joining state highway 39 to Otorohanga.  From Otorohanga you continue southbound for a short while before turning off the highway for the final run to Waitomo Village. 

The Waitomo glowworm, Arachnocampa luminosa, is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light as our expert guides provide informative commentary on the Caves historical and geological significance.

Over the 45 minute guided tour, take in the spectacular Glowworm Cave with its majestic and ornate cave decorations, the deep limestone shaft known as the Tomo and the equally magnificent Cathedral cavern where New Zealand's own opera diva Kiri Te Kanawa once performed.   The guide will deliver an informative and entertaining commentary, sharing stories, cultural legends and the natural wonders of this living masterpiece.  Conclude the visit with a brief, yet remarkably moving, boat trip through the Glowworm Grotto.

Following your tour, rejoin your coach and pass through the farming center of Kihikihi.  Leaving the King Country, drive to Arapuni the site of one of the numerous dams which have been constructed on the Waikato River.  Travel to Putaruru which, although small, is one of the main timber milling centers in this rapidly expanding forestry region.  Continuing, pass through the Fitzgerald Glade and cross the heavily forested Mamaku Range to Lake Rotorua and the thermal area.

Rotorua is the center of an extensive thermal region.  Geysers, bubbling mud pools and steaming, sulfurous lakes give evidence of nature's frightening yet fascinating power. Rotorua and the surrounding lakes provide some of the world's best trout fishing.  The Maori culture contributes greatly to the attractions of this holiday city.  Here you can enjoy the culture and entertainment of our native Maori people.

Day 5: Rotorua

Breakfast & dinner included.

Full Day Itinerary

Well known for its geothermal activity with violent geysers, boiling mud pools, gentle hot springs, steaming cliffs and volcanoes, Rotorua is a must see destination. Home to Maori culture, the welcome from the indigenous people will make you feel part of the city. Take in the sights of Rotorua this morning with a scenic drive around Kuirau Park, Rotorua Lake Front and The Government Gardens where you will view the magnificent architecture of The Museum of Art and History. Your sightseeing tour today includes Rainbow Springs & Kiwi Encounter Behind the Scenes.

Enjoy a self-guided tour through the park which displays Rainbow Trout in their various stages of development, against a background of native flora and fauna.  Rainbow Springs also contains over 135 different native trees and ferns, from 60 foot tall tree ferns to tiny delicate maidenhair ferns.  Many of New Zealand's large native birds are on display in the aviaries and the nocturnal Kiwi House.  Take the opportunity to view a live kiwi, New Zealand’s naturally elusive national emblem, or hand feed and photograph the tame rainbow trout swimming in crystal clear pools.  Kiwi encounter offers a unique behind the scenes tour of a working kiwi nursery and hatchery.

Enjoy a guided walk through the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve by a Maori guide.  Stop at points of interest such as bubbling mud pools, mineral springs, silica formations and shooting geysers.  

Visit the Kiwi House with the opportunity to see the nocturnal Kiwi, New Zealand's national bird.  See the model village and explore the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute which provides an insight into Maori carving, customs and history before the Te Po – Maori concert and Hangi dinner.  The welcome ceremony commences with the blowing of a pukaea or putaratara (carved wooden trumpet or conch shell) by the kaimatire (lookout guard) posted in the puhara (defence tower). A toa (warrior) from the hometribe is sent out to challenge the elected male chief of the manuhiri (visitors) in an attempt to ascertain the reason for the visitors approach to the village; whether they come in friendliness or animosity.  At the conclusion of the challenge the hometribe warrior places a rakautapu (token) on the ground before visitors enter the traditional, fully-carved marae (Maori ancestral meeting house) as the women chant a welcome into the house.  A Maori chief officially welcomes guests and simple encounter rituals are performed.  The home tribe sings a traditional tribal song in support of their chief followed by a range of customary performances and authentic customs including the world famous haka (challenge).  View the hangi meal being lifted from the earth oven and enjoy the feast of cultural storytelling, entertainment and Maori Kai (indigenous food).  Visit the valley under the veil of darkness and finish the evening beside the awe inspiring Pohutu geyser enjoying Maori inspired delicacies and a hot drink.

Day 6: Rotorua - Wellington

3 nights James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor, Wellington. Breakfast.

• Visit Kaingaroa State Forest
• Drive via seaside resort communities of Waikanae & Paekakariki
• Learn about the native Maori culture at a unique dinner show

Full Day Itinerary

From Rotorua, travel by private coach through the Kaingaroa State Forest, among the largest man-made forests in the world.  Nearing the southern end of the thermal belt pass the geothermal power project at Wairakei, where steam is harnessed to provide electricity from forty deep bores.  From the top of the rise there is a magnificent view of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake.

Follow the shoreline and pass through Turangi, hub of the giant Tongariro hydroelectric Scheme.  While travelling along the 'Desert Road you will be able to see the snow-capped peaks of Mounts Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngaruahoe.  Descend to the extensive Manawatu Plains, and travel through Bulls and Levin.  Pass through the popular seaside resort communities of Waikanae and Paekakariki.  You will enter Wellington through its hilly northern suburbs.

Wellington, the Capital of New Zealand, is known for its vibrant arts scene, world class café and restaurant culture and active outdoor lifestyle.  This creative, cosmopolitan city is surrounded by the rugged beauty of green hills and has an easily walkable downtown area set around an attractive waterfront.

It offers a mixture of modern and older style buildings and the strong Victorian influence is testimony to Wellington's early establishment as the country's center of political life.  Of particular note is the Government Building built in 1876, the second largest timber building in the world.  Wellington combines the sophistication of a capital with the warmth and personality of a village.

Day 7: Wellington

Breakfast.

• Morning guided city tour
• Visit Te Papa Tongarewa (Museum of New Zealand)

Full Day Itinerary

Travel to the top of Mount Victoria which offers panoramic views of the central city, nearby suburbs, the picturesque harbor, Cook Strait and even the South Island on a clear day.  Visit the Botanical Gardens to see the Begonia House and Rose Gardens.  From the gardens view the Victoria University and the elegant houses which fill the surrounding hills.  Time permitting, take a tour of the 'Beehive' and Parliament Buildings.  See old St Paul's Church, administered by the Historic Places Trust.

Later, enjoy a guided tour of Te Papa Tongarewa (Museum of New Zealand). Experience the museum's highlights for an overview of what makes New Zealand unique. Explore the diverse natural environment, Mäori culture and treasures, art and colonial history. Discover this vibrant land, its dynamic culture, and the spirit of its people.

The remainder of the day will be free at your leisure. 

Day 8: Wellington

Breakfast.

Full Day Itinerary

Today you are free to explore Wellington at your leisure. These are some of the cities' top attractions we suggest:

- Guided walks with Flat Earth Tours or Walk Wellington

- Karori Wildlife Sanctuary. This is a beautiful 250-acre valley set around Karori Reservoir, currently being restored to its natural environment. 

- 45 minutes’ drive north from the city, Kapiti Island is NZ's premiere nature and marine reserve protecting some of the worlds’ most endangered bird species and marine life.  Access to the island is by booking through the Wellington Department of Conservation.

- Guided Tour of Parliament buildings

Optional Excursion:  Martinborough Gourmet Wine Tour - $125.00 per person

Depart by train for a scenic journey with stunning views of Wellington Harbor and the Wairarapa Valley.  Experience four boutique award-winning Martinborough vineyards.  Enjoy wine tastings throughout the day, a delicious local gourmet antipasto lunch in the charming wine village, a variety of gourmet delights and to finish, a delectable cheese platter and coffee.

Day 9: Wellington – Sydney

3 nights Grace Hotel, Sydney. Breakfast.

• Private airport transfers in Wellington & Sydney
• One-way flight (Wellington to Sydney)

Full Day Itinerary

Today you will be met and transferred to Wellington Airport to board your morning flight to Sydney where you will meet your guide and transfer to your centrally located hotel. Sydney's natural harbor serves as a major gateway to Australia, here you'll see many striking landmarks, and a variety of cosmopolitan shopping and dining. Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure.

Day 10: Sydney

Breakfast.

• Morning sightseeing tour of Sydney
• Afternoon free at leisure.

Full Day Itinerary

This morning you will visit the Rocks - Sydney's birthplace and see fascinating relics and buildings of the city's turbulent past. Enjoy a walkabout tour before you continue and pass the picturesque Botanical Gardens, the Conservatorium of Music, Art Gallery and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, stopping for spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House. Then it’s back to the city’s commercial centre, Darling Harbour and Chinatown.

Dreamtime Southern X, Sydney - The Rocks Dreaming Aboriginal Heritage Tour

This 90-minute walkabout tour in The Rocks is a perfect introduction to Aboriginal Culture, highlighting a perspective of Sydney’s Dreamtime heritage that is intimate, enlightening and informative. The tour starts at Cadman’s Cottage where it begins with an introduction and ochre painting activity. Visit Bligh and Barney's native flora reserve where the focus is on natural resources and the uses of lilly pilly, cabbage palm tree, casuarina, lomandra, bracken fern, grevillea and wollemi pine. Campbells Cove offers amazing views of Sydney Harbour and it's at this point you will learn about the saltwater lifestyle of the Gadigal people and the spiritual importance of the harbour, Opera House, Bennelong Point, Royal Botanical Gardens and Woccamagully. Finally stop at the Argyle Cut and discuss the importance of ochre (a natural paint). It exists in large clay pods on the wall of the Argyle Cut.

The afternoon will be free at your leisure.

 

Day 11: Sydney

Breakfast. 

Full Day Itinerary: Spend a final day of leisure in Sydney for independent sightseeing, browsing or shopping. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner at the Waterfront Restaurant. Built in 1839, the Waterfront restaurant is in the heart of Sydney and features magnificent views of the Opera House and harbor. The menu boasts a range of fresh Australian cuisine.

Day 12: Sydney/Melbourne

3 nights Clarion Suites Gateway, Melbourne. Breakfast. 

• Private airport transfers in Sydney and Melbourne
• One way flight – Sydney to Melbourne

Full Day Itinerary

Departure flight this afternoon for the beautiful Victorian city of Melbourne on the shores of Port Phillip Bay. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and enjoy the balance of the day at your leisure. 

Day 13: Melbourne

• Morning sightseeing tour of Melbourne
• Visit to Cooks Cottage

Full Day Itinerary

Depart today on your morning city tour of Melbourne. Discover Melbourne’s past and present. Travel through the central business district with its eclectic architecture, then past the Victorian Arts Center.  Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens and its imposing pyramid-style Shrine of Remembrance which dominates St. Kilda Road.

Continue through fashionable Toorak Village to the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens with avenues of huge English Elms planted along gently contoured lawns, giving them a serene beauty all year round.

Today you will visit Cooks' Cottage.  See inside Australia’s oldest building, stroll through a traditional cottage garden and imagine how the Cook family lived during the 18th century.  

Discover how this humble cottage built in England became a Melbourne icon and an important part of the city’s rich history.  Learn all about the world famous Captain James Cook, his amazing life, incredible voyages and his place in Australia’s history.  

Balance of the day free at your leisure.

Day 14: Melbourne

Breakfast.

Full Day Itinerary

Today is free at your leisure for independent activities.  Enjoy your free time for some independent exploring, go shopping, or just relax.

Day 15: Melbourne/Hobart (Tasmania)

1 night Hotel Grand Chancellor, Hobart. Breakfast.

• Private airport transfers in Melbourne and Hobart
• Flight – Melbourne to Hobart

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, you will be met and transferred to Melbourne Airport to board your flight to Hobart, Tasmania.

Despite not being nearly as famous as some of Australia’s other capitals, Hobart is definitely not without its charm. As Australia’s second-oldest city, it’s not only popular for its maritime atmosphere but also its rich colonial heritage. 

Your hotel is well positioned overlooking one of the world’s most picturesque and historic harbors.  Capturing panoramic views of the Derwent River or Mount Wellington and the city, this hotel offers a great location for access to the central business district, shopping and Hobart's many tourist attractions.  Enjoy contemporary dining at Restaurant Tasman or relax over a quiet drink in The Atrium Lounge Bar while taking in the magnificent views over the waterfront.

Day 16: Holbart/Cradle Mountain

1 night Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge. Breakfast.  

• Depart to Cradle Mountain
• Visit “Wicked Cheese Factory”

Full Day Itinerary

Early today, depart on your excursion to Cradle Mountain.  En route, you will visit the “Wicked Cheese Factory” where you will enjoy coffee, cake & cheese tasting of 8 cheeses

Later this evening, join your fellow group members for the “Cradle Mountain - After Dark Tour”.  View the Tasmanian Devil, Eastern and Spotted-tail Quoll, Tasmania’s three carnivorous marsupials, from the comfort of the Visitors Centre.

The After Dark Night Feeding tour commences with a DVD presentation followed by an explanation of the Centres conservation work and breeding programs.  This is followed by a walk outside throughout the breeding facility observing the animals within their environment.  Your guide will ensure that you get a close up encounter with these amazing animals. 

“Devils” are primarily a nocturnal species therefore far more active at night. Environmentally sensitive lighting and focus on the social interactions and feeding habits of these unique carnivores, allows visitors a rare up close opportunity of seeing Tasmanian devils in a group feeding situation - quite a spectacular sight!

Day 17: Cradle Mountain/Holbart

2 nights Hotel Grand Chancellor, Hobart.  Breakfast. 

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, enjoy some free time before returning to Hobart later this afternoon. Arrive to Hobart late afternoon.   The remainder of the evening will be free at your leisure.

Day 18: Holbart

Breakfast.

• Morning sightseeing tour of Hobart
• View Mount Wellington

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast today, depart on your city sightseeing and Mount Wellington tour.

Today, you will travel to the pinnacle of Mount Wellington, which forms a spectacular backdrop to Hobart and offers magnificent panoramic views. Travel past the historic Cascade Brewery, into Anglesea Barracks grounds, through Salamanca Place, view the oldest remaining theatre in Australia – “Theatre Royal” and the old world buildings of our waterfront, before arriving at the royal Botanical Gardens. Wander through these magnificent gardens at leisure, before crossing the Tasman Bridge to Rosny Point Lookout for views of Hobart from the Eastern Shore. 

The remainder of the day will be free at your leisure.

Day 19: Holbart/Depart

Breakfast.

• Bid farewell to Tasmania as you are escorted to Hobart airport for your return flight to the USA via Melbourne and Auckland
• Arrive in the USA later today

Trip Details

• What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
• Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Travel visas are required for this package. Please review the visa & entry requirements.
• Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Something else? Just ask!
• Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 21 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
• Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
• What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
• What should I know about Australia? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
• What should I know about New Zealand? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.