Australia & New Zealand

Tour members from across Canada fly to Auckland, losing a day en route.

Arrive in Auckland and transfer to our hotel for immediate check-in. 

Grand Millennium - 2 nights

We 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 dinner.

Drift through Waitomo Glowworm Caves as thousands of glow worms illuminate the darkness. Continue to Rotorua to see the bubbling mud pools and geysers of Te Puia Thermal Reserve. This evening, enjoy a traditional hāngī dinner in a Māori village, with songs and dances.

Novotel Rotorua Lakeside - 2 nights

Today we head to the Agrodome to watch live shearing and skilled farm dogs in action. Then, we 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.

We fly to Queenstown, set against the breathtaking shores of Lake Wakatipu. The rest of the day is at leisure.  

Millennium Hotel Queenstown - 3 nights

We enjoy a full day at leisure in Queenstown. This evening, cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak sheep station for a lakeside BBQ featuring homegrown produce.

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 cliffs, powerful waterfalls, and the iconic Mitre Peak.

Wander through the historic gold rush town of Arrowtown, with a visit to the Lakes District Museum. Enjoy a 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 

Stop at Lake Tekapo to see the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd, built as a tribute to the region’s early settlers. Upon arriving in Christchurch, known as the Garden City for its parks and green spaces, we take part in a city tour featuring the Botanic Gardens. 

Hotel Elms - 1 night

We fly to Melbourne, Australia’s celebrated cultural capital. Following our hotel transfer, the remainder of the day is yours to explore this vibrant city’s famous laneways and thriving arts scene. 

Rendezvous Melbourne - 3 nights 
 

Tour Melbourne, stopping at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Flinders Street Station, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Fitzroy Gardens and the WWI Memorial. Continue to Phillip Island via Churchill Island and the Nobbies for coastal views before watching the famous Penguin Parade.

Ride the 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. 

Today we fly to Ayers Rock, in the heart of the Outback, a site of spiritual significance to the Anangu people. Drive through Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park for views of Uluru,with a stop at the Olgas, a striking formation of domed red rocks. Then, we visit a cultural centre to learn about Aboriginal history and culture. 

Sails in the Desert Hotel - 2 nights 

At dawn, experience an artwork by three local Anangu women artists brought to life through laser projections and music against the desert landscape. Follow the base trail to Mutitjulu Waterhole before taking in the views at Kantju Gorge. This evening, watch the sunset over Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, followed by a traditional bush tucker dinner and stargazing with a resident expert. 

Today we fly to the tropical city of Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. This evening, sit down to a delightful dinner at Dundee’s Restaurant. 

The Flynn - 3 nights
 

Board the Quicksilver catamaran for a full-day adventure to the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Explore this marine wonder aboard a glass-bottom boat or snorkel among vibrant coral gardens and tropical sea life.

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.

We fly to Sydney and transfer to our hotel. This evening, dine at The Meat & Wine Co, one of Australia’s top steakhouses.  

The Grace Hotel - 4 nights 

Explore the Blue Mountains, stopping in Leura before continuing along Cliff Drive to Katoomba for views of Jamison Valley and the iconic Three Sisters. After lunch, visit Scenic World for a ride on the Railway, Skyway or Cableway, offering spectacular views of the rainforest and sandstone cliffs.

Discover Sydney’s historic centre, suburbs and famous southern beaches on a city tour. Enjoy a Sydney Harbour luncheon cruise followed by a tour of the iconic Opera House. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Make the most of a completely free day with plenty of excursion options or the chance to roam independently. This evening, we’ll gather for our farewell dinner. 

Our journey concludes as we board our flights home, gaining a day as we arrive in Canada.