13-Day Australia & New Zealand

A veritable paradise on Earth, Auckland combines the best of both worlds – a thrilling urban metropolis surrounded by striking natural areas, sparkling blue water, and colorful wildlife. New Zealand’s cultural and recreational hub, beautiful Auckland has something for everyone.

Museums, art galleries, and other culture-rich sites abound near Auckland’s city center. History buffs will appreciate the Auckland War Memorial Museum or the New Zealand Maritime Museum on Viaduct Harbour, while art enthusiasts will relish in the vast art collections housed at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki. Be sure to peruse the famous Maori Portraits exhibit, a display featuring powerful portraits of the Maori peoples indigenous to New Zealand and Polynesia.

You won’t have to venture far from the city to experience some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders! Rugged Rangitoto Island is perfect for hikes, surrounded with stunning volcanic rock and lava fields, and provides a spectacular vantage point to observe Auckland across the harbor. Maungawhau, or Mount Eden, is another of the city’s volcanic wonders; its verdant crater is a sight to behold and remains one of Auckland’s most visited attractions. Head to Waiheke Island to visit Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary, a protected wildlife sanctuary where some of New Zealand’s most eye-catching fauna roam, or hit the beaches of Waitakere Ranges Regional Park to take in the glittering ocean views and soak up some sun. Travel two hours south to marvel at New Zealand’s rolling green hills when you explore the immersive set for The Shire, the fictional village from the ever-popular Lord of the Rings novels and film franchise.

Auckland, New Zealand awaits you!

Picton, a coastal town at the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, serves as the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. Surrounded by tranquil blue waters, lush hills, and winding inlets, Picton is a paradise for outdoor explorers.

The Marlborough Sounds, a nearby network of sunken river valleys, offer so many opportunities for adventure. Visitors can kayak through the sheltered coves, sail along the peaceful bays, or hike the famous Queen Charlotte Track. The waters around Picton are also home to dolphins, seals, and even rare seabirds.

Picton’s culinary scene reflects the rich produce of the surrounding Marlborough region, which is famous for its Sauvignon Blanc. Visitors can explore wineries, taste freshly caught seafood, and enjoy farm-to-table dining at charming eateries. The town’s close connection to the sea means that fresh green-lipped mussels, a local specialty, are a must-try dish.

With its stunning coastal scenery, welcoming atmosphere, and easy access to both land and sea adventures, Picton is more than just a transit point—it’s a destination that provides a true taste of New Zealand’s beauty.

Fiordland National Park, located on the southwestern tip of New Zealand's South Island, is a breathtaking wilderness that captivates visitors with its dramatic landscapes of towering fjords, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforests. Established in 1952, Fiordland is part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its stunning natural beauty and unique biodiversity. The park’s crown jewel, Milford Sound, is often described as the "eighth wonder of the world" and offers visitors a chance to cruise through deep glacially-carved waters, flanked by sheer rock faces and the iconic Mitre Peak rising sharply from the fjord’s depths.

The adventure begins in Te Anau, the gateway town to Fiordland National Park. From here, travelers can embark on one of New Zealand's Great Walks, such as the Milford, Kepler, or Routeburn Tracks, which showcase the park’s diverse terrains—from alpine meadows to pristine lakes and dense beech forests. Each trail offers its own set of challenges and rewards, with vistas that seem straight out of a fantasy film. A boat trip to Doubtful Sound, often referred to as the “sound of silence,” allows for a more secluded exploration of Fiordland's beauty, where mist-covered mountains and tranquil waters create a mystical atmosphere that is both calming and awe-inspiring.

For those seeking to experience Fiordland’s unique marine life, the Milford Discovery Centre & Underwater Observatory provides a rare opportunity to see black coral, normally found at great depths, thriving at shallow levels due to the park's unique water conditions. Fiordland is also a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts; it is home to a variety of native species such as the rare Fiordland crested penguin, bottlenose dolphins, and fur seals. Bird watchers can delight in spotting the endangered takahe, a flightless bird thought to be extinct until it was rediscovered in Fiordland in 1948.

Fun fact: Fiordland is known for its infamous sandflies, which were humorously explained in Maori legend as being created by the goddess Hinenuitepo to keep humans humble in the face of such overwhelming natural beauty. Visitors often joke that the stunning views of Fiordland come with a "tiny" price to pay. Despite these tiny nuisances, Fiordland National Park remains a must-see destination for travelers seeking to experience one of the last great wilderness areas on Earth, offering unmatched opportunities for exploration, adventure, and tranquility in the heart of New Zealand’s rugged beauty.

Hobart, the vibrant capital of Tasmania, Australia, is a city where history and natural beauty intertwine seamlessly. Nestled on the banks of the Derwent River and framed by the rugged peaks of Mount Wellington, Hobart is a captivating destination for those seeking both cultural richness and stunning landscapes. The city's historic waterfront, with its charming sandstone buildings and bustling Salamanca Market, offers a glimpse into Hobart's maritime past and a chance to sample local produce and crafts source.

Hobart's cultural scene is equally compelling. The MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), located just a short ferry ride from the city, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. This avant-garde museum houses a provocative collection of contemporary art and antiquities in a striking architectural setting source. The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG), located in the heart of the city, offers insights into Tasmania's natural history and indigenous heritage source.

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore around Hobart. The nearby Mount Wellington provides spectacular panoramic views and a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to mountain biking source. The pristine beauty of the surrounding Tasmanian wilderness, including the stunning landscapes of the Tasman Peninsula and the nearby Bruny Island, offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation source.

Slogan: "Hobart: Where Heritage Meets Horizon."

Fun Fact: Hobart is one of the southernmost cities in the world, giving it a unique and pristine environment that is perfect for exploring nature and enjoying breathtaking views source.

Visit Hobart from December to March to experience its lively festivals, pleasant weather, and vibrant outdoor activities. Winter is also a magical time to visit, with cozy fireside settings and a chance to explore the snow-capped peaks of Mount Wellington.

Sydney, Australia's iconic harbor city, is a dazzling blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. At the heart of its allure is the world-renowned Sydney Opera House, an architectural marvel that hosts an array of performances from opera to contemporary music. Its distinctive sail-like design makes it one of the most photographed buildings in the world. A tour of the Opera House offers insights into its fascinating history and architectural innovations.

Nearby, the Sydney Harbour Bridge provides a thrilling experience for adventure seekers. Visitors can climb to the top of this steel giant for panoramic views of the city and harbor, a breathtaking way to appreciate Sydney’s spectacular waterfront. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, a walk across the bridge offers equally stunning vistas.

Sydney's beaches are legendary, with Bondi Beach standing out as a must-visit destination. Known for its golden sands and surf culture, Bondi is perfect for a day of sunbathing or taking a dip in the Pacific. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk offers scenic views of the rugged coastline and is a great way to explore other beautiful beaches along the way.

Fun fact: Sydney's Taronga Zoo is unique for its conservation efforts and its stunning location overlooking Sydney Harbour. It's one of the few zoos in the world where you can see animals while enjoying views of the iconic skyline.