13-Nights Highlights of Downunder: Australia & New Zealand - Most Popular Vacations from $4,851

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrive in Auckland

Transfer: Auckland Airportto Auckland - City Centre

Hotel: MSocial Hotel Auckland (4 Star Rating)

Functionally chic, this boutique hotel features 190 rooms and suites and overlooks the vibrant Princess Wharf which is home to a stunning array of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences.

Choose to stay connected both online and offline. Enjoy free Wi-Fi during your stay, relieve the stresses of the day at the 24-hour gym or treat yourself to some of the best cuisine from around the world at M Social Restaurant. Alternatively, catch up with friends - both old and new - over a drink at M Social Bar while watching the ships come in.

Located near Auckland's main strip, the hub of the city centre with its abundance of designer fashions, lively nightlife, shows, theatre and live music, this vibrant hotel exudes youthful energy. Don't miss a visit to the Sky Tower for the best views in town or wander through the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, with its world-class collections and exhibitions from New Zealand and around the world.

Let Bush and Beach take you on a day tour to experience the best of Auckland sightseeing. We combine an Auckland city tour in the morning with an afternoon nature tour to the black sand beach and rainforest at Piha - a day of variety and a great introduction to Auckland and New Zealand.

Your morning Auckland city tour is designed to explore the history and sights of the city. Discover the Maori history of the city and as see what makes our city a vibrant place to live. Auckland City is built around the beautiful Waitmata harbour and it is known as the "City of Sails". This city tour includes stops at iconic landmarks such as The Auckland Domain, Mount Victoria in Devonport and Westhaven marina. There is also a stop at a cafe by a beautiful beach and lots of photo opportunities all day.

Your afternoon eco tour is spent in the Waitakere Ranges. In just 30 minutes you leave behind the bustle of the city and step into the tranquility of the rainforest. Travel to the Arataki Centre, an information centre built high on the ridge of the Waitakere Ranges. From here you get breathtaking panoramic views across the rainforest to Auckland's two harbours. The visitors centre is also home to some traditional Maori carvings and your guide will talk about them and explain their significance for the area. Continue on to the lush rainforest where you walk the easy tracks among giant tree ferns and view New Zealand’s famous kauri trees and silver ferns.

Move on to experience the power of the wild and rugged west coast. Feel the black sand of Piha beach beneath your feet as you stroll along one of the most awe-inspiring beaches the world has to offer. The perfect Auckland day trip. During the afternoon we also include a New Zealand style afternoon tea including biscuits and tea and coffee or juice.

This trip from Auckland to Rotorua includes the Hobbiton movie set tour. Departing from Auckland this is a wonderful way to get to Rotorua and include a magical journey through Middle-earth to the Hobbiton movie set from "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films.

Travel south from Auckland over the Bombay Hills to the rich farmland of the Waikato region. Your journey takes you through undulating green hills reminding you that you are approaching the Shire. Your Bush and Beach guide will give you commentary on the way down with insights about the areas you are traveling through and insights to the backgrounds to the movies.

On arrival at Shire's Rest you embark on your Hobbiton movie set tour. This location is the largest "green set" in the world and the only part of the set remaining in New Zealand. You see 44 hobbit holes, the Mill and double arch bridge and the party tree.

At this stunning location you can take a photo at the gate to Bilbo's house, "Bag End", looking out over the whole set to the hills in the distance. Before your feast in the Party Marquee (which is included in the price) you cross the bridge by the mill to go into the Green Dragon Inn where you can enjoy a complimentary ale, cider or ginger beer. You will also get to walk through a fully themed Hobbit Hole interior. At the end of your Hobbiton movie set tour you will travel on to Rotorua (drop off at selected inner city Rotorua accommodation included).

Hotel: Millennium Hotel Rotorua (4 Star Rating)

Next to mystical Lake Rotorua and just a short stroll from the city centre, Millennium Hotel Rotorua is an eco-friendly destination offering comfort and convenience in the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland. Perfect for leisure and business travellers, our hotel is within walking distance of Polynesian Spa, Rotorua’s vibrant dining scene, and local attractions.

Learn about Rotorua’s huge colourful hot springs, erupting geysers and active boiling mud pools, spectacular volcanoes and lush native forest.

Enjoy a pick up from your accommodation then drive through forestry and farmland to New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool. Your guide shows you a series of colourful hot springs and volcanic features at Wai-O-Tapu. Then see the Lady Knox geyser eruption at 10:15 am.

Next, a short drive to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley where your guide explains the Mt. Tarawera eruption which blew open this spectacular, bush covered, geothermal park. This award-winning eco tourism adventure is one you won’t want to miss!

Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within our forest Pa (village) –blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and forest-formed amphitheatre.

Te Pa Tu shares Maori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Maori lunar calendar.



Summer: Tu Te Ra - Across this lunar phase, the sun expresses optimal energy, the days are longer, and light nourishes the natural world. Tu Te Ra celebrates abundant harvest and explores concepts, rituals, and stories of ancient Maori warfare and peace.



These can include roasted tuna (native eel), creamy paua (abalone) on rewena (bread) crostini, foraged greens, chunky smoked kahawai, ember warmed kumara and restorative kawakawa tea.



Torch light guides manuhiri (guests) to a lavish but relaxed four course feast. Hangi remains hero but it shares the table with lesser-known Maori delicacies, prepared fusion style. Wagyu pincanha, Watercress chimichurri, taro gratin – even kumara ice-cream - each dish is inspired by or infused with traditional ingredients, stories, or cooking techniques.

Whether dining al fresco or in our wharekai (dining room) we celebrate the spirit of hakari (feasting) and of Aotearoa, New Zealand

Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within our forest Pa (village) –blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and forest-formed amphitheatre.

Te Pa Tu shares Maori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Maori lunar calendar.



Winter: Tu Te Ihi includes the time in the earth’s cycle when Matariki stars are high and bright in winter skies. Te Ihi references the energy and passion stirred by the Matariki cluster and the promise they herald.



These can include roasted tuna (native eel), creamy paua (abalone) on rewena (bread) crostini, foraged greens, chunky smoked kahawai, ember warmed kumara and restorative kawakawa tea.



Torch light guides manuhiri (guests) to a lavish but relaxed four course feast. Hangi remains hero but it shares the table with lesser-known Maori delicacies, prepared fusion style.

Wagyu pincanha, Watercress chimichurri, taro gratin – even kumara ice-cream - each dish is inspired by or infused with traditional ingredients, stories, or cooking techniques.

Whether dining al fresco or in our wharekai (dining room) we celebrate the spirit of hakari (feasting) and of Aotearoa, New Zealand

Transfer: Rotorua - City Centre to Rotorua Airport

Transfer: Queenstown Airportto Queenstown - City Centre

Hotel: Millennium Hotel Queenstown (4 Star Rating)

Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping, entertainment, and outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting, and jet boating. The popular ski destinations of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona are also close by. Our 220 guest rooms and suites, meetings facilities, business center, gym, feature contemporary city-inspired design.

Our luxury hotel also offers accessible rooms for our special needs guests with our friendly staff on hand to assist you anytime. Most of our accommodation also offers scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future. We are firmly committed to sustainability best practices, constantly reviewing and improving operations to minimize the impact on the environment.

This Milford Sound day tour was established in 1994 and is a top-rated small group Milford Experience. It allows guests to escape the crowds and offer a truly unique day, showcasing this world famous region.

On this full-day tour to Milford Sound enjoy guided commentary touring to and from Milford Sound with our experienced guides. These small group tours give guests the ability to get to know the driver and each other, creating a more personal and memorable experience.

Once in Milford Sound, join a stunning 1-hr 45-min small boat nature cruise on the fiord - see waterfalls, fur seals, penguins, and occasionally dolphins. Enjoy fun and informative commentary from your nature guide, and plenty of off-the-beaten-track visits away from the crowds.

Enjoy custom made, 16 seat, glass roof Mercedes touring vehicles. This is business class travel with extended legroom, leather interior and panoramic windows for the best views.

Travelling to Milford is a 12-13 hour day from Queenstown. The smaller vehicles give the opportunity to stay away from the crowds as well as more flexibility with where we stop on the journey.

Transfer: Queenstown - City Centre to Queenstown Airport

Transfer: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airportto Sydney - City Centre

Hotel: Paradox Sydney (5 Star Rating)

Set within a beautifully restored 169-year-old sandstone building in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, Paradox Sydney blends timeless elegance with bold individuality. More than a luxury hotel, it’s a destination where heritage meets modern design, and every detail reflects the city’s vibrant spirit. Whether you're here for business or discovery, Paradox Sydney invites you to rest, connect, and return transformed.

Depart your hotel for an unforgettable Panoramic Sydney half day city sights tour. On tour you will visit the historic Rocks area and hear of early convict history. We continue through the financially focused Central Business District (CBD), and Macquarie Street. Marvel at 19th century sandstone architecture such as NSW Parliament House, Rum Hospital, Hyde Park Barracks and St Mary’s Cathedral. We will continue to Mrs Macquaries Point, to enjoy magnificent views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. We then continue through Sydneys Eastern Suburbs, home to the rich and famous. Travelling along the coves and shores of one of the world’s most impressive harbours, we will take a few stops for photo opportunities, including a panoramic photo of Sydney skyline. You will pass through areas such as Kings Cross, Double Bay, Rose Bay before arriving at Watsons Bay.Time permitting, you may have the option for a short coastal walk with views of the South Pacific Ocean and the entrance to Sydney harbour.

Travel on to famous Bondi Beach for a 30-minute stop. Visit the beachfront promenade, put your toes in the sand, enjoy a coffee or cool drink (at own cost). See bronzed Aussie lifesavers and surfers riding the waves of Bondi. Re-board your bus and continue on to Tamarama and Bronte beaches before returning to the city via Centennial Park and Paddington, a trendy district with its elegant terrace houses and boutique shops along Oxford Street.

Arrive at Circular Quay for your Sydney Harbour lunch cruise. Departing from the Eastern Pontoon @ 12 noon you will spend 2 relaxing hours discovering the secrets of one of the world’s most famous and spectacular natural harbours including icons such as Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Sydney Botanical Gardens and more. We give you a chance to see the city from a new perspective and marvel at the sights that decorate its coastline. Owing to our educated live commentator, you will get to learn something new about Sydney, its history and about each of the sights that you can see from the deck. Included is an expansive fresh buffet including seafood and beverages are also included

Your cruise concludes at 2.15pm at Circular quay and on arrival, make your way at leisure back to your hotel. Your cruise includes a full buffet lunch with a mix of hot and cold selections, and fresh seafood, as well as a beverage package.

The Blue Mountains National Park is one of seven national parks that make up the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. This wonderland of sandstone outcrops, deep ravines and hazy blue eucalypt forests boasts luxury retreats and stunning views. Today your guide will take you off the beaten track to visit remote lookout locations and discuss the history, flora and fauna of this magnificent region.

7:00 - 7:30 AM Depart from the hotel with AEA Luxury Tours. Our first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill a working farm also home to Kangaroos, Emus, Wombats and Koalas. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure.

From Calmsley Hill we continue to ascend the Blue Mountains via the highway. We will visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas. Where possible this will be away from the crowds of tours that visit the mountains each day with other operators, thus our guests will enjoy a stress and hurry free environment taking in the views and information imparted by their guide.

Continuing on we arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout points away from the crowds for views of the famous 3 Sisters. Whilst the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can't help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons as the sunlight brings out the magnificent colors. Here your guide will discuss the legends behind this famous rock formation and time available for you to take some great photos.

We then make our way around the mountain towards the village of Blackheath and our lunch venue the Hydro Majestic. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views. We enjoy a 2-course lunch with One NON Alcoholic Beverage Per person. All diets are catered for (excluding Kosher Meals). Additional Beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the Bar.

The afternoon is spent visiting a selection of lookouts. Once you clap your eyes on the view from Govetts Leap you'll know why it's one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. If you're not mesmerized by the dancing waves of water spray, you'll be transfixed by the sweeping views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness. We then stop at the delightful Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, where we enjoy the sweeping views across to Sydney before travelling down the Bells Line of Road and its fruit orchard industry. We arrive back at your hotel approximately 4.30 - 5.00pm.

Transfer: Sydney - City Centre to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport

Transfer: Cairns Airportto Cairns - City Centre

Hotel: Crystalbrook Bailey (5 Star Rating)

Modern, innovative and with an appreciation for the arts, Crystalbrook Bailey celebrates originality and individuality. Stay at Crystalbrook Bailey, a luxury hotel in Cairns, Queensland, and take time to get lost in the details. To question and explore. Art. Conversations. Places. Do things your way.

Your Great Barrier Reef day tour begins by boarding the award-winning superyacht Evolution and being met by our professional and expert dive crew who will make sure you are comfortable and ready for an adventure-filled day.

Relax onboard your 35-metre luxury superyacht for the day, as you cruise from Cairns to two exclusive outer Great Barrier Reef sites. Guests enjoy a total of five hours on the outer reef visiting two stunning and diverse reefs such as Norman, Saxon and Hastings. These locations are chosen for their exceptional coral density and prolific marine life.

Upon arrival at your first reef location, either Saxon or Norman Reef, it's time to snorkel and dive (diving at additional cost). Hop in the water with your provided equipment and check out the underwater world full of multicoloured fish, coral, and other marine life. Instruction is provided for beginners, and your knowledgeable dive crew are on hand to encourage and help you if need.

During your time on the reef, you will enjoy a BBQ Lunch prepared on board with fresh fish, steak, a variety of salads, and prawns. We also cater for special dietary requirements.

At the second reef location, North Hastings Reef, you can snorkel or dive again. If you prefer to stay dry, you can still check out the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef from above with a 10-minute scenic helicopter flight or from below on our Semi-Submersible Tour (additional costs apply).

On the return cruise back to Cairns, sit back and relax with a glass of wine and afternoon tea to celebrate the end of your day tour on the Great Barrier Reef.

This morning, your driver will greet you, collect your voucher, and issue your Kuranda Boarding Pass. We will then transfer you to Freshwater Station. There is no need to queue, as your pre-allocated preferential Train tickets are already on your Boarding Pass. Once aboard, enjoy this historical rail journey to Kuranda, with breathtaking views across the cane fields of Cairns to the tropical rainforest of Kuranda.

Upon arrival in Kuranda, you have time to explore this fascinating village - approx. 1hr. The Kuranda Markets are full of colourful and interesting art or find the perfect souvenir at one of Kuranda's eclectic boutiques.

At 11.30 am, make your way directly to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway boarding line - there is no need to queue as your tickets are already on your Boarding Pass. Once aboard, be amazed as you journey over and through the World Heritage protected Rainforest. Your Boarding Pass is your ticket for this iconic rainforest experience that includes time at both Red Peak and Barron Falls stations where you can discover exceptional views from The Edge Lookout or visit the Rainforest Interpretation Centre. Complimentary guided boardwalk tours are offered throughout the day at Red Peak Station. After arriving at the Smithfield Skyrail Terminal, our coach is waiting to transfer you to Hartley's.

There is plenty of free time to explore the park, and your experience includes a 25 minute Wetlands boat cruise through the ecologically significant Melaleuca wetlands; the domain of the saltwater crocodile. See the notorious head shake and death roll of a huge saltwater crocodile at the Crocodile Attack Show, and discover the world's most venomous snakes at the Snake Show!

Transfer: Cairns - City Centre to Cairns Airport