Two Countries, Endless Wonders ![](/sites/default/files/2025-07/1%20Meals%20%28red%29_3.png) 40 Meals ![](/sites/default/files/2025-07/3%20CT%20Ratings%20%28red%29_3.png) CT Rating 3/5 - Moderately Challenging ![](/sites/default/files/2025-08/4%20Leader%20%28red%29_0.png) Led by Wendy Marshall **The Best of Australia & New Zealand** The wild beauty and vibrant cultures of Australia and New Zealand offer a new perspective every day. Marvel at towering fjords and sparkling waterfalls in Milford Sound, spend a day cruising the vibrant Great Barrier Reef, and encounter iconic wildlife like the elusive kiwi bird. Wander through bustling cities framed by glittering harbours, then escape to charming villages and rugged Outback landscapes steeped in Indigenous history. With a pace that balances thrilling discoveries and moments to relax, this trip also delights the palate with a rich variety of local culinary experiences, from bush BBQs to fine dining by the water’s edge. **This journey is now available on request.** .button { display: inline-block; padding: 10px 20px; margin: 5px; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 6px; background-color: gray; /* default color */ color: white; } .button:hover { opacity: 0.9; } [Submit Booking Request]() [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) [February 15, 2027](https://www.craigtravel.com/journeys/australia-new-zealand-february-15-2027) [Female Willing to Share Accommodation](/destinations/female-willing-share-accommodation) [![Australia map](/sites/default/files/2026-02/Australia_NewZealand_2026_3nts-Sydney-2nts_Christchurch.jpg)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-02/Australia_NewZealand_2026_3nts-Sydney-2nts_Christchurch.jpg) ### Tour Highlights - Discover New Zealand & Australia through guided city tours in Auckland, Christchurch, Melbourne & Sydney - Enjoy views from Auckland’s Sky Tower - Swim in the Great Barrier Reef - Witness the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island and meet koalas and kangaroos at Healesville Sanctuary - Cruise Milford Sound, New Zealand’s fjord - Marvel at glow worms in the Waitomo Caves and geothermal wonders at Te Puia - Support conservation efforts at the National Kiwi Hatchery - Watch sheep shearing and farm dogs in action - 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 - Ride the Puffing Billy steam train in the Dandenong Ranges - Experience vibrant Indigenous traditions with Māori and Pamagirri cultural performances - Taste local flavours through special culinary experiences ### Inclusive Features - Return airfare to Australia and New Zealand plus domestic flights in destination - First class accommodation, as indicated or similar - All sightseeing and entrance fees as described - 40 meals as noted in the itinerary (B - 21 breakfasts, L - 7 lunches, D - 12 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 November 6, 2026 Tour members from across Canada gather in Vancouver and fly to Auckland, losing a day en route (*November 7*). AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND November 8, 2026 Arrive in Auckland early this morning and transfer to our hotel *to check-in as soon as you arrive*. Join your fellow travellers for dinner this evening. **Grand Millennium** (2 nights) Dinner AUCKLAND November 9, 2026 Explore New Zealand’s most populous city on a *sightseeing tour* featuring the *National Museum and Māori gallery*, and panoramic views from the *Sky Tower*. This evening, we gather for a welcome reception and dinner. Breakfast, Dinner WAITOMO / ROTORUA November 10, 2026 Drift through the magical *Waitomo Caves* as thousands of glow worms 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 November 11, 2026 This morning, head to the *Agrodome* to learn about sheep breeds, watch live shearing and skilled farm dogs in action. Ride the gondola up Mt Ngongotahā to the *Skyline Restaurant* for a buffet lunch with panoramic views. Then stop by the *National Kiwi Hatchery* to learn about New Zealand’s national bird and the efforts to protect it. Unwind with time to yourself this afternoon. Breakfast, Lunch ROTORUA / QUEENSTOWN November 12, 2026 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 buffet featuring local and homegrown produce. **Novotel Queenstown** (3 nights) Breakfast, Dinner QUEENSTOWN November 13, 2026 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 November 14, 2026 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 November 15, 2026 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 *Mt. Cook village*. Take in the alpine views during free time at the Hermitage before arriving in Twizel. **Mackenzie Country Hotel** (1 night) Breakfast, Dinner LAKE TEKAPO / CHRISTCHURCH November 16, 2026 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*. **Distinction Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast, Dinner ALPINE RAIL JOURNEY November 17, 2026 We gather this morning for a scenic transfer up into the highlands and Arthur’s Pass. After some free time to explore we board our TranzAlpine Rail journey back through the mountains to the coast. Breakfast, Dinner CHRISTCHURCH / MELBOURNE November 18, 2026 Fly to Melbourne and discover its history, architecture and culture on a *city tour*. Highlights include the Royal Botanic Gardens, Flinders Street Station, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the Olympic Park. The rest of the day is yours to explore. **Rendezvous Melbourne** (3 nights) Breakfast MELBOURNE / PHILLIP ISLAND November 19, 2026 Journey to *Phillip Island*, stopping at Churchill Island and the Nobbies for coastal views, before witnessing the famous parade of little penguins as they return ashore. Breakfast, Dinner YARRA VALLEY November 20, 2026 Ride the historic *Puffing Billy* steam train through the forested slopes of the Dandenong Ranges. At *Healesville Sanctuary*, come face to face with iconic Australian wildlife such as kangaroos and koalas, then savour a special *lunch with wine tasting* before returning to Melbourne. Breakfast, Lunch MELBOURNE / AYERS ROCK November 21, 2026 Fly to Ayers Rock (Uluru), in the heart of the Outback, a site of spiritual significance to the local 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, spend time at a *cultural centre* to learn about Aboriginal history, law, language, and art. This evening, *ride camels* through the desert with Uluru and Kata Tjuta as your backdrop. **Sails in the Desert Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast AYERS ROCK November 22, 2026 Walk the base trail to *Mutitjulu Waterhole*, one of the few permanent water sources around Uluru. Shaded by river red gums and alive with wildlife, this sacred place offers a sense of connection with nature and holds deep cultural meaning. In a remote location overlooking Uluru, enjoy canapés and wine as the desert landscape transforms at sunset during the immersive *Sound of Silence* experience. A didgeridoo welcomes the night as you dine on a bush tucker menu, then settle back for a resident star talker decoding the brilliant southern sky. Breakfast, Dinner AYERS ROCK / CAIRNS November 23, 2026 Today we fly to the tropical city of Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. This evening, sit down to a delightful dinner at *Dundee’s Restaurant*. **Novotel Cairns Oasis** (3 nights) Breakfast, Dinner GREAT BARRIER REEF November 24, 2026 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 Heritage site. Soak up this marine wonder by glass-bottom boat or snorkel among vibrant coral gardens and tropical sea life. Breakfast, Lunch KURANDA / SKYRAIL November 25, 2026 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 forest canopy of the Barron Gorge. Breakfast, Lunch CAIRNS / SYDNEY November 26, 2026 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 November 27, 2026 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 November 28, 2026 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 followed by a *guided tour of the Sydney Opera House*. Our hotel is ideally located near the lively Darling Harbour, placing the city’s best dining, shopping and attractions within reach. The rest of the day is free to discover the charm of this city. Breakfast, Lunch SYDNEY / CANADA November 29, 2026 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/2026-08/brx_TPA061126%20_Australia_NZ_REV07AUG26.pdf) [![Glow worms at Waitomo Caves](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/iStock-912291130.jpg?h=1309b499&itok=k-ZVvwEh "Glow worms at Waitomo Caves")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/iStock-912291130.jpg) [![Penguins, Phillip Island](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/penguin-68142.jpg?h=7685ba0d&itok=8IyfSVom "Penguins, Phillip Island")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/penguin-68142.jpg) [![Sydney Opera House](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/opera-house-4698516_ADJ.png?h=845d88ca&itok=p4QsFqFh "Sydney Opera House")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/opera-house-4698516_ADJ.png) [![Rising above the Jamison Valley, the Three Sisters stand watch](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/three-sisters-4034247_ADJ.png?h=790be497&itok=qcJwur0W "Rising above the Jamison Valley, the Three Sisters stand watch")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/three-sisters-4034247_ADJ.png) [![Koala](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/koala-630117.jpg?h=fee4874d&itok=1lOSzVvw "Koala")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/koala-630117.jpg) [![The stunning, dramatic cliffs of Milford Sound](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/AdobeStock_274667139.jpeg?h=9dd951d5&itok=hvHwheh8 "The stunning, dramatic cliffs of Milford Sound")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/AdobeStock_274667139.jpeg) [![Christchurch: the South Island’s largest city](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-07/AdobeStock_632094666_ADJ.png?h=790be497&itok=vEF0Z5iY "Christchurch: the South Island’s largest city")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-07/AdobeStock_632094666_ADJ.png) ### Have any questions? Contact Jen Craig at JCraig \[at\] craigtravel.com or call [1-800-387-8890](tel:1-800-387-8890) ### Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person Land Only $15,775 Vancouver $18,465 Victoria $18,525 Calgary / Edmonton $18,625 Toronto / Ottawa / Montreal $18,825 Regina / Saskatoon / Winnipeg $18,765 Halifax* $18,965 Saint John* / St. John’s $19,025 Single Supplement $3,995 [Submit Booking Request]() *\*Members joining from these cities may receive an overnight hotel stay in lieu of home city transfers* ### Payment and Booking Terms Deposit is **$900 per person.** Final payment is due **July 30, 2026** 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 July 2025 and are subject to change due to factors beyond our control. Group to be escorted with a minimum of 20 group members. 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. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Refer to our [terms and conditions](https://www.craigtravel.com/terms-conditions) for more details. **Visa Requirements:** Travellers will need to apply online for e-visas, inquire for 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 Wendy Marshall](/sites/default/files/styles/user/public/pictures/2025-08/Wendy%20Marshall_2_ADJ.png?h=70e9822d&itok=uEy5J-xL) Wendy Marshall - Meet your journey leader, **Wendy Marshall**, a retired science teacher from Woodstock, ON, who loves sharing her love of travel. Since 2019, she has been leading Craig Travel tours, most recently to South Africa, Costa Rica & Morocco. When not travelling, Wendy lives on a dairy farm with her husband, Ron, where they produce their own milk and cheese. In her free time, she enjoys quilting, singing in choirs, and playing the tenor drum in the Ingersoll Pipe Band. Wendy and Ron look forward to welcoming you on this exciting journey! ![](/sites/default/files/2025-07/1%20CT%20Loyalty%20Points_3.png) [Craig Travel Loyalty Points ](/loyalty-club) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-07/2%20Pay%20By%20Cheque_3.png) [Pay by Cheque Discount](/pay-cheque-discount) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-07/3%20Refer%20a%20Friend_2.png) [Refer a Friend](/refer-friend) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-07/4%20About%20CT%20Ratings_2.png) [About CT Ratings](/craig-travel-ratings) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-07/5%20Travel%20Insurance_2.png) [Travel Insurance](/travel-insurance)