Book by September 30, 2026 and Save $500 Per Person ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/1%20Meals%20%28red%29.png) 41 Meals ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/3%20CT%20Ratings%20%28red%29.png) CT Rating 3/5 - Moderately Challenging ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/4%20Leader%20%28red%29.png) Led by Daniel Benson **Experience New Zealand and Australia** Venture through breathtaking landscapes, where extended stays of two, three, and four nights provide a deeper connection to these two distinct yet equally captivating nations. Highlights include a full-day excursion to Milford Sound, a Great Barrier Reef cruise, and a rainforest journey in Kuranda by rail and Skyrail. Savour special meals, from a harbourside dinner in Auckland and a traditional “Hangi” feast in Rotorua to a gourmet BBQ cruise in Queenstown and a Sounds of Silence dinner at Uluru. [Book Now](https://enrollment.craigtravel.com/booking?departurecode=TPA150227:20270215) [Download Brochure](https://mkt.craigtravel.com/ct--landing-page--brochure-download?brochure=australia-newzealand-feb-2027) #### Alternate Departure:[ ](https://www.craigtravel.com/journeys/japan-november-7-2026) [November 6, 2026](https://www.craigtravel.com/journeys/australia-new-zealand-nov-6-2026) [![Australia New Zealand map](/sites/default/files/2026-05/map_Australia%20New%20Zealand%20Feb%202027%20adj01May2026.jpg)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-05/map_Australia%20New%20Zealand%20Feb%202027%20adj01May2026.jpg) ### Tour Highlights - Discover New Zealand and Australia through guided city tours in Auckland, Christchurch, Melbourne and Sydney - Enjoy panoramic views from Auckland’s Sky Tower - Swim in the Great Barrier Reef on a full-day cruise - Witness the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island and meet koalas and kangaroos at Healesville Sanctuary - Cruise Milford Sound, New Zealand’s striking fjord - Marvel at glowworms in the Waitomo Caves and geothermal wonders at Te Puia - Support conservation efforts at the National Kiwi Hatchery - Explore history and culture at the Māori Gallery, Lakes District Museum, and Sydney Opera House - Connect with the spirit of the Outback at Uluru through walks, stories, and a camel ride at sunset - Ride the Puffing Billy steam train in the Dandenong Ranges - Take in the Blue Mountains by railway, skyway, or cableway - Experience vibrant Indigenous traditions with Māori and Pamagirri cultural performances - Taste local flavours through special culinary experiences throughout ### Inclusive Features - Return economy group airfare to Australia and New Zealand plus domestic flights within the destination - First-class accommodation, as indicated or similar - All sightseeing and entrance fees as described 41 meals as noted in the itinerary (B - 21 breakfasts, L - 7 lunches, D - 13 dinners) - Services of your Canadian journey leader and expert local drivers and guides - All gratuities, surcharges, taxes and fees for inclusions - Airport transfers in Canada (or equivalent value) with booking of air-inclusive package ### Itinerary Overview Full View DEPART CANADA / ARRIVE FEB 17 February 15, 2027 Tour members from across Canada gather in Vancouver and fly to Auckland, losing a day en route. AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND February 17, 2027 Arrive in Auckland early this morning and transfer to our hotel for immediate check-in. Join your fellow travellers for dinner this evening. **Grand Millennium** (2 nights) Dinner AUCKLAND February 18, 2027 We explore New Zealand’s most populous city on a sightseeing tour featuring the Auckland War Memorial Museum with its Māori gallery, followed by panoramic views from the Sky Tower. This evening, gather for a welcome reception and dinner. Breakfast, Dinner WAITOMO / ROTORUA February 19, 2027 Drift through the magical Waitomo Caves as thousands of glowworms light up the darkness like a starry sky. After some free time, we continue to Rotorua and our lakefront hotel. Visit the Te Puia Thermal Reserve to see bubbling mud pools and geysers, and learn about Māori life and crafts. This evening, enjoy a traditional hāngī dinner in a Māori village, complete with a concert of songs and dances. **Novotel Rotorua Lakeside** (2 nights) Breakfast, Dinner ROTORUA February 20, 2027 This morning, head to the Agrodome to learn about sheep breeds, watch live shearing and skilled farm dogs in action. Then, stop by the National Kiwi Hatchery to learn about New Zealand’s national bird and the efforts to protect it. Ride the gondola up Mt. Ngongotahā to the Skyline Restaurant for a buffet lunch with panoramic views. The rest of the day is free to explore at your leisure. Breakfast, Lunch ROTORUA / QUEENSTOWN February 21, 2027 Fly to the South Island for a three-night stay in New Zealand’s resort capital, Queenstown, surrounded by majestic mountains and lake views. This evening, cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak sheep station, for a lakeside gourmet BBQ featuring homegrown produce. **Copthorne Hotel** or similar (3 nights) Breakfast, Dinner QUEENSTOWN February 22, 2027 Spend the day at your own pace, whether you opt for a jet boat ride on the Shotover River, a gondola trip to Bob’s Peak, or a stroll by the lake in the Botanic Gardens. Breakfast MILFORD SOUND February 23, 2027 Travel through the rugged Hollyford Valley to Milford Sound for a full day surrounded by the pristine beauty of Fiordland National Park. Cruise its deep, still waters past towering fjords, powerful waterfalls, and the iconic Mitre Peak. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner QUEENSTOWN / MT. COOK / TWIZEL February 24, 2027 Wander through the historic gold rush town of Arrowtown, with a visit to the Lakes District Museum. Enjoy a short wine tour and tasting in the cave cellar at Gibbston Valley Winery, then continue to Aoraki / Mount Cook Village. Take in the alpine views during free time at the Hermitage before arriving in Twizel. **Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel** (1 night) Breakfast, Dinner LAKE TEKAPO / CHRISTCHURCH February 25, 2027 Stop at Lake Tekapo to see the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd, built in 1935 as a tribute to the region’s early settlers. Arriving in Christchurch, known as the Garden City for its parks and green spaces, take part in a city sightseeing tour followed by free time to walk the Botanic Gardens. **Hotel Elms** (1 night) Breakfast, Dinner CHRISTCHURCH / MELBOURNE February 26, 2027 We board our flight to Melbourne, known as the cultural capital of Australia. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel to settle in. We leave the remainder of the day open for you to begin your own independent exploration of this vibrant metropolis. **Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne** (3 nights) Breakfast MELBOURNE / PHILLIP ISLAND February 27, 2027 Begin the day with a Melbourne city tour, including stops at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Cooks’ Cottage in the Fitzroy Gardens, Flinders Street Station, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Pass the Shrine of Remembrance and the Olympic Park sports precinct before journeying to Phillip Island. Enjoy coastal views via Churchill Island and the Nobbies, then witness the famous Penguin Parade as the little penguins return ashore at sunset. Breakfast, Dinner YARRA VALLEY February 28, 2027 Ride the historic Puffing Billy steam train through the forested slopes of the Dandenong Ranges. At Healesville Sanctuary, encounter iconic Australian wildlife including kangaroos and koalas. Afterward, savour a special Yarra Valley lunch and wine tasting before returning to Melbourne. Breakfast, Lunch MELBOURNE / AYERS ROCK March 1, 2027 Fly to Ayers Rock (Uluru), in the heart of the Outback, a site of spiritual significance to the Anangu people. Drive through Kata Tjuta National Park for views of Uluru with a stop at the Olgas, a striking formation of domed red rocks. Take a walk into its deep gorges to experience the scale and stillness of the landscape. Then, we visit a cultural centre to learn about Aboriginal history and culture. Later, ride camels through the desert with Uluru and Kata Tjuta as your backdrop. **Sails in the Desert Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast AYERS ROCK March 2, 2027 Walk the base trail to Mutitjulu Waterhole, a rare permanent water source, and view the dramatic Kantju Gorge. Our evening begins on a dune top with sparkling wine and canapés as sunset transforms the landscape of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. As darkness falls, enjoy a didgeridoo performance and a “bush tucker” dinner, before a resident star guide decodes the brilliant southern sky. Breakfast, Dinner AYERS ROCK / SYDNEY March 3, 2027 Fly to Sydney and transfer directly to our hotel. This evening, dine at The Meat & Wine Co, one of Australia’s top steakhouses. **The Grace Hotel** (3 nights) Breakfast, Dinner BLUE MOUNTAINS March 4, 2027 Set out on a full-day tour of the Blue Mountains, passing charming villages, dramatic lookouts, and waterfalls. Stop in Leura before continuing along Cliff Drive to Katoomba for panoramic views of the Jamison Valley and the iconic Three Sisters. After lunch, visit Scenic World for a ride on the Railway, Skyway, or Cableway, each offering a unique perspective of the rainforest and sandstone cliffs. Breakfast, Lunch SYDNEY March 5, 2027 Discover Sydney, a dazzling harbour city known for its iconic skyline and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Tour the historic centre, elegant suburbs, and famous southern beaches. Enjoy a luncheon cruise on the harbour followed by a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. The rest of the day is free before we gather for dinner tonight. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner SYDNEY / CAIRNS March 6, 2027 Today we fly to the tropical city of Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. This evening, sit down to a delightful dinner at Dundees. **The Flynn Hotel** (3 nights) Breakfast, Dinner GREAT BARRIER REEF March 7, 2027 Board the Quicksilver catamaran for a full-day adventure to the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, Earth’s largest living structure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Soak up this marine wonder by glass-bottom boat or snorkel among vibrant coral gardens and tropical sea life. Breakfast, Lunch KURANDA March 8, 2027 Travel by Scenic Railway to the village of Kuranda. Take part in the Dreamtime Walk to learn about Aboriginal customs, tools, and hunting techniques, including spear throwing and boomerang. Then, watch the Pamagirri Dance Show, where traditional dances, didgeridoo music, and storytelling bring local culture to life. After a BBQ lunch, we return to Cairns by Skyrail cableway, gliding over the rainforest canopy of the Barron Gorge. Breakfast, Lunch CAIRNS / SYDNEY March 9, 2027 Our journey comes to a close as we fly back to Sydney. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel for the night. This evening, we gather for a delicious farewell dinner to celebrate the many memories of our time in Australia and New Zealand. **The Brighton Hotel** (1 night) Breakfast, Dinner SYDNEY / CANADA March 10, 2027 Our journey concludes as we board our flights home, gaining a day as we arrive in Canada. Breakfast [Download Brochure](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/TPA150227%20_Australia_Nz-Brochure%20%2827JUL2026%29.pdf) [![Australia's stunning Great Barrier Reef](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Great%20Barrier%20Reef.jpg?h=58711d6c&itok=xmAu95HB "Australia's stunning Great Barrier Reef")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Great%20Barrier%20Reef.jpg) [![Milford Sound](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-03/Milford-Sound_AdobeStock_190834169.jpeg?h=030a0870&itok=Z00phWMx "Milford Sound")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-03/Milford-Sound_AdobeStock_190834169.jpeg) [![Experience a Māori show](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-03/maori_Cred%20Barni1_Pixabay_2151594.jpg?h=8e9b723d&itok=zCRTH3PC "Experience a Māori show")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-03/maori_Cred%20Barni1_Pixabay_2151594.jpg) [![Nature's athletes—kangaroos in their element](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Kangaroo-Austrlia_0.jpg?h=19842dfc&itok=t4F6aJ_V "Nature's athletes—kangaroos in their element")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Kangaroo-Austrlia_0.jpg) [![Koala, Australia’s adorable tree-dwelling marsupial](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Single%20Image%20Posts%20%2812%29.jpg?h=deaec4b9&itok=9gX8EeyS "Koala, Australia’s adorable tree-dwelling marsupial")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Single%20Image%20Posts%20%2812%29.jpg) [![The Sydney Opera House—an architectural masterpiece on the harbour](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Australia%20Sydney%20Opera%20House.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&itok=Bm3Kc3Np "The Sydney Opera House—an architectural masterpiece on the harbour")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Australia%20Sydney%20Opera%20House.jpg) [![Christchurch, New Zealand](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Christchurch.jpg?h=1116cd87&itok=kSp_x1VN "Christchurch, New Zealand")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Christchurch.jpg) ### Have any questions? Contact Sharon at sbahadur \[at\] craigtravel.com or call [1-800-387-8890](tel:1-800-387-8890) ![Book early and save](/sites/default/files/2026-03/2026_NEW_EBB_Banner_800x753_Australia_NZ_Feb_2027.png) ### Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person Land Only (Join / Leave Hotel) $16,225 Vancouver $19,895 Victoria $19,895 Calgary / Edmonton $19,995 Toronto / Ottawa / Montreal $20,245 Regina / Saskatoon / Winnipeg $20,135 Halifax* $20,335 Saint John* / St. John’s $20,395 Single Supplement $4,045 [Book Now](https://enrollment.craigtravel.com/booking?departurecode=TPA150227:20270215) ### Payment and Booking Terms Deposit is **$1,200 per person** Final payment is due **November 10, 2026** \*\*Members joining from these cities may receive an overnight hotel stay in lieu of home city transfers. Land only members join at the hotel in Auckland and leave at the hotel in Sydney. The land only price includes flights to and from the Outback but excludes all other domestic flights in destination. Airfares from other gateways are available on request. Airfares and air carriers are subject to change and will be confirmed prior to final payment. Refer to inclusive features for more details. Tour price is based on sharing a twin-bedded room. Prices are based on a minimum of 20 members and on rates, taxes and fees effective February 2026 and are subject to change due to factors beyond our control. Group to be escorted with a minimum of 20 members. **Visa Requirements:** Travellers will need to apply online for e-visas. Inquire for details. Insurance is NOT INCLUDED but is highly recommended. Premiums are calculated based on the individual’s age, destination (country), trip length, and trip booking window – please contact our staff to receive a quote. Your coverage starts on the effective date of your Confirmation of Coverage. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Refer to the [terms and conditions](https://www.craigtravel.com/terms-conditions) for more details. #### CT Rating **3/5 - MODERATELY CHALLENGING** This journey involves extensive travel with long flights and travel days. Temperatures will range from comfortable to very hot and humid. Travel in the Outback can be strenuous, involving rough roads and hot conditions. Hotels are comfortable and the locals are very friendly. Do you have any questions about this journey? [Email Us]() #### Journey Leader ![Profile picture for user Daniel Benson](/sites/default/files/styles/user/public/pictures/2025-03/Picture2.jpg?h=1882e713&itok=ulC47QzK) Daniel Benson - a seasoned traveller and United Church minister, is excited to share his enthusiasm for exploring new places. He has traveled extensively across Canada, Europe, Switzerland, the U.K., Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, and studied in Israel, Scotland, France, and Italy. Dan's love of people and places make him an intrepid tourist, seeking out the unusual, conversing with locals, and exploring the history and meaning of a place. Of special interest are art, architecture, literature, history, and beautiful scenery. ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/1%20CT%20Loyalty%20Points.png) [Craig Travel Loyalty Points](/loyalty-club) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/2%20Pay%20By%20Cheque.png) [Pay by Cheque Discount](/pay-cheque-discount) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/3%20Refer%20a%20Friend.png) [Refer a Friend](/refer-friend) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/4%20About%20CT%20Ratings.png) [About CT Ratings](/craig-travel-ratings) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/5%20Travel%20Insurance.png) [Travel Insurance](/travel-insurance)