Days 1 and 2: Depart from Home
Today you will board your overnight flight for your trip to Australia and New Zealand. Crossing the International Dateline, you skip a day ahead.
Day 3: Arrive Melbourne, Australia
Tour Begins - Your tour begins in the beautiful Victorian city of Melbourne, set around the shores of Port Phillip Bay and boasting a lively and cosmopolitan pulse. CL. Stay at the Rydges Melbourne Hotel.
Day 4: Melbourne
Today’s tour of Melbourne features Fitzroy Gardens, valued for their historic, architectural, and horticultural significance. Later, you may like to participate in an optional tour that travels to Phillip Island, arriving at the fascinating home of the world’s largest colony of Little Penguins. See hundreds of these lovable birds waddling out from the sea as they cross the beach to their burrows in the dunes during the Little Penguin Parade. On this option you will also visit the interpretation center where you will learn about the life of the Little Penguins and their significance to the area. Dinner is included on Phillip Island when you purchase this option.
Day 5: Melbourne - Alice Springs
You fly to Alice Springs, located in the heart of Central Australia and the Outback. A sightseeing tour includes the Old Telegraph Station and Anzac Hill, with its excellent view of Alice Springs and the surrounding area. Gain insight into the educational system in the Outback with a visit to the School of the Air - you may even see a class in session! A special experience is in store for you this afternoon as you will have the opportunity to meet the young Aboriginal group, Drum Atweme. Supported by the Collette Foundation, Drum Atweme is a musical group comprised of at-risk youth from the local community. Tonight, enjoy a memorable dinner in the bush complete with entertainment under the stars. Stay at the Crown Plaza Alice Springs Hotel.
Day 6: Alice Springs
Discover the culture of the Aboriginal people this morning during the ‘Dreamtime Tour’. Your specialist guide, along with members of the Walpiri tribe, will tell you their stories of creation and show you the every day activities of the Aboriginals. You will meet these people at their camp and watch as various dreamtime stories are depicted in paintings.
Day 7: Alice Springs - Ayers Rock
Today you drive to Ayers Rock in the heart of the Australian Outback. This huge monolith and the sandstone domes of the Olgas were created through the process of upheaval and erosion. As the sun sets, enjoy a champagne toast and watch as Ayers Rock magically changes color. Stay at the Desert Gardens Hotel.
Day 8: Ayers Rock - Cairns
This morning, you may take advantage of the option to experience the majesty of sunrise on Ayers Rock as you make your way there via the back of a camel! This afternoon, tour the Olgas and the base of “the Rock,” learning about their significance to the Aboriginal culture before leaving behind Australia’s Outback. This afternoon you are off to Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. One of the world's most spectacular natural attractions, the reef was established as a marine park in 1975 and is a collective haven for thousands of species of sea life, as well as turtles and birds. In 1981 the United Nations designated the Great Barrier Reef a World Heritage site. Stay at the Novotel Cairns Oasis Hotel.
Day 9: Great Barrier Reef
Board a high-speed catamaran for an exciting excursion on the Great Barrier Reef. From your base on Green Island, you are able to explore the reef in many ways. Enjoy a trip on a glass bottom boat* where beautifully colored fish swim beneath in their natural habitat. Choose a stroll on the walking trail to take in the rain forest and the beaches, snorkel or watch the fish and sea turtles swim past from the pier. You may also visit the underwater observatory. For a more adventurous encounter with the reef, optional scuba diving and an outer reef tour are also available.
Day 10: Cairns - Sydney
Explore the rain forest canopy this morning on an optional skyrail tour; make a few stops on the ascent to experience the beauty of this World Heritage Site. Depart for the exciting city of Sydney this afternoon. The evening is yours to independently explore one of the world’s friendliest cities. Stay at the Menzies Hotel.
Day 11: Sydney
Today is a full day exploring the fun-loving city of Sydney. Begin with a tour that includes sights such as Kings Cross, the Harbour Bridge, Chinatown, the Rocks, Circular Quay, the Botanic Gardens and the fashionable suburb of Paddington. Discover one of the world’s most fascinating architectural sites as you take a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House, poised majestically on Sydney Harbour. This evening’s experience is unforgettable as you dine while cruising the harbour, enjoying views of the city’s great icons - the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
Day 12: Sydney
This morning visit Sydney Wildlife World, located on the shores of Darling Harbour, which showcases Australia's fascinating flora and fauna with three floors of exhibits. Within its walls, over 6,000 native animals are protected. Walk amongst the wallabies and birds when you experience the new interactive walk-through. Visit the koala sanctuary and see Australia's most famous animal species in its natural habitat…you even have the opportunity to pet one! Next, enjoy a fascinating opal presentation and learn how raw opals are transformed from the dark mine shafts to beautiful artistic creations. Your discovery of Sydney continues today with time to pursue your own interests. Stroll through the city streets, visit the historic Rocks District, or simply relax. Your Tour Manager will be on hand to offer suggestions.
Day 13: Sydney
Christchurch, New Zealand
Today you board your flight to begin your exploration of New Zealand. You arrive in Christchurch, a beautiful English city located on the Avon River. Christchurch is considered “the most English city outside of England.” A sightseeing tour highlights the city’s magnificent gardens, elegant park district and the historic Neo-Gothic Cathedral. A special treat is in store for you tonight as you dine with a New Zealand family in their home. Meet and talk firsthand with a friendly Kiwi family who are delighted to share their culture, traditions and home with you. Stay at the Chaeteu on the Park Hotel.
Day 14: Christchurch Franz Josef Glacier Region
Traveling across New Zealand’s spectacular Southern Alps, you will marvel at the snowcapped peaks and beautiful river gorges as you wind your way past waterfalls and rugged mountain scenery. You may take a train ride (optional) aboard the Tranz-Alpine Express for a scenic trip through the Southern Alps. You’ll end your day in the Franz Josef Glacier Region which offers travellers a rare opportunity to experience a dynamic glacial landscape, in a temperate environment. Stay at the Franz Josef Glacier Hotel.
Day 15: Franz Josef Queenstown
This morning you may choose to view the jagged snow-covered mountaintops by taking an optional flightseeing tour (weather permitting) over New Zealand’s beautiful glacier region. Board your coach and journey to Queenstown. An amazing landscape unfolds before your eyes as you pass through the rain forest, surrounded by the Southern Alps and twisting coastline, revealing New Zealand's most stunning scenery. Cross green glacial lakes, view thundering waterfalls and enjoy dramatic changes in scenery. After crossing the Haast Pass you arrive in Queenstown, one of New Zealand’s prettiest towns, nestled beside the mysterious Lake Wakatipu in the Southern Lakes district. This evening enjoy dinner at the Skyline Restaurant where you will enjoy spectacular views overlooking Queenstown, the Remarkable Mountains, and Lake Wakatipu. Stay at the Novotel Queenstown Lakeside Hotel.
Day 16: Queenstown
Milford Sound - Queenstown - Travel through beech forest into the rugged grandeur of the Hollyford Valley via the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound, where you will enjoy a fascinating cruise. You may choose to return to Queenstown via a short optional flight (weather permitting) for spectacular views of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.
Day 17: Queenstown
Enjoy your day at leisure. Queenstown offers limitless diversions set amidst breathtaking Alpine scenery. Shop in the charming village of Queenstown or enjoy an optional and exhilarating jet boat ride on the Shotover River.
Day 18: Queenstown - Mt. Cook
Enjoy a visit to Arrowtown, a boomtown during the 1800’s gold rush. Next, enjoy a tasting and tour at one of New Zealand's famous wineries. Stop at a local fruit stand to experience some of the delicious produce that grows in the Central Otago region. Crossing the Kawarau River, you see Lindis Pass before arriving in New Zealand’s most famous national park, Mt. Cook. There will be time to enjoy the Alpine paradise of Mt. Cook – a larger than life experience. You may choose to take a nature walk, enjoy an optional glacier flight seeing tour (weather permitting), or simply meditate on the beauty of the Southern Alps. Stay at the Hermitage Hotel Mt. Cook.
Day 19: Mt. Cook - Christchurch
This morning, drive through magnificent landscapes as you return to Christchurch. Visit a working farm where you will view a demonstration by a skilled New Zealand “strong eye” sheep herding dog, followed by a sheep shearing demonstration. Learn how this New Zealand farm family has survived the changing times. Tonight, step back in time and experience the true elegance of Canterbury as you dine at a restored mansion and learn about the history of the first settlers of Christchurch. Stay at the Chateau on the Park.
Day 20: Christchurch - Tour Ends
Your tour ends today in Christchurch.
Optional Sightseeing Excursions
Outback Ballooning (30 min) $299
City: Alice Springs Drift over the Outback on the gentle winds in the welcome cool of the morning. The landscape erupts into color as the sun’s rays strike the MacDonnell mountain ranges. Watch as balloons slowly inflate and gracefully rise into the sky. Gently float aloft and enjoy the spectacular Outback scenery below you. Kangaroos and wallabies love the early mornings, so keep your eyes open for them as you glide over the bush. Return to the ground and enjoy a delightful Aussie-style breakfast complete with a champagne toast!!
This option operates on a weather permitting basis only.
Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 1.5 hour(s).
Take a Camel to Sunrise $107
City: Ayers Rock Experience the majesty of sunrise on Ayers Rock from a unique vantage point - the back of a camel! A peaceful one-hour camel ride brings you across the red sand dunes in the cool, clear morning air. Watch the sunrise over Ayers Rock bring the warm hues of the monolith alive. Appreciate why Aboriginal people consider this area, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, sacred. Skilled bush guides introduce you to the flora and fauna of this UNESCO World Heritage site and tell you a bit about the history of those who live there. Enjoy a light breakfast featuring Billy Tea, an Aussie bush favorite, and fresh baked goods after the ride. Please note: Maximum weight per person is 95 kg (210 lbs). Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 2.5
hour(s).
Twin Glacier Helicopter $240
City: Franz Josef A mantle of pure white snow awaits as you cruise over vast farmlands and thick forests, toward two of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers. Lift off from Franz Josef and travel south over glacial rivers and meandering streams. Soar over the Fox Glacier and continue on for our snow landing at the head of the Franz Josef Glacier. With its ability to fly and hover, a helicopter provides a fantastic way to explore the inaccessible areas of dramatic and unspoiled beauty. Please Note: This option is only available to purchase while on tour through your Tour Manager. This option operates on a weather permitting basis only. Flight time is approximately 30 minutes. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately hour(s).
Tranz Alpine Train - Christchurch to Arthur's Pass $95
City: Christchurch All aboard the TranzAlpine, for one of the world’s greatest scenic railway journeys! The train pulls out of Christchurch and into the fertile farmlands of the Canterbury Plains, passing through verdant fields dotted with sheep and cattle. It passes the beautiful Waimakiriri River gorge, over bridges and through short tunnels, as you climb the spectacular Southern Alps to your destination at Arthur’s Pass National Park. Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 3 hour(s).
Outer Great Barrier Reef $140
City: Cairns Explore the vibrant, colorful world teeming with life at the outer Great Barrier Reef. This massive reef system, the largest in the world, can actually be seen from space. Cruise across the water by catamaran to the Outer Reef pontoon where a diverse, bountiful ecosystem is yours to discover. Explore the kaleidoscopic underwater sea life from the semi-submersible or up close, with goggles, snorkeling along the reef. Many other fascinating activities await you on the Outer Reef. Whatever your pleasure, you’re sure to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience exploring one of the seven natural wonders of the world! Important Note: Scuba diving is an additional cost and some medical restrictions and a waiver of liability will apply. For passengers on Journey to the South Pacific and The Complete South Pacific programs, the scuba diving will be unavailable due to your scheduled flight the following day. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 8.5 hour(s).
Safari of the Rings
City: Queenstown Venture into Middle Earth and see the primeval, mystical landscapes where J.R.R. Tolkein’s powerful trilogy was filmed. The vast panoramas of unspoiled wilderness of New Zealand’s South Island provided the ideal setting to bring these beloved adventures to life and the ideal setting for your day of touring. Trek by 4 x 4 up into the Remarkable Mountains and across the Arrow River. There are no movie sets left, just the stunning pristine vistas that filled the frames. Please Note: Option to cancel is available up until 24 hours before start date of tour. If you choose to cancel within 24 hours of the tour, you will still be liable for payment. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 4 hour(s).
Skyrail $55
City: Cairns Glide over and into the leafy rainforest canopy on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, the world’s longest gondola cableway. The comfortable, six-person gondola carries you 4½ miles through the rugged beauty of Barron Gorge National Park, part of the Wet Tropics UNESCO World Heritage Area. The gondola dips through the layers of the canopy to bring you deep into the rainforest, stopping at two in-forest viewing platforms along the way. Experience the sights, sounds and scents of this vibrant ecosystem up close. Discover the ways of the Djabugai Aboriginal tribe, whose traditional home is here. See the dramatic Barron gorge and waterfalls. Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 15 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 2 hour(s).
International Antarctic Center $50
City: Christchurch Step inside and be transported to the “white continent!” The awesome and magical beauty of Antarctica is recreated with an interactive, fun and exciting experience of the “Great White South.” See the seasons change before your eyes. Feel the chill of winter and watch daylight return as the Antarctic summer approaches. They’ll outfit you to experience the Polar Room, where you’ll find real snow and ice! Explore the snow cave or brave the wind chill machine. Every half hour an Antarctic storm blows through the Polar Room, with lightening, authentic Antarctic storm audio and 25 mile per hour winds! Learn about the Antarctic Treaty, transportation to and from the continent, and the ozone layer and the fascinating wildlife that has adapted to life in this extreme habitat. The Aquarium features amazing creatures found in McMurdo Sound. Ride on a rugged Hagglund vehicle, used to transport people and equipment along the extreme Antarctic terrain. Get up close and personal with the amazing little blue penguin. This is as close to the seventh continent as you can get without going! Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 15 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 2.5 hour(s).
Phillip Island Penguin Parade with Dinner $135
City: Melbourne Each night at sunset, the world’s smallest penguins, the Little Penguins, emerge from a days fishing at sea and waddle ashore to their sand dune burrows. Travel to Phillip Island, home to one of the world’s largest colonies of Little Penguins and see the Penguin Parade for yourself. Observe the busy penguin rookeries from elevated boardwalks, so as not to disturb the nests. Explore the Visitor Centre and learn all there is to know about the lives of the Little Penguins and their daily commute. Later, toast this phenomenon at dinner at a local establishment, where you will enjoy a complimentary glass of wine. Note: Bring warm, waterproof clothing with you as nights can be cold on the island in any season. If minimum numbers are not met, Philip Island Penguin Parade without dinner is available, through an alternate vendor, at an adjusted rate. Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 15 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 9 hour(s).
Sydney By Bike! $95
City: Sydney Explore one of the world's greatest cities, by bicycle! Sydney residents are increasingly turning to bicycles to help the environment, ease urban congestion and improve their own health. Join the Australians in this movement and gain an insider’s perspective of Sydney on this slow-paced, easy riding tour. Pedal through the historic waterfront neighborhood, The Rocks, and ride over the graceful Harbour Bridge for breathtaking views. This tour has been tailor-made for Collette Vacations and will be sure to leave you with truly personal memories of the unforgettable city of Sydney! Transportation is not included. Please note a minimum of 3 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 2.5 hour(s).
Shotover Jets $90
City: Queenstown A river cruise in Queenstown, the epi-centre of adventure tourism and home of the Bungee Jump, is definitely a little more than just a boat ride! Zoom through the sheer canyons of the Shotover River on this thrilling adventure. Shotover Jet boats zoom along in mere centimeters of the glacial water which flows down from the Southern Alps, providing an exhilarating, but safe and enjoyable ride for all ages. You may get a little wet, but it is a unique and fun way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the South Island of New Zealand. No visit to Queenstown is complete without it! Please Note: Weather may be cold and you may get wet during this option. Actual high-speed boating time is 30 minutes. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 1.5 hour(s).
Glacier Highlights by Skiplane $285
City: Mt. Cook Region Spectacular! Fly into the pristine wilderness of Mt. Cook National Park for once-in-a-lifetime views of the wilderness surrounding Mt. Cook. New Zealand’s highest peak, Mt. Cook soars to 12,316 feet. Nineteen peaks in the park climb to over 9,800 feet and 40% of its land is covered in glaciers. The ski plane carries you over the Tasman Glacier and gently lands on the ice field. Explore the glacier on foot and experience the magical silence of the remote ice field. The return flight brings even more breathtaking vistas of New Zealand wilderness and wildlife. NOTE: Please be advised that some of these activities may be weather dependent and/or seasonal offerings and could be unavailable on your specific departure. Flight times may alter the ability to participate in some of the optional activities listed. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause. Duration: Flight time: 40 minutes. Please Note: This option is only available to purchase while on tour through your Tour Manager. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately hour(s).
Milford/Queenstown Flightseeing $275
City: Milford Sound Get more Milford Sound! This time, soar over the plunging cliffs, fjords and pristine Southern Alps on a flightseeing plane that carries you back to Queenstown from Milford Sound. Seeing Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park from the air brings a whole new perspective on the overwhelming beauty of this region. A truly spectacular trip! NOTE: Please be advised that some of these activities may be weather dependent and/or seasonal offerings and could be unavailable on your specific departure. Flight times may alter the ability to participate in some of the optional activities listed. Availability for flightseeing is limited. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause. Please Note: This option is only available to purchase while on tour through your Tour Manager. This option operates on a weather permitting basis only. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 0.5 hour(s).
A Taste of Australia $115
City: Sydney Meet the fascinating denizens of the deep at the largest Aquarium in the Southern Hemisphere. The Sydney Aquarium allows you to experience the enormous diversity of eight unique Australian aquatic environments. Over 12,000 animals are found here, including huge sharks, rays, platypuses, crocs and more! Australia’s marine diversity will astound you – from the weedy sea dragon of the Southern Oceans to the wiggly sea cucumber found in tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Later, dine alfresco at Nick’s Restaurant, a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. Enjoy Nick’s renowned fresh seafood and picturesque waterfront location. Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 15 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 5.5 hour(s).
TSS Earnslaw Cruise with Walter Peak Evening Dining $95
City: Queenstown Step back in time when you step aboard the TSS Earnslaw, the beloved steamship that has been transporting goods and people on Lake Wakatipu since 1912. Nicknamed, "The Lady of the Lake," she’ll take you to the Colonel’s Homestead, Walter Peak High Country Farm. Enjoy high country hospitality there with a carvery-style buffet where you indulge in the best of New Zealand meats and seafood, fresh vegetables and garden salads. You are sure to find the house dessert specialties hard to resist! An after dinner show provides an entertaining glimpse into farming life in the high country. Cruise back to Queenstown, relaxing or joining in the revelry of the lively sing-along. During Australia’s winter months of May through August this option is weather permitting. Transportation is not included. Duration: approximately 4.5 hour(s).
Sydney Bridge Climb - Day $180
City: Sydney For an up close and personal view of The Sydney Harbour Bridge like no other - climb it! This popular adventure takes you to the top of the Bridge some 440 feet (134 meters) above sea level offering unsurpassed views of the famous Opera House and Sydney’s breathtaking harbor. Prep on the climb simulator before the ascent. Don a specially designed “Bridge Suit” over your personal clothing. A harness keeps you attached to a static line for safety during the climb and a radio and headset keep you in contact with your Climb Leader. A professionally trained Climb Leader accompanies each group providing guidance on the climb and insight about the Harbour Bridge and the unforgettable Sydney sites. The Sydney Bridge Climb is centrally located within walking distance for all downtown hotels. Taxis are available at your own expense. This option is weather permitting and based upon availability. Please Note: Passengers who have consumed any alcohol will not be allowed to do the climb and will be tested by the Bridge staff prior to the climb. Absolutely no refunds will be authorized. Transportation is not included. Duration: approximately 3.5 hour(s).
Tjapukai by Night $130
City: Cairns Embrace Australia’s ancient indigenous culture during an evening filled with entertainment, delicious cuisine and storytelling that brings dreamtime legends to life. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival. Have your face painted to reflect Aboriginal history. Revel in a laid-back, delicious buffet dinner enjoying the camaraderie of your travel companions and locals. Discover Aboriginal traditions and Australian culture through customary dances and music. It’s an unforgettable, cultural evening you can’t miss! Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 4 hour(s).
Queenstown Haka Show $45
City: Queenstown From the first dramatic moments of the "Powhiri," the traditional Maori welcome, you’ll be embraced by the powerful culture of the Maori people at a traditional Haka. Feel the spirit of their proud history celebrated through the music of ancient Maori instruments and songs. Traditional dances are accompanied by the thumping swings of poi balls, flying around the dancers with rhythmic precision. This is a terrific evening of traditional entertainment you won't want to miss! Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 0.5 hour(s). |
