Australian Highlights with New Zealand

Australian Highlights with New Zealand

Explore the beauty and grandeur of New Zealand after your holiday in Australia. Visiting both countries in one trip will certainly make a holiday of a lifetime.

What's Included:

• Just You Holiday Director as your host & - Specialist Local Guide
• Return flights from London
• Use of an airport lounge in the UK
• 19 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels plus 2 nights in flight
• A guaranteed twin or double room of your own
• 24 meals: 19 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners including welcome drink
• Overseas transfers, internal flights and other transportation

Your add-on includes

• Just You Holiday Director as your host & Specialist Local Guide
• 14 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels plus 1 nights in flight
• A guaranteed twin or double room of your own
• 17 meals: 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners including welcome & farewell drinks
• Overseas transfers, other transportation & porterage

Included Holiday Highlights:

• Sydney's iconic sights
• Visit to Port Stephens
• Byron Bay's iconic lighthouse
• Discover Brisbane
• Great Barrier Reef catamaran cruise
• Uluru (Ayers Rock) at sunrise & sunset
• See the Kata Tjuta (the Olgas)
• Tour of Alice Springs
• Authentic Aussie bush barbecue
• Discover Adelaide
• Visit Barossa Valley including lunch & wine-tasting
• Journey along the Great Ocean Road
• Discover Melbourne

Add-on included holiday highlights

• Waitomo glow worm grotto
• Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch & Napier sightseeing
• Te Puia Thermal Reserve
• Dinner & wine-tasting at the Mission Estate Winery
• Journey on the TranzAlpine train
• Cruise on Milford Sound

Day 2-6: Furama Darling Harbour

The newly refurbished Furama Darling Harbour is situated right between the bustling China Town and newly developed Darling Square precinct. Take a leisurely stroll through Darling Harbour with its many attractions such as Cockle Bay, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, Wild Life Sydney Zoo and Madame Tussaud's Sydney. The hotel is also a heritage building constructed in 1890. Facilities include a renovated fitness centre, spa and laundry services.

Day 7: Mercure Centro Port Macquarie

Conveniently located in the town centre, Mercure Centro Port Macquarie provides an easy access to beaches, nature walks and shops. Hotel rooms feature en-suite facilities, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and tea/coffee-making facilities. Other hotel amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant with a terrace and a contemporary bar.

Day 8-9: Royal on the Park Brisbane

Located opposite the City Botanic Gardens and a 5 minute walk from the Queen Street Mall the Royal on the Park is a well reviewed hotel. With facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, bar and restaurant. Rooms feature floor to ceiling windows for views of the city or gardens, en-suite and coffee machine.

Day 10-13: Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Transformed in 2019 with a new lobby, restaurant & bar, guest rooms and public spaces, discover Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort. This excellent resort has a sandy lagoon style pool boasting a swim up bar and lush tropical gardens

Day 14: Desert Gardens Hotel

Situated within an oasis of native gardens, Desert Gardens Hotel offers elegant guestrooms. Each room is air-conditioned and has a TV with movies-on-demand and tea/coffee-making facilities. Other hotel facilities include an outdoor swimming pool and a bar. Arnguli Grill, restaurant located on-site, offers an à la carte menu of traditional Australian cuisine.

Day 15: Double Tree by Hilton Alice Springs

Experience eco-friendly settings and enjoy stunning views of the majestic MacDonnell Mountain Ranges when you stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Alice Springs. Conveniently located just off the Stuart Highway, hotel is within walking distance of downtown and provides easy access to many local attractions such as Anzac Hill. All hotel rooms feature air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and tea/coffee-making facilities. Other hotel amenities include fitness centre, outdoor heated swimming pool and restaurant, serving modern Australian cuisine.

Day 16-17: Vibe Hotel

The Vibe Hotel Adelaide is located just a km from Rundle Mall in the vibrant streets of Adelaide's East End, close to some of the city's best restaurants and bars. Facilities include a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and terrace.

Day 18: Mid City Motel Warrnambool

Mid City Motel Warrnambool is located at the western end of the world-renowned Great Ocean Road, only 50 metres from the centre of the town and a short stroll to beautiful beaches nearby. Facilities include Elements Bar & Restaurant, in-room dining, outdoor swimming pool, spa and guest laundry for your convenience. Warrnambool is a friendly and relaxing town with a selection of bars and restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. All rooms feature en suite facilities, air conditioning, TV, phone and internet access.

Day 19-21: Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne

The Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne is a heritage listed hotel. Within walking distance you can find shopping, dining & entertainment, perfect for exploring. There is also a bar, restaurant and fitness centre, if you wish to stay at the hotel. Rooms are furnished with air-conditioning, safe, TV and tea & coffee-making facilities.

Day 22-23: Crowne Plaza Auckland

Crowne Plaza Auckland is situated within walking distance from a range of shopping and dining options on Queen Street. It is also in close proximity to main sightseeing attractions of Auckland. Modern rooms feature en-suite facilities, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and sleep-aid aromatherapy kits. Other hotel facilities include gym, sauna, a lobby cocktail bar and a restaurant.

Day 1-2: UK - Sydney

Today, you will fly to Sydney, arriving in the early hours of day 3.

Day 3: Sydney

You can spend today at leisure, settling in and exploring this vibrant city at your own pace.

Day 4: Sydney

Our included sightseeing tour will show you Sydney's highlights, including the world-famous Harbour Bridge and Opera House, which dominate the vast and picturesque harbour. Other memorable sights include Bondi Beach, Hyde Park, Darling Harbour and Mrs Macquarie's Chair. This huge sandstone rock was hand-carved by convicts in the shape of a bench for Governor Macquarie's wife, Elizabeth, in 1810. It's a great vantage point, so take a few minutes to enjoy the view. This evening, get to know your travelling companions better over a welcome drink and dinner.

Meals included: B,D

Day 5: Sydney - at Leisure

If you choose to join today's optional excursion, you've a full day of thrills ahead. You head through the Blue Mountains, past the Three Sisters rock formation and along Jamieson Valley - Australia's answer to the Grand Canyon. Finally, you'll visit Scenic World, where you can opt to take a journey on the world's steepest incline railway into ancient rainforest, or enjoy a cable-car ride over the valley.

Meals included: B

Day 6: Sydney - at Leisure

You can choose from a couple of exciting optional excursions today. If you've a head for heights, you could take in exceptional views of Sydney Harbour and the surrounding area on a guided Sydney Harbour Bridge climb. Don't worry, you'll get a safety briefing beforehand and will wear a harness at all times. At the end you'll receive a group photo, a cap, certificate and a pass to the Pylon Lookout for further sweeping views. Another option is to step beneath the sails and enjoy a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. You'll learn about the history of the building, uncover stories about artists and the shows performed here and have an opportunity to visit areas usually off limits to the general public.

Meals included: B

Day 7: Sydney - Port Stephens - Port Macquarie

We've a lovely journey along the coast this morning as we leave Sydney behind and head to Port Stephens. This idyllic coastal resort, known as the 'blue water paradise', is home to white-sand beaches, picturesque bays lapped by turquoise seas, and immense sand dunes. Enjoy some time at leisure here, lazing on the beach or maybe you'll choose to head off on an optional dolphin-watching cruise. Later, we'll continue to Port Macquarie.

Meals included: B

Day 8: Port Macquarie - Brisbane

This morning, we'll take to the road once again, making our way along the coast to Byron Bay, famous for its beautiful beaches and laid-back surf culture. We'll stop here to admire its iconic lighthouse, which sits on a rocky headland. We'll then continue along the stunning Gold Coast, renowned for its fabulous beaches, and on to Brisbane.

Meals included: B

Day 9: Brisbane - at Leisure

You can spend today at leisure in Brisbane, or you could choose to join an optional excursion to North Stradbroke Island. Fondly known as Straddie by the locals, it is the world's second largest sand island at about 38km long and 11km wide. You can relax on the beach, or maybe head off on a bush walk, keeping an eye out for resident wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas and kookaburras - the largest member of the kingfisher family.

Meals included: B

Day 10: Brisbane - Cairns

Enjoy a morning tour of Brisbane, Queensland's cosmopolitan capital, which boasts spectacular architecture and is set on the Brisbane River. This afternoon we'll fly to Cairns, where we'll stay, it's your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef!

Meals included: B

Day 11: Great Barrier Reef

Today you have the chance to explore a whole new world on an included trip by catamaran to the outer Great Barrier Reef. Marine life comes incredibly close to the vessel, and you can experience the reef without getting wet from the comfort of a semi-submersible or an underwater observatory. Of course, you can also go snorkelling in this amazing underwater world – all the equipment and guidance you need is provided, as well as lunch.

Meals included: B,L

Day 12: Cairns - at Leisure

On this free day you can simply relax and soak up the sun. However, if you want to see more, a ride on the Kuranda Railway is an option to see the Atherton Tablelands. Your first stop will be the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, where you'll glide over and through heritage rainforest. After free time in the village of Kuranda, you'll take a journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, with the Barron Falls just one of the incredible highlights.

Meals included: B

Day 13: Cairns - at Leisure

Today is a good chance to take a well deserved rest or to explore more that Cairns has to offer.

Meals included: B

Day 14: Cairns - Uluru

This morning we'll fly to Ayers Rock, or Uluru, situated in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This huge sandstone monolith, which is two miles long, 1,000ft high and measures six miles around the base, is a majestic sight and one of the world's most treasured natural wonders. It is a wondrous sight at any time of day, but even more so at sunrise and sunset, when its colours change dramatically. You will have the chance to admire Uluru at both of these magical times. This evening you can enjoy an optional visit to the impressive Field of Light installation.

Meals included: B

Day 15: Uluru - Alice Springs

We will visit Uluru as the sun rises this morning. We will also have the very special opportunity to step into some of the caves at the base of the rock and admire the fascinating Aboriginal art that graces the walls. Off in the distance you will spot the mysterious Kata Tjuta or the Olgas, a range of 36 spectacular rock domes. Later we'll journey to the outback town of Alice Springs. Here we will attend an Aussie bush barbecue sampling local traditional cuisine.

Meals included: B,D

Day 16: Alice Springs - Adelaide

Your tour now continues as we fly to Adelaide, South Australia's cosmopolitan capital.

Meals included: B

Day 17: Adelaide

We'll start the day with a tour of Adelaide's main highlights, including the cricket and football stadium, the Adelaide Oval, broad expanses of lush parkland and the imposing St Peter's Cathedral. Next, we continue to the Barossa Valley, which is famous for its wines. At the Jacobs Creek visitor centre we'll stop for a tasting and lunch. We'll also taste wines at the award-winning Wolf Blass winery.

Meals included: B,L

Day 18: Adelaide - Warrnambool

We'll depart Adelaide today and travel further along the coast to Warrnambool.

Meals included: B

Day 19: Warrnambool - Melbourne

Your journey to Melbourne today takes you along one of the most spectacular coastal routes in the world, the Great Ocean Road. As you go you'll see the Twelve Apostles, although only eight of these towering limestone stacks remain, the Arch and many other fantastic rock formations.

Meals included: B

Day 20: Melbourne

Enjoy a tour of Melbourne this morning. Highlights include Federation Square, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Flinders Street Station and the Grand Prix Circuit that circles Albert Park Lake. Another stop is Fitzroy Gardens, which features pathways lined with towering elms, colourful floral displays and the Fairies' Tree sculpture - a centuries-old tree stump featuring delightful carvings.

Meals included: B

Day 21: Melbourne - at Leisure

You can spend a further day at leisure, making your own discoveries. Alternatively, you might be tempted to join an optional excursion to Phillip Island to see the remarkable penguin parade. At sunset, after a hard day's fishing, hundreds of these delightful creatures - the world's smallest penguin - appear from out of the ocean and waddle their way across the beach to their sand dune burrows. You can take in this marvellous spectacle from special viewing stands and boardwalks, which give you the chance to get up close to nature.

Meals included: B

Day 22: Melbourne - Auckland

We will transfer you to the airport today for your flight to Auckland. There is time to rest after your flight before we gather as a group for dinner.

Meals included: B,D

Day 23: Auckland

The beautiful city of Auckland is the largest in New Zealand, situated on the North Island in the Hauraki Gulf. We'll admire its spectacular skyline on an included tour this morning, which takes us to all the must-see sights. Later, you will have time to explore the city further in the company of your fellow travellers.

Meals included: B

Day 24: Auckland - Rotorua

The warm, emerald-green North Island was shaped by volcanic activity, and evidence of this remains in the thermal springs surrounding Rotorua. En-route we will journey through the dairy-rich Waikato farming region, home of the Maori kingdom, and visit the world-famous Waitomo Caves. The amazing glow-worm grotto is a fascinating sight and we will explore in the company of a Local Guide. You can also take an optional flight today, either by float-plane or helicopter, over Mount Tarawera Volcano. You'll learn how the volcano's 1886 eruption - the largest in New Zealand's living memory - affected the landscape and, if you chose the helicopter flight, you will actually land at the site of the eruption. Those choosing the float-plane excursion will have the added excitement of taking off and landing on water at the Rotorua City Lakefront.

Meals included: B

Day 25: Rotorua

Te Puia Thermal Reserve is home to the extraordinary boiling mud pools and spouting geysers that New Zealand is so famous for. We will call here this morning to see this spectacular sight for ourselves. Later you have the option to join a tour of Hobbiton, the location created for the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit films. We'll explore the site, which includes hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn, while our guide offers fascinating insight – a must for fans of the films. Tonight, you'll have a chance to experience a Maori concert and sample an authentic Hangi meal on an optional tour. This is where your food is cooked by steam underground using a centuries-old method that harnesses the power of nature.

Meals included: B

Day 26: Rotorua - Napier

The route to Napier takes us through the Wairakei Valley, past the spectacular Huka Falls to beautiful Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest freshwater lake. We will pause here to take in the mesmerising views. Napier is home to one of the finest collections of Art Deco-style buildings in the world and has the ideal climate for growing grapes. Sampling some of the locally cultivated wines is certain to be a treat before we discover more about the town as we explore on foot in the company of your Holiday Director. We'll enjoy a group dinner this evening at a winery estate.

Meals included: B,D

Day 27: Napier - Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand's wonderful capital, enjoys a beautiful setting on the southern tip of the North Island. We'll head here today with an orientation tour on arrival to highlight the city's main sights.

Meals included: B

Day 28: Wellington - at Leisure

We have left today free for you to explore the city with your travelling companions. Perhaps take the cable car to the Botanical Gardens or visit the Te Papa Museum, which offers a wealth of information about New Zealand and its history, along with a collection of art.

Meals included: B

Day 29: Wellington - Christchurch

We set sail for the South Island today. Once back on land, we continue the drive to Christchurch, often referred to as the most English city outside of England. We'll enjoy the stunning scenery of the Kaikoura coast along the way.

Meals included: B

Day 30: Christchurch - Omarama

Before departing Christchurch, we will take in an orientation tour of the city which introduces us to all the main sights. Then it’s a lovely drive across the Canterbury Plains towards Burkes Pass and onwards to Lake Tekapo with a stunning route delivering us to the Mount Cook region today.

Meals included: B

Day 31: Omarama - Queenstown

Before departing from the Mount Cook region, you may wish to take an optional scenic flight over some of New Zealand's highest mountains and largest glaciers. Your pilot will provide interesting commentary as you admire them from the air. Today we travel via the gold-mining town of Arrowtown and onwards to Queenstown, a popular resort in both summer and winter.

Meals included: B

Day 32: Milford Sound

Milford Sound is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful locations in New Zealand. Te Anau is the gateway to Fjordland National Park and our first port of call on today's tour. We continue through the lush beech forests of the Eglinton Valley and the eroded glacial canyons of the Hollyford Valley, before arriving at Milford Sound itself. A cruise on the Sound, which we include weather permitting, is a great way to appreciate the beauty of the area, and lunch is also included.

Meals included: B,L

Day 33: Queenstown - at Leisure

Explore Queenstown in the company of your fellow travellers or perhaps join us on an optional excursion. If you're feeling adventurous, there's a fantastic opportunity to take an exhilarating jet boat ride on the Dart River. This evening, if you wish, you could enjoy a relaxing steamship cruise on Lake Wakatipu and a gourmet barbecue dinner in the Colonel's Homestead at Walter Peak.

Meals included: B

Day 34: Queenstown - Franz Josef

Departing Queenstown, travelling north, passing Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka along the way to cross the Haast River Bridge. The road through Westland National Park is one of the most scenic ever built, with tremendous ocean views to one side and spectacular forest views to the other. Experience this as we travel to the magnificent scenery and glaciers of the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier regions.

Meals included: B

Day 35: TranzAlpine Train

This morning perhaps join a helicopter flight with a landing on the glacier for a stunning view of the landscape. Late afternoon we join the TranzAlpine Express for a spectacular journey through the Southern Alps. We’ll board the train in Arthurs Pass, the South Island's highest railway station, passing through the contrasting scenery of the snow-capped Southern Alps and majestic gorges. Arriving in Christchurch this evening, where we get together for a farewell drink.

Meals included: B

Day 36: Christchurch - UK

We'll transfer to the airport for our flight back to the UK.

Meals included: B

Day 37: UK

You'll arrive back in the UK today.