Arrive 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.” Stay: Rydges Wellington (2 Nights)
Jump right into Maori culture with an Impact Moment, as you experience a traditional powhiri, an elaborate welcome ceremony. Marvel at the carved waka, 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).
Take the chance to taste Maori heritage in a Hangi dish during lunch and discover the roots of the culture at the Te Papa Museum. Explore the city of Wellington during your free afternoon, before reconvening to share conversation and connect with your fellow travelers over dinner by the waterfront. (B/L/D)
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. (B) Stay: The Hotel Nelson (2 Nights)
Today, venture out 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. (B/L)
See the natural phenomenon of Punakaiki's Pancake Rocks as you travel further south to Hokitika. 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. (B/D) Stay: Beachfront Hotel
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 rugged allure by combing the creek bed in search of New Zealand jade or perhaps you'll explore some of the many walking trails or eateries in town. (B) Stay: Scenic Franz Josef Glacier Hotel (2 Nights)
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. Finish your day with dinner at the hotel. (B/D)
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 three nights. (B) Stay: Heritage (3 Nights)
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. (B/L)
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. (B/D)
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. (B) Stay: Park Royal Darling Harbour (3 Nights)
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, 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 on Sydney Harbour passing under the Harbour Bridge and by the iconic Sydney Opera House. (B/D)
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. (B)
Set off on a short flight to Adelaide, the cosmopolitan hub of South Australia. Experience the famous food and drink this region is known for at the Adelaide Central Market, one of the one of the largest undercover fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere. Indulge in tastings of Australia's multicultural cuisine as you stroll the market stalls alongside a local guide. Afterward, explore more of Adelaide on foot with a walking tour passing Rundle Mall and down Peel Street, an iconic laneway known for its restaurants.
Later tonight, gather for dinner at the hotel. (B/D) Stay: Peppers Waymouth (2 Nights)
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. (B/L)
Your adventure continues with a flight from Adelaide to Uluru (Ayers Rock). Arrive in Uluru and get a taste of the local indigenous flavors as you enjoy a native high tea. Then, travel into Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park to 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 in this spiritual place before gathering for a spectacular sunset view of the iconic rock formation. While having drinks and canapés, watch the colors of Uluru change before your eyes as the sun sets and the Milky Way starts to twinkle over Australia's greatest natural wonder. (B/L) Stay: Desert Gardens Hotel
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. (B) Stay: Flynn Crystalbrook Collection Hotel (3 Nights)
Board a high-speed 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 or taking a glass-bottom boat 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. (B/L)
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. (B/D)
Your tour of New Zealand and Australia comes to a close today. (B)
Arrive in Adelaide, South Australia's coastal capital. As arrival times will vary throughout the day, take time to settle in with no scheduled activities until late this afternoon, when you'll meet for a briefing about the journey ahead. Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D) Stay: Peppers Waymouth (2 Nights)
Treat your taste buds to a full-day exploration of the Barossa Valley's fine food and wine. Visit a local farmstead 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. (B/L)
Fly from Adelaide to the spiritual heart of the Outback — Uluru. Upon arrival, travel into Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, where the iconic red monolith rises dramatically from the flat desert landscape. On a guided tour of Uluru's base, uncover the stories, traditions, and deep cultural significance of this site through the lens of Australia's Aboriginal people. As the sun begins to set, sip drinks and savor canapés while the colors of Uluru change before your eyes. (B) Stay: Desert Gardens, Ayers Rock (2 Nights)
This morning, set out to explore Kata Tjuta — Uluru's awe-inspiring neighbor. These towering, domed rock formations stretch across the desert for miles, offering a dramatic contrast to the surrounding landscape. Wander through the soaring red peaks and be rewarded with sweeping views that capture the raw beauty of the Outback. Return to your resort, where the rest of the day is yours — unwind, recharge, or take advantage of the resort's activities. (B/D)
Say goodbye to the Outback and hello to the tropics as you fly to Cairns, your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a relaxed evening at leisure. (B) Stay: Flynn Crystalbrook Collection Hotel (3 Nights)
Set sail aboard a high-speed catamaran bound for the Great Barrier Reef await. Spend the day exploring this underwater paradise your way. Maybe you'll soak up the sun on a tiny remote island, located along the outer reef. Or consider snorkeling in the rolling waves or taking a glass-bottom boat 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. (B/L)
This morning, a short cruise takes you to the stunning wetland environment of an Indigenous Protected Reserve, where Aboriginal traditional owners from the Mandingalbay clan will welcome you with a smoking ceremony, introduce you to native foods and bush medicines, and share ancient Aboriginal traditions, customs, and artifacts.
This afternoon, meet some of Australia's famous wildlife, like the koala and kangaroo, on a guided tour at Rainforestation Nature Park. (B/D)
Wish the tropics goodbye and touch down in Sydney, Australia's dazzling harbor city and your home for the next three nights. (B) Stay: PARKROYAL Darling Harbour (3 Nights)
Get to know Sydney's spirit on a guided city tour showcasing its many highlights. Step back in time in The Rocks, a historic harborside neighborhood and discover Circular Quay. Stroll through the winding paths of the Royal Botanical Gardens, and go behind the scenes of the Sydney Opera House on an expert-led tour of this legendary venue. As evening falls, admire the city skyline on a dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour, gliding past the Opera House and under the Harbour Bridge. (B/D)
Make the most of your final day in Sydney with a full day at leisure — your included hop-on, hop-off bus pass makes it easy to explore at your own pace! You could soak up the laid-back vibe at Bondi Beach, visit a museum, or wander the lively waterfront at Darling Harbour. (B)
Arrive in New Zealand. Feel the ever-present heartbeat of Maori culture on this set of islands. Surrounded by natural beauty and striking contrasts, embrace the Kiwi lifestyle for the next 10 days. Say hello to Wellington, the colorful capital city of New Zealand. Savor the city's gourmet eats and seaside charm as the warm ocean breeze welcomes you to the “Windy City.” (B) Stay: Rydges (2 Nights)
Begin the day with an Impact Moment — experience a traditional powhiri, a powerful Maori welcome ceremony. At a cultural center, admire the carved waka (canoes), and see an archaeological site of a waterfront pa (village). Take the chance to taste Maori heritage with a hangi lunch and discover the roots of the culture at the Te Papa Museum. Explore the city of Wellington during your free afternoon and evening. (B/L/D)
Cruise across the Cook Straight, surrounded by green slopes and misty mountains, to New Zealand's South Island. Arrive in Blenheim, the heart of the Marlborough Wine Region. Enjoy an evening at leisure — perhaps you'll explore local art galleries or indulge in the bustling food scene. (B) Stay: Scenic Hotel Marlborough (2 Nights)
Today, begin your exploration of the Marlborough region at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, where fascinating exhibits and meticulously restored aircraft retell local wartime history. Then, head to Havelock to sample its famous green-lipped mussels. Cap off the day with a visit to one of Marlborough's celebrated wineries, indulging in a wine-tasting session complemented by a vineyard-side lunch showcasing fresh local ingredients. (B/L)
Today, journey to New Zealand's Wild West Coast. At Punakaiki's Pancake Rocks, feel the ocean spray as waves crash against these unique limestone formations known for their flapjack-like facade.
Tonight, dine at your beachfront hotel, nestled between the ocean and rainforest. (B/D) Stay: Scenic Hotel
Wake up in Punakaiki, and make your way to Franz Josef, New Zealand's glacier country. Discover the area's rugged allure, perhaps combing the creek bed in search of New Zealand jade, exploring one of the many walking trails, or trying the eateries in town. (B) Stay: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (2 Nights)
This morning, 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 this afternoon, and finish your day with dinner at the hotel. (B/D)
Journey through the thick rainforest and emerge on the untamed west coast — where the cliffs and beaches and the southern snowcapped Alps offer a feast for the eyes. 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 three nights. (B) Stay: Rendezvous Heritage Hotel (3 Nights)
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. (B/L)
Today is yours to explore Queenstown however you choose. Perhaps you'll opt for a cruise of Lake Wakatipu aboard a historic coal-fired steamship. Once ashore, enjoy a BBQ lunch and a sheepdog demonstration.
Tonight, gather once more to toast to the unforgettable journey you've shared. (B/D)
Your tour of Australia and New Zealand comes to a close today. (B)
With a maximum of 24, dive deeper into your destination & access places and experiences that larger groups can’t. Read more
Purchase Collette's Travel Protection Plan, & you can cancel for any reason and get your money back! Read more
Private, chauffeur service is included for all air-inclusive Collette bookings. Read more
With a maximum of 24, dive deeper into your destination & access places and experiences that larger groups can’t. Read more
Purchase Collette's Travel Protection Plan, & you can cancel for any reason and get your money back! Read more
Private, chauffeur service is included for all air-inclusive Collette bookings. Read more
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