Classic Downunder: Auckland to Melbourne

Functionally chic, this boutique hotel features 190 rooms and suites and overlooks the vibrant Princess Wharf which is home to a stunning array of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences.

Choose to stay connected both online and offline. Enjoy free Wi-Fi during your stay, relieve the stresses of the day at the 24-hour gym or treat yourself to some of the best cuisine from around the world at M Social Restaurant. Alternatively, catch up with friends - both old and new - over a drink at M Social Bar while watching the ships come in.

Located near Auckland's main strip, the hub of the city centre with its abundance of designer fashions, lively nightlife, shows, theatre and live music, this vibrant hotel exudes youthful energy. Don't miss a visit to the Sky Tower for the best views in town or wander through the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, with its world-class collections and exhibitions from New Zealand and around the world.

Experience the best sights of Auckland City in the morning combined with an afternoon Wilderness Experience - a day of contrasts. Auckland is set on 52 dormant volcanic cones and between two harbours, the sparkling Waitemata and the brooding Manukau. Known as the City of Sails, it's New Zealand's largest and busiest city. The morning tour is a journey of discovery designed to explore the history and sights as well as see how Aucklanders live and play.

A 30 minute drive from downtown Auckland brings you to the Arataki Centre, the gateway to the rain forest, where the sweeping decks give breathtaking panoramic views from the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Absorb the local history and admire the traditional Maori carvings that stand guard there. Head further west and experience the power of the wild and rugged west coast. Feel the black sand beneath your feet as you stroll along some of the most awe-inspiring beaches the world has to offer.

With your knowledgeable and experienced guide, your eco-tour continues on to the lush rain forest where you hear native birdsong as you walk the easy bush tracks amongst New Zealand's famous kauri trees and giant tree ferns.

Travel south from Auckland over the Bombay Hills to the rich farmland of the Waikato region. You travel through the heritage town of Cambridge where tree-lined streets add to the English-style atmosphere. From here your journey takes you through undulating green hills reminding you that you are approaching Hobbiton Shire.

On arrival at Shire's Rest you embark on your Hobbiton movie set tour. This location is the largest "green set" in the world and the only place where you get an emotional response to a movie set in a natural setting. You see 44 hobbit holes, the Mill and double arch bridge and the party tree. At this stunning location you can take a photo at the door of Bilbo's house, "Bag End", looking out over the whole set to the hills in the distance. The tour ends with a visit to the Green Dragon Inn for a drink. After the tour at Hobbiton board the shuttle at Shire's Rest Cafe for your journey to Rotorua.

An oasis of understated hip contemporary elegance and comfort amidst the exciting attractions and experiences Rotorua has to offer. Step out of the calm of your gorgeous room or suite and stroll to the vibrant restaurant zone or lakefront area or simply stay in, relax and savor the luxury facilities.

Our local naturalist guide will explain the volcanic processes of Rotorua and New Zealand. You clients will see volcanoes, geysers, New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool, and hot springs on a scenic drive around volcanic landscapes of farmland, native and exotic forests.

The two heritage parks offer a variety of thermal activity; at Wai-o-tapu the amazingly colourful hot springs and moon-like landscapes are the key features along with the famous Lady Know geyser. At Waimangu Volcanic valley the guide will explain the Mt Tarawera eruption, native flora and fauna and the geothermal features which were blown open in 1886.

Then spend an afternoon gaining an appreciation of New Zealand's Maori culture with visits to settlement sites and living villages. You will learn about Maori customs, traditions, history and protocols new and old, with a guided visit to Te Puia, Rotorua's premier cultural centre.

The guided tour through Te Puia includes a visit to the wood carving school, art and craft gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving display, kiwi house, boiling mud pools and NZ's largest geyser Pohutu.

Next we visit Rainbow Springs Rotorua's premier nature park. Here you can learn more about New Zealand's native flora and fauna including the Kiwi bird. Rainbow springs is home to the worlds largest Kiwi breeding program (Operation nest egg). See natural cold-water springs teeming with wild trout, native forest and more. At the conclusion of the tour we will drive around the Government Gardens before returning to your accommodation.

This evening, you will engage in an immersive experience blending the best in Maori culture and cuisine. Tonight, participate in a heart-warming ritual and the mystical ceremony of the umu kohukohu while feasting on delicious and nourishing seasonal kai (cuisine). Crackling bonfires in the native tawa forest and cozy whare (houses) are the intimate backdrop to Tu Te Ihi.

Upon arrival at the village, a torch-lined path leads you to a candle-lit wharekai for a sumptuous four-course hakari (feast). Feel amazed as the mementos of Aotearoa history and eras, as well as the warm whanau (family) vibe intensify the spirit of hakari. Your winter forest kai morsels have been designed by award-winning Maori chefs, and they may include local delicacies like spit-roasted tuna (native eel), mugs of steaming hot pork and watercress boil up, creamed paua on rewena crostini, foraged greens, chunks of smoked kahawai with lashings of basil sauce and corn husk wrapped kumara kept warm in ashes.

The Heritage Queenstown offers enchanting views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkable Mountain Range. A short distance from the town centre, this unique European style lodge is surrounded by native forest in the heart of New Zealand's alpine wonderland. Crafted from centuries old schist and cedar, The Heritage Queenstown is the perfect place to relax in comfortable yet sophisticated surroundings. The Heritage offers a choice of 178 luxury rooms, including traditional deluxe hotel accommodation and spacious 1 or 2 bedroom Suites. Each room is thoughtfully decorated, featuring individual touches which reflect unique high country origins.

Depart Queenstown and take a luxurious coach ride along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and Lake Te Anau. These tranquil lakes are crystal clear and reflect the surrounding mountains. The driver's compelling commentary will keep you informed and entertained throughout.

Enter Fiordland National Park and pass through Eglington Valley, one of the only road-accessible glacier valleys in New Zealand. Take the opportunity to capture some memorable shots of the Mirror Lakes or the ancient alpine forests as you get closer to Milford Sound. The glass-roof coach will give you sensational views of the peaks soaring above you while you cross the Main Divide of the Southern Alps. Make a stop at Monkey Creek and drink some of the freshest water in the world before venturing through the Homer Tunnel, a 1.2km tunnel drilled into solid rock. After the Homer Tunnel, then experience The Chasm, a short but impressive walk over footbridges spanning a series of powerful, swirling waterfalls and rapids, before arriving at the fiord.

Next, board the most luxurious catamaran in Milford Sound to explore the spectacular fiord. Venture out to the Tasman Sea while cruising past tumbling waterfalls, glacier-scarred rock walls and lush rainforests. Keep an eye out for wildlife species such as seals, penguins and dolphins and get a glimpse of Mitre Peak. A tasty picnic lunch will keep you filled on board.

Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.

Experience the South Island at your own pace on this one way scenic tour from Queenstown to Christchurch. Enjoy a picnic morning or afternoon tea, stunning scenery including the Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, the turquiose alpine lakes, rugged MacKenzie Country and breathtaking Central Otago area. Enjoy a cafe stye lunch and there is plenty of time for stops and short walks along the way.

The hotel is 2 minutes' walk from New Regent Street, 6 minutes' walk from Christchurch Casino and 5 minutes' drive from the centre of Christchurch CBD (Central Business District). Christchurch Airport is 18 minutes' drive away.

A beautiful hotel with a stunning 1800's sandstone facade, the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney is an intimate, boutique-style property. Once home to the Fairfax newspaper empire and the prestigious Bank of New South Wales, this accommodation offers a location near Sydney Opera House and major shopping precincts. There is a wide array of upscale facilities, including on-site dining at the recently refurbished restaurant and a modern health club. The staff ensures that your stay at this accommodation in Sydney is both comfortable and unforgettable.

Depart your hotel for an unforgettable Panoramic Sydney half day city sights tour. On tour you'll visit the historic Rocks area and hear early convict history. Enjoy magnificent views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. See the shopping heart of the city, QVB, Centre point.

Visit Sydney's trendy new district Oxford Street. Travel through elegant Paddington with its terrace houses before arriving at the Pacific Ocean. See the superb coast cliff walk around Tamarama and Bronte.

Travel on to famous Bondi Beach. Visit the beachfront promenade, enjoy a coffee or cool drink (at own cost). See bronzed Aussie lifesavers and Sydney's best panoramic view at Dover Heights.

Return to Sydney via Double Bay, Kings Cross and Mrs Macquarie's Point for a final magical viewpoint over the harbour before returning to the city centre.

Passengers can join our optional harbour lunch cruises, seaplane tours or return directly to their hotels.

The designated harbour lunch cruise drop-off point is Darling Harbour (adjacent to the aquarium).

Begin your day with a sensational morning tea cruise. A unique, Sydney Harbour Highlights two-hour cruise experience. Enjoy the company of a small group aboard a 52-foot motor yacht. Your personal captain and host will share the rich history of Sydney Harbour and its foreshore as you take in the sites of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and the bays and coves of Sydney Harbour. Enjoy a light morning tea with coffee, tea, juice, water and 5-star service.

Situated at the foot of the MacDonnell Ranges and backing onto the Alice Springs Golf Course, Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters offers contemporary and stylish accommodation. Each room has been thoughtfully designed to offer an area of ultimate relaxation and comfort. Rooms have a spacious and bright aspect with each room offering a private balcony or courtyard showcasing magnificent views of Central Australia. Whether you are after a workout or just want to relax take advantage of the outdoor heated lap pool, spa, sauna and gym. Located at the property is the contemporary Tali Restaurant which provides the perfect setting with both indoor and alfresco dining experiences.

Travel from Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) aboard a luxury coach. Take in the rugged desert landscapes of the region, passing through the beautiful MacDonnell Ranges.

While travelling through this remote country, your friendly driver/guide will provide an informative and entertaining commentary. Learn the natural and geological history of the region, as well as the unique Australian desert flora and fauna such as the Perentie monitor lizard, the thorny devil and the red kangaroo. Also hear about the traditional customs and beliefs of the local Aboriginals.

There is time for a stop at a local Roadhouse for a quick break then view flat-topped Atila (Mt Conner) in the distance before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort rested, relaxed and ready to explore the amazing World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

In Australia's Red Centre, the five star Sails in the Desert hotel beautifully contrasts Uluru's raw natural beauty with a decidedly luxurious outback holiday experience. Against a canvas of neutral tones and textures, the mystery, colour and wisdom of the local indigenous Anangu people is interwoven into every facet of Sails in the Desert's modern design. Discover the passion behind Aboriginal art at Sails in the Desert's Mulgara Gallery. Then be lulled into complete relaxation by one of the Red Ochre Spa's package treatments.

Sails in the Desert hotel features an expansive gumtree lined heated swimming pool and a diversity of modern dining, bar and lounge options. Awaken your taste buds with Mayu's signature dining experience, relax and feast in the brasserie-style Ilkari Restaurant or let time tick by as you enjoy cocktails, music and culinary temptations in the Walpa Lobby Bar. Choose Sails in the Desert for an outback holiday with a unique style and modern luxury.

Visit Uluru - Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre where there is time to purchase some locally made Aboriginal art and learn more about the Western Desert region.

Later travel around the base of Uluru with a local Driver Guide. Learn about the native flora, fauna and intriguing cultural traditions of traditional owners, the Anangu, and discover an array of fascinating sacred sites. Join your Driver Guide for a walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole. You'll explore a number of caves and view Aboriginal rock paintings as your Guide interprets their meaning and significance.

Travel to the Uluru sunset viewing area, 'Sunset Strip' and relax with a glass of wine and Nibbles as the sun sets over the western horizon and the evening sky brings out the many shades of colour for which Uluru is renowned.

This morning you will be picked up at your accommodation in a luxury coach to be taken the very short distance to the exclusive Field of Light location. With just enough time for some background commentary on the internationally renowned artist Bruce Monroe, you will arrive very excited to see his latest artistic endeavour. Arriving in complete darkness, you will be able to enjoy the 50,000 globes of light in the desert, before making your way up the hill to the Field of Light sunrise viewing platform. Once at the platform, you will be served tea, coffee or hot chocolate. You can enjoy your beverage as the sun starts to creep light throughout the sky and then watch in awe as it pops up in the distance behind Uluru, flooding the landscape, including Kata Tjuta behind you, with light.

As the natural light brightens the landscape, the Field of Light will dim for the day. Enjoy some amazing photos from this unique raised location that allows you to view both Kata Tjuta and Uluru in all their natural glory.

The Pacific Hotel Cairns boasts a magnificent location, personalised service and award winning hospitality. Contemporary, and with a tropical ambiance, befitting a bygone era, an era when great service and friendly hospitality were the rule rather than the exception. Spacious rooms all offer balconies. Enjoy the onsite restaurant and bar, outdoor pool and complimentary WIFI throughout the hotel.

For an experience of a lifetime, Quicksilver's wave piercing catamarans and friendly crew will take you to a reef at the very edge of Australia's Continental Shelf, to an underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour and brilliance. Agincourt Reef is a magnificent ribbon reef where you can experience first-hand the magic that is the Great Barrier Reef. Choose to dive (extra cost), snorkel, or stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a semi-sub, just one metre underwater. Watch the fish feeding from a unique underwater viewing platform and underwater observatory, or fly in a helicopter over the reef (extra cost). Whichever way you choose; you'll bring home a lifetime of memories from this living natural wonder.

The Classic Kuranda Experience includes the main attractions of Kuranda, but gives you more free time to explore Kuranda. You will travel to Kuranda by scenic railway and then spend some free time in the village. Wander through the many shops and local markets, which offer a full range of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and gifts.

You will then be transferred to Rainforestation Nature Park, where you will enjoy a delicious Australian BBQ lunch, a guided tour of the rainforest on board an amphibious Army Duck, and the Pamagirri Aboriginal Dance performance, followed by the Dreamtime Walk. You will learn how to throw a boomerang, see a spear-throwing demonstrations, and learn about aboriginal culture.

A guided tour of the Koala and Wildlife Park will commence at the Cultural Centre. Your coach will then transfer you to Kuranda Skyrail Terminal for the 7.5 kilometre Skyrail Rainforest Cableway journey down the mountain. Your coach will then return you to your accommodation.

The Crown Promenade Hotel is located in the heart of the action in Melbourne's vibrant Southbank entertainment precinct and it is directly linked to the exciting Crown Entertainment Complex. The hotel is close to the Central Business District, the Melbourne Exhibition Centre and the city's most famous arts and sporting facilities. The hotel features spacious rooms with fantastic views overlooking Port Phillip Bay or the Melbourne Central Business District and Yarra River.

Here's the very best of Victoria's wildlife, nature and farming heritage. The Penguin Parade is an absolute 'must' on every visitor's itinerary, but this tour gives you so much more. First stop is Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, where you can hand-feed cute wallabies on the wallaby walk (you may see little joeys peeking out of their mothers' pouches) and cuddle a koala. There are rare sightings of endangered Australian wildlife in this Eco-accredited sanctuary too.
On tiny Churchill Island there's an 1850's heritage farm with strutting peacocks, shaggy Highland cattle, traditional draft horses, sheep shearing and working dogs in action. Then on to the Nobbies and Australia's largest Fur Seal colony at Seal Rocks. Finally, the ultimate attraction: hundreds of Little Penguins popping out of the sea and waddling across the beach to their sand dune burrows in the Penguin Parade. Tour conclusion depends on time of year and ranges from 9pm during the winter months to midnight during summer as the penguins arrive at sunset.