Itinerary

Day 1 Sydney

Sydney is the most populous city in Australia, with a metropolitan area population of approximately 4.28 million. It is the state capital of New South Wales, and the site of the first British colony in Australia, established in 1788 at Sydney Cove by Arthur Phillip, leader of the First Fleet from Britain. Located on Australia's south-east coast, the city is built around Port Jackson, which includes Sydney Harbour, leading to the city's nickname, "the Harbour City". It is noted for the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, and its beaches. The metropolitan area is surrounded by national parks, and contains many bays, rivers and inlets.

Includes airport transfer to city/hotel with private vehicle, professional driver and local representative.

This evening, enjoy a Captain Cook Cruises’ Starlight Dinner Cruise. Cruise the harbour under the glow of city lights and enjoy the spectacular views from Sydney’s prestigious cruise ship MV Sydney 2000 aboard Sydney’s most affordable dinner cruise.

The Grace Hotel (4*) is an elegantly restored heritage listed Neo Gothic hotel built in 1930. The 382 contemporary guest rooms are spacious and comfortable, designed with the frequent traveler in mind. The Grace Cafe serves modern Australian cuisine and the Grace Brasserie offers a sumptuous buffet lunch available on weekdays. Drop in at P.J.O'Brien's Irish Pub and enjoy a pint of Guinness in the heart of Sydney. Take advantage of the Rooftop Health Club offering state-of-the-art Cybex fitness equipment, an indoor lap pool, sauna, steam room and sun terrace. For a rejuvenating experience, the Oriental Spa is also available, with the treatments assured to revitalize and invigorate.

Overnight at The Grace (4*).

Day 2 Sydney

Today you will be picked up along with a small group of other travellers and taken on a luxury 4WD tour to the Blue Mountains. You will meet Australia’s unique native animals at Featherdale Wildlife Park with a rewarding photographic opportunity where you will come in close contact with Australian animals. Experience an off road Adventure as you descend a deep canyon. Enjoy a remote stop along the way in this World Heritage area and breathe in the essence of the Australian eucalyptus while your friendly Guide explains the unique qualities of the Aussie bush. Then you visit the Mt. Tomah Botanic Gardens - home to Australia’s largest collection of cool climate plants and the ‘Dinosaur Age’ Wollemi Pine. The journey leads along the scenic Bells Line of Road with views over the Grose Canyon, with its towering sandstone walls. The afternoon will be spent in the Glenbrook National Park with a close up experience with wild Kangaroos and the many varieties of birds that inhabit this area.

Overnight at The Grace (4*).

Day 3 Sydney

There are so many things to do in Sydney it may be hard deciding what to choose. We would recommend some of the following attractions: Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower + Oz Trek, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales which also houses an Aboriginal Art exhibition. You can also choose to take a half day city sights tour, a one hour Majestic Harbour Cruise (which operates daily at 10:30 or 15:00) or the Sydney Opera House Essential Tour (1 hr, operates daily between 09:00 and 17:00). All are included in the SmartVisit free pass card. Ask your Travel Consultant if you would like to purchase this card.

Overnight at The Grace (4*).

Day 4 Ayers Rock

Uluru, also referred to as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in the southern part of the Northern Territory, central Australia. It lies 335 km (208 mi) south west of the nearest large town, Alice Springs; 450 km (280 mi) by road. Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and Uluru are the two major features of the Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park. Uluru is sacred to the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara, the Aboriginal people of the area. It has many springs, waterholes, rock caves and ancient paintings. Uluru is listed as a World Heritage Site.

Includes airport transfer to city/hotel with private vehicle, professional driver and local representative.

Travel between Ayers Rock airport to hotel and vice versa. Wait times may vary but approximately 20minutes.

Travel for one hour on with Uluru Camel Tours in this spectacular desert, enjoy a close-up look at the desert environment and enjoy great views of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. A refreshing glass of champagne or beer & bush snacks wait at the end of the trail. The tour includes drinks and bush snacks at end of tour.

Desert Gardens (4*) is set amongst magnificent ghost gums and flowering native shrubs, the rooms at Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel feature the unique flora of the Central Australian Desert. Shaded walkways lead to spacious poolside rooms and some of the new deluxe rooms even offer spectacular views of Uluru. Under the private veranda or courtyard of your room, experience what is arguably Australia’s best sunset. When the sun has gone down, dine at White Gums Restaurant and savour Australian native delicacies or feast on the flavours of the a la carte Arnguli Grill.

Overnight at Desert Gardens (4*).

Day 5 Ayers Rock

Rise early and enter Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park by shared coach along with fellow travellers. Enjoy a revitalising cup of tea or coffee as you witness Uluru (Ayers Rock) at sunrise and see the desert come to life. With the sun climbing in the morning sky, travel to the western section of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to the immense 36 rock domes of Kata Tjuta. Enjoy a guided walk into Walpa (Olga) Gorge. Marvel at the sheer walls that flank you as you enter the gorge. Learn of the domes’ formation and of the wildlife of the region. Some of the plants you will see here are so rare that they are only found among these rocky domes.

Here is an unforgettable evening, eating beautifully prepared food under the Outback sky by the Sounds of Silence Dinner. A special location is chosen where you are escorted to shortly before sundown. A lone didgeridoo echoes across the desert as you enjoy champagne and canapés. While the sun sets in a blaze of reds and oranges, and well into the starlit night, you feast on array of the Northern Territory's culinary delights, including barramundi, kangaroo, emu, crocodile, bush salads, and classic Australian desserts. Attention then turns to some of the world's best stargazing, with the assistance of the resident astronomer. As you wind down, coffee or tea are served. In winter, guests gather around a campfire to savour a special treat of hot mulled wine.

Overnight at Desert Gardens (4*).

Day 6 Cairns

The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for 2,600 kilometres (1,600 mi) over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometres (133,000 sq mi). The reef is located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland in northeast Australia. This reef structure is composed of and built by billions of tiny organisms, known as coral polyps. The Great Barrier Reef supports a wide diversity of life, and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981.

Travel between Ayers Rock airport to hotel and vice versa. Wait times may vary but approximately 20minutes.

Transfer between Cairns airport and your city hotel with private vehicle and driver.

Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Located in the centre of Cairns City, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort (4*) is set upon five acres of beautifully landscaped, award-winning gardens which surround a superb lagoon pool complete with beach and swim-up bar. Boasting stylish and contemporary décor, the resort embraces muted natural tones and materials throughout. All 314 newly refurbished rooms now offer the latest in style, functionality and comfort, each with a balcony and either pool or garden views. Novo Bar and Terrace overlooks the lagoon and gardens and offers a fresh and sophisticated look and feel, while Mizuna Restaurant offers a modern dining experience where guests can interact with chefs.

Overnight at Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort (4*).

Day 7 Cairns

Join fellow travellers on a memorable tour of the famous Great Barrier Reef. Michaelmas Cay is a picturesque reef sand island surrounded by magical coral gardens teeming with an incredible diversity of marine life. The Cay is a protected seabird sanctuary playing host to over 20,000 migratory seabirds ... one of the most important nesting sights in the Southern Hemisphere. Set Sail aboard a five star catamaran and enjoy a reef experience - a day to remember .

Overnight at Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort (4*).

Day 8 Cairns

Discover the unique wilderness area of the World Heritage listed rainforests of Cape Tribulation & Mossman Gorge. This tour includes an early morning guided walk of Mossman Gorge, in the quieter morning environment, where you will experience this ancient rainforest firsthand, or instead (subject to river volume) enjoy a refreshing swim. The experienced naturalist guide will provide interpretation of this ancient rainforest area and also included is an exclusive, private rainforest walk along all-weather boardwalks, and also at canopy, level where unsurpassable rainforest viewing may be experienced - a naturalist's paradise and photographer's dream! The Daintree Rainforest Aerial Walkway and Canopy Tower allows people of all ages easy access to every part of the rainforest. The tours go up amongst the Daintree rainforest canopy and allows you to observe the diversity of plants and wildlife living in this unique environment. A sumptuous buffet lunch awaits you at the luxurious Cape Restaurant and Bar at Cape Tribulation Resort and Spa or the Ferntree Resort. Swim in the resorts pool and explore the beach at the doorstep of the resort. Stroll along idyllic Cape Tribulation Beach to the lookout and observe where two of the world's natural wonders converge - the rainforest gives way to white sand and fringing coral reef!

Overnight at Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort (4*).

Day 9 Melbourne

Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia, and is located around Port Phillip Bay in the south-east. The city is often referred to as Australia's 'sporting and cultural capital' and it is home to many of the nation's most significant cultural and sporting events and institutions. Melbourne is notable for its mix of Victorian and contemporary architecture, its extensive tram network and Victorian parks and gardens, as well as its diverse, multicultural society.

Transfer between Cairns airport and your city hotel with private vehicle and driver.

Transfer between Domestic Airport and City Hotel with private vehicle and driver.

Hotel Lindrum Melbourne is a sophisticated contemporary traveller's haven located in the heart of cosmopolitan Melbourne. It is only minutes from world-class theatres and restaurants, sporting venues such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Tennis Centre and from the hub of thriving local and international business. Hotel Lindrum in Melbourne is a unique 59 room boutique hotel that combines modern design with the ultimate in contemporary facilities and personalised service.

Overnight at Hotel Lindrum.

Day 10 Melbourne

You will be picked up today by motorcoach along with other travellers. On the tour, you will visit Warrook Farm, a working cattle property, where you can enjoy the opportunity to feed kangaroos and other farm animals. At Phillip Island, visit the Koala Conservation Centre and see koalas along an elevated boardwalk. View the Nobbies and one of Australia's largest fur seal population and then enjoy the seaside town of Cowes and the Visitors Information Centre. At dusk, enjoy the 'little penguin parade' and see penguins make their way to their burrows. At the end of the tour, you will be brought back to your hotel in Melbourne.

Overnight at Hotel Lindrum.

Day 11 Melbourne

Departing Melbourne with Go West Tours, enjoy panoramic views of the city and Port Phillip Bay as you cross the Westgate Bridge, Australia’s longest at just under 2.6 kilometres in length. Pass through and learn a little aboutVictoria’s second largest city,Geelong, as you make your way down towards theSurfCoast. AtBellsBeach, stop to appreciate this world famous surfing break. This is truly one of the world’s premier surfing spots and attracts board-riders from far and wide. DepartingBellsBeach set out along theGreat Ocean Road itself, as your experienced driver-guide provides an informative commentary about the road’s history and its place in Australian folklore. You get plenty of scenic stops on the way, including of course a photo opportunity at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch at Eastern View. At the Township of Kennet River make a brief side trip into the sweetly-scented eucalyptus forest to locate some of the local koalas in the native habitat. The koala population here is particularly strong and numerous sightings are guaranteed. Continue on towards the lunch stop inApolloBay with another photo stop atCapePatten on the way.

After lunch follow the Great Ocean Road away from the ocean and into the mountains. The tour proceeds through the spectacular Otway Ranges, where you stop to enjoy a stroll in the cool temperate rainforest at Maits Rest. And then it’s onwards to the world famous Port Campbell National Park and its iconic array of rock formations. Just down the road is the heart of the Shipwreck Coast, the Loch Ard Gorge where 52 lives were lost and only 2 souls survived the wreck of the Loch Ard in 1878. Your guide will recount the legend of the Loch Ard, bringing the gorge to life in a way you never imagined. The final sightseeing destination is the collapsed London Bridge, where two holiday makers were stranded when the first arch collapsed in 1990. A dinner stop is made on the journey back to Melbourne. After dinner a video service allows you to enjoy a movie of your choice before enjoying a stunning view of the city as you cross the Westgate Bridge again on the way home

Overnight at Hotel Lindrum.

Day 12 Queenstown

Queenstown is a resort town in Otago in the south-west of New Zealand's South Island. It is built around an inlet on Lake Wakatipu, a long thin lake shaped like a staggered lightning bolt, and has spectacular views of nearby mountains. A resort town, Queenstown is a centre for adventure tourism. Skiing, jet boating, bungee jumping, mountain biking, tramping and fly fishing are all strong promotional themes. Queenstown is a major centre for snow sports in New Zealand, with four main mountain skifields (Cardrona Alpine Resort, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Treble Cone).

Take a private airport transfer in Melbourne with a private vehicle and driver.

Enjoy a private airport transfer to your accommodation with vehicle and driver.

Snow capped mountains, a crystal clear lake and blue sky days provide the perfect alpine setting for an unforgettable winter holiday. Queenstown is a snow lover's paradise with several ski areas on its doorstep and an intoxicating après ski culture. The region’s ski season typically runs from early June until early October. Off the slopes, an abundance of activities; being labeled as the adventure capital, inspiring scenery and warm hospitality combine to offer something special for everyone. Thrill seekers can take their pick of adventure activities; home of bungee jumping, white water rafting, and hang-gliding to name a few. While those seeking relaxation can chill out on the golf course, in a vineyard, at a luxury spa or in the many shops, galleries, bars and restaurants. Alternatively, spend a day in historic Arrowtown or take in the magical scenery in Glenorchy.

Centrally located in Queenstown, this property is near Queenstown Harbour and TSS Earnslaw Steamship. Another nearby point of interest is Steamer Wharf. Guestrooms open to balconies with city, lake or mountain views and feature patios. Other amenities include coffee/tea makers and shower/tub combinations. In addition to a restaurant and a concierge desk, Novotel Queenstown Lakeside features a bar/lounge, complimentary high-speed (wired) Internet access, and 24-hour room service.

Overnight at Novotel Lakeside (4*).

Day 13 Queenstown

You will make the scenic journey by coach to Milford Sound, where you will be transferred to your boat cruise. Explore dramatic, moody Milford Sound in a leisurely and relaxed way with our nature guides. Our vessels are designed along the lines of traditional trading scows. They have been purpose built to operate in the fiords and offer a laid back, extended cruise option. Throughout your cruise, our nature guide provides an engaging commentary about the magnificent scenery and wildlife (English only). Keep a look out for dolphins, seals and penguins. You will then be returned to your hotel, again by coach.

Overnight at Novotel Lakeside (4*).

Day 14 Queenstown

Today you will be collected from your hotel by Dart River. The Funyak Safari is truly unique - firstly board Dart River Jetboat for an exciting 75 minute ride with all the thrills of braided shallow river Jet Boating and world famous jet spins. Disembark and begin your Funyak rafting in and inflatable canoe. After full instructions, you’ll be free to canoe and drift (under the watchful eye of your professional guide) for a spectacular 2 hours downstream, taking in all the awe-inspiring sights found amidst the Dart River’s shimmering channels. Stop amongst the ancient beech forest to enjoy a wilderness buffet lunch before exploring hidden side streams, rock pools and dramatic chasms such as the beautiful Rockburn, before canoeing downstream to Paradise, where you’ll be taken by 4WD coach to Glenorchy, stopping to view the stunning scenery that has inspired films the world over. Upon completion of your tour you will be returned to Queenstown.

Overnight at Novotel Lakeside (4*).

Day 15 Rotorua

Rotorua is a city on the southern shore of Lake Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty region of the North Island. It is also home to botanical gardens and interesting historic architecture. Known as a spa town and major tourist resort since the 1800s, many of its buildings hint at this history, particularly Government Gardens at the eastern end of the town. Another of Rotorua's attractions is the mountain biking. Whakarewarewa (also known as the "Redwoods") Forest has been described as 'the Disneyland of mountain biking' and has some of the best mountain bike trails in New Zealand.

Enjoy a private airport transfer to your accommodation with vehicle and driver.

Enjoy a private airport transfer to your accommodation or v.v. with vehicle and driver.

Collected from your hotel and transferred to Te Puia Thermal Park. Join a 90 minute guided Tour of Te Puia and Maori Arts and Crafts Institute where History is carved and woven into meeting houses, canoes, weapons and jewellery. You will also experience the wonders of the thermal area by stepping into an ancient valley where geysers, mud pools and boiling waters still play after 40,000 years. Following your tour enjoy the Te Po is Te Puia’s evening cultural dining experience. It is a feast of cultural storytelling, entertainment and Maori kai (indigenous food). Feel the spirit of Te Puia at night and experience our heritage - a living legacy of people, culture and place. Return to your hotel by a Te Puia.

Escape to The Regent of Rotorua, Rotorua’s newest designer 5 star Boutique Hotel & Spa offering stylish luxury accommodation, restaurant, wine & cocktail bar, all with a touch of glamour. An oasis of understated hip contemporary elegance and comfort amidst the exciting attractions and experiences Rotorua has to offer. Step out of the calm of your gorgeous room or suite and stroll to the vibrant restaurant zone or lakefront area….or simply stay in, relax and savour the hotel's luxury facilities.

Overnight at Regent of Rotorua.

Day 16 Rotorua

The unique geothermal muds and waters of Rotorua are renowned for their curative and invigorating properties—and this is particularly so at “Hells Gate” - Rotorua’s most active thermal park. Hells Gate Geothermal Park is set in 50 acres with a large variety of thermal features. Walk past steaming fumeroles and hot pools of boiling mud so violent they are unnerving. Wai Ora Spa Facility is where visitors can experience the unique geothermal mud and sulphurous waters in privacy as well as in a totally unique environment. There are three private mud baths in the Wai Ora (“Healthy Waters”) Spa Facility – one family and two three-person baths each containing in excess of 70-100kgs of the finest geothermal muds in both suspended and solid form.

Overnight at Regent of Rotorua.

Day 17 Auckland

Auckland is the largest city in the country, and has the largest Polynesian population of any city in the world. It is one of the few cities in the world to have harbours on two separate major bodies of water. Auckland is popularly known as the "City of Sails" because the harbour is often dotted with hundreds of yachts, in fact over 135,000 are registered in the city. Many national treasures are displayed at the Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland War Memorial Museum, the National Maritime Museum, or the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT). Exotic creatures can be observed at the Auckland Zoo and Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World.

Enjoy a day trip from Rotorua to Auckland through lush rolling farm landscape to the mystical Waitomo Glowworm Caves. After lunch (own expense) enjoy a guided tour through the galleries and lofty chambers of the Caves. Your tour culminates with a boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto - lit up by thousands of tiny living lights. View the unique Waitomo glowworms, as expert guides provide informative commentary on the Caves historical and geological significance. Enjoy the limestone shafts, stunning Cathedral cavern and then take a unique boat ride through the glowworm grotto.

Centrally located in Auckland, this property is near Queen Street Shopping District, Sky Tower, and Auckland City Hall. Additional nearby points of interest include Auckland War Memorial Museum. Guestrooms have premium bedding, air conditioning, and slippers; rooms also include refrigerators, separate bathtubs and showers, and bathrobes. At Stamford Plaza Auckland recreational amenities include an indoor pool, a spa tub, and a sauna. The property also provides a business center, a concierge desk, and a porter/bellhop.

Overnight at Stamford Plaza .

Day 18 Auckland

Domestic Airport to hotel transfer with private vehicle and driver.

Depart from Auckland international airport.

Overnight at Depart.

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