Highlights of Australia & New Zealand

Depart for Singapore on this trip of a lifetime!

On arrival in Singapore, we meet with our local guide before transferring to our hotel, where we settle in for a relaxing evening and a chance to unwind after our journey.

Let’s discover the highlights of Singapore on a half day guided tour, including Chinatown with its unique shops, and the oldest Hindu Temple in Singapore. Stroll along the vibrant streets of Little India, a hive of activity with its shops and markets, steeped in history and culture. Admire the views of Singapore River which was once a small fishing village and is now a world class port. Enjoy the serenity of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the “green lung” of the city centre. The afternoon is at leisure to explore this captivating city in our own time. Our local guide will be pleased to offer recommendations for sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment options.

Today we depart the vibrant Singapore and transfer to Singapore Airport for our flight to Sydney, Australia.

Welcome to Sydney Australia! On arrival, we meet with our local guide before transferring to our hotel. The rest of our day is at leisure, to take a stroll and become familiar with our surroundings, stretch the legs and soak up the atmosphere.

Today with our local guide we discover some of the most famous and important sites in Sydney on a full day tour by coach of this cosmopolitan city. Starting with the historical Rocks area, where the First Fleet landed in 1788, we then visit the iconic Sydney Opera House, St Mary’s Cathedral, Parliament House, Darling Harbour, and Chinatown.

 We continue by coach through Kings Cross, Rushcutters Bay and Watsons Bay, before stopping at the world-famous Bondi Beach! After lunch (not included) we fall in love with Sydney Harbour as we embark on a cruise, taking in beautiful sights such as the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and much more - a great way to finish the tour! 

The rest of the evening is at leisure to soak up the local atmosphere; try some Australian delicacies, sit in one of the trendy cafes and watch the world go by.

Discover the beauty of the Blue Mountains!  We take in the sights of natural bush land as we venture out of the bustling city on our full day guided excursion. We stop off for a visit to the Featherdale Wildlife Park to observe Australia's unique wildlife, including Kangaroos, Koalas and other marsupials, plus native reptiles and birds.

We continue to the town of Katoomba and experience a thrilling ride on the world’s steepest incline Railway that descends into the valley. A 900-foot boardwalk will take us to the base of the “Sceniscender” cable car for the trip back to the top, enjoying another perspective of the Blue Mountains.

After our thrilling ride, we transfer to the Blue Mountains look out for a view of the famous “Three Sisters” rock formation.

We enjoy a scenic and relaxing transfer back to our hotel; the rest of the evening is at leisure.

Please note, you should have good agility to enter and exit the train due to the incline for the Blue Mountains and sky rails.

Today we can explore this buzzing city at our own pace. Our local guide will be pleased to offer recommendations for sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment options.

Today is free to explore more of Sydney. We can take in some galleries, enjoy a day at the beach, or shop till we drop, Sydney has it all!  For those who want to savour the taste of Australia’s liquid gold, there will be an optional wine tour to Hunter Valley, famous for its wines.

Optional Excursion to Hunter Valley

Escape the city and enjoy an optional excursion into the wine region of Hunter Valley, combining world-renowned wines, with tasty local produce and a stunning countryside backdrop, for this full day trip.

Hunter Valley, two hours north of Sydney offers a relaxing countryside journey into some of Australia’s best boutique wineries, where wine making is more than just a passion. On this excursion you will visit three local wineries, partake in some wine tasting, and enjoy a tasty lunch at a café with seasonal fresh, local produce, followed by a delicious glass of wine. Return to your hotel in the afternoon.

Note: This tour is operated on a minimum numbers basis and may be shared with other groups, and not a private Travel Department tour. Please ask locally for details on this tour.

Today we say farewell to Sydney and transfer to Sydney Airport for a short internal flight to Ayers Rock in the centre of Australia. On arrival we meet with our new local driver/guide and transfer to our hotel.  Enjoy some downtime and soak up the Red Centre of Australia!

Tonight, we transfer to a desert dune and savour the special experience of “Sounds of Silence”, the quietest restaurant on earth!  Our outdoor gourmet barbecue dinner is served as we watch the sun set over the Olga Mountains.  After dinner, as the lights go down revealing a star-filled sky, the resident Astronomer will introduce us to the magnificent constellations, stars and planets that make up the skies of the Southern Hemisphere. We also get to experience the illuminating field of light.

We start with an early departure to take in the beautiful sunrise of Uluru, (Ayers Rock), soaking up the beauty of this natural wonder in the stark harsh outback. After, we discover sacred Aboriginal caves which hold a special significance for the local Aboriginal people.

In the afternoon, accompanied by a local driver/guide, we experience more of this dramatic landscape on a visit to the massive series of domes known as Kata Tjuta. We take in the scenery on a walking trail through the Olga Gorge between the two domes of Kata Tjuta.

Enjoy free time to explore before arriving at the sunset viewing area, where we witness the striking colour changes that take place over Uluru. 

Later, we return to our hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure.

Today we transfer to Ayers Rock Airport for an internal flight to Cairns. On arrival we meet with our local guide and driver and transfer to our hotel in Cairns.  Let’s settle in and recharge, before tomorrow’s adventure to the Great Barrier Reef!

Tonight, we join our fellow travellers for dinner (included) at a local restaurant.

Pease note: Depending on the arrival time of your flight, dinner may change to the following night instead. This will be confirmed closer to departure.

This morning we pack our swimmers and sun cream as we embark on an adventure to see one of Australia’s most precious and natural wonders! We transfer by coach to the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns and set sail on our high-speed catamaran to the Marine World pontoon - a purpose-built two-storey platform on the outer Great Barrier Reef.

From here we can explore this unique marine area of extraordinary beauty, with time to swim, snorkel, or travel in a semi-submersible boat. Get a bird's eye view of the turquoise water and magnificent coral formations as we soar through the air on a helicopter flight over the reef. What a way to end this day!

We return to our hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure.

This morning we depart our hotel for another full day of discovery. Fall in love with the views! We transfer to Freshwater train station and board the Kuranda Scenic Rail, considered one of the world’s most scenic rail routes; we travel through tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorges, taking in the breath-taking views!

First stop is at Barron Gorge to admire the Falls before arriving at Kuranda Station where we take a short coach transfer and begin our rainforest adventure. All aboard! We travel aboard the amphibious Army Duck and experience the different perspectives of the rainforest, learning about tropical fruits, plants, and native animals of this area.

Join us as we go on a Dreamtime Walk, to learn about ancient Aboriginal history and way of life and try our hand at throwing a boomerang! Uncover more local culture with a Pamagirri Dancers performance in the Rainforest Amphitheatre, before a barbecue lunch (included).

Next, we return to Kuranda and board the Skyrail cable car, discovering more of this beautiful countryside. We skim through the canopy and marvel at the rainforest below, enjoying stops along the way before arriving at Caravonica Lakes.

After our thrilling adventure, we transfer back by coach to our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Today is free to relax, recharge the batteries and enjoy the laid-back pace of life. Soak up the atmosphere on our last day in Australia.

Today we conclude our Australian adventure as we depart Cairns Airport for Christchurch New Zealand, via Sydney.  On arrival in Christchurch, we will be met by our new local guide before being transferred to our hotel.

This morning, we'll hop on a coach to the train station and board the Trans Alpine scenic train. We'll journey across the stunning Canterbury Plains and deep into the heart of the Southern Alps, disembarking at Arthur's Pass. From there, we'll continue by coach to the charming village of Franz Josef.

If the Trans Alpine isn't running due to rail maintenance (out of our control), we'll start our stunning journey in Christchurch by coach. It's a scenic drive of about 427 km through the magnificent Southern Alps, with a brief stop at Arthur's Pass. Keep an eye out for the cheeky native Kea birds – these colourful characters are a delight to spot! We'll then continue through the picturesque countryside, arriving at our hotel in Franz Josef.

This morning, we'll hop on a coach to the train station and board the Trans Alpine scenic train. We'll journey across the stunning Canterbury Plains and deep into the heart of the Southern Alps, disembarking at Arthur's Pass. From there, we'll continue by coach to the charming village of Franz Josef.

If the Trans Alpine is not operating due to rail maintenance (out of our control), we'll start our adventure in Christchurch by coach. It's a scenic drive of about 427 km through the magnificent Southern Alps, with a brief stop at Arthur's Pass. Keep an eye out for the cheeky native Kea birds – these colourful characters are a delight to spot! We'll then continue through the picturesque countryside, arriving at our hotel in Franz Josef.

This evening, take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront, sit in one of the cafes enjoying a refreshing hot drink and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Today we discover Queenstown and more, on a half day guided tour. Take in the beauty of Queenstown on a scenic tour, as we drive to the historic gold rush village of Arrowtown. Enjoy views of Lake Hayes and the rugged Shotover River. After we drive out to Kawarau Bridge to see dare devil’s bungee jumping from the original AJ Hackett site. Next, we savour a visit to a small winery in Central Otago and sample some wine, which New Zealand is renowned for some of the best white wines in the world.

Uncover more as we experience an aerial gondola ride to Bob's Peak taking in the panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain range - the backdrop to several scenes in The Lord of the Rings.

Enjoy the rest of our afternoon at leisure before our evening excursion; stroll the lake side town or hike up the hill for a stunning view over Queenstown. Now is the time to try some Kiwi delicacies; Pavlova, pies, sweet cakes and pastries, or sample some of the local wines and beers for which New Zealand is famous!

Evening

We gather this evening to enjoy a relaxing cruise across Lake Wakatipu. We disembark and discover one of the first farms to set up in the region the Walter Peak High Country Farm, in the ambience of the Colonel’s Homestead we enjoy a barbeque dinner. Next, we experience some farm life with a sheep shearing demonstration.

We finish our adventure with a cruise across the lake enjoying the fresh crisp evening and return to our hotel.

Please note:

The cruise across Lake Wakatipu is usually on a non heritage vessel. Currently both the non-Heritage Vessel and the TSS Earnslaw steam ship are operating for Lake Wakatipu. Due to operational reasons we will advise when you receive your documentation, which vessel will be running for your tour.

Today is free to explore the beautiful alpine resort of Queenstown. Although an adrenaline junkies' paradise, there is also plenty to do at a more relaxed pace, including walking, sailing and fishing. Our local guide will be pleased to offer recommendations for sightseeing, shopping, and other activities.

Today we travel north, through the rugged Kawarau Gorge, across the distinctive Central Otago countryside to Lindis Pass. We pass through many small towns and continue to Lake Tekapo to view the Church of the Good Shepherd and the famous bronze statue of the sheep dog; an Instagram moment! We continue over Burkes Pass and on to Christchurch (approximately 490km). Join us for dinner! Tonight, we enjoy dinner together after our long journey.

Today we transfer by coach to Christchurch Airport for our flight from the South Island to Rotorua in the North Island. On the way to our hotel, we discover why Rotorua is famous, taking in a tour of Te Puia and a visit to Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve.  Witness the boiling mud pools, steaming terraces and geyser activity. We also see more at the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts institute. 

Please note some excursions may not be private Travel Department tours like Te Puia.

After check in at our hotel, the rest of our day is at leisure, we can take time out and enjoy one of the local spas, or stroll in the Government Gardens.

See more of Rotorua on a sightseeing tour by coach. Admittedly a little smelly, due to all the geothermal activity, it is a popular tourist destination set on the shores of Lake Rotorua. We visit the Agrodome and The National Kiwi Hatchery. Here we learn about the treasured and national emblem from conservation, incubation to the hatchlings and see first hand the rare and endangered Kiwi bird. The afternoon is at leisure. We can shop till we drop, indulge in a spa treatment, or take a walk along the lake shore.

Please note some excursions may not be private Travel Department tours like the Kiwi Hatchery.

Departing from Rotorua, we'll journey towards Auckland (approximately 352Km), travelling across the Mamaku Ranges and through scenic farmland to the Ruakuri Cave region.

Along the way, enjoy a guided tour of the unique limestone Ruakuri Caves. Walk down the impressive spiral entrance (a fantastic photo opportunity) and step into an underground world filled with remarkable stalactites and stalagmites. You'll also have the chance to see glow worms up close. These fascinating creatures are found only in New Zealand and Australia. It's truly one of nature's greatest wonders and an absolute must see on any trip to New Zealand! David Attenborough described seeing the glow-worms as a natural wonder, "magical" and "otherworldly" experience.

After, we travel onwards to Hamilton and enjoy some free time at the Hamilton Gardens!  Take a self-guided tour as you immerse yourself in the beauty of this former rubbish tip, transformed into an award-winning garden. Fall in love with the Italian Renaissance Garden, an Indian Char Bagh Garden and much more. We spend an hour here before transferring to Auckland.

We have arrived! In the evening we arrive into Auckland. Relax and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Today we enjoy a sightseeing tour of the 'City of Sails', including the harbour views from Bastion Point, a visit to the Auckland Museum (self guided), the waterfront drive, and the trendy Parnell Village. After our tour we have the rest of the day to explore, shop for last minute souvenirs or take in some of the local sites as we enjoy our last day in Aotearoa (the Māori name for New Zealand).   

Please note: Some of the exhibitions are under renovation including the Maori, and Pacific Islands Court at the museum. Some of the exhibits from this area may be housed throughout the museum while work is currently being done. This will be part of the transformative gallery renewal, and Centenary celebration in 2029.

We say farewell to New Zealand as we depart to Auckland Airport for our flight to our next destination and final stop.

2025 - Kuala Lumpur. On arrival in Kuala Lumpur, we will be met by our local guide before being transferred to our hotel.

2026 - Bangkok. On arrival in Bangkok, Thailand we meet our local guide and transfer to our hotel.

Let's discover Kuala Lumpur on a half day guided city tour. During our tour we will be passing some iconic sites and will enjoy some time to experience some of the highlights this dynamic city has to offer. Let's see more! Our visit includes Chan See Shu Yuen Clan House, China Town, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple (Hindu Temple), Central Market build in 1930, Jamek Mosque (from the outside) and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (from the outside). After our guided excursion we enjoy the rest of the day free to explore this fascinating city. Perhaps visit the iconic Petronas towers, the views on a clear day are well worth the heights! Take a stroll in the KLCC park with all the lush green trees, lake and wide open spaces. For those who love to shop until you drop, look no further this city has many shopping opportunities from KLCC Suria Shopping Centre, Central Market, China Town's Petaling Street etc, you will be spoilt for choice for those last minute bargains!

Morning tour

Let's kick start our day with a guided visit to some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll explore the magnificent Grand Palace, home to the sacred Emerald Buddha – a must-see for first-time visitors.

Next, hop aboard a colourful long-tail boat for a scenic cruise along the Chao Phraya River. We’ll drift away from the busy city into a peaceful network of quiet canals, offering a glimpse into a slower, more traditional way of life.

Our journey takes us through Thonburi, one of Bangkok’s oldest neighbourhoods. Here, you’ll see charming teakwood houses on stilts, locals going about their daily routines, and fishermen casting their nets – a real insight into everyday Thai culture.

We’ll also visit the serene Wat Suwannaram, tucked away in the peaceful Noi district. This hidden gem is rarely crowded, giving you the chance to experience authentic Thai Buddhism without the crowds.

Take part in a traditional alms-giving ceremony, where you can offer food to the monks, receive a blessing, and have a ceremonial string tied around your wrist – a symbol of good luck and protection.

Evening Dinner River Cruise

As night falls, step aboard a luxury Chao Phraya dinner cruise and enjoy an evening of beauty, culture, and relaxation.

Glide past some of Bangkok’s most stunning sights, beautifully lit against the night sky – including the majestic Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and the Grand Palace. It's the perfect time for those unforgettable photos.

Enjoy dinner onboard, complete with music and a graceful classical Thai dance performance – a delightful way to end the day.

Today we depart and say a fond farewell to our journey and adventures throughout Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. Let's begin our our journey home after our once-in-a-lifetime experience – and a few more iconic bucket list sights ticked off too