South Pacific Vacations & Tours
The South Pacific is a world of its own with its special character and personality. Known as Downunder to many of us living in the northern hemisphere, a journey to this region can entail any combination of countries. Most visitors usually opt for a combination of Australia and New Zealand. However, it is very easy to include other wonderful destinations either going to or returning from the South Pacific.
Travel to Australia
Australia is both a continent and an island. When planning a visit, take into consideration the diverse nature of the country. There are exciting cosmopolitan cities, tropical jungles, rainforests, mountain ranges, deserts and wine-growing regions – all this in one country. Spend time in Sydney with its beautiful harbour, iconic opera house and historical Rocks district. Then move on to Melbourne, a cultural and sophisticated urban centre complete with suburban beach resorts (most of our trips to Australia include visits to both cities).
What are the top cities and places to visit in Australia?
Serene Canberra is Australia’s capital, architecturally designed as a model city. Adelaide offers not only its green parks but also the close by the fascinating animal sanctuary, Kangaroo Island and the outstanding wine region of the Barossa Valley. Perth has the ocean, pleasant parks, a sunny climate and nearby wine districts. When in Brisbane, make a point of visiting the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Tropical Cairns is a major gateway to the amazing Great Barrier Reef and also the Daintree Rainforest. The Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast with their excellent beaches, both offer an escape from North America’s cold climate.
Darwin can be combined with a visit to the extraordinary Kakadu National Park famous for its ancient rock art and waterfalls as well as its crocodiles. Unforgettable and mysterious Ayers Rock in the Red Centre and the Olgas are easily combined with Alice Springs. In Tasmania, you can immerse yourself in historic Hobart and take in some dramatic island scenery which includes mountains and lakes.
What are the must-see attractions in Australia?
There are many other aspects to Australia. You can cruise around the Great Barrier Reef, go skiing in the Snowy Mountains, experience the Great Ocean Road with its spectacular coastline running between Melbourne and Adelaide, enjoy excellent art galleries and museums and partake in fine dining. Whatever your interests, an Australia vacation will provide it. You will certainly want to go back again once having travelled there.
Travel to New Zealand
Just over the Tasman Sea, approximately a 3-hour flight away from Australia is New Zealand, a land of natural wonder with its spectacular mountains, active volcanoes, majestic fjords, picturesque lakes, bubbling hot springs, great beaches and rugged coastline. All of these ingredients are packed into two relatively small islands which can be seen and experienced while in New Zealand.
What are the top cities to visit in New Zealand?
The subtropical North Island contrasts perfectly with the more rugged and mountainous South Island. On the North Island, Auckland makes a good introduction to New Zealand with its attractive harbour, home to thousands of sailboats. Wellington, the country’s capital, known as the country’s centre for arts and culture, is scenically located between a stunning harbour and rolling green hills. Unique Rotorua introduces you to the world of thermal activity as well as offers insights into the Maori culture. In the far north, the Bay of Islands gives you not only delightful coastal resorts but interesting history.
Turning to the South Island, Christchurch will remind you of a typical English provincial city with its church spires, green parks and tree-lined River Avon. Queenstown is a treasure in itself with its stunning scenery, diverse outdoor activities and easy access to other interesting nearby places. It is the gateway to the dramatic Fjordland which includes the spectacular Milford Sound with its lush rainforest and majestic waterfalls and Te Anau, the starting point for several dramatic walking trails. Majestic Mount Cook cannot fail to impress with its massive, snow-clad peaks that make up the Mount Cook National Park. In the far south is Dunedin, a gracious and distinctive city with grand 19th Century buildings and beautiful gardens.
What are the top parks to visit in New Zealand?
Add to all of the above, the many beautiful national parks such as the Coromandel, the Abel Tasman and Tongariro National Parks plus the rugged coastline of the west coast of the South Island with its marine animal life, and there is absolutely no doubt that a New Zealand vacation is a true scenic wonderland.
Travel to Tahiti
Definitely break your journey in one of any of the delightful, tropical islands which offer all year round great weather with guaranteed sunshine. Tahiti is the heart of Polynesian culture with its towering jagged mountain peaks, tranquil, sheltered blue lagoons and white coral sand beaches set off by turquoise waters. Take your pick from romantic Bora Bora, breathtakingly beautiful Moorea or any of the smaller, less inhabited but equally stunning islands that make up Tahiti.
About Fiji
Fiji is an archipelago of more than 300 islands and is known for its rugged landscapes, palm-lined beaches and coral reefs with clear lagoons. Its major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, contain most of the population. Consider a scenic cruise to the outer islands or just languish on one of the many wonderful beaches. The Cook Islands has a culture firmly anchored by traditional Polynesian values and is steeped in history. You will definitely find yourself attracted to the very friendly Cook Islanders.
Travelling to Samoa, Tonga, and Papua New Guinea
Samoa and Tonga are other stopover possibilities, each with its own special character and attractions which definitely include beautiful beaches. For something different, head to Papua New Guinea which remains one of the world’s last frontiers where you can take a river cruise into the hinterlands of this exotic island.
Plan to visit the South Pacific and discover a world of delights, Downunder!
Also, visit:
- For trip, ideas see the left sidebar
- Goway's Downunder Special Services
- 56 reasons to go Downunder with Goway
- General travel information for Australia, New Zealand & The South Pacific
- Air ideas to get Downunder
- South Pacific Air Passes
Classic Australia: Melbourne, Red Centre, Cairns and Sydney
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore Australia’s most famous cities and natural wonders on this ideal introduction to the land Downunder. Connecting from Melbourne to Sydney, you’ll gaze upon the changing colours of Uluru, cruise the Great Barrier Reef, and go behind the scenes of the Sydney Opera House.
More DetailsAustralia & South Pacific
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Explore Like A Local: Self Drive
FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: This quintessential New Zealand self-drive vacation begins in Auckland to explore a few of the North Island’s most beautiful regions including the Art Deco city of Napier, and Capital Wellington. Later fly to magnificent Queenstown, gateway to magnificent Milford Sound. Stay in Bed and Breakfast accommodation along the way.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,839
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Complete New Zealand
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Travel from Auckland to Queenstown experiencing the scenery of New Zealand's North and South islands. Explore Waitomo Caves, visit Rotorua and Napier, experience the Abel Tasman National Park by boat, see the famous Pancake Rocks then investigate the glaciers at Franz Josef.- Duration:
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,920
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Best of Both Islands Self Drive
FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: An excellent way to acquaint yourself with both islands, this self-drive program brings you to must-see destinations throughout New Zealand including Rotorua and the rugged Glacier region while also setting aside ample free time to simply unwind.- Duration:
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,759
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Classic New Zealand
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: This is the ultimate classic New Zealand tour. Begin in Auckland and then it’s on to Rotorua, next head South to the capital, Wellington before embarking on the scenic South Island with stops in Queenstown, the West Coast and Christchurch. Experience one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world as the TransAlpine takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch.- Duration:
- 13 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,641
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Kokomo Private Island Resort: Stay of Distinction
DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy unscripted luxury and freedom on this getaway to the pristine Kokomo Private Island Resort in the Kadavu Islands of Fiji. In addition to the deluxe accommodations, you’ll enjoy the absolute freedom to do as much or as little as you wish, including snorkelling or diving through the colourful underwater world of the Astrolabe Reef.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 7,999
- Trip Type:
- Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Auckland: New Zealand Getaway : Value Plus Escorted Vacation
MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Outdoor travellers will love this tour of New Zealand, showcasing the natural wonders that have made these islands such an adventurer’s haven. Travel with a group on board a coach for a New Zealand getaway. Start in Auckland making your way south to Christchurch learning about Maori culture and seeing charming sights on route.- Duration:
- 15 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,795
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
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Discover Melbourne Town
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: See the highlights of Melbourne with a quintessential city tour that takes you to many of the city's historic sights. Visit Philip Island to witness the famous 'Little Penguin Parade', with a stop en route to get up close and personal with kangaroos and koalas.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 599
- Trip Type:
- Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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North Island Self Drive
FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Drive from Auckland to Wellington discovering the many highlights that the North Island has to offer. Stop in Coromandel Peninsula and Rotorua then visit Lake Taupo and Napier along the way.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,709
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Discover Adelaide & Barossa Valley
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Explore Adelaide, a small elegant city with colonial architecture, an abundance of parkland and a Mediterranean climate. Next visit Barossa Valley, Australia’s largest wine growing area. Wine tastings and lunch are included.- Duration:
- 3 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 388
- Trip Type:
- Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Essence of Sydney in Style
FIRST CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Take an insider’s look at Sydney’s best sights, from the comfort of a luxury yacht on Sydney Harbour. Drop anchor in a peaceful bay for lunch with plenty of time to swim, fish or relax on board. Visit the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains on an off-the-beaten-track nature tour and visit remote locations with stunning views, cascading waterfalls and amazing rock formations like the famous Three Sisters.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,044
- Trip Type:
- Luxury and Beyond, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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South Island Self Drive
FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Drive full circle from Christchurch and back again seeing the many highlights available on the South Island including the famous Pancake Rocks and Franz Josef, Milford Sound and Dunedin.- Duration:
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,799
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Sydney and Reef Discovery
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the spectacular Sydney harbour, visit with unique Aussie wildlife, learn about the indigenous culture in the rainforest and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. This package is perfect if you want a taste of Australia and you are limited on time.- Duration:
- 7 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,184
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Signature Australia: Sydney, Rock, Reef & Rainforest
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover the icons of Australia in the company of a private guide. Go behind the scenes of the Sydney Opera House and cruise Sydney Harbour. Explore the Outback and see Uluru lit up at dawn and dusk. Explore the Daintree Rainforest and cap off the experience with a couple nights at a resort in the Whitsundays.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 5,959
- Trip Type:
- Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Kia Ora Family Getaway
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: This family escape to New Zealand includes all the dramatic highlights, with plenty to keep the kids amused as well. Start in Auckland, one of the world’s most live-able cities. Then visit Rotorua before ending your trip in Queenstown.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,889
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Family Vacations, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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North and South Island Self Drive
FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: On this multi-week program, discover the top highlights of both islands at your own pace as you drive along winding roads and past postcard-perfect vistas. One of the most visually impressive countries on Earth, you're invited discover New Zealand in-depth.- Duration:
- 18 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,099
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Signature Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: See Sydney’s famous sites behind the scenes in-style with your private-guide and cruise the fabulous harbour like a local. Head North to explore the Great Barrier Reef from your luxurious deluxe retreat. The tranquility and natural beauty of Lizard Island will pamper you.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,149
- Trip Type:
- Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Bay of Plenty New Zealand Long Stay
MODERATE | LONG-STAY: The Bay of Plenty, one of New Zealand’s most popular holiday destinations and a thriving port city, the Bay continues to offer its bounty of beaches, restaurants, cafes and boutique shopping to visitors from near and far.- Duration:
- 29 Days
- Prices:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Snowbird Long Stays
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Classic Aussie Rail Spectacular
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: This 12-day adventure combines two of Australia’s famous rail journeys: The Indian Pacific and The Ghan. Starting in Sydney, you will travel through the best of South Australia before going on to Ayers Rock and the Great Barrier Reef. Explore the Australian outback and beyond aboard these luxury trains.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,939
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Rail Travel Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Auckland: New Zealand Highlighter: Premier Escorted Luxury Vacation
FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH: See the highlights of New Zealand with a group by coach while maintaining a great deal of freedom to choose your own activities. Explore the cultural and scenic sides of this unique country.- Duration:
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,145
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
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South Island In-Depth by Coach
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Travel the South Island experiencing all it has to offer. Enjoy whale watching in Kaikoura, Abel Tasman National Park, the West Coast Glacier Region as well as Queenstown and Scottish influenced Dunedin.- Duration:
- 13 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,149
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Aussie Family Adventure
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Explore the best of Australia combining the excitement of snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, a visit to the Crocodile Hunter’s Australia Zoo, dolphin feeding at Tangalooma, soaring above the rainforest in a cable car, and touring Sydney by ferry. An ideal family vacation.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Family Vacations, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Classic South Pacific; Australia, New Zealand and Fiji
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy the Classic South Pacific by encountering Fijian, Maori and Aboriginal cultures. Travel from Fiji to New Zealand to Australia taking in fantastic sights and experiences enroute in Auckland, Rotorua, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef.- Duration:
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,396
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Active in the Garden of Eden: Huahine
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Huahine, often called the ‘Garden of Eden’ is a dream destination for all divers, explorers, sea lovers and those who treasure vacations rich in emotion and discoveries. Stay active and see all the sites on your Goway vacation. Hike to archaeological sites, get off the beaten path by ATV and experience a true ‘sea to table’ lunch on a motu while seated at a table with your feet in the water. The Maitai Lapita Village Huahine lies between a lake and the lagoon, on an ancient archaeological site.- Duration:
- 6 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,345
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Beach & Island Escapes, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora: Stay of Distinction
DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is located 15 minutes from the airport by boat with exotic over-water bungalows and beachfront villas with private pools embracing operatic sunsets over the island’s primeval peaks.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,931
- Trip Type:
- Beach & Island Escapes, Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Stays of Distinction
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Essential New Zealand
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore the ultimate New Zealand experience on this 8-day trip. Start off in Auckland by exploring the city and it's natural sites. From there, head off to Rotorua to tour volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and more. Spend a few days admiring the heritage and beauty of the South Island at Queenstown before ending you adventure in Christchurch.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,395
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Tailor-made Travel Ideas