28 Day Australia & New Zealand Highlights Itinerary

Crowned "The World's Most Liveable City" for seven years in a row, friendly Melbourne is the perfect place to begin your Australian self-drive adventure.

This compact, diverse metropolis is begging to be explored after settling into your comfortable accommodation. There are hidden charms around every corner, beautiful Botanic Gardens and chic city squares where you can soak up the atmosphere to your heart's content.

Accommodation: Melbourne - 3 Nights

Explore Melbourne's bustling heart and vibrant corners with a leisurely stroll through winding laneways filled with colorful murals and cozy cafes, where locals gather for their daily brews. Head towards expansive green spaces, perfect for a picnic or simply relaxing by the water. As evening falls, the city's dynamic energy draws crowds to its lively venues, offering everything from live music to unique performances. 

Creatives, food lovers, and sports enthusiasts alike flock here to enjoy Melbourne's diverse and ever-changing atmosphere.

This Great Ocean Road day tour is a full day spent exploring this truly majestic stretch of diverse coastline to take in its amazing array of spectacular attractions. Experience the roaring surf, white sand beaches, rocky outcrops and towering cliffs. Make stops at numerous beaches, lookouts and other scenic spots to allow you an opportunity to take plenty of snaps, as well as to simply relax while enjoying the stunning views. 

Highlights include the wildlife at Great Otway National Park, the seaside town of Apollo Bay, Port Campbell National Park, the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

Bid farewell to the city and fly to Australia's Red Centre for your first glimpse of magnificent Ayers Rock, or Uluru as it is also known.

Ayers Rock stands 348 metres above the ground and reaches over 700 metres underground. Uluru is also home to the World Heritage listed Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park which is of extreme importance to the local Aboriginal people.

Settle into your self-catering apartment at Ayers Rock Resort and prepare to witness the most epic sunset you can imagine over Uluru: it's a moment the whole family will remember forever.

Accommodation: Ayers Rock - 3 Nights

Begin your day with the Field of Light Sunrise Tour, an unforgettable experience as 50,000 solar-powered glass spheres illuminate the desert before fading with the dawn. Created by artist Bruce Munro, this mesmerising installation blends light and landscape at the foot of Uluru. 

In the evening, enjoy the Sounds of Silence dinner—sipping sparkling wine on a remote dune as the sun sets, followed by a gourmet bush-tucker buffet under a starlit sky, complete with fine Australian wines and stories shared through the stars. A truly magical day in the heart of the Red Centre.

Included Meals: Dinner

Journey in comfort aboard a luxury coach as your expert Driver Guide shares the history and cultural significance of Uluru. Travel around the base of this iconic monolith, learning about its ancient Aboriginal rock art, native flora and fauna, and the traditions of the Anangu people, its traditional owners. Hear stories passed down through generations and gain insight into this sacred landscape. 

As the sun sets and Uluru’s colours shift dramatically, continue to a private dining venue for a delicious outback BBQ dinner—an unforgettable evening with the glowing rock formation as your stunning backdrop.

Included Meals: Dinner

With its close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, Cairns is a haven of scuba diving, snorkelling, reef cruises, fishing, rainforest walks, native bird and wildlife watching.

Sun-seekers and locals alike flock to Cairns Esplanade's swimming lagoon on the city’s foreshore. There are picnic areas, birdwatching viewpoints, free barbecues and fitness equipment along the boardwalk, perfect for unwinding after your flight.

Accommodation: Cairns - 3 Nights

Today, embark on a small, personalised full-day tour of the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation—where the rainforest meets the reef. Travel in comfort aboard a custom 4WD with your expert naturalist guide, enjoying entertaining and insightful commentary. 

Cruise the Daintree River to spot crocodiles, explore rainforest boardwalks, and journey along the rugged Bloomfield Track. Highlights include a traditional Aussie BBQ, billy tea with damper, tropical fruit tasting among wallabies, and a sweet finish with homemade Daintree ice cream. An unforgettable day through one of Australia’s most pristine and diverse natural landscapes.

Included Meals: Lunch

Embark on an unforgettable sailing adventure with Ocean Free to Green Island on the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy morning tea onboard and help hoist the sails before arriving at Pinnacle Reef, an exclusive snorkelling site known for vibrant coral and marine life. Swim directly off the boat, then enjoy a tropical buffet lunch. Later, explore Green Island’s pristine beaches, rainforest, and abundant wildlife. Just 26 km from Cairns, this fully developed coral cay offers calm, protected waters ideal for reef discovery, combining relaxation and adventure in one of Australia’s most iconic marine settings.

Included Meals: Lunch

Fly onwards to Sydney, Australia’s oldest and most iconic city, blessed with a stunning natural harbour, golden beaches, and a blissful climate. Set on one of the world’s most beautiful harbours, Sydney dazzles year-round with its vibrant energy and striking architecture, including the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Settle in with a stroll along Circular Quay, where the Harbour Bridge anchors one end and the Opera House the other. It’s a perfect introduction to this unforgettable city and one of the most iconic walks you can take in Australia.

Accommodation: Sydney - 3 Nights

Enjoy a free day to explore Sydney at your own pace. Take a ferry to Manly for a relaxed beach escape or cruise to Taronga Zoo, where animals and visitors enjoy spectacular harbour views. Adventurers can climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge or walk the Bondi to Bronte coastal trail. Food lovers will enjoy the Sydney Fish Market—pile your plate with freshly caught seafood and dine by the water. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or culinary delights, Sydney offers something for everyone and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Escape the city and indulge in a day of fine food and wine in the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region just two hours north of Sydney. Discover rolling vineyards, gourmet produce, and over 90 cellar doors, with a focus on boutique wineries where passionate winemakers share their craft. Travel in a small group with a flexible itinerary, enjoy a delicious café-style lunch with a glass of wine, and experience an exclusive cheese tasting to learn about local cheesemaking. It’s the perfect way to savour the flavours and scenery of the beautiful Hunter Valley countryside.

Included Meals: Lunch

Today you will fly to Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island. Nestled between the Canterbury Plains and the Pacific Ocean, Christchurch is a vibrant city where heritage meets innovation. Discover a dynamic mix of restored historic buildings and bold modern architecture, all set among leafy parks and riverside walks. The Avon River weaves through the city, adding a serene, natural charm. With a thriving hospitality scene, colourful street art, and ever-evolving urban projects, Christchurch invites exploration and promises a unique blend of culture, creativity, and natural beauty.

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Rated among the world’s top scenic rail journeys, the TranzAlpine Train takes you on a spectacular coast-to-coast adventure through New Zealand’s South Island. Travel across towering viaducts, deep gorges, and alpine river valleys as you cross the majestic Southern Alps. The train stops at Arthur’s Pass in the heart of the mountains before descending into lush beech rainforest on the West Coast. Arriving in Greymouth, collect your rental car and continue south to Franz Josef—Glacier Country—where dramatic landscapes and ancient ice formations await. A truly breathtaking journey through some of the country’s most extreme natural beauty.

Approximate Distance: 175 kms | 108 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 2 Nights

Admire views of the Southern Alps and the towering Aoraki/Mt Cook when you fly over both Franz Josef Glacier & Fox Glacier in one trip. From Fox or Franz Josef Village fly over both the Glaciers, soaring first over the townships and then following the ice flow high up into the upper reaches. Land in the snow at the head of one of the glaciers and survey the path the glacier has carved below you.

Farewell the beech forests of Mount Aspiring National Park as you journey through the Haast Pass, where jewel-toned lakes and rivers—shimmering emerald and sapphire—contrast beautifully with rugged mountains and golden tussock hills. Arrive in Wanaka, a picturesque lakeside town basking in northern sunshine and framed by alpine beauty. While here, enjoy a visit to Puzzling World with combo admission. This quirky attraction features mind-bending illusions and interactive exhibits, including the famous tilted room that makes you appear a giant on one end and a dwarf on the other—fun for all ages in a truly unique setting.

Approximate Distance: 285 kms | 176 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 

Accommodation: Wanaka - 1 Night

The scenic drive from Wanaka to Te Anau takes around three and a half hours, with highlights including Lakes Wakatipu and Manapouri, and the impressive Manapouri Dam. Stop at the Te Anau Wildlife Centre to spot native birds you may later encounter on your hikes. This afternoon, experience one of Te Anau’s top attractions—the magical Glowworm Caves. Begin with a boat cruise across Lake Te Anau, then venture underground with expert guides. In the stillness and darkness, marvel at a galaxy of glowworms twinkling like stars in the southern night sky.

Approximate Distance: 228 kms | 142 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours

Accommodation: Te Anau - 2 Nights

Deep in the heart of Fiordland lies the vast and beautiful Doubful Sound. The name came by way of the pioneer Captain James Cook who expressed his uncertainty as to whether the inlet was navigable under sail. This sound is home to a number of impressive waterfalls and small islands and is the second longest of the South Island’s fiords. Doubtful Sound is an untouched, serene and mysterious place that is often referred to as the ‘Sound of Silence’. Fur seals, bottle nose dolphins and penguins are likely to be seen on your cruise.

Included Meals: Lunch

Queenstown, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the magnificent Southern Alps, is New Zealand’s most celebrated destination.  Offering a wealth of experiences to be enjoyed – from adrenaline activities through to superb golf, gourmet food, and wine tours or romantic hot air ballooning. There is a bounty of vineyards, cafes and restaurants to explore scattered throughout the wider district of Queenstown, Arrowtown and the Gibbston Valley during your drive today. 

Approximate Distance: 174 kms | 108 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Queenstown - 2 Nights

Ascend 480 meters on the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak, offering breathtaking 220-degree views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains. 

At the summit, enjoy thrilling luge rides, dine at the Stratosfare Restaurant, or explore hiking and biking trails. This must-do experience showcases the best of Queenstown’s alpine beauty.

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is a breathtaking alpine wonderland, home to New Zealand’s highest peak and over 70 glaciers. Explore dramatic mountain scenery on iconic hikes like the Hooker Valley Track, cruise glacier lakes, or take in the stars from the Dark Sky Reserve. It’s a paradise for adventurers, photographers, and nature lovers seeking unforgettable landscapes and pristine wilderness.

Approximate Distance: 261 km | 163 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 

Accommodation: Mount Cook - 2 Nights

The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre showcases the Aoraki Mount Cook region, its people and its place in the universe. Designed to educate and entertain, the centre features a spectacular state-of-the-art 3D movie, a full dome digital Planetarium and a museum documenting the pioneering heart of the region and features the impressive Hillary Gallery, depicting Sir Edmund's longstanding connection with the region and touches upon his achievements, expeditions and life's work. 

Christchurch is the city of exploration, where urban regeneration and heritage thrive. The city is constantly evolving, always giving locals and visitors something new to explore. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces. The central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River intersects the city, bringing a natural landscape to the urban environment.

Approximate Distance: 330 km | 205 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Sitting squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire Rotorua is spectacular, the earths crust at its most exciting and accessible in the downtown parks and lake front, the smell of sulphur and sight of steaming vents invade the senses. Giant geysers rocket into the air and colourful sulphur terraces hiss and boil. 

But Rotorua is more than boiling mud, there are ancient forests set amongst pristine lakes, and the area is full of history and tikanga (culture) of Maori, the 1st People of New Zealand. Enjoy soaking up this magical place, at the Polynesian Spa.

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 Nights

This is a great half day geothermal and nature experience, beginning with a walking tour along the Waimangu Volanic Valley Crater walkway (this is mainly down hill and flat). There are shuttle buses to transfer from the valley to the Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise. Enjoy the 45 minute cruise voyaging around the beautiful lake. This is a protected Wildife Refuge and scenic reserve. Allow 3 hours for the walk and boat cruise.

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, situated amongst a cluster of extinct volcanic cones, next to a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land.

Enjoy a stroll around the waterfront that is teeming with excellent cafes and restaurants from which to enjoy the sights of the City of Sails. 

Approximate Distance: 225 kms | 140 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 

Accommodation: Auckland  - 2 Nights

For over 25 years, the Auckland SkyTower has been a defining landmark of this vibrant harbour city. Standing at 328 metres tall, it offers locals and visitors an iconic experience. Now it's your turn to uncover the story behind this modern engineering marvel—its pioneering past, dynamic present, and bold future. Enjoy breathtaking 360° views over Tāmaki Makaurau, from ancient volcanoes to sunlit harbours. Beyond the vistas, the SkyTower offers exciting dining options, immersive installations, and adrenaline-pumping activities, making it a must-visit destination in the heart of Auckland’s city skyline.

Haere rā and Bon Voyage!

We are sure you will enjoy the 28 Day itinerary and our promise is to make your travels through New Zealand and Australia as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with plenty of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your time in New Zealand and Australia! Have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon in Oceania.