The Very Best of New Zealand & The Very Best of Australia

On arrival in the vibrant city of Singapore, we transfer to the four-star M Hotel City Centre, ideally located in the heart of the city, where we spend the next two nights. Known as the ‘crossroads of Asia’, Singapore is a fascinating blend of east and west – a cosmopolitan city with a distinctive charm. This morning, we enjoy a guided tour that includes Merlion Park with its striking views of Marina Bay, the historic Civic District, Thian Hock Keng Temple, and the beautiful orchid gardens within the Botanic Gardens. The remainder of the day is free to explore at leisure – perhaps visit the impressive Gardens by the Bay or indulge in a traditional high tea at Raffles Hotel.

The following day is also at leisure until we transfer to the airport for our evening flight to Christchurch.

If flying with Qantas & Emirates your flight will transfer via Australia before arriving into Christchurch. We transfer to the centrally-located Distinction Hotel Christchurch, where we spend our first two nights in New Zealand. On arrival we meet our local Coach Captain, who will be our driver and guide during our time in New Zealand.

Considered the most English of New Zealand’s cities, today in the aftermath of the 2011 earthquake, Christchurch is in the midst of an epic rebuild that has completely reconstructed the city centre. This morning, we take a tour to see what this exciting developing city has to offer. We start our day with a visit to the Sign of the Takahe, a historical building on the edge of the city and continue to view the key landmarks of the city centre. From here we take a visit to the Botanic Gardens. Founded in 1863 with the planting of an English oak tree, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens contain an impressive array of flora and fauna. Our afternoon is at leisure to continue exploring this delightful city.

We travel south, first making a stop at Oamaru, where we stroll through New Zealand’s best-preserved Victorian streets. A stop is then made in Moeraki to view a collection of huge spherical boulders which are scattered along a beautiful stretch of beach. Maori legend says that the boulders are gourds washed ashore from a voyaging canoe called Araiteuri, which was wrecked when it made landfall a long time ago. Scientists have discovered the boulders are actually calcite concretions, created about 65 million years ago, which have been raised from the seabed and uncovered one by one by the elements. We continue to the ‘Edinburgh of the South’, Dunedin is South Island’s second-largest city and is considered New Zealand’s architectural heritage capital, with its lovingly restored Victorian and Edwardian buildings. Upon arrival, we check in to Scenic Dunedin City for a two night stay.

This morning, we enjoy a sightseeing tour taking in the city’s neo-Gothic churches, town hall, opulent theatres and other 19th-century buildings. In the afternoon, why not join an optional wildlife cruise to the Otago Peninsula? Enjoy uninterrupted views of the world’s only mainland colony of royal albatross. We may also encounter sea lions, blue penguins and Hector’s dolphins.

This morning, we say goodbye to Dunedin. Fresh, green farm scenery will accompany us on our drive through Balclutha, with its distinctive arched concrete bridge. We travel onwards via Gore and Lumsden, stopping for a lunch break in Te Anau. We continue through the Fiordland National Park until we reach the shores of the Milford Sound, where we check in for our overnight cruise on board the Milford Mariner, undoubtedly a once in a lifetime experience. Departing later this afternoon, we cruise the full length of New Zealand’s most spectacular fiord to the Tasman Sea, before anchoring for the night in a sheltered cove. Our night aboard Milford Mariner will be a truly memorable experience, with nature guides on hand to impart their vast knowledge, and the option to go exploring in the tender craft or kayaks, or simply relax on deck. After the day’s activities, enjoy an evening buffet in the dining saloon before retiring to your cabin.

Today we travel through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery, passing Lake Dunstan, formed by the Clyde hydro dam in 1994, and following the shores of Lake Wanaka before crossing the Haast River Bridge and Clark Bluff – part of one of the most breathtaking scenic routes ever built. Later in the afternoon, we arrive at Westland National Park and check in for two nights at the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier.

The following day is free to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. A transfer takes us from Franz Josef township to the glacier valley, where we enjoy a gentle walk through lush rainforest to a viewpoint offering stunning views of the glacier’s terminal face. Weather permitting, there’s also the option to take a spectacular scenic flight over the glacier and the surrounding alpine landscape (additional cost).

Today, we begin our adventure towards Christchurch. We pass Lakes lanthe and Mapourika taking us alongside striking wild scree-scarred terrain with forests of Crimson Rata and Kahikatea. From Arthur’s Pass, we make the spectacular ascent up the western side of the Southern Alps, through thick native beech forest. As we descend every turn, offers spectacular views of the chiselled alpine landscape that take our breath away. Our journey continues through the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. We stay overnight at the centrally-located Distinction Hotel Christchurch.

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Christchurch and head towards the coastal town of Kaikoura, admiring the picturesque valley of Waipara, one of the country’s most notable wine regions, as we make our way north. Kaikoura means ‘crayfish’ in Maori, and the town is known as the crayfish capital of New Zealand. Kaikoura’s coast is also home to a variety of whale species, most prominently sperm whales, which can be seen year-round. This afternoon we have the option to take a whale-watching cruise, weather permitting, with the chance to see these magnificent creatures, as well as orcas, dolphins and other marine life. Later, we travel onwards to the township of Blenheim and our hotel for the night, the Scenic Hotel Marlborough.

This morning is spent at leisure in Blenheim before visiting a local winery to sample Marlborough’s world-famous Sauvignon Blanc and other excellent wines. We then travel to Picton to board the inter-island ferry for our scenic cruise across the Cook Strait to New Zealand’s North Island. As we sail through the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, keep an eye out for birds and dolphins following in our wake. On arrival in Wellington, we re-join our coach and continue to the Grand Chancellor Hotel James Cook or Copthorne Hotel Oriental Bay, where we stay for two nights.

The following day is free to explore New Zealand’s charming capital at leisure. Compact, cultured, and full of character, Wellington offers plenty to see and do – visit the fascinating Te Papa museum, ride the historic cable car to the city’s beautiful botanical gardens, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

This morning our journey continues north via the Kapiti coast and Hastings as we make our way to the Art Deco city of Napier, located in an area dominated by orchards and vineyards. Napier’s city centre has the feeling of a time capsule – the seamless line of 1930s architecture is quite extraordinary. One of the ways to enjoy the streetscape is on a self-guided tour. Our evening is spent at the delightful Scenic Hotel Te Pania, superbly situated on Napier’s seafront.

Today we make our way along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake. We visit the impressive Huka Falls where the Waikato River suddenly narrows to a chasm less than 15 metres across and heaves its vast bulk over an 11 metre ledge to boil furiously in a deep semi-circular basin below. We continue to Rotorua, which is at the heart of New Zealand’s rich Maori culture. The next two nights are spent at the Millennium Rotorua.

This morning, we explore some of Rotorua’s most famous sights, including its tudor-inspired bath house. We continue to Te Puia, home to Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, to view its spouting geysers, bubbling mud pools and hissing fumaroles. Enjoy a guided tour to learn more about the region’s unique landscapes, as well as visiting the on site Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, where young students learn traditional crafts, including wood and stone carving.

We travel north this morning, via Auckland, as we make our way to the pale sands and turquoise waters of the Bay of Islands. In the pretty seaside town of Paihia, the Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands will be our home for the next three nights.

After breakfast, we leave the Bay of Islands to head south, crossing the impressive Waitemata Harbour Bridge and head into Auckland and the Grand Chancellor Hotel Auckland for our final night in New Zealand.

Today we say farewell to our friends in New Zealand as they depart for home, whilst you will transfer to the airport for your flight via Melbourne or Sydney to Perth, Australia. On arrival you will be met by our local representative and transferred to the Duxton Hotel, where our Australian adventure begins.

Following a leisurely breakfast on the next day, we meet our Tour Manager and fellow travellers to find out more about our adventure ahead. Later, we enjoy the perfect introduction to Australia’s native wildlife, during a visit to Caversham Wildlife Park. The park showcases many of Australia’s unique and iconic animals, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, possums, Tasmanian devils and wombats.

The following day begins with a sightseeing tour of the city and the surrounding area. We visit King’s Park, a landscape of bushland and pretty wild flowers, offering astounding views out over the city’s skyline. Later, we visit the nearby port town of Fremantle to visit the fascinating Shipwreck Galleries. The tour will end with a relaxing cruise along the Swan River back to Perth. This afternoon there is an option to view the spectacular natural landscapes of Nambung National Park, home to hundreds of striking limestone towers known as the Pinnacles.

Our final Perth Freedom Day allows us to spend the day as we please. Our Distant Journeys Tour Manager will be on hand with advice on things to do, where to eat, make any arrangements and assist with excursions for you to further explore the area. Perhaps take an optional trip to Rottnest Island, a protected nature reserve with white-sand beaches and secluded coves, and home to the small wallaby-like marsupial, the quokka. Alternatively, travel north of Perth to visit the Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine area. However you choose to spend your day – enjoy!

In the morning, we make our way to Perth Airport in time for our flight to Adelaide. Surrounded by grassy parkland, picturesque hills and the Mount Lofty Range, Adelaide could scarcely present a more captivating aspect. On arrival, we will be introduced to Adelaide’s streets, fine Victorian buildings and the attractive parks and gardens that surround the city. Later, transfer to the centrally-located Crowne Plaza Hotel, where we will stay for the next three nights.

During this morning’s sightseeing tour, we leave the city to visit Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement in the quaint village of Hahndorf, with its tree-lined streets and original ‘Fachwerk’ buildings. We continue to the famous wine-growing region of the Barossa Valley where, after a visit to a working blacksmith museum, we enjoy wine tasting and lunch in one of the picturesque wineries.

This morning, we make our way to the airport for our flight to Melbourne, capital of Victoria state and Australia’s second-largest city. Enjoy a sightseeing tour including Treasury Gardens, Victoria Markets, Federation Square, the MCG and Rod Laver Arena. We also head out of the city to see the waterside suburbs of St. Kilda and Port Melbourne. Home for the next three nights is the four-star Pullman on the Park.

The following day is our first Freedom Day in Melbourne, where we have the opportunity to spend the day exploring its many parks and laneways or enjoy an excursion aboard the Puffing Billy steam train on Australia’s most notable narrow-gauge railway, through the beautiful Blue Dandenong Ranges.

A further Freedom Day is an opportunity to enjoy an optional tour along one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road. This full day tour meanders along the dramatic coastline to the impressive Twelve Apostles. Alternatively, discover Phillip Island, home to the world’s largest colony of little penguins.

Leaving Uluru this morning we drive through the Outback along the Lasseter and Stuart Highways to Alice Springs. Home for tonight is the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel. This evening, perhaps enjoy a quintessentially Aussie experience at the Outback Bush Barbecue.

Nestled within the MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs is an iconic town made famous by its rich pioneering history and ancient indigenous culture. This morning you may wish to take an optional hot air balloon trip over the outback landscapes or enjoy a morning tour of the Western MacDonnell Ranges. Later, we enjoy a sightseeing tour. Visits include the Royal Flying Doctor Service, the School of the Air, and the Old Telegraph Station.

Following breakfast, The Ghan rolls into Katherine. Here we visit nearby Nitmiluk National Park, home to the spectacular Katherine Gorge. The gorge is a series of 13 sandstone gorges carved over many millions of years by the Katherine River. As we cruise up the river with our Aboriginal guide, listen to stories of how the gorge was named, whilst marvelling at the sheer walls, etched by time and the elements, and home to a myriad of plant and animal life. Afterwards, return to The Ghan in time for lunch as we continue our journey to Darwin. Upon arrival, we transfer to the DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade, situated on Darwin’s striking esplanade.

Darwin is the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory and is known for its laid-back fusion of frontier outpost and modern city. Your day has been left totally free to spend in your own particular way. Perhaps visit the thundering waterfalls, rainforest pockets and sacred sites of Litchfield National Park. For those wishing to venture further afield, a full-day flightseeing excursion to Kakadu National Park can be arranged.

An early start, as we leave for the airport in time for our one-stop flight to Cairns. Upon arrival, we shall transfer to the perfectly-located Hilton Cairns Hotel, which will be our home for the next four nights.

Although the next day has been left free, you may wish to take an optional trip to Kuranda. We ascend to Kuranda on one of the most unique rail journeys in Australia, the Kuranda Scenic Railway. During our journey, we encounter no fewer than 40 bridges and 15 tunnels. ‘The village in the rainforest’, Kuranda, awaits. It’s a lovely place to while away a few hours visiting the markets, butterfly sanctuary or the Koala Gardens. We continue our adventure with a visit to Rainforestation, where we spend time with the Pamagirri Aboriginal people and learn about one of the oldest surviving cultures in the world. Travel back to Cairns by the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a beautiful experience gliding over the rainforest canopy with stunning views out over the Cairns coastline.

Another Freedom Day to enjoy tropical northern Queensland. Surrounded by rainforest and mountains, Cairns boasts over 200 walking tracks; there are also numerous interesting museums and art galleries to explore. Perhaps take a hot air balloon ride at dawn, or if you prefer to venture further afield, we suggest a day trip to the nearby Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest in the world. Alternatively, why not take a trip to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures? Just a short drive from Cairns, there are miles of timber boardwalks and paths winding through woodlands and rainforest where we can see an array of wildlife. In the evening, you may wish to complete your day with a sunset cruise. Enjoy your day!

This morning, we make our way to Cairns Airport in time for our flight to Sydney. Sydney is a city that takes full advantage of its natural setting – its sparkling harbour is host to the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the spectacular Sydney Opera House. Sydney’s suburbs are blessed with lush native bushland and pristine sandy beaches. Add to this the excellent restaurants and cafés, endless shopping opportunities and a vibrant culture and it’s very easy to understand why Sydney is one of the world’s favourite cities. Upon arrival, we head to the Sofitel Wentworth Hotel or Hilton Sydney, where we stay for 4 nights.

This morning offers two very different treats: a guided tour of Sydney’s Opera House; a stroll through Sydney’s famous Royal Botanic Garden with an Aboriginal guide. The afternoon has been left free for you to explore as you please. Catch up on some shopping, climb the impressive Harbour Bridge, or enjoy a scenic helicopter flight over Sydney Harbour. Whatever you wish to do, our Tour Manager will be very happy to assist.

The following day has been left free, but for those that so desire, we shall be taking an optional trip to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains. The Blue Mountains are a perfect example of native Australian bushland, with gum trees, majestic peaks and deep gorges stretching as far as the eye can see. Experience the panoramas from a series of lookouts, including Echo Point – the prime position to view the Three Sisters rock formation. The excursion also visits the pretty village of Leura and includes afternoon tea at the historic Hydro Majestic Hotel.

The day is ours until it’s time to depart for the airport. Our flight to our chosen UK airport operates via Dubai or Singapore, where there will be a change of aircraft. Breakfast, in-flight meals and drinks included

This morning, we arrive into our chosen airport (Choose from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Stanstead, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Edinburgh or Glasgow) bringing an end to our incredible adventure.