New Zealand & Australia: Southern Horizons
Embark on a trans‑Tasman adventure that contrasts New Zealand’s dramatic alpine scenery with Australia’s iconic coastal vibrancy, offering a dynamic taste of two distinct worlds. From Auckland’s waterfront you’ll travel to Lake Tekapo’s shores, explore Dunedin’s streets and Otago Peninsula wildlife, then visit Christchurch’s gardens before heading to Sydney for a cruise and city life. Guides and locals will share stories, from Maori legends and winemaker insights to Aussie surf culture, leaving you with unforgettable memories of natural wonder, heritage, and vibrant hospitality.
Places you'll stay
Wānaka
Wānaka is a picturesque town located in the Otago region on the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated at the southern end of Lake Wānaka and is surrounded by the Southern Alps, offering stunning natural scenery throughout the year.
Arrowtown
Arrowtown is a small, historic town located in the Otago region of New Zealand's South Island. Nestled beside the Arrow River and surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps, Arrowtown is a former gold mining settlement with a rich heritage and picturesque setting.
Glenorchy
Glenorchy, New Zealand is a small settlement located at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu on the South Island. It is approximately 45 kilometers drive from Queenstown. Nestled amid the Southern Alps, Glenorchy serves as a gateway to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the region.
Cromwell
Cromwell, New Zealand is a town located in the Central Otago region on the South Island, known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Nestled between the Kawarau River and Lake Dunstan, Cromwell is a hub for both outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Akaroa
Akaroa is a small town located on the Banks Peninsula, approximately 84 kilometers southeast of Christchurch. It is nestled in a scenic harbor and is renowned for its unique blend of French and British colonial influence.
Te Anau
Te Anau, located on the South Island of New Zealand, serves as a gateway to the Fiordland National Park and is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Te Anau, it is the largest lake on the South Island and the second-largest in the country.
Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand is the largest city in the country, located on the North Island. It is a diverse and cosmopolitan urban center known for its vibrant cultural scene and stunning natural landscapes.
Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand is a resort town located in the Otago region of the South Island. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Southern Alps, it is renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant tourism industry.
Dunedin
Dunedin is a city located on the southeast coast of New Zealand's South Island, known for its Scottish heritage and distinct Victorian and Edwardian architecture. The city, which sits at the head of Otago Harbour, is a blend of stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences.
Christchurch
Christchurch, New Zealand is the largest city in the South Island and serves as a vibrant gateway to exploring the region's diverse landscapes. Known as the "Garden City," Christchurch is celebrated for its open green spaces and rich history that blend urban life with natural beauty.
Sydney
Sydney is the capital city of the state of New South Wales, located on the southeastern coast of Australia. Known for its iconic landmarks and vibrant harbor, Sydney is the most populous city in the country and a major cultural and economic hub in the Asia-Pacific region.
Moments to look forward to
Sky Tower
Sky Tower, located in Auckland, stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks in the region. As an architectural feature of the city's skyline, Sky Tower offers both locals and tourists a distinctive experience with its impressive height and unique design.
Viaduct Harbour
Viaduct Harbour, New Zealand is an urban marina located in the heart of Auckland's city center. Formerly an industrial port area, it has been transformed into a vibrant precinct with a blend of modernity and heritage.
Britomart
Britomart is a vibrant precinct located in the heart of Auckland, New Zealand. Known for its historical significance and modern revitalization, it combines a blend of architecture, culture, and lifestyle. This area serves as both a transport hub and a destination in itself, with a lively atmosphere and a range of attractions for visitors.
Skyline Queenstown
Skyline Queenstown, New Zealand is a premier tourist attraction located in the resort town of Queenstown on the South Island. Nestled on Bob's Peak and accessible by a gondola—the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere—Skyline Queenstown provides panoramic views of the surrounding region, including the Remarkables mountain range, Lake Wakatipu, and the town itself.
Moeraki Boulders Beach
Moeraki Boulders Beach is located on the Otago coast of the South Island. The beach is famed for its large and almost perfectly spherical boulders, which are a natural geological formation scattered along the sandy shores. These boulders, some of which reach up to two meters in diameter, are a significant draw for visitors due to their unusual size and shape.
Christchurch Tram
Christchurch Tram, New Zealand, is a popular heritage tramway experience located in the heart of Christchurch, offering visitors a unique way to explore the city's central landmarks. The tram operates on a circular route, providing an informative and historical journey through the picturesque streets of Christchurch, allowing passengers to hop on and off at their leisure.
Banks Peninsula
Banks Peninsula is located on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, southeast of Christchurch. A prominent geographic feature formed by volcanic activity, it is characterized by its rugged coastline and numerous bays and coves. The peninsula is approximately 1150 square kilometers in area, with Akaroa Harbour being one of its most prominent geographical features.
Wynyard Quarter
Wynyard Quarter is a waterfront precinct located in Auckland, New Zealand. It is known for its modern development and vibrant community atmosphere. Situated on the city's harbor, the area is a notable example of urban revitalization, combining commercial, residential, and public spaces while maintaining a connection to its maritime heritage.
Auckland War Memorial Museum
Located in the Auckland Domain, one of the city's oldest parks, Auckland War Memorial Museum is a significant historical and cultural institution. It serves not only as a war memorial but also as a museum that showcases New Zealand's history, including its natural history, Maori, and Pacific Island heritage.
Auckland Art Gallery
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, located in New Zealand, is the largest art institution in the country and serves as a key cultural hub in the city of Auckland. The gallery houses an extensive collection of national and international artworks, spanning from the 11th century to contemporary pieces. Established in 1888, it underwent a significant expansion and refurbishment completed in 2011, which combined historical and modern architecture to enhance the visitor experience.
Mount Eden
Mount Eden, located in Auckland, is a prominent volcanic cone and suburb offering panoramic views of the city and showcasing its geological significance. It stands at 196 meters above sea level, making it the highest natural point in the region.
Auckland Botanic Gardens
Auckland Botanic Gardens is a vibrant public garden located in Manurewa, a suburb of Auckland. Covering 64 hectares, the garden is a significant botanical collection with over 10,000 plant species. It serves as a refuge for both local residents and visitors who wish to explore an extensive range of plant life in a peaceful setting.
Parnell
Parnell, New Zealand is a suburb located just to the east of Auckland's city center. Known for being Auckland's oldest suburb, Parnell combines historical charm with modern amenities, offering visitors a rich blend of cultural and natural attractions.
Ponsonby
Ponsonby, located in the city of Auckland, is a vibrant suburb known for its rich history and contemporary flair. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering an eclectic mix of activities and attractions.
Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours
Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours, located in the picturesque region of Matamata, provides visitors with an immersive experience into the cinematic world of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" film trilogies. This iconic set, nestled on a family-run farm, allows guests to explore the lush landscapes and detailed set pieces that brought J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-Earth to life.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand is a renowned natural attraction known for its unique bioluminescent glowworms that illuminate the caves situated in the Waikato region on the North Island. These caves have become a sought-after destination for travelers seeking to witness the natural wonder of glowworms, specifically the species Arachnocampa luminosa, which are native to New Zealand.
The Green Dragon Inn
The Green Dragon Inn, New Zealand is a renowned tourist destination located in the picturesque region of Matamata on the North Island. Part of the Hobbiton Movie Set, the inn serves as an iconic element of the film adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien’s "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit". Visitors can immerse themselves in the charming ambiance that replicates the fictional shire's rustic aesthetic.
Lake Wakatipu
Lake Wakatipu is the third-largest lake in New Zealand, located in the Otago region of the South Island. Known for its distinctive S-shape, the lake stretches approximately 80 kilometers and is surrounded by towering mountains, including the Remarkables and the Hector Mountains. The lake's unique shape causes it to have a "tide" that rises and falls approximately 10 centimeters every 25 minutes, a phenomenon known as a seiche.
Bob's Peak
Bob's Peak is a notable hill located near Queenstown on the South Island of New Zealand. It is accessible via the Skyline Queenstown complex, which features a gondola that transports visitors to the summit, providing access to breathtaking views and a variety of recreational options.
Milford Sound / Piopiotahi
Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is a fiord located in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, which are part of the larger Fiordland National Park and the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site. Carved by glaciers during the ice ages, it is surrounded by steep cliffs that rise from the dark waters, and it is frequently adorned with cascading waterfalls, especially after rainfall.
Southern Alps
The Southern Alps, located on the South Island of New Zealand, form a major mountain range that runs approximately 500 kilometers along the island's western side. This dramatic range is characterized by its towering peaks, with Aoraki/Mount Cook being the highest at 3,724 meters. Known for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems, the Southern Alps are a prominent feature of the island's geography.
Lake Hayes
Lake Hayes, New Zealand, is a picturesque lake located in the Otago region of the country's South Island, near the town of Queenstown. Nestled within a serene valley, the lake is renowned for its reflective waters and surrounding mountain scenery, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors.
Mount Aspiring National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park is a prominent natural sanctuary located in the Otago region of the Southern Alps. It is one of the largest national parks in the country, with an expansive area of 3,562 square kilometers. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, which include towering mountains, lush rainforests, and expansive river valleys.
The Road to Paradise
The Road to Paradise is a scenic route located on the South Island, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes that have captivated visitors and filmmakers alike. This picturesque journey stretches from the town of Glenorchy to the aptly named Paradise, an area known for its remarkable natural vistas and tranquil ambiance.
Dunedin Botanic Garden
Dunedin Botanic Garden, New Zealand, is the country's oldest garden of its kind, established in 1863. Located in the heart of Dunedin, it spans 30.4 hectares and showcases a diverse range of flora that offers both an educational and scenic experience for visitors.
Larnach Castle
Larnach Castle, located on the picturesque Otago Peninsula, is a prominent historical landmark and the only castle in New Zealand. Built in the 19th century by businessman and politician William Larnach, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into the country's colonial past with its Victorian-style architecture and well-preserved interiors.
Kawarau Gorge
Kawarau Gorge is a scenic river gorge located in the Otago region of the South Island. It lies approximately 25 kilometers east of Queenstown, offering visitors stunning views and a range of activities set against a backdrop of rugged terrain.
Speight's Brewery
Speight's Brewery, located in Dunedin, is a historic brewery known for producing one of the most iconic beers in New Zealand since its founding in 1876. The brewery offers visitors an opportunity to explore its rich history and brewing process through guided tours and beer tastings.
Otago Peninsula
Otago Peninsula, located in the southeastern region of New Zealand's South Island, is a prominent stretch of land that extends into the Pacific Ocean. This area is known for its unique combination of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural sites, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust
Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust, established in 1987, is a conservation organization dedicated to protecting the endangered yellow-eyed penguin, also known locally as hoiho. The trust operates along the southeastern coast of New Zealand's South Island, focusing primarily on habitat restoration and protection initiatives to support the survival of this unique species. It is considered one of the leading organizations in its field due to its comprehensive conservation strategies and robust community involvement.
Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House, located in Sydney, is an iconic architectural marvel renowned worldwide for its distinctive sail-like design and cultural significance. Opened in 1973, it stands prominently on Bennelong Point in Sydney Harbour, making it one of the most recognizable structures of the 20th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Port Jackson Bay
Port Jackson Bay, commonly known as Sydney Harbour, is a natural harbor located in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. It is renowned for its distinctive configuration, with an area covering approximately 55 square kilometers, providing a unique combination of deep waterways and sprawling foreshores. This iconic bay is home to several famous landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, making it one of the most recognizable harbors globally.
Manly Beach
Manly Beach, Australia is a popular seaside destination located in the northern suburbs of Sydney. Known for its scenic coastline, this area combines natural beauty with a vibrant local culture.
The Corso
The Corso is a vibrant pedestrian thoroughfare located in the suburb of Manly, which is part of the northern beaches of Sydney. Known for its dynamic atmosphere and accessibility, The Corso serves as a central link between the Manly Ferry Wharf and the iconic Manly Beach.
Avon River / Ōtākaro
Avon River / Ōtākaro flows through the heart of Christchurch, a city on the eastern coast of New Zealand's South Island. Known for its picturesque landscapes and cultural significance, the river is an integral part of the city's identity and offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Riverside Market
Riverside Market, located in Christchurch, is a vibrant marketplace offering a diverse culinary experience. Nestled in the heart of the city, it provides visitors with a unique taste of local flavors and products.
Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū
Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū is a prominent art institution located in Christchurch, New Zealand. It serves as a cultural hub, housing an impressive collection of both local and international artworks. The gallery is celebrated for its striking contemporary architecture and its commitment to showcasing a diverse range of exhibitions that engage visitors with thought-provoking artistic expressions.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Sydney Harbour Bridge, located in Sydney, Australia, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, recognizable by its impressive steel arch design. Spanning across Sydney Harbour, the bridge connects the central business district with the North Shore and offers a remarkable view of the surrounding scenery.
Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach, located in Sydney, is one of the most iconic beaches in Australia, known for its sweeping crescent shape and golden sands. Situated just 7 kilometers from Sydney's central business district, Bondi Beach serves as a popular destination for both locals and international visitors.
Roys Peak
Roys Peak is a well-known trekking destination located in the Otago region on New Zealand's South Island. Situated near the town of Wanaka, this mountain is renowned for its panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding Southern Alps. The peak, which stands at 1,578 meters, is accessible through a popular hiking trail that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.
Incredible Stays
Hotel Recommendation #1
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Hotel Recommendation #2
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Hotel Recommendation #3
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Hotel Recommendation #4
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Hotel Recommendation #5
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Inclusions
• 13 nights’ accommodation with daily breakfast as specified • Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation • Full-day Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour including lunch • Private Transfer Auckland accommodation to Auckland Airport • Air New Zealand flight Auckland to Queenstown • Rental Car - Toyota RAV4 AWD Hybrid (FFDR) or similar • Milford Sound coach-cruise-fly small-group experience including lunch • Queenstown Skyline Gondola ride with digital PhotoPass • Lord of the Rings half-day Glenorchy scenic tour with morning tea and costumes • Otago Peninsula Wildlife Encounter Tour and Wildlife Cruise • Christchurch heritage tram 1-day pass • Qantas International flight Christchurch to Sydney • Private transfer Sydney Airport to your accommodation with Business Class Transfers • Private transfer from accommodation to Sydney Airport with Business Class Transfers
Insider-led New Zealand Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led New Zealand Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
