Australia and New Zealand Uncovered

Uncover the core of Maori culture in New Zealand. Dive into the unparalleled Outback of Australia. This is Oceania, a paradise in the South Pacific. Cruise through the dramatic Milford Sound and the organic splendor of Abel Tasman National Park. Tour the Sydney Opera House to get a glimpse of the action behind the scenes. Admire the striking essence of Uluru (Ayers Rock) as you dine under the stars. Choose how you spend the day discovering the legendary Great Barrier Reef – by snorkeling, hiking, relaxing or learning. From sparkling coastlines to age-old traditions, take in the natural beauty and engaging society of these captivating countries.
Maori Culture in Wellington

Wellington is considered to be the cultural center of New Zealand. Find Maori culture around every corner, including traditional carved wakas (sleek canoes of intricate design). You may also attend an authentic traditional powhiri, an elaborate ceremony for welcoming guests. Maori heritage can also be found in the city’s cuisine – a local favorite is a Hangi dish which usually includes savory meat and vegetables cooked in a pit in the ground. You can also discover the roots of the culture at the Te Papa Museum.

Cook Strait

The Cook Strait divides New Zealand’s South and North Islands. It is 14 miles wide and is named after the first European explorer to sail across it. The passageway features breathtaking scenery of rolling green slopes and picturesque mountains.

Nelson

Nelson is the oldest established city on New Zealand’s South Island. It is known to be a lively hub for local artists, featuring numerous galleries, artisan products, trendy food markets and an up-and-coming cuisine scene.

Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman is New Zealand’s smallest national park. Here you can find sandy golden beaches, trees towering along the waterline, and maybe even some little blue penguins swimming in the water. Maori tribes lived here for at least 500 years.

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

Best known for its Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, no trip would be complete without a visit to Punakaiki. Both of these natural wonders are an absolute must-see while visiting the West Coast.

Choice on Tour: Franz Josef Glacier Hike or West Coast Wildlife Centre

Today in Franz Josef, you have a choice between two activities. First, you may choose to immerse yourself in nature and view the Franz Josef Glacier with a local guide, traversing an exclusive trail not open to the public. On your journey, gain insight into the flora and fauna around you, providing plenty of opportunities to discover the remarkable landscape that the glacier has left behind. Experience pristine waterfalls, an ancient temperate rainforest, and the dynamic Waiho river. After a brief climb, enjoy views of the glacier’s constantly changing terminal face and enjoy a hot drink. Later, at your leisure, enjoy free entrance to the Franz Josef Hot Pools located a short distance from the hotel. Your other option is to explore the West Coast Wildlife Centre, a unique, indoor attraction dedicated to the conservation of the Rowi Kiwi. This bird is only found in the Okarito Forest and is New Zealand's rarest kiwi bird. Later, at your leisure, enjoy included entrance to the Hot Pools. Franz Josef Glacier - NEO Day 7 Activity Level: 3 Hiking trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip and mostly flat, with a 200 yard uphill at the end. Hike is done at a leisurely pace and takes approximately 3 hours. Trail is well-groomed, but uneven in some spots. Not suitable for walkers or wheel chairs. Walking boots/socks, trekking poles, waterproof jacket and over-pants, warm hat and gloves, and a small waist-pack will be provided. West Coast Wildlife Centre - NEO Day 7 Activity Level: 2 West Coast Wildlife Centre is a 200-yard walk from the hotel, over flat, paved surface. The attraction is indoors, and is self-guided so guests can visit at their own leisure (take as long or as little time as they like).

Franz Josef

Franz Josef is a quaint town on New Zealand’s South Island – most known for the glacier it is named after. Franz Josef glacier is 7.5 miles long and was named after the Austrian Empire Franz Josef I.

New Zealand’s Wild West Coast

Although an abundance of natural beauty is found throughout the entirety of New Zealand, nothing surpasses the mesmerizing splendor found on the country’s “wild” west coast. Where striking cliffs and sandy beaches meet the snowcapped Southern Alps, allow your senses to breathe in the serenity and spectacle around you. From the glaciers of Franz Josef to the Pancake Rocks of Punakaiki, there will be no shortage of incomparable landscapes to capture your eye. The west coast is also home to New Zealand’s famous greenstone, a stunning rock that is incorporated into Maori culture and jewelry.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a resort town in Otago in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. The city is built around an inlet called Queenstown Bay on Lake Wakatipu and has spectacular views of nearby mountains and the Southern Alps. The town was founded in the 1860s and is now known for commerce-based tourism, especially adventure and ski tourism, boasting over 200 adventure tourism activities to take part in.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is a fjord in the south west of New Zealand’s South Island. The sound runs inland for over 490 feet from the Tasman Sea and is surrounded by sheer rock faces that rise 3,900 feet on either side. Among the peaks are The Elephant at 4,977 feet, said to resemble an elephant's head, and The Lion, at 4,272 feet, in the shape of a crouching lion. Milford Sound is acclaimed as New Zealand’s most famous tourist destination.

Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts center in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. It is situated on Bennelong Port in Sydney Harbour, adjacent to Sydney’s Central Business District and the Royal Botanical Gardens. The facility opened on October 20th, 1973. The opera house comprises several performance venues which together make one of the busiest performing arts centers in the world hosting 1,500 performances each year attended by some 1.2 million people. More than 7 million people visit the opera house each year.

Barossa Valley

The Barossa Valley is a valley in South Australia. The valley is known as a major wine producing region and is said to be one of the finest wine producing regions in the world. Located about 37 miles northeast of Adelaide, the valley is formed by the North Pala River. The valley derives its name from the Barossa Range, which was named in 1837. The valley is about 8 miles by 9 miles.

Sounds of Silence Dinner at Uluru

Like a natural work of art, Uluru (Ayers Rock), the icon of the Outback, rises up in the distance. You are really there, dining under the limitless sky. Relax as you enjoy a three-course meal, Australian wine, the services of an expert staff and, of course, the amazing backdrop. During your magical time here you’ll also come to know the local culture. Indigenous dance, a didgeridoo performance and the tales of a traditional “Star Talker” complete the scene as a new universe opens up to you and your fellow travelers. There are many ways to experience this often emotionally moving destination. However, few are a match for the elegance of the world-famous Sounds of Silence Dinner.

Great Barrier Reef

Experience one of the seven wonders of the natural world when you climb aboard a high speed catamaran and set off for the Great Barrier Reef. As the world’s largest living organism, you’ll find over 2,800 individual coral reef systems which are home to amazingly diverse marine life. Their bright colors look remarkable against the turquoise waters, and the boat reveals it all. Jump in the water to snorkel and really experience the Reef in an immersive way! Stroll along the walking trails, relax on the beaches, or just watch the fish and sea turtles swim past from the pier. It’s a truly good day at the Reef, mate.

Day 1 / Wellington, New Zealand - Tour Begins

Your journey starts in New Zealand. Feel the ever-present heartbeat of Maori culture on this set of islands. Comprised of natural beauty and striking contrasts, live the Kiwi lifestyle for the next 10 days. Say hello to Wellington, the colorful capital city of New Zealand. Take in the gourmet eats, seaside charm, and scenic coastline as you feel the warm ocean breeze of the “Windy City.”

Day 2 / Wellington

Jump right into Maori culture with a traditional powhiri, an elaborate ceremony for welcoming guests. Marvel at the carved wakas, sleek canoes of intricate design, at a Maori culture center. Get exclusive access to an archaeological site not open to the public during a guided exploration of a waterfront pa (Maori for village). Taste Maori heritage in a Hangi dish and discover the roots of the culture at the Te Papa Museum. Admire the rolling waves as you share conversation, connecting over dinner.

Day 3 / Wellington - Picton - Nelson

Surrounded by green slopes and rolling mountains, the Cook Strait will offer a picturesque landscape as you cruise over the stunning waters on your way to the South Island. Visit Nelson, the oldest city on the island. Enjoy an evening at leisure to experience this coastal hub, full of local works and a trending foodie scene. This local art hub highlights works from the area, artisan food markets, and sparkling waters.

Day 4 / Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park - Nelson

Explore the open-air Nelson Market, featuring delicious foods and goods. Chat with artisans as you walk along the spirited stalls and peruse an ever-evolving library of Kiwi crafts. Venture on to Kaiteriteri, a coastal paradise where you’ll set sail through the graceful natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park. Coast over the crystal-clear waters and pass reaching trees huddled along the shore. A picnic lunch awaits at the Anchorage, a scenic bay set amongst gentle waves and sandy coasts.

Day 5 / Nelson - Hokitika

Today venture to the natural phenomenon of Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks. Feel the spray of the ocean crashing against these unique limestone formations with a flapjack façade. Tonight, dine at your beachfront hotel, a natural haven of craggy peaks and lively waterspouts.

Day 6 / Hokitika - Franz Josef

Wake up in Hokitika, better known as a “cool little town.” Head to Hokitika Gorge for a taste of New Zealand’s beloved West Coast nature. Return to town for a tour, ending with a walk along the beach and some free time to explore on your own. Make your way to Franz Josef, New Zealand’s glacier country. Discover the area’s seaside allure by combing the beach in search of New Zealand jade or perhaps you’ll explore the shops and eateries in town.

Day 7 / Franz Josef

Choose how to start your day because it’s your choice! View the Franz Josef Glacier with a local guide, traversing an exclusive trail not open to the public -OR- get a glimpse of kiwis at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, where you’ll learn more about conservation and rehabilitation of this national icon. Enjoy free time to relax. Perhaps you will step into the rainforest and soak in the steamy thermal waters of the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools. Finish your day with dinner at the hotel.

Day 8 / Franz Josef - Queenstown

Journey through the thick rainforest and emerge on the “wild” west coast. With cliffs and beaches on your right and the southern snowcapped Alps on your left, there will be no shortage of riveting landscapes to capture your eye. Pause in Wanaka, a slice of tranquility nestled along a mountain-lined lake. Continue to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world, and settle into your home for the next 3 nights.

Day 9 / Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown

Enjoy the rugged grandeur of the Hollyford Valley and cross through an ancient red beech forest. Cruise along the waters of the dramatic Milford Sound, taking in the natural splendor around you. With cliffs rising up to nearly 4,000 feet, you’ll see why this is one of the most visited sights on the South Island. Following your cruise, you may choose to return to Queenstown via a short optional flight (weather permitting) for spectacular views of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.

Day 10 / Queenstown

Today is yours! Explore the adventure capital whichever way your heart desires. Perhaps you’ll choose an optional tour to cruise Lake Wakatipu surrounded by Queenstown’s stunning landscape aboard an iconic coal-fired steamship. Once on land, enjoy a BBQ lunch lakeside followed by a sheepdog demonstration.

Day 11 / Queenstown - Sydney, Australia

Wish New Zealand goodbye and enter Australia, home to the expansive Outback and lively waterfront cities. Start your Aussie adventure in Sydney, the country’s largest city.

Day 12 / Sydney

During a city tour get a glimpse at all the main highlights Sydney has to offer. Then, take a step into the past and explore the historic Rocks neighborhood, situated along the edge of Sydney Harbour. Continue along to the port Circular Quay before strolling through the winding paths of the Royal Botanical Gardens. Here, you’ll delve into Aboriginal culture by learning about native plants and foraging for traditional foods. Go behind the scenes of the Sydney Opera House on an expert-led guided tour of this legendary venue. As the sun sets, admire the city skyline on a dinner cruise through Sydney Harbour and watch the sky transform into a myriad of pinks and oranges over the iconic Sydney Opera House.

Day 13 / Sydney

Make the most of your final day in Sydney with a full day at leisure where you can take advantage of your included hop-on, hop-off bus passes! You could take the bus out to Bondi Beach for the surf culture, visit one of the many local museums, or take in the sights at Darling Harbour.

Day 14 / Sydney - Adelaide

Set off on a short flight to Adelaide, the cosmopolitan hub of South Australia. Indulge in a wine tasting at d’Arenberg Cube, home to eccentric architecture and vibrant surroundings, and discover why the wine maker is referred to as the “Willy Wonka of Wines.” Dinner tonight will be in the home of a local family.

Day 15 / Adelaide - Barossa Valley - Adelaide

Treat your taste buds to a full-day exploration of the Barossa Valley’s fine food and wine. Visit a one of the local farmsteads, famed for its produce and enjoy a private interactive cooking demonstration. Your vintner voyage continues with a tour and tasting at the famous Seppeltsfield Winery, one of the oldest in the Barossa Valley, followed by lunch.

Day 16 / Adelaide - Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Your adventure continues to Uluru (Ayers Rock). After your flight from Adelaide, get a close look at the iconic, massive red rock emerging from the earth, sprung up as if beckoned toward the clouds. On a guided tour of Uluru's base, discover the heritage of Australia's Aboriginal people before gathering for an unforgettable evening set in the backdrop of this Aboriginal destination. Experience the Sounds of Silence dinner, a gourmet meal overlooking the glowing Uluru. As the sun drops behind the horizon and the Milky Way starts to twinkle, relax as you eat dinner under a bed of stars, overlooking Australia’s greatest natural wonder.

Day 17 / Uluru (Ayers Rock) - Cairns

Say goodbye to the outback and hello to the tropics, as you fly to Cairns and enjoy an evening at leisure, getting to know this gateway to an underwater paradise.

Day 18 / Cairns - Great Barrier Reef - Cairns

Board a glass-bottom catamaran and sail to the Low Isles to discover the aquatic realm of the Great Barrier Reef. Spend the day however you please, perhaps choosing from a selection of included activities. Maybe you’ll soak up the sun on a tiny remote island,* located along the outer reef. Or consider snorkeling in the rolling waves, uncovering a pod of vibrant sea life. You can also meet with a marine biologist, or join an expert on a heritage trail walk along the island.

Day 19 / Cairns

This morning, a short cruise takes you to a stunning wetland environment where Traditional Aboriginal Owners greet you with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony. Afterwards your indigenous guides will introduce you to native foods and bush medicines, as well as ancient Aboriginal traditions, customs, and artifacts. This afternoon is at your leisure to relax or explore the tropical city of Cairns. Toast to the end of your journey at a farewell dinner, reflecting on your Outback escapade.

Day 20 / Cairns - Tour Ends

Your tour of New Zealand and Australia comes to a close today.