Grand New Zealand and Australia

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Auckland, Pick up Your Rental Car

  Kia Ora! Welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand!

  After your flight touches down at Auckland Airport, pick up your rental car and head to the hotel for check-in. New Zealand is an excellent place for a self-drive vacation, featuring well-maintained roads and stunning scenery along the way.

  Take advantage of the rest of the day to recover from jet lag in your cozy hotel room or explore the neighborhood on your own.

  • Auckland

• Day 2: Auckland Discovery

  Discover Auckland on your own today! For wine lovers, an optional wine-tasting trip to Waiheke, an island in the Hauraki Gulf with idyllic beauty, is a great way to start a New Zealand vacation. The Auckland Wine Region is celebrated for its wines made from Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec grapes, some of which are among the best in the country.

  Alternatively, climb up Maungakiekie One Tree Hill to learn about its spiritual significance to the Māori and admire a 360-degree view of the city, visit Auckland Museum for its vast collections on Māori culture as well as natural history, or have a seat in a restaurant boasting great harbor views for dinner (your own expense). Enjoy your time in Auckland!

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  • Auckland

• Day 3: Drive to Rotorua With Waitomo Caves Tour

  Start your adventure south on four wheels today! Rotorua, a city renowned for its volcanic pools in vibrant colors, splendid nature perfect for relaxation, and fascinating Māori culture, is your destination.

  This scenic drive first takes you south on State Highway 1, New Zealand's longest road linking Cape Reinga in the north with Invercargill on the southern tip. Then, stop in Waitomo for the underground Glowworm Caves, where you can admire the spectacle created by glowworms on the cave ceiling during a join-in tour with boat ride and marvel at limestone formations in unique shapes. Lord of the Rings fans may also join an optional Hobbiton Movie Set tour to visit a Hobbit's lovely abode and the famous Green Dragon Inn! Arrive in Rotorua later in the day and check into your hotel.

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  • Rotorua

• Day 4: Rotorua Explorations

  Explore Rotorua and appreciate its geothermal wonders on your own today! You have the option to visit Te Puia, which is one of the country's most impressive geothermal parks with tall, spouting geysers and boiling mud pools. See the Southern Hemisphere's biggest, naturally active geyser, Pohutu Geyser, encounter the flightless kiwi birds at the Kiwi Conservation Center, and watch Māori crafters and weavers at work showing their deft skills.

  Later in the day, you might wish to add a unique experience to your New Zealand journey, a soothing mud bath! Rich in minerals, the geothermal mud and sulfur waters at Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa have been used for healing purposes by local Māori for centuries. Feel your muscles relaxed, your skin cleansed, and your body revitalized afterward.

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  • Rotorua

• Day 5: Taupo Huka Falls, Drive to Taihape

  Hit the road again today as a one-hour drive takes you to Taupo. En route, you can choose to stop at Waimangu Volcanic Valley for a dose of geothermal wonders. The spectacular landscape, vibrant-colored hot spring pools, and mountain ranges coated in lush plantations make it a feast for the senses.

  Arrive in Taupo and be awed by the powerful Huka Falls cascading into an ice-blue pool. Afterward, journey south further along State Highway 1, which hugs the shorelines of Lake Taupo and offers splendid lake views that will erase your tiredness from the day's travel.

  On to the section of the highway known as Desert Road that runs through the Rangipo Desert with the volcanoes of Tongariro National Park towering in the distance, then you will reach your destination of the day, Taihape. Sleep well tonight and recharge your energies for more explorations tomorrow!

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  • Taihape

• Day 6: Drive to Wellington Through the Wairarapa Wine Region

  Continue the journey south today as you drive towards Wellington, the political capital of Aotearoa New Zealand, and a city with a fascinating culinary culture. This route takes you through the Wairarapa Wine Region, offering views of idyllic small towns and picturesque vineyards along the way. If you wish, stop at a winery en route to savor the region's richly flavored Pinot Noir, intense and vivid Sauvignon Blanc, and complex and flavorful Chardonnay.

  Upon arrival, settle down in your comfortable hotel and have the rest of the day to discover Wellington on your own. Every year, lively food festivals, including the Wellington On a Plate event and the Wellington Food Show, see locals and visitors gather to celebrate the wonderful food and wine the area is famous for. Be sure to check out the dates in advance!

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  • Wellington

• Day 7: Ferry to Picton, Drive to Kaikoura

  Dedicated this morning to exploring Wellington under your own steam! You have the option of joining a guided Wētā Workshop Tour to dive into the creative realm built by one of the film industry's leading companies in special effects and learn the stories behind its collection of movie props from armor and weapons to creatures and makeup of miniatures.

  Afterward, head to the ferry terminal for the three-and-a-half-hour ferry ride taking you across the Cook Strait to South Island. Schools of dolphins call this crossing home, including Dusky dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, and the native Hector dolphins, and you may be able to spot these playful creatures during the journey.

  Reach Picton in the late afternoon and drive to the coastal town of Kaikoura for the night.

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  • Kaikoura

• Day 8: Drive to Christchurch

  Renowned as the country's whale capital, Kaikoura offers one of the best whale-watching experiences in the Southern Hemisphere, with year-round sightings of Sperm whales and seasonal spotting of Humpback whales (June-July), Killer whales (December-March), and more. This morning, you might wish to go on an optional 2-hour whale-watching cruise to see these magnificent animals roaming freely in their natural habitat and learn about their daily behaviors. Alternatively, enjoy a morning at leisure in your cozy hotel or unveil the charms of Kaikoura in your own way.

  In the afternoon, drive south to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island. Sweeping views of the ocean gradually change into lovely vistas of lush fields and quaint little towns, and you arrive at your destination after around two and a half hours.

  For the rest of the day, enjoy what Christchurch has to offer on your own, perhaps letting the historic Tram take you to the city's landmarks, or riding the Gondola for a panorama of the city basked in gorgeous sunset hues.

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  • Christchurch

• Day 9: Drive to Lake Tekapo, Church of the Good Shepherd

  Today's road trip sees a change in scenery as the lush fields and rolling vineyards of the Canterbury / Waipara wine region turn into snowy peaks and soaring mountains of the Southern Alps. Starting from Christchurch, the drive to Lake Tekapo, one of the most photographed and scenic places in the country, takes around three and a half hours.

  On a bright day, the lake reflects a gorgeous turquoise color, with shores fringed by grassy fields and Lupin flowers blooming in summer, drawing every visitor to immerse in its serene beauty. Capture the view of the Church of the Good Shepherd against a stunning backdrop of drastic mountain peaks and calm waters sparkling under the sun and visit Mt. John Observatory View Point if you prefer for an unobstructed view of the area. Lake Tekapo is located in a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve and tonight you can join an optional star-gazing tour to admire the star-lit southern sky.

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  • Lake Tekapo

• Day 10: Aoraki / Mt. Cook National Park Natural Wonders

  Your journey continues as you venture to Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park, a place where snow-covered peaks, dramatic cliffs, spectacular glaciers, and alpine forests come together to create a realm of surreal beauty. Leave the shore of Lake Tekapo behind and reach Lake Pukaki after around half an hour. Take in its vivid blue colors with Mt. Cook standing in all glory and grandeur in the background.

  Arrive at the hotel and take advantage of the rest of the day to indulge in the national park's jaw-droppingly beautiful vistas. See the mighty Tasman Glacier, the longest of its kind in the country, and the nearby lake and icebergs from a viewpoint, embark on an easy hike in the Hooker Valley to feel connected to this ancient land, or make your time here more unforgettable with an optional scenic helicopter flight. Sleep well tonight under the tranquilizing magic of this alpine haven.

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  • Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

• Day 11: Drive to Wanaka

  Depart the alpine wonderland of Aoraki Mt. Cook and embark on a scenic drive to Wanaka, a lively lakeside town and a hub for outdoor adventures. Considered one of the most beautiful road trips in New Zealand, this two-and-a-half-hour journey takes you on state highways winding through mountainous terrain, grassy plains, and quaint little towns. En route, you can drop by High Country Salmon for coffee or tea, and stop at Lindis Pass Viewpoint for a gorgeous panorama of imposing mountain peaks.

  Before reaching Wanaka, you have the option to visit a winery along the route and savor Central Otago's delicious drops. With numerous wineries and cellar doors producing award-winning Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris featuring the beguiling aromas of apricot and citrus, Central Otago ranks among one of the country's premium wine regions. Arrive in Wanaka and have the rest of the day at leisure.

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  • Wanaka

• Day 12: Arrowtown, Drive to Queenstown

  Drink in Wanaka's splendid nature before hitting the road again in the direction of Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital. Driving along the Cardrona Valley, a place renowned for mountain biking, horse trekking, and winter sports including skiing and snowboarding, you reach Arrowtown in around an hour. This historic gold-mining town still preserves a unique aura from that bygone age. Visit Lakes District Museum & Gallery to gain a deeper understanding of the town's history if you prefer.

  Arrive in Queenstown and make the most of your time to explore this city under your own steam. You can take the Skyline Gondola, the Southern Hemisphere's steepest cable car ride, for a fabulous bird-eye view of the city, enjoy a hike along Bob's Peak's walking trails, or treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a restaurant boasting lovely lake views (at your own expense). Return the rental car at the end of the day and you've completed a road trip that is epic!

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  • Queenstown

• Day 13: Milford Sound Day Trip With Scenic Cruise

  The Fiordland, dramatic and epic in every way. The magnificent peaks piercing through the clouds, roaring waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs, and precious wildlife roaming freely in dense forests and serene waters inspire awe even in seasoned world wanderers. Today, take in the grandeur of Milford Sound, the crown jewel of the Fiordland, on a join-in tour from Queenstown.

  The drive along Milford Road is a feast for the eyes in itself, revealing at every turn splendid scenery, and reminds you of Middle Earth if you are a Lord of the Rings fan. The day trip culminates in a Milford Sound cruise, during which you glide across the calm waters, soaking up the breathtaking beauty that unfolds before your eyes, gaining insight into the region through commentary provided by experienced guides, and spotting playful dolphins and lovely fur seals if lucky enough. Return to Queenstown when the tour ends with the glorious image of Milford Sound forever in your heart.

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  • Queenstown

• Day 14: Queenstown Exploration

  A chill day for you to relax and unwind at your comfortable hotel or explore Queenstown and its surroundings in your own style. You may prefer a leisurely TSS Earnslaw Cruise across the beautiful Lake Wakatipu and a delightful dinner using fresh ingredients from the garden at the Walter Peak High Country Farm.

  For those seeking an adrenaline rush, choices galore in the country's adventure capital. Feel the thrill of gliding down the Dart River in a jetboat, or go on a day trip hiking the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks offering gorgeous views of mountain ranges, deep valleys, and alpine forests. Have fun in Queenstown!

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  • Queenstown

• Day 15: Fly to Sydney

  Say goodbye to Aotearoa New Zealand today. Head to the airport on your own, board the flight taking you across the Tasman Sea to Australia's largest city, Sydney, and start another adventure. Touch down after three and a half hours, meet your private driver greeting you with a big smile, and transfer to the hotel.

  Take advantage of the rest of the day to discover Sydney in your own way. Visit the Rocks for a glimpse of the city's past, stroll around the iconic Circular Quay, and photograph the Sydney Opera House and the Harbor Bridge in one frame at Mrs. Macquarie's Point.

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  • Sydney

• Day 16: Blue Mountains Day Tour

  With towering peaks, craggy cliffs, unique sandstone formations, cascading waterfalls, and precious stone art left by Aboriginals, the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains makes the perfect day trip for anyone seeking a little peace and quietness away from the bustle of the city.

  Today, discover this area with your English-speaking driver. Enjoy a comfortable ride in a private vehicle and take in the lush landscape outside the window, before stopping at Lincoln's Rock for a breathtaking view of the verdant mountains and fields. Afterward, take the Scenic World Railway, the world's steepest, down to the floor of Jamison Valley, gain more knowledge about native plants and birdlife with a stroll on the boardwalks, and capture the beautiful view of the Three Sisters during a Skyway ride. An Unlimited Discovery Pass is included so that you can have fun in your own way.

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  • Sydney

• Day 17: Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tour

  Leave the bustle of Sydney behind as you head north with your private driver to Hunter Valley for a day of wine tasting! Being Australia's oldest wine-growing region, Hunter Valley makes the perfect getaway for wine and gourmet food lovers with decades-old cellar doors producing award-winning Shiraz, Chardonnay, and the world's best Semillon, and mouth-watering delicacies using locally made ingredients including cheese and olive oil.

  Three wine tastings at a carefully selected range of wineries are included so that you can enjoy the region's iconic flavors. As you savor the delicious drops, drink in lush views of the vineyards and rolling hills in the background. The bucolic beauty will leave you mesmerized. Have lunch at a winery and feel the unique tastes of Hunter Valley bursting in your mouth, before visiting the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company for a sweet encounter with excellent hand-crafted chocolate, fudge, and gelato. Return to Sydney for the night after an unforgettable day.

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  • Sydney

• Day 18: Fly to Cairns

  Your adventure takes you to tropical North Queensland today. Head to Sydney airport by yourself and catch the 3-hour flight to Cairns, a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef's fascinating marine world and Daintree National Park's pristine rainforest. Upon arrival, meet your private driver for a smooth transfer to the hotel.

  Explore Cairns under your own steam for the rest of the day. Stroll along the Esplanade and feel the breeze in your hair, find a seat at a seaside restaurant and watch the setting sun paint the horizon in glorious hues, or visit Rusty's Markets for a taste of local life if you happen to be in town during weekends.

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  • Cairns

• Day 19: Fitzroy Island & Great Barrier Reef Day Tour

  Delve into the Great Barrier Reef's clear waters for a magical experience today! Start your adventure with a boat ride to the Sunlover Pontoon near the Moore Reef. Here a morning full of fun awaits. Snorkel to indulge in the beauty of the marine world, go on a glass-bottom boat tour if you prefer to stay dry, or spice up your experience with optional activities such as helmet dives and scenic helicopter flights.

  Another boat ride takes you to Fitzroy Island, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch. Coated by dense rainforests brimming with unique bird species and plants, Fitzroy Island holds the power to excite wildlife aficionados and nature lovers alike. The next two hours are for you to explore on your own, and you can consider joining a guided Nature Walk, Rainforest Tour, or Turtle Walk Presentation at an additional fee to meet the island's lovely residents. Return to Cairns at the end of the day.

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  • Cairns

• Day 20: Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation Excursion

  Embark on a day of rainforest adventures with a join-in tour! The Daintree is the world's oldest tropical rainforest, it has been growing for more than 100 million years! Under the green canopy is a world boasting such biodiversity that it is home to 30% of all Australia's frog, marsupial, and reptile species and 65% of bats and butterfly species.

  Reach Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre after an hour's drive. Go on a nature walk along the trails to soak up the rainforest's vibrant energy, before venturing deep into this magical land to reach the Daintree River. Join an hour-long river cruise to spot huge saltwater crocodiles along with other fascinating wildlife. Afterward, arrive at Cape Tribulation Beach, where the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest meet. On the way back, visit Daintree Ice Cream Company for a sweet treat and stop at Mount Alexandra Lookout for a gorgeous vista of the area.

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  • Cairns

• Day 21: Cairns, Departure

  Your Australia and New Zealand journey draws an end today. Savor Cairns' tropical ambiance for some more time before your private driver picks you up and takes you to the airport for your home-bound flight. Safe travels!

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