Australia and New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand 31 Days Tour


Prices from £8875.00 per person based on 15 People

Including International and Domestic Flights, Ground Transfers, Activities and 4* Hotel Accommodations

Departure Date: 5 March 2019 and 1 November 2019 (Price for November will be confirmed in February 2019) 

ITINERARY

D1: London – Melbourne

D3: Arrive Melbourne (-/-/D)

On arrival in Melbourne, we proceed to the hotel.
Accommodation: Clarion Suites Gateway

D4: Melbourne – Sovereign Hill (B/-/D)

After breakfast, we proceed on a pantomimic tour of Melbourne.
See the town Hall, Bourke Street Mall, Parliament House, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Chinatown and the Princess Theatre. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens and take a relaxed walk by the lake. Later, we take you on a visit to Melbourne Cricket Ground (subject to no match happening during your visit), the best-known landmark of Melbourne and the Mecca of Australian cricket. See the beautifully maintained green lawn and feel the aura of sitting in the stands of one of the best cricket grounds in the world. Later, visit the MCG Museum, see the memorabilia and collections of Sir Don Bradman. After the city tour of Melbourne, we transfer to Sovereign Hill. Evening Blood on the Southern Cross tour. Later enjoy a Western Dinner.
Accommodation: Sovereign Hill Hotel

D5: Sovereign Hill – Mantra (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
After breakfast, we drive to Great Ocean Road. En route we take a 10-minute Helicopter ride at Port Campbell.
Later check in to your hotel.
After dinner, we overnight at Mantra Lorne.

D6: Mantra – Melbourne (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
Today morning after breakfast, we drive back to Melbourne. En route we visit Warrbee Open Range Zoo.
Late afternoon, check into your hotel in Melbourne.
Dinner and Overnight at Clarion Suites Gateway.

D7: Melbourne – Alice Springs (B/-/D)

Today you fly to Alice Springs.
On arrival visit the School of the Air and hear how it delivers education to children living in remote areas. Next stop is the Royal Flying Doctor Service, where you’ll learn how this facility provides a ‘mantle of safety’ to the people of the outback. This evening join Joe, Dan, Tommy and Ben Falzon for a Be My Guest home cooked gourmet BBQ dinner at Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre. They’ll share stories of ecology, culture and astronomy, you’ll hear about their sustainable lifestyle, and they may even lead you on a sing-a-long with didgeridoo and guitar. It will be a night to remember.
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters

D8: Alice Springs – Ayers Rock (B/-/D)

Travel through the West MacDonnell and James Ranges and pause to view majestic Atila (Mt. Conner) often mistaken for Uluru, before arriving at Ayers Rock. This afternoon is free for you to enjoy the resort’s facilities at Hotel Desert Gardens in Ayers Rock. Later, travel to the Uluru sunset viewing area. Witness and photograph the striking colour changes of Uluru at sunset. With Aussie BBQ dinner.
Accommodation: Desert Gardens Hotel.

D9: Ayres Rock – Brisbane – Gold Coast (B/-/D)

After breakfast, you have morning free to relax at the Resort. Later we transfer to the airport for your flight to Brisbane.
On arrival in Brisbane we take a coach to Gold Coast. Evening Enjoy diner at local restaurant.
Accommodation: Vibe Hotel Gold Coast.

D10: Gold Coast (B/-/D)

Today morning after breakfast, we take you to for a visit to Australia’s favourite Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Located on the Gold Coast, Currumbin Sanctuary has earned a special place in the hearts of millions of visitors. Get closer to more than 1,400 native Australian animals in natural bushland and rainforest surroundings. The Sanctuary offers a world of discovery through fascination wildlife shows and displays. Take a picture with the Koalas or feed the lorikeets.
Afternoon is free for you to relax at the hotel. Or, take an optional tour and visit Conrad Jupiter in the heart of Queensland’s glorious Gold Cost. Watch the dazzling live stage shows featuring some of the fines international acts ever seen. Try your lunch at the Jupiter Casino, the focal point of the complex and renowned for its electrifying atmosphere. The casino offers its patrons more than 100 gaming tables and 1300 gaming machines. We have arranged a visit to the Australian Outback show with Western Dinner.
Accommodation: Vibe Hotel Gold Coast

D11: Gold Coast – Cairns (B/-/D)

After breakfast, we proceed to the airport for your flight to Cairns. Arrive into Cairns. Transfer to Kuranda Rainforest for 01-way Sky rail ride. After Kuranda, check in to your hotel. In the evening, we proceed to witness the award winning Tjapukai Aboriginal Park by night with dinner. Experience the enchanting Aboriginal cultural attrition of Australia dedicated to preserving the authentic Aboriginal culture. Interact with Australia’s 40,000-year-old well preserved culture. At the Camp Village, learn didgeridoo playing and boomerang throwing. This night, enjoy a lavish International Veg Buffet set amidst the beautiful setting of Tjapukai.
Accommodation: Pullman Cairns International

D12: Cairns (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
Today morning, you have a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience a Hot Air Balloon Ride. The day starts very early, as we drive to Mareeba in the Cairns Highlands. On arrival, you will be awestruck as you see the balloon being filled with hot air and made ready for flight. At the crack of dawn, as you board the Hot Air Balloon, the pilot will gently lift off and quietly glide the balloon over the panorama of the tablelands. This is the best way to absorb the diverse eco-culture of the region. Enjoy the picturesque landscape at sunrise and breathe in the fresh morning air. After your flight, enjoy a sumptuous breakfast. Later, we take you on a full day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world. See the brilliant colours and fascination life forms of the word heritage Great Barrier Reef – One of the natural wonders of the world. See the brilliant colours and fascinating life forms of the world heritage Great Barrier Reef – world’s largest expanse of corals. Touch some of the unique marine creatures in the Marine Touch tank.
Enjoy a hot/cold buffet lunch.
Take guided tour on the glass bottom boat & semi-submersible. Spend the day enjoying the most spectacular marine life. You can also try scuba diving, Undersea Walk or take a helicopter ride over the scenic Barrier Reef on tour own at additional charge. Enjoy dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Accommodation: Pullman Cairns International.

D13: Cairns – Sydney (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
After breakfast, we transfer you to the Cairns airport for your flight to Sydney. Arrive Sydney and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Accommodation: Parkroyal Darling Harbour

D14: Sydney (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
After a buffet breakfast, we take you on a city tour of Sydney. We start our day with a guided tour of the world famous, uniquely designed Opera House. The Opera house is an architectural masterpiece & Australia’s most popular sightseeing attraction. Visit the magnificent wood panelled Concert Hall and Opera Theatre. Also see the new Utzon room, the only interior room designed by Jorn Utzon, the main architect of Opera House. On your panoramic city tour of Sydney, see the Harbour Bridge, and the Rocks. We then stop at Darling Harbour, one of Australia’s major tourist attractions. Later visit Sydney city. Enjoy OZ trek tour – an amazing virtual adventure ride across Australia with 3D holograms, 180-degree cinema screens, surround sound & hear t throbbing real motion seating. Visit Sydney Aquarium and embark on a journey through the enormous diversity of Australian aquatic life. You will be spell-bound as you pass through the 150-meter-long clear tunnel and view the fish, sharks and other creatures of the deep seas, swimming around and above you. Your day ends with the Sydney Wildlife world. Experience the unique and bizarre flora and fauna that Australia has to offer, right in the heart of Darling Harbour. Later in the evening proceed for unique attraction – Sydney Show Boat Cruise. It is an authentic replica of paddle wheelers that cruised the waters of Sydney at its magical best as your cruise sails by the well-lit Harbour. You will be mesmerised by the sheer beauty of Opera House and Harbour Bridge as they gleam under the moonlit sky.
Enjoy dinner on board along with a specular cabaret show by the Sydney Show Boat Follies.
Accommodation: Parkroyal Darling Harbour

D15: Sydney (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
After breakfast, the day is free to explore Sydney on tour own. Your hotel has been specifically chosen and is within walking distance from Australia’s most famous Landmark – the Darling Harbour. Go shopping for designer labels in clothes, the famous Australian wines & cheese, watches, perfumes, cosmetics, electronics, etc. at Centre Point, Pitts Street or Queen Victoria Building or take an exciting optional tour to Blue Mountains. At Blue Mountains, it’s difficult not to be impressed by a mountain range that is millions of years old. See the waterfall cascading from cliff tops and over 400 species of birds and animals flitting through bushland & rainforest groves. See the famous Three Sisters Rock formation at Katoomba, named after a ‘love legend’ of the Katoomba Tribe. See a visually stunning movie that introduces you to the ecology of Blue Mountains, on a huge six storey screen at the Edge Maxvision Cinema. Visit Jenolan Caves, Australia’s most impressive limestone caves. The spectacular lighting, underground rivers and cave formations will amaze you.
Enjoy dinner at local restaurant.
Accommodation: Parkroyal Darling Harbour.

D16: Sydney – Christchurch (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
After an early breakfast, we transfer you to the airport of your flight to Christchurch. Kia Ora and welcome to Christchurch!
Christchurch city promises an eclectic mix of historic elegance and Contemporary culture and is the gateway to the South Island. This "vibrant city in transition, coping resiliently and creatively,” Christchurch's energy is evident wherever you go. The city has bounced back after the Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 with innovative new attractions, as well as some old favourites. Visit the ReStart container mall, the transitional Cardboard Cathedral, and some of the many pop up restaurants and bars. Contemporary art galleries, boutique shops and open-air markets add to Christchurch’s creative vibe.
Upon Arrival, we will be picked up at Christchurch International Airport by private coach and transfer to city hotel.
Enjoy your welcome dinner at Christchurch Tramway Restaurant.
Inclusions: 4 course Dinner and 1 complimentary welcome drink.
Being the only Restaurant Tram in New Zealand means we can offer you a unique way to view the inner city of Christchurch while enjoying a delicious evening dinner. Experience the luxury of our 36 seater air-conditioned, colonial style dining tram and be treated to the finest service, cuisine and beverages New Zealand has to offer. Incorporate fabulous dining with a sightseeing tour showcasing Christchurch’s inner city vibrancy and heritage – truly a mix of the old and the new. The Christchurch Tramway Restaurant dinner tour is a unique activity not to be missed.
Accommodation: Rydges Latimer Christchurch Hotel

D17: Christchurch - Twizel (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
This morning after breakfast and hotel check out, Re-board your coach for a half day morning city tour which will be conducted by your driver/guide. Upon completion you will head off in the direction of Twizel. The town of Twizel was purpose-built in the 1960s to provide a home for workers involved with the Upper Waitaki Power Scheme. Today it is a well-positioned base for mountain climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, horse trekking and hiking. You can fish for salmon and trout in the local rivers, canals and lakes. If you don’t have any luck, call into the salmon farm and buy a fish - fresh or smoked. In summer Twizel’s population more than trebles, as holiday houses and camp grounds fill to capacity. It is approximately 285km from Christchurch - Twizel.
Accommodation: MacKenzie Country Hotel.

D18: Twizel - Te Anau (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
This morning after breakfast, check out of your hotel. Re-board your coach and head off in the direction towards Te Anau. Te Anau is nestled on the edge of a lake and is the perfect town to base yourself from to visit Milford Sound. The picturesque township of is the main visitor base for the glacier-carved wilderness that is Fiordland National Park. Restaurants are plentiful and give visitors the opportunity to sample delicious local fare like venison, lobster and seafood. It is approximately 400km from Twizel to Te Anau.
Accommodation at Distinction Luxmore Hotel.

D19: March Te Anau – Milford Sound – Queenstown (B/L/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
This morning after breakfast, check out of your hotel. Re-board your coach and head off in the direction towards Queenstown via Milford Sound. Described by Rudyard Kipling as the 'eighth wonder of the world', Milford Sound was carved by glaciers during the ice ages. Milford Sound is breath-taking in any weather. The fiord's cliffs rise vertically from the dark waters, mountain peaks scrape the sky and waterfalls cascade downwards, some as high as 1000 metres. When it rains in Milford Sound, and it often does, those waterfalls multiply with magnificent effect. It is approximately 120km from Te Anau to Milford Sound.
Excursions: Southern Discoveries
Inclusions: Milford Sound Nature Cruise Picnic lunch
Queenstown sits on the shore of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu among dramatic alpine ranges; it’s rumoured that gold prospectors - captivated by the majestic beauty of the surrounding mountains and rivers - gave this now cosmopolitan town its name. With a smorgasbord of outdoor activities, Queenstown is the home of the ultimate adventure bucket list. There’s skiing in the winter and activities such as bungy jumping, sky diving, canyon swinging, jet boating, horse trekking and river rafting all year round. It has also become a renowned cycling destination, providing everything from easy scenic tracks to backcountry trails, road rides to heli-biking and the Southern Hemisphere’s only gondola accessed downhill mountain biking.
It is approximately 300km from Milford Sound to Queenstown.
Dinner: Skyline Queenstown
Inclusions: Gondola ride Buffet Dinner.
Located an easy five minute walk from central Queenstown, Skyline Queenstown offers awe-inspiring views of the region. Enjoy a sumptuous buffet dinner at Skyline’s Stratosphere Restaurant & Bar, located at the top of the Gondola. The menu is inspired by iconic New Zealand cuisine and infused with international influences, and offers something for everyone - from fresh seafood and delectable desserts to an array of vegetarian dishes. Whilst you dine, the panoramic view from our windows will captivate you day or night. It's the ideal place for that special night out and the best place in Queenstown to watch the sun go down Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront Queenstown

D20: Queenstown (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
Safari of the Scenes – Glenorchy
A half day sightseeing tour for Lord of the Rings fans that really does take you ‘There and Back again’ and includes recognisable film locations and stunning natural scenery. The tour first takes you from Queenstown out to Glenorchy, stopping at breath-taking viewpoints along the way. Beyond Glenorchy follow the Dart River to the spectacular filming location for Isengard. This location offers stunning views of Mt Earnslaw. Heading on to Paradise, discover the location for the Forest of Lothlorien. Upon leaving Glenorchy and returning towards Queenstown you will stop at 12 Mile Delta to explore the location of the Ithilien Camp. The tour also includes locations from X-Men Origins: Wolverine, and The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.
Or
Skippers Canyon 4WD Safari – The Skippers Canyon adventure is a half-day heritage tour that follows the rugged and once treacherous Skippers Road. Travel the road that was hacked by hand into the sheer cliff sides of the Shot over River Valley making this an exciting adventure the whole family will enjoy. As your guide navigates this awe-inspiring canyon you will visit many historic sites such as the Skippers Suspension Bridge and the township of Skippers. Visit the restored school house where you will gain a real insight into the local heritage through photos and histories of life in this tough environment. British Automobile Association voted Skippers Canyon Road as one of the 25 most scenic roads in the world.
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront Queenstown.

D21: Queenstown - Franz Josef (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
This morning after breakfast, check out of your hotel. Re-board your coach and head off in the direction towards Franz Josef. Franz Josef is a 12 km long glacier located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. Witness the puzzle of huge valleys of ice that extend well below the snowline, almost to the sea. Here the ice age is still underway. While glaciers around the world are retreating, the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers still flow almost to sea level. The temperate climate at this low altitude means these glaciers are among the most convenient to visit in the world. Easy walks to the foot of the glaciers pass along ancient river valleys with steep sides bearing gigantic horizontal scars from when the glaciers have retreated and advanced over millennia. When you stand close to the foot of these glaciers, their sheer enormity is very humbling. It is approximately 350km from Queenstown to Franz Josef.
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

D22: Franz Josef - Nelson (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
This morning after breakfast, check out of your hotel. Re-board your coach and head off in the direction towards Nelson. We head off early today due to the long drive that awaits us.Nelson is a lifestyle; that's the best way to describe it. Situated at the top north-west of the South Island, it is the sunniest region in New Zealand. Nelson's diverse geography captures everything from the long golden beaches to untouched forests and rugged mountains. Perhaps it’s the sun, perhaps it’s the location, but Nelson, New Zealand, has long been a magnet for creative people. There are more than 350 working artists and craftspeople living in Nelson, traditional, contemporary and Maori. Visit their studios and find a unique piece to take home with you.It is approximately 470km from Franz Josef to Nelson.
Accommodation: Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco.

D23: Nelson - Wellington (B/-/D)

This morning after breakfast, check out of your hotel. Re-board your coach and head off in the direction towards Picton where you will board the Interislander Ferry and sail towards Wellington.Nestled between a sparkling harbour and rolling green hills, New Zealand's capital city is renowned for its arts, heritage, culture and native beauty. Delve into the many museums, art galleries and theatre shows that make up the city’s pulsing cultural scene. If you’re into the outdoors, Wellington has action-packed adventure activities. Ride the cable car up the hill to Kelburn for amazing views over the city and enjoy an ice cream at the top. On the waterfront itself you’ll find Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, New Zealand’s national museum. Te Papa, as it’s colloquially known, means ‘our place’ and is one of the best interactive museums in the world.It is approximately 240km from Nelson to Wellington Transport: Transfer from Nelson to Wellington via Cook Strait.
Excursions: Interislander Line: Route: Picton > Wellington Inclusions: Passenger Ferry.
Accommodation: Novotel Wellington.

D24: Wellington - Rotorua (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
This morning after breakfast, check out of your hotel. Re-board your coach and head off in the direction towards Rotorua. We head off early today due to the long drive that awaits us.Rotorua is known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture and is one of the best interactive museums in the world. From crystal-clear streams and magical forests, to epic biking trails and explosive geysers, Rotorua has it all. The city offers a raft of attractions and experiences for everyone from adventure-seekers to those just looking to unwind. Sitting within the Pacific Rim of Fire, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pools, clouds of steam, and natural hot springs perfect for bathing and relaxing in. After marvelling at the distinctive landscapes and volcanic activity within a geothermal park, enjoy a simple soak in a natural hot stream or indulge in a wellness getaway at a luxurious spa.It is approximately 500km from Wellington to Rotorua.
Accommodation: Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel.

D25: Rotorua (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
This morning after breakfast, Re-board your coach and head and enjoy a full day sightseeing.
Excursions: Rainbow Springs Inclusions: Kiwi Encounter guided tour.
Agro dome Inclusions: Farm Show
Te Puia including a private guide Inclusions: Admission including 90 minute tour
Dinner: Tamaki Heritage Experiences
After Maori Village & Concert Traditional Hangi Buffet Dinner, we will be transferred to our hotel.
Accommodation: Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel

D26: Rotorua - Bay of Islands (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
This morning after breakfast, check out of your hotel. Re-board your coach and head off in the direction towards the Bay of Islands. The Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region known for its stunning beauty & history. For those that love beaches and water activities, it's paradise. The Bay of Islands encompasses 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula and includes the boutique towns of Opua, Paihia, Russell and Kerikeri. Embark on a voyage of discovery and enjoy a maritime adventure playground with an abundance of wildlife including penguins, dolphins, marlin, whales, gannets and more. It is approximately 500km from Rotorua to Paihia.
Accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge

D27: Bay of Islands (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
This morning after breakfast, re-board your coach and head and enjoy a full day sightseeing.
Excursions: Waitangi National Trust Inclusions: Waitangi Treaty Ground Admission.
Fullers Great Sights Bay of Islands Inclusions: Hole in the Rock Cruise (afternoon).
Accommodation: Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge

D28: Bay of Islands - Auckland (B/-/D)

Breakfast at the hotel.
This morning after breakfast, check out of your hotel. Re-board your coach and head off in the direction towards the Auckland. Auckland is New Zealand's largest city and main transport hub. Imagine an urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanting holiday islands. Add a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping, and you’re beginning to get the picture of Auckland, New Zealand, our largest and most diverse city. More than just a city, Auckland is a whole region full of things to see and do. Best of all, with so many experiences close by it’s easy to hop from one adventure to the next. It is approximately 230km from Paihia to Auckland.
Accommodation: Rydges Auckland

D29: Auckland (B/-/D)

This morning after breakfast, make your way on foot to the Auckland Ferry Terminal located on Quay Street. Here you will embark on your Waiheke Island Excursion.
Excursions: Fullers Auckland Inclusions: Taste of Waiheke Tour Light lunch. Duration: 6 hours
Farewell dinner: Orbit Revolving Restaurant Inclusions: 3 Course Dinner with tea/coffee Complimentary Sky Tower admission (45 minutes prior to and/or upon completion of dining)Soaring high above Auckland you'll discover Orbit, a truly iconic New Zealand brasserie offering diners sensational views - and food to match. Situated at the top of Auckland's Sky Tower, the dining room rotates once every hour, providing a truly unique experience with amazing 360-degree panoramas of the city, the Hauraki Gulf and beyond. Orbit offers a modern dining experience in a relaxed, open atmosphere with a delicious kiwi-inspired à la carte menu that features the best local and seasonal produce. As New Zealand's only rotating restaurant offering 360-degree views, it’s an unforgettable experience that never ceases to delight. Your experience doesn't just stop at the restaurant. Diners can also enjoy complimentary Sky Tower admission 45 minutes prior to and/or upon completion of dining.

D30: Auckland to London (B/-/-)

Breakfast at the hotel.
We check out of our hotel and our private coach will transfer us from our hotel back to Auckland International Airport for our return flight to UK.

Day 31: Arrive UK

Today, we arrive back to London and time to say goodbye to our new friends.

End of the program.

- END OF PROGRAMME -



TOUR PRICE INCLUDES:

• International and Domestic flights
• Accommodation – Twin Share based on the Hotels as specified in the itinerary or similar
• Meals as specified as specified in the itinerary
• Private Coach transportation as specified in the itinerary
• Tour manager from UK and English Speaking Guides
• Entry Fees & Excursions as specified in the itinerary
• Goods and Services Tax (GST)
• Tips

TOUR PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Airport Porterage
• Beverages - unless otherwise stated
• Personal items such as phone calls, souvenirs, email, laundry charges, optional tours.
• Early Check in or Late Check Out - unless otherwise stated
• Surcharge for Special Event Periods - Over these periods, you may incur a surcharge and suppliers may also carry additional terms and conditions.
• Optional Tours

HOTELS (4*)

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