Highlights of Australia with New Zealand Add-on

Days 2 & 3 Melbourne

After arriving early on day 3, we'll drive you to your hotel in Melbourne where you’ll have time to relax and freshen up after the journey. You’ll have time to settle in before setting off on a tour of Melbourne this afternoon. Highlights include Federation Square, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Flinders Street Station and the Grand Prix Circuit that circles Albert Park Lake. Another stop is Fitzroy Gardens, which features pathways lined with towering elms, colourful floral displays and the Fairies' Tree sculpture - a centuries-old tree stump featuring delightful carvings.

Day 4 Melbourne - at Leisure

After getting to know Melbourne on yesterday’s tour, you can slow the pace a little and spend the day exploring at your own pace. You could perhaps take a leisurely stroll through the city’s Royal Botanic Gardens or wander through the laneways admiring colourful street art and browsing hidden boutiques.

You might be tempted to join an optional visit to Phillip Island to see the remarkable penguin parade. At sunset, after a hard day's fishing, hundreds of these delightful creatures - the world's smallest penguin - appear from out of the ocean and waddle their way across the beach to their sand dune burrows. You can take in this marvellous spectacle from special viewing platforms.

Day 5 Melbourne - Sydney

We're flying to Sydney this morning, where you'll stay for the next three nights. When we arrive, a coach will be waiting to take us on an afternoon sightseeing tour. Tick off the gorgeous white sands of Bondi Beach and Hyde Park, which is home to numerous monuments including the ANZAC Memorial. You'll also visit Darling Harbour, which hosts a dazzling array of attractions from bars and bistros to an aquarium and a zoo, as well as Mrs Macquarie's Chair. This huge sandstone rock was hand-carved by convicts into the shape of a bench for Governor Macquarie's wife, Elizabeth, in 1810. Why not sit for a while and take in the views from this wonderful vantage point.

After checking in to the hotel, you are free to do as you please this evening. If you would like to head out for dinner, your Holiday Director will be pleased to provide a recommendation.

Day 6 Sydney - at Leisure

With a full day at leisure, you can discover Sydney at your own pace. Perhaps spend time wandering through Centennial Park or admiring fabulous views of the harbour from the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden.

Alternatively, for a different perspective and a truly unforgettable experience, why not join our optional excursion and take in panoramic, 360-degree views of the harbour on a guided Sydney Harbour Bridge climb.

Another optional excursion gives you the chance to step beneath the sails and enjoy a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. You'll learn about the history of the building, uncover stories about artists and the shows performed here and have an opportunity to visit areas usually off-limits to the general public.

Day 7 Sydney - at Leisure

You have another day to explore Sydney independently. There are plenty of magnificent museums and art galleries to discover or maybe you’ll take to the water and admire the sights on a Sydney Harbour cruise.

If you want to join an organised trip, why not come with us on a thrilling optional excursion. You'll head through the Blue Mountains, past the Three Sisters rock formation and along Jamieson Valley - Australia's answer to the Grand Canyon. Then, you'll visit Scenic World, where you can opt to take a journey on the world's steepest incline railway into ancient rainforest or enjoy a scenic cable-car ride over the valley.

Day 8 Sydney - Uluru

This morning you’ll fly to Uluru, or Ayers Rock. This gigantic sandstone monolith, which is two miles long, nearly 350 metres high and measures almost six miles around the base, is in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. One of the most impressive landmarks in Australia, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sacred place in Aboriginal culture and features many caves and ancient rock paintings. It's an incredible sight at any time of the day, but at sunrise and sunset, it changes colour dramatically with the light. After time to settle in at the hotel, your sunset visit to Uluru this evening includes a glass of sparkling wine.

We also offer an optional visit to the Field of Light, a magical art installation covering an area larger than seven football fields. When you arrive in this remote part of the desert, what you’ll see is more than 50,000 lights illuminating the landscape in shades of violet, blue and white.

Day 9 Uluru - Alice Springs

You have an early start today, but it's worth it as you’re going to visit Uluru once again, this time at sunrise. You can also tour the base of the rock and view Aboriginal rock paintings in the caves here. After this, we'll head to the mysterious Kata Tjuta, 36 domed red-rock formations also known as The Olgas. Located to the west of Uluru, it’s thought that they were once one huge piece of rock like Uluru, but over millions of years have been shaped by the forces of nature.

We then continue by road to Alice Springs, where you'll enjoy an authentic bush barbecue in the Australian Outback this evening. The fun starts at sunset as we take to the road to try to spot kangaroos. Before you eat you can try your hand at boomerang throwing, and afterwards you can indulge in a spot of stargazing.

Day 10 Alice Springs

This morning, head off on a fascinating tour that introduces you to the Flying Doctor Base and the old Telegraph Station, the original site of the first European settlement in central Australia, which is now a museum. You will also visit the famous School of the Air. If you want to get out and about in the great outdoors, join an optional excursion to the spectacular Western MacDonnell Mountain Ranges.

Day 11 Alice Springs - Darwin

Today we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Darwin. 

Day 12 Darwin - Kakadu National Park

Your destination today is Kakadu National Park, where you'll discover lush rainforest, scenic rivers and a diverse range of wildlife. We’ll make a stop at the Mamukala Wetlands, a haven for birds, and then head to the Bowali Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn more about Kakadu. You’ll discover that the park is famous for its fascinating Aboriginal rock art and before we make our way to our hotel, you've the chance to walk up Ubirr Rock. Here you'll see some of the most outstanding examples of rock art in the world and take in stunning views of the Nadab floodplain.

Day 13 Kakadu National Park - Katherine

A journey by road this morning takes us to Katherine via the stunning Nourlangie Rock, where you can set off on a walk to see more Aboriginal rock art. The highlight of our day comes in the form of a thrilling cruise on the famous Yellow Water Lagoon. Look for many species of birds, from whistling ducks to eagles, and keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles in their natural habitat and buffalo on the floodplains.

Day 14 Katherine - Darwin

After breakfast, we’re going to take a tranquil cruise through the Katherine Gorge. As you sail through the picturesque scenery, with limestone cliffs on either side, expert guides will explain the history and geology of the area and tell you all about the flora and fauna you're likely to see.

Later, we’ll make our way back to Darwin.

Day 15 Darwin - Cairns

Today you’ll fly to Cairns, your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef!

Day 16 Great Barrier Reef

Today you are going to board a catamaran and take a trip to the outer Great Barrier Reef. Marine life comes incredibly close, and you can experience the beauty of the reef without getting wet from the comfort of a semi-submersible or an underwater observatory. Look out for dazzling displays of coral, brightly coloured Nemo-like clownfish, turtles and so much more! If you are feeling a little more adventurous, you can even go snorkelling in this amazing underwater world as all the equipment will be supplied.

Day 17 Cairns - at Leisure

After so much excitement, today has been left free for you to relax and enjoy the facilities at your hotel. Sit back with a good book or sip a cocktail in the bar – the choice is all yours.

Alternatively, if you want to see more, join us for a ride on the Kuranda Railway and Skyrail. We’ll enjoy views of mountains, tropical rainforest and the spectacular Barron Falls as the train makes its way to the village of Kuranda. Here you’ll have free time to explore what’s on offer and grab a coffee or bit to eat if you wish. We’ll then board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a fabulous adventure that sees us gliding above and through the rainforest.

Day 18 Cairns - at Leisure

You can spend today doing just as you wish so maybe take a stroll along the bustling Esplanade or head to the gorgeous Cairns Botanic Gardens.

If you’d prefer to join an organised tour, we offer an optional trip to the Daintree Tropical Rainforest, home to a stunning array of flora and fauna. You’ll learn about this tropical ecosystem from an expert guide as we cruise the Daintree River in search of crocodiles. Then, it’s time for lunch at the Daintree Tea House and your excursion ends with some free time to explore the village of Daintree.

Day 19 Cairns - Brisbane

You’ll fly from Cairns to Brisbane today and when we arrive, you are free to head out and explore by yourselves. The capital of the Sunshine State, Brisbane is a modern, bustling metropolis that sits on the banks of the Brisbane River. There is no shortage of things to see and do here including a vast array of restaurants, cafés and shops to explore. Perhaps head to Howard Smith Wharves for dazzling night-time views of Story Bridge and the city skyline or enjoy a drink at one of the city's many rooftop bars.

Day 20 Brisbane - at Leisure

Before flying to New Zealand tomorrow, you’ve a free day to spend at leisure. A great way to explore Brisbane is by CityCat, fast-paced ferries that travel along the river and call at various stops along the way. South Bank, Brisbane’s cultural heart, is well worth a visit. Here, you'll find Australia’s largest gallery of modern art and Streets Beach, the country’s only man-made beach located within a city!

Alternatively, why not join an optional excursion to North Stradbroke Island. Fondly known as Straddie by the locals, it is the world's second-largest sand island and a fabulous place to relax and soak up the spectacular natural scenery. We’ll spend some time at Brown Lake, a popular spot for swimming, and try to spot dolphins, turtles and manta rays at Point Lookout’s North Gorge. Lunch will be an Aussie-style barbecue on Flinders Beach and later we’ll head to Amity Point, keeping an eye out for the resident koalas.

Day 21 Brisbane - Auckland

We will transfer you to the airport today for your flight to Auckland. You'll stay in Auckland for the next two nights and the rest of the day is yours to do as you please.

Day 22 Auckland

The vibrant city of Auckland - the largest in New Zealand - is situated on the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf. Feeling refreshed after a good night’s sleep, this morning we’re going to discover the city on a sightseeing tour. We’ll take in fabulous views of the harbour and see highlights including the imposing War Memorial, St Patrick's Cathedral and the Auckland High Court, which is allegedly modelled on England’s Warwick Castle.

Once you have your bearings, the rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. You could head up to the observation deck of the Sky Tower for spectacular views of the city from above. Alternatively, if you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, why not stroll through beautiful Albert Park or step inside Auckland Art Gallery.

Day 23 Auckland - Paihia

There's a scenic treat in store today as we travel along the beautiful Hibiscus Coast to Paihia, in the Bay of Islands. As the name suggests, this forest-covered region is home to more than one hundred islands and is scattered with idyllic paradise-like beaches.

En route, we'll visit the Treaty House of Waitangi, the country’s first British residency. Here you will learn about the history of the 1840 agreement with the Maori’s that formalised New Zealand’s status as a British colony.

Day 24 Paihia - at Leisure

You can choose how you spend today. If you want some time to yourselves, perhaps take a stroll along the Wharf and have lunch overlooking the water or relax on a nearby beach.

Alternatively, if you’d like to join an organised excursion we offer an optional trip to Cape Reinga, at the very top of North Island. To reach this vast, untouched region, you’ll journey along the sandy shore of Ninety Mile Beach and negotiate the Te Paki Quick Sand Stream, travelling beside towering dunes. When we arrive in Cape Reinga, you’ll visit a lighthouse and take in exceptional views of the Pacific Ocean meeting the Tasman Sea, don’t forget your camera!

Day 25 Paihia - at Leisure

You’ve another full day at leisure to relax in beautiful Paihia or you can explore more of the stunning Bay of Islands on an optional cruise. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of marine life, including dolphins and seals as we sail past islands and secluded beaches to the Cape Brett Peninsula. Here, if conditions are right, we’ll sail through the Hole in the Rock, a narrow arch, carved by the forces of nature before enjoying some free time on one of the islands.

Day 26 Paihia - Rotorua

New Zealand’s North Island was shaped by volcanic activity and evidence of this remains in the thermal springs surrounding Rotorua. We’re going to head here today on a journey that takes us through the Waikato farming region.

Later, we offer an optional float plane or helicopter flight to Mount Tarawera. As you fly over this volcanic peak and its surrounding scenery, you’ll have a birds-eye view of sparkling crater lakes and the rugged barren landscape.

Day 27 Rotorua

Today’s tour takes you to Te Puia Thermal Reserve, an incredible geothermal park, where a Local Guide will take us to see the bubbling mud, pools of boiling water and dramatic spouting geysers. There will also be an opportunity to see craftsmen at work in the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Later, you could join a tour of Hobbiton™, the amazing set created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. As you step into Middle-earth™, you’ll see brightly painted Hobbit Hole™ doors, the interior of a Hobbit dwelling and the iconic Green Dragon™ Inn.
Tonight, we are going to immerse ourselves in Maori culture with a visit to Te Pa Tu. In this spectacular forest setting, we’ll learn about the history and traditions of New Zealand’s indigenous people. We’ll experience ceremonial rituals and watch an authentic performance of haka and song before enjoying a meal created by a Maori chef.

Day 28 Rotorua - Wellington

We’re driving to Wellington, the country’s capital today. Our journey takes us through the Wairakei Thermal Valley, where we’ll admire the turbulent Huka Falls, pass forested slopes and take in breathtaking views of Lake Taupo. When we arrive in Wellington, we’ll get our bearings on a short tour and see highlights including the harbour and Mount Victoria.

Day 29 Wellington

After breakfast, we’ll explore Wellington in more detail on a walking tour. There is so much to see here, from an array of museums and galleries to historic architecture and fabulous shopping. We’ll explore the lively waterfront area and take a trip on the historic Wellington Cable Car for fabulous views over the city. At the top, there will be time to visit the delightful Wellington Botanic Garden, a 64-acre oasis of calm and tranquillity.

The rest of the day is yours to explore more of Wellington at leisure. Perhaps head to the National Museum of New Zealand and discover the diverse array of exhibits exploring everything from the country’s wildlife to its role in the Gallipoli campaign.</p> <p>Wellington is a city brimming with coffee shops, bars and award-winning restaurants so you will be spoilt for choice if you want to head out this evening.

Day 30 Wellington - Christchurch

Today we're heading to South Island and will cross the Cook Strait by ferry. A scenic journey of around three and half hours, we’ll travel past dramatic cliffs and rugged landscapes, and navigate fjord-like channels on our way to Picton. After disembarking the ferry, we’ll drive to Christchurch for an overnight stay.

Day 31 TranzAlpine Train

You have a spectacular journey ahead as you board the TranzAlpine train and head into the Southern Alps, a mountain range that spans almost the entire length of South Island. The journey takes us through narrow gorges and past towering snow-capped peaks, so be sure to have your camera at the ready. When we leave the train in the village of Arthurs Pass, we’ll continue our journey by coach to the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier regions. Here, vast valleys of ice, hundreds of metres deep, flow down the hillside towards the riverbed. For the ultimate adventure, if the weather conditions are right, this afternoon you can take in sensational views of the glaciers on an optional helicopter flight.

Day 32 Franz Josef Glacier - Queenstown

The road through the Westland National Park has to be one of the most scenic ever built and as we drive along it today, we’ll make stops to take in the wonderful views. We’re heading to Queenstown, New Zealand's capital of adventure, so if you're looking for an adrenaline rush, you've come to the right place! Why not start by joining an optional ride on the Kawarau Jet boat. On this thrilling excursion, you will travel at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour and make 360-degree spins in the shallow waters of the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers.

Day 33 Queenstown - at Leisure

Today has been left free so you can spend some time at leisure and discover Queenstown at your own pace. You could take the Skyline Queenstown gondola to the summit of Bob’s Peak for incredible views of the town and Lake Wakatipu or stroll through the manicured Queenstown Gardens.

If you're feeling adventurous, we have another optional action-packed excursion for you to join. Board a jet boat for an exhilarating ride along the Dart River.

This evening, you can enjoy a more relaxing experience, with an optional steamboat cruise on Lake Wakatipu and dinner in a restaurant at the foot of Walter Peak.

Day 34 Milford Sound

Today is the day you visit one of the most beautiful locations in New Zealand – Milford Sound. Located deep within Fiordland National Park, this inky-blue expanse of water is surrounded by forest-covered hills, waterfalls and dramatic mountain peaks. The area is also home to an abundant array of wildlife including dolphins, seals and penguins – so remember to keep your eyes peeled. If the weather conditions are good, we'll take in the fjord's majestic beauty on a cruise.

Day 35 Te Anau - Dunedin

This morning you are going to visit the incredible Glow Worm Caves. After sailing across Lake Te Anau, you will explore this fascinating labyrinth of limestone caverns, rocks and whirlpools on foot. The grotto lit by thousands of glittering glow worms, is a mesmerising and unforgettable sight.

Next, we make our way to Dunedin, the city that takes its name from the Gaelic version of Edinburgh.

Day 36 Dunedin - at Leisure

You can spend your time exploring at leisure today. Admire the stunning architecture of Dunedin Railway Station, step back in time to the early 20th century at Olveston Historic Home or just enjoy the town's vibrant shops and restaurants.

There is also the chance to join an optional trip to the Royal Albatross Centre on the Otago Peninsula. This is the world's only mainland breeding colony of Northern Albatross, and during your visit, you'll learn more about them, watch a short film and visit the observatory to hopefully see them nesting.

Day 37 Dunedin - Omarama

As we travel northwards to Omarama, we'll make a stop at the Moeraki Beach Boulders. These huge spherical rocks are scattered along the sand and are shrouded in Maori legend. The largest boulders are estimated to have taken around four million years to reach their current size. Some weigh several tonnes and the largest measure more than two metres in width. Our route then follows the Waitiki River inland.

Day 38 Omarama - Christchurch

We're bound for the Mount Cook region this morning. On the way, we'll make a stop at Lake Tekapo, a picturesque, turquoise-coloured body of water with the Southern Alps as a backdrop. We'll then head over Burkes Pass, a mountain passageway, and continue across the Canterbury plains. This vast patchwork of agricultural land nestled between the mountains and the sea produces more than 80% of the country's grains, crops and seeds.

Mount Cook is the highest peak in New Zealand, towering to more than 3,700 metres. If weather conditions are favourable you might be tempted to view it from above on an optional scenic flight.

Our journey ends as we arrive back in Christchurch and take a short tour of its highlights. We’ll see the pyramid-shaped Transitional Church, the beautiful Botanic Gardens and the Sign of the Takahe, a historic building with views across the city,

Day 39 Christchurch - UK

You’re free to make the most of your final few hours in New Zealand before we drive you to the airport for your flight home.

Day 40 UK

You'll arrive back in the UK today.