Australia with New Zealand's North Island
Nature, beaches, cityscapes, and more!
If you love the independent exploration of exciting cities, road trips filled with amazing tours, and the opportunity to experience two countries on one trip, look no further! This 12-night vacation package takes you through Sydney and Cairns in Australia before you road trip around New Zealand's North Island! You'll experience incredible natural sites, like the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and Te Puia Geothermal Park in New Zealand. Combine the natural beauty with incredible cities, food, and culture and you have a dream vacation awaiting you!
You can find safety advice and alerts for Australia travel here.
What's Included
- Roundtrip economy class airfare into Sydney (SYD), out of Wellington (WLG)
- Private airport transfers in Australia
- 3 nights in Sydney at the Vibe Hotel, or similar
- Half-day guided panoramic tour of Sydney & Bondi Beach
- Sydney Harbour Cruise with lunch
- One-way economy class flight from Sydney (SYD) to Cairns (CNS)
- 3 nights in Cairns at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, or similar
- Catamaran cruise on the Great Barrier Reef to Michaelmas Cay - includes snorkeling and lunch
- Kuranda tour with Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway & lunch
- One-way economy class flight from Cairns (CNS) to Auckland (AKL)
- Airport transfer upon arrival into Auckland, New Zealand
- 1 night in Auckland at the Grand Millennium Hotel, or similar
- Automatic rental car for 7 days- includes unlimited mileage, insurance, and GPS
- Pickup Auckland city center on Day 2 and drop-off at Wellington airport
- Waitomo Glowworm Cave tour
- Barbecue lunch at a local farm
- Visit to Matamata with tour of Hobbiton movie sets
- 2 nights in Rotorua at the Rydges Hotel, or similar
- Visit to the Rotorua Agrodome
- Admissions to the Rainbow Springs and Te Puia geothermal park
- Hangi traditional dinner & show
- 2 nights in Napier at the Te Pania Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in Wellington at the Novotel Hotel Wellington, or similar
- Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 1 dinner
Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:
Great Ways to Explore
-
Cruise the Sydney Harbour for spectacular city views!
Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef and see this natural wonder up close!
-
Visit the amazing Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and then experience an authentic barbecue lunch near Rotorua!
-
Spend some time relaxing at the Rainbow Springs and Te Puia geothermal park.
-
Try the incredible coffee in Wellington!
Australia and New Zealand await! This vacation package spans 12 nights and two incredible countries.
Begin in Sydney and Cairns, where you'll experience some of Australia's most famous sites! Visit the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach, then hop to Cairns to snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef! You'll also have plenty of time to experience each city as you please. Souvenir shop, dine at various waterfront restaurants, soak up the Aussie sun, and so much more!
Then, you'll fly to Auckland, New Zealand to kick off the second part of your trip! Pick up your rental car and begin your North Island road trip!
From Auckland, you'll drive to Rotorua, with a visit to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, a barbecue lunch, and a tour of the Hobbiton movie sets along the way! Then, visit the Rotorua Agrodome, Rainbow Springs, and Te Puia geothermal Park en route to a traditional Hangi dinner. The dinner and show will provide you with an authentic Maori cultural experience!
From Rotorua, you'll drive to Napier for a few nights in the Art Deco city, and then onto Wellington. Catch the awesome coffee and cafe culture here before flying home!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Roundtrip economy class airfare into Sydney (SYD), out of Wellington (WLG)
- Private airport transfers in Australia
- 3 nights in Sydney at the Vibe Hotel, or similar
- Half-day guided panoramic tour of Sydney & Bondi Beach
- Sydney Harbour Cruise with lunch
- One-way economy class flight from Sydney (SYD) to Cairns (CNS)
- 3 nights in Cairns at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, or similar
- Catamaran cruise on the Great Barrier Reef to Michaelmas Cay - includes snorkeling and lunch
- Kuranda tour with Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway & lunch
- One-way economy class flight from Cairns (CNS) to Auckland (AKL)
- Airport transfer upon arrival into Auckland, New Zealand
- 1 night in Auckland at the Grand Millennium Hotel, or similar
- Automatic rental car for 7 days- includes unlimited mileage, insurance, and GPS
- Pickup Auckland city center on Day 2 and drop-off at Wellington airport
- Waitomo Glowworm Cave tour
- Barbecue lunch at a local farm
- Visit to Matamata with tour of Hobbiton movie sets
- 2 nights in Rotorua at the Rydges Hotel, or similar
- Visit to the Rotorua Agrodome
- Admissions to the Rainbow Springs and Te Puia geothermal park
- Hangi traditional dinner & show
- 2 nights in Napier at the Te Pania Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in Wellington at the Novotel Hotel Wellington, or similar
- Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 1 dinner
Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:
-
Cruise the Sydney Harbour for spectacular city views!
Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef and see this natural wonder up close!
-
Visit the amazing Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and then experience an authentic barbecue lunch near Rotorua!
-
Spend some time relaxing at the Rainbow Springs and Te Puia geothermal park.
-
Try the incredible coffee in Wellington!
Australia and New Zealand await! This vacation package spans 12 nights and two incredible countries.
Begin in Sydney and Cairns, where you'll experience some of Australia's most famous sites! Visit the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach, then hop to Cairns to snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef! You'll also have plenty of time to experience each city as you please. Souvenir shop, dine at various waterfront restaurants, soak up the Aussie sun, and so much more!
Then, you'll fly to Auckland, New Zealand to kick off the second part of your trip! Pick up your rental car and begin your North Island road trip!
From Auckland, you'll drive to Rotorua, with a visit to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, a barbecue lunch, and a tour of the Hobbiton movie sets along the way! Then, visit the Rotorua Agrodome, Rainbow Springs, and Te Puia geothermal Park en route to a traditional Hangi dinner. The dinner and show will provide you with an authentic Maori cultural experience!
From Rotorua, you'll drive to Napier for a few nights in the Art Deco city, and then onto Wellington. Catch the awesome coffee and cafe culture here before flying home!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Sydney!
Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Check in, get settled, and begin to explore vibrant Sydney!
Transfer from Sydney Airport to hotel
Check-in - Vibe Hotel Sydney
Vibe Hotel Sydney is conveniently located near Hyde Park, World Square, and the Queen Victoria Building. Guests can expect well-appointed rooms that include free WiFi, television, complimentary toiletries, and coffee/tea making facilities. There is an onsite restaurant open for all-day dining, featuring a great wine list and delicious menu. The hotel also features a pool, sauna, and fitness center. Vibe Hotel Sydney is about a 5 minute walk from Oxford Street, where the city comes alive day and night!
Day 2. Sydney
Recharge with a delicious breakfast, then embark on an unforgettable tour of Sydney! Spend half the day sightseeing with a knowledgeable guide who will bring you to the historic Rocks, the world-famous Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and more! Strut down Sydney's trendy Oxford street, admire the terrace houses in Paddington, then visit the one and only Bondi Beach. Hang out on the beachfront promenade and treat yourself to an ice cream cone!
After your fascinating tour, you'll set sail on a delightful lunch cruise. Float atop Sydney Harbour and take in spectacular views of the city!
Half-day guided panoramic tour of Sydney w/ Bondi Beach
Get swept up in the action of this half-day tour of magnificent Sydney! You'll be taken through the historic Rocks area and learn about its convict history. You'll also experience stunning views of the world-famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge! Enjoy the ride as you're taken through the heart of the city, where the Queen Victoria Building is home to fantastic shopping. Oxford Street is a trendy new district in Sydney that you'll pass through! From there, you'll be taken to world-renowned Bondi Beach! Here, you'll have time to enjoy a stroll along the shoreline as you absorb the stunning scenery around you. Return to the city center via Mrs. Macquarie's Chair for one final look at the harbour, with a view you won't soon forget!
Day 3. Sydney
Enjoy a day at leisure in beautiful Sydney! Fuel up with an energizing breakfast, then grab your camera and explore at your own pace. You may want to lounge on Bondi Beach or visit the Royal Botanic Gardens! Admire the architecture of historic buildings, then treat yourself to a refreshing cocktail at a charming bar in The Rocks. Finish up your day with an unforgettable sunset over the harbour!
Day 4. Sydney - Cairns
Say "see ya" to Sydney! Today, you'll be transferred to Sydney Airport for your flight to Cairns. Get ready to come face-to-face with the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef! Upon arrival in Cairns, enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel and settle in. Spend the afternoon exploring on your own!
Transfer from hotel to Sydney Airport
Flight from Sydney to Cairns
Transfer from Cairns Airport to hotel
Check-in - DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Become immersed in peace and luxury at this rainforest oasis! Boasting a unique central rainforest atrium, DoubleTree by Hilton Cairns offers modern comforts in a stylish atmosphere. Check-in with the 24-hour reception team, then head up to your room. Find free WiFi, crisp air conditioning, flat-screen TV, plush bedding, and much more!
Once you're all settled in, unpack your swimsuit and make a splash in the sparkling outdoor pool! Take a stroll through the lush garden, then treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant. Too cozy to leave your room? Order room service 24/7! Don't worry about eating too much; you can always work it off in the fitness center.
Day 6. Cairns
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Spend the day sailing through the Great Barrier Reef on an amazing catamaran cruise. Enjoy stunning views, snorkeling, tropical cuisine, and more!
Catamaran Cruise on the Great Barrier Reef to Michaelmas Cay - includes snorkeling and lunch
Great Barrier Reef, here you come! Set sail on a catamaran cruise to Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef. This stunning national park also serves as a sanctuary for migratory seabirds! Rich with a myriad of marine life, you can expect to see brightly colored fish and green sea turtles swimming through the waters of this endless coral reef. Enjoy an unforgettable day of tropical cuisine, snorkeling, and wildlife exploration!Â
Day 6. Cairns
Today, you'll take a day-trip to Kuranda Rainforest. This lush land will allow you to see koalas, discover natural beauty, and immerse yourself in ancient village life. For an extra thrill, you'll take a ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which runs above the Barron Gorge National Park!
Kuranda Rainforest Village tour with lunch
Set off for the Kuranda Rainforest Village for a day of intrigue and discovery! Escorted by a multi-lingual private guide, you will enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to Tjapukai Aboriginal Culture Park, where entry is included. After a visit to the park, you will board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to Kuranda. Once there, you will get some leisure time in Kuranda Village. After, you will ride the Scenic Railway from Kuranda to Freshwater station where a private transfer back to your hotel will be waiting.
Day 7. Cairns - Auckland
Today you'll fly to Auckland, New Zealand! Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Check in and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Transfer from hotel to Cairns Airport
Flight from Cairns to Auckland
Transfer from Auckland Airport to hotel
Check-in - Grand Millennium Auckland
Located in the vibrant heart of Auckland, the Grand Millennium boasts chic decor, luxurious rooms, and endless amenities. With its amazing location, you'll be steps from the city's finest dining, shopping, and entertainment venues! Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, and admire the hotel's stylish interior.
Head up to your room and open the door to free WiFi, comfortable beds, flat-screen TV, and much more! Unpack your swimsuit and make a splash in the pool, or lace up your sneakers and work out in the fitness center. In the mood for a cocktail? Treat yourself to a drink at the posh Atrium Bar! When you work up an appetite, choose from either onsite restaurant: the Grand Millennium Brasserie or Katsura Japanese Restaurant.
Day 8. Auckland - Waitomo - Matamata - Rotorua
This morning, you will pick up your rental car in Auckland city center and depart for Rotorua. Your first stop along the way is Waitomo! Here, you will enjoy a tour of the Glowworm Caves! Next, you will drive to a local farm for a BBQ lunch. Take a moment here to appreciate the local, rural way of living!
After, you will head to Matamata for a tour of the Hobbiton movie sets! Your final stop is Rotorua, where you will check in to your hotel.
Check-in - Rydges Rotorua
Rydges Rotorua features stunning views over the city and the nearby Arawa Rasecourse. Guest rooms are equipped with free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, and television. Atrium Restaurant features modern and classic cuisine. Sip a cocktail at Mezz Bar, head to the fitness center for a workout, or walk to the nearby shops and cafes!
Visit to Matamata with tour of Hobbiton movie sets
Discover the real Middle-earth on the most picturesque private farmland! Located near Matamata in the North Island of New Zealand is the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. Take a fascinating two-hour guided tour through the movie sets as you experience the magic for yourself!
Day 9. Rotorua
Today, you will visit the Rotorua Agrodome to learn more about New Zealand livestock. Next, you will visit Rainbow Springs, a trout sanctuary. Then, you'll visit Te Puia, a geothermal park. Tonight, a Hangi dinner and concert are included!
Visit to the Rotorua Agrodome
The Agrodome is a complex where we could learn more about New Zealand livestock including sheep, cattle and others. The stars of the show are not only the sheep but the farm dogs which will demonstrate their ability to respond to commands and keep the stock under their control. You may also feed the lambs or even milk a cow.
Admissions to the Rainbow Springs and Te Puia geothermal park
Set in 22 acres of beautiful native trees and streams, Rainbow Springs is home to a huge variety of New Zealand’s most precious inhabitants. Experience the adrenaline rush of The Big Splash, explore the many free flight aviaries, come face to face with pre-history in the eyes of the tuatara, and experience the wonder of the bird show featuring some of the funniest feathered performers you will ever see.
Then, wander through Te Puia, New Zealand’s Maori Culture Centre, where you will have the opportunity to view the awesome power of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, and much more.
Hangi traditional dinner & show
An evening at Mitai will give you an authentic introduction to Maori culture leaving you amazed and in awe. Enter the world of Mitai. Be enthralled by the natural bush setting, see warriors in traditional dress paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream, and don’t miss your only opportunity in the Rotorua area to see glow worms in their natural habitat. Marvel at the crystal clear water full of eels and trout, flowing directly from the earth at the sacred Fairy Spring. See your traditionally cooked hangi meal being lifted from the ground. During our cultural performance, you’ll learn about our past, carvings and ta moko (tattoo art). Be captivated by the displays of weaponry and combat, coupled with the grace and beauty of the poi dance. You’ll be amazed by the spine tingling haka finale. The Mitai family is proud to have created a sacred and spiritual place that offers you an indigenous cultural experience like no other.
Day 10. Rotorua - Taupo - Napier
This morning, depart Rotorua and head for Napier. Along the way, consider a stop at the famous Huka Falls or a visit to the Wairakei Geothermal Plant. Your final destination today is Napier. Check into your hotel and begin to explore!
Check-in - Scenic Hotel Te Pania
Located right on picturesque Marine Parade, the stunning Scenic Hotel Te Pania offers comfortable rooms, luxurious amenities, and breathtaking views. After checking in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, head up to your bright, spacious room. Open the door and find flat-screen satellite TV, free WiFi, plush bedding, and much more!
Consider a meal at the onsite Exchange Brasserie, which boasts beautiful views and a locally sourced menu. Why not unwind with a drink from the bar? When you're ready to explore, take a quick 2-minute walk to Napier's scenic Art Deco-style main street!
Day 11. Napier
Today is a free day to explore the city of Napier! It is known as the Art Deco city of New Zealand. Stroll along the streets to discover the beautiful architecture, find a cafe to grab a cup of coffee, and continue to explore independently!
Day 12. Napier - Wellington
Say goodbye to Napier this morning and drive to Wellington. Check into your hotel, freshen up, and begin to explore another incredible city!
Check-in - Novotel Wellington
Crisp, clean, contemporary, and comfortable, Novotel Wellington is the perfect home away from home. Just steps from Lambton Quay Cable Car Station, this beautiful hotel positions you in an outstanding location for exploring Wellington. After you check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, head up to your room. Open the door to plush bedding, stylish decor, crisp air conditioning, luxurious bath amenities, WiFi access, and much more!
Once you get settled, work all your stresses away in the fitness center. When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite Caucus restaurant! Then, unwind the day away with a smooth cocktail from the Caucus bar.
Day 13. Wellington
Today, you will return your rental car to Wellington Airport and catch your flight home!