A Taste of Australia and New Zealand's Wine and Wildlife Itinerary

Welcome to Melbourne! On arrival you will be transferred to your accommodation

Victoria's capital, Melbourne, sits on the Yarra River and around the shores of Port Phillip Bay and is very much about lifestyle. It is no huge surprise to residents that their city has been ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities. Melburnians love the city's vibrant energy, restaurants, fashion boutiques, café-filled laneways, cool bars, unbeatable galleries, spacious parks and village-like inner suburbs, each with its own special character. Melbourne has a population of 3.9 million people, is less than 200 years old and never sits still.

Accommodation: Melbourne - 2 nights

Enjoy a guided wildlife walk where you have the opportunity to meet and hand-feed many species of native Australian animals. Learn about iconic species such as kangaroos, koalas, emus & wallabies. Visit Point Grant and The Nobbies which gives you an opportunity to enjoy views over Westernport Bay and Bass Strait. The main event is the world's smallest penguins parade which starts just after dark. You'll be truly enchanted as the stars of the show emerge from the surf and pass right before your eyes.

Collect your rental vehicle this morning and travel to the Yarra Valley and the Dandenongs

Pick up your rental vehicle this morning and travel 1 hour to the Yarra Valley and the Dandenongs One of the world's premier wine growing regions, the Yarra Valley is situated less than an hour away from Melbourne. 

Healesville Sanctuary - VIP Sanctuary Tour

Tucked in to the foothills of the Yarra Ranges, Healesville Sanctuary offers a distinctly Australian wildlifeexperience home to over 200 native Australian animal species and lies just an hour's drive from Melbourne. Wander through a stunning bushland setting with our expert ranger who will share stories of unique and unusual native wildlife. Your ranger will get you up close to the most iconic of Australian species, the kangaroo and koala, in an exclusive small group experience where there will be plenty of opportunities to grab the perfect photo. This tour is ideal for those looking for an authentic Australian wildlife experience.

Approximate Distance: 40 km | 25 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour

Accommodation: Yarra Valley - 2 nights

Indulge yourself in a seasonally-inspired Chef 's Menu featuring a selection of the finest local produce with a glass of wine matched to each course. Children's price includes soft drinks or juice with their meals. Our house baked bread will delight, brought out on arrival. Your main course will be served with a side dish to share. Our team will match a De Bortoli premium wine with your entree and main and you will finish the lunch savouring a glass of the internationally acclaimed Noble One served with your dessert. Prices include tea, coffee and served with home-made biscotti.

The paradise between the reef and the rainforest, the seaside village of Port Douglas is the essence of barefoot style and sophistication. In Port Douglas, relaxation is taken very seriously indeed. With its vibrant yet casual, tropical charm, Port Douglas has something for everyone. Whether you're adrenalin hunting adventurers, romantic honeymooners, here on a family getaway or a cheeky weekender, Port Douglas ticks all the boxes. Port Douglas is the gateway to Mother Nature's playground and jumping off point to explore both the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.

Approximate Distance: 70 km | 43 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 15 mins

Accommodation: Port Douglas - 3 nights

Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas is an award-winning attraction that provides visitors to get up close to a range of iconic Australian animals in their recreated natural environments. Consisting of four unique habitats, rainforest, wildlife, savannah and woodlands, visitors are able to wander at their own leisure and walk the world's first "Predator Plank" over crocodile filled waters. Guests can hand feed wallabies and kangaroos, and on your private tour enter the koala enclosure for one on one time! You will also visit the Tropical Animal Rehabilitation Centre to glimpse our wildlife rescue efforts.

On this small group full day tour, you will explore all the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation region has to offer. Sit back and relax in comfort in a custom-built 4WD air-conditioned vehicle while listening to informative and entertaining commentary by your local naturalist guide. Spot crocodiles on a Daintree River cruise, learn about flora, fauna and the history of the Daintree on a guided boardwalk tour, take a 4WD ride through a World Heritage-listed rainforest on the rugged Bloomfield Track, savour a traditional Aussie barbecue, sample traditional 'Aussie' billy tea, damper and tropical fruits in the company of wallabies.

A wide range of complimentary activities are included in your stay. These include snorkelling, glass bottom boat tour, most non-motorised beach equipment and a host of guided activities with our resident Activities officer. After dusk when all the day visitors go home, Green Island is yours. Take in the islands tranquility and join the resident Activities Officer for these great activities exclusive to resort guests.

Accommodation: Green Island - 2 nights

For a complete Great Barrier Reef holiday experience you can enjoy a day cruise from Green Island to the Outer Barrier Reef. Escape into a world of surprises to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Outer Great Barrier Reef. From the comfort of the stable reef activity platform, this is the perfect base for swimmers and non-swimmers to explore. Snorkel and dive, visit the underwater observatory and cruise in a semi-sub, or just relax on the sundeck with a delicious buffet lunch. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef's vibrant marine life - one of the natural wonders of the world.

Return to Cairns and fly south to Brisbane, then drive to Queensland's Sunshine Coast and it's relaxed, yet sophisticated lifestyle. Encompassing the coastline from Caloundra to Rainbow Beach and the lush countryside of the hinterland, the beauty of this region will captivate you. The beaches of the Sunshine Coast are varied with gentle waves to serious surf, while idyllic coastal towns are perfect for both romantic getaways and family holidays. If you prefer a cosy holiday nestled amongst the hills and beautiful Glass House Mountains, then wander through the hinterland where you can browse among local delicacies at markets and fresh food stalls.

Approximate Distance: 112 km | 70 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 30 mins

Accommodation: Montville - 3 nights

Montville, nestled in Queensland's picturesque Sunshine Coast Hinterland, is a charming and idyllic town. Surrounded by lush rainforests, it offers a serene escape from urban life. Montville's quaint streets are lined with boutique shops, art galleries and cozy cafes, inviting visitors to explore local crafts and culinary delights. The town boasts stunning panoramic views of the coastline, visible from several vantage points along the winding roads. Its tranquil ambiance, along with a temperate climate, makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and couples seeking a romantic getaway. Montville encapsulates the essence of a tranquil, artistic, and natural paradise.

Enjoy a full day of VIP treatment on the action-packed Platinum Zoo Adventure! This tour is the perfect day out for a true wildlife enthusiast. During your fun-filled day of exclusive behind-the-scenes animal encounters, you will have a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet our amazing animals and learn all about them from our expert animal handlers.

Our knowledgeable guide will take you to where very few guests have the opportunity to go. You are guaranteed a day full of discovery, with up to ten hands-on animal experiences and two animal interactions that you will never forget.

Sydney is Australia's oldest city, the economic powerhouse of the nation and the country's capital in everything but name. It's blessed with sun-drenched natural attractions, dizzy skyscrapers, delicious and daring restaurants, superb shopping and friendly folk. 

Sydney Harbor Sunset Dinner Cruise

We like to think of our Harbour as a sunset painting in progress. The aqua blues of Summer give way to the warm orange hues of Autumn before deepening to a magical Winter twilight blue. Year round, sun-up or sun-down, the colours of Sydney Harbour will welcome you onboard our signature Sunset Dinner

Cruise. This is the perfect start to an evening or stunning end to an amazing day in the greatest city in the world.

Accommodation: Sydney - 2 nights

Sydney is a wonderland of beautiful beaches, historical sites, fantastic restaurants and much more. This harbour city is brimming with memorable experiences from the majestic Sydney Opera House on one of the world's great natural harbours to iconic Bondi Beach. You'll find incredible things to do in Sydney all year round. There's also has an abundance of outstanding natural attractions, from the harbour and golden beaches to national parks and lush botanic gardens. There are championship golf courses, harbour cruises, scenic coastal walks, surfing and cycling tours.

An elegant Australian eco-retreat nestled within Taronga Zoo, overlooking magnificent Sydney Harbour. A place that embodies our commitment to securing a shared future for wildlife and people. Wake up to the rustling of a bandicoot. Revel in the natural beauty of the bushland. Step into a lush sanctuary where koalas and echidnas roam, and platypus swim. Then taste culinary delights that are rich with fresh and native ingredients, before finally resting your head in a thoughtfully curated designer room. Join a guided tour with our passionate keepers. Here you'll encounter a close and emotional connection with the animals.

Accommodation: Taronga Zoo - 1 night

As the name belies, 'The City of Sails' - as Auckland is fondly known - is a stunning sea side city. The city centre surrounds a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land. In the Auckland region, the North Island is geographically narrow and the city straddles a slim piece of land with coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean, and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea. Boutique shopping, pulsing, Pacific-inspired markets and a passionate cafe culture make this city a charming place to visit.

Accommodation: Auckland - 4 nights

This is New Zealand's most interactive whale and dolphin watching experience! Come aboard the Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari luxury catamaran from downtown Auckland and minutes from city hotels. Experience breath-taking encounters with an incredible variety of wildlife including whales, dolphins, seabirds, seals, penguins and more! Be prepared for an awe-inspiring experience with wildlife on your 4.5-hour ecoadventure. On board, you'll also participate in marine research conducted by marine biologist guides, who will inspire you to become a guardian of these precious oceans.

Enjoy succulent fresh oysters, award-winning olive oil and other locally-produced specialty foods, accompanied by wines from some of the Island's top boutique vineyards. Your guide will provide an entertaining and informative commentary along the way. You will visit an award-winning olive oil mill, followed by two vineyards, each offering a range of gourmet tastes to accompany their wines. Treats may include oysters straight from Te Matuku Bay, wild honey, the famous local green herb spread and artisan cheeses. Afterwards, enjoy a platter lunch at one of our top vineyard restaurants.

Lying just an hour from Aotearoa's largest city, this island sanctuary is home to an unrivalled range of wildlife living their best lives. When you visit Tiritiri Matangi you have the option of taking a guided walk from the wharf up to the Visitor Centre (next to the lighthouse). For first-time visitors especially, this will greatly enhance your enjoyment of the island. Guides can tell you about the plants and animals you see and hear, identify archaeological sites, tell you about the early settlement of the island and its recent history as a sanctuary.

Rotorua is surrounded by steaming lakes, bubbling hot pools and bursting geysers, host to some of the world's most incredible natural forces. A heartland of Maori culture, the local people have embraced this turbulent land. For the traveller there is a breadth of attractions - families will enjoy viewing farm attractions and native wildlife, adventure seekers can experience world class white water rafting or mountain biking, while culture enthusiasts can experience indepth vibrant Maori traditions.

Approximate Distance: 230 km | 143 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 nights

National Kiwi Hatchery Tour

The National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa, is the world's leading kiwi hatchery! Over 1900 kiwi chicks have hatched to date, making the National Kiwi Hatchery the world's largest and most successful hatching centre. Learn all about the efforts of the kiwi husbandry team, discover what it takes to hatch a chick and if you're really lucky, see baby chicks in person!

The Ultimate Canopy Tour - Zip Line Through Ancient Forest

On this 3.5 hour guided eco-tour, experience 3.6 kilometres of forest suspended up to 22 metres high amongst ancient trees. Mix thrill and wonder through an incredible network of trails, tree platforms, ziplines (flying fox)spiral staircase, cliff walk, abseil and swing bridges. The changing views are breath taking as you experience the thrill of flying through changing landscapes from high above unexplored forested valleys, to tight openings through the forest sub canopy, to amongst stands of giant long forgotten trees.

Waimangu Thermal Reserve Self Guided Walk and Boat Cruise

Take an eco-focused nature walk or hike through beautiful Waimangu Volcanic Valley thermal park, followed by a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana, exploring its geothermal system. Waimangu Volcanic Valley in Rotorua, New Zealand, was created from the massive volcanic eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886. Today your combined walk and boat cruise is a wonderful and relaxing journey through the world's youngest geothermal area. Sit back and relax on your boat cruise. Your skipper will highlight points of interest and the history of this iconic Rotorua geothermal attraction.

Travel to Napier - Art Deco City set in a Coastal Wine Region

The Pacific Ocean provides a stunning backdrop to the Hawke's Bay, framed to the south by the dramatic Cape Kidnappers and the Tukituki hills. From natural disaster was born a celebration of early twentieth century architecture - Art Deco, Spanish Mission and Stripped Classical buildings pepper Napier, Hastings and the region's small towns. Explore celebrated vineyards, the supreme Cape Kidnappers golf course, architecture, birdlife and Maori culture.

Approximate Distance: 220 km | 137 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours

Accommodation: Napier - 3 nights

Cape Kidnappers is the largest and most accessible mainland colony in the world. Visitors will see these amazing birds nesting, preening, flying and performing the famous recognition ritual "DANCE OF THE GANNETS". Travel in air-conditioned 4-wheel drive vehicles over the hill country of Cape Kidnappers Station, on the way viewing the spectacular scenery and rugged coastline of Cape Kidnappers. The 36km round trip with our driver/guides, who have a good knowledge of the gannets and farm, takes approximately three hours.

This tour is designed for casual imbibers and wine aficionados. Meet like-minded people and share an appreciation of Hawke's Bay's fantastic wines. Taste great wines made with passion and learn of the areas unique growing conditions. Take home outstanding wines and wonderful memories. Join us on a fun filled wine tasting afternoon in the sun driving through absolutely stunning scenery. We will visit four to five wineries and enjoy a cheese platter in the grounds of the Ngatarawa Vineyard beside the lily pond.

Nestled between a dramatic harbour and bush clad hills, Wellington was recently dubbed as 'the coolest little capital city in the world'. The city is the country's centre for culture, politics, and home to the National Museum, Te Papa. Wellington's thriving cafe scene is globally recognised by coffee cognoscenti, and of course is a centre for movie production with Lord or the Rings taking centre stage.

Approximate Distance: 325 km | 201 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Wellington - 2 nights

Your tour begins at our unique predator-proof fence. Kitted out with red-light torches, your guide will lead you into one of New Zealand's most important wildlife safe havens. As dusk falls over our valley, you will hear native parrots squabble in the trees overhead, and tuatara, our unique 'living fossil', head out to hunt. When darkness has settled, your guide will start looking for our elusive national mascot - the kiwi. Often, the glow-worms are so bright you won't even need your torch! This is New Zealand at its very best.

It is almost a cliché to call it one of New Zealand's best-kept secrets, but given that so few people are aware of its unspoiled tranquillity, it probably deserves this label more than any other place in the country. Only 1% of the island is inhabited -- the rest is given over to natural native bush, exquisite whitesand beaches, bird sanctuaries and rugged mountains. All this makes it a naturalist's and tramper's paradise and the perfect place for a remote yet accessible holiday. You need to be here only a few hours before the rest of the world melts away and you find yourself adopting the unhurried, laid-back approach of the locals.

Accommodation: Stewart Island - 3 nights

4 Hour Ulva Island Guided Walk and Eco Tour - Birding and Botany

First take a brief boat trip over the open ocean to Ulva Island. Your guide will lead you through lush primeval forest along well maintained walking tracks for an amazing insight into the natural history, stunning bird and plant life in the southern-most bird sanctuary in the world. The walking pace is dictated by the birds! Stewart Island Weka, South Island Saddleback, Tomtit, Rifleman, Stewart Island Robin, Brown Creeper, Tui, Kaka, Fantail, NZ Pigeon, Parakeet (yellow and red-crowned), Bellbird and Yellowhead - with plenty of stops for photographs!

Evening Kiwi Spotting on Stewart Island

Ulva's Guided Walks has exclusive rights to operate their evening Kiwi Spotting tours at Mamaku Point Conservation Reserve on Stewart Island. Once the sun has set, as there is little or no light pollution at Mamaku Point we often enjoy the spectacular night sky in the company of kiwi snuffling and feeding nearby. At certain times of the year penguins and petrels can be heard, and most evenings the distinctive two-tone Morepork calls resound around the forest.

Whether you have come to enjoy the land, sea and night-scapes, view the wildllife, walk, boat, fish, dive, kayak, hunt or just relax - a Stewart Island holiday will be an experience you will not forget. An absolute must-do, Ulva Island (Te Wharawhara) is a predator-free sanctuary in Stewart Island's Paterson Inlet. The Island, especially Ulva Island, is a haven for bird life, such as friendly Kaka and Weka, colourful Kākāriki, South Island Saddlebacks, little Blue Penguins, rare Yellow-Eyed Penguins and dozens of other native species.

Collect your rental vehicle in Invercargill and drive to Dunedin. A well preserved Victorian city with a mix of classical architecture and internationally renowned public gardens, combine with lively university students, renowned artists and crafts people to produce a vibrant and colourful city. Dunedin is the gateway to the Otago Peninsula with its marine life of penguins, seals and albatross and the historic Larnach Castle and gardens. Founded by Scottish immigrants the city is now famed for a diverse array of building styles from Tudor, Jacobean, Georgian, Carpenter, Gothic and Arts and Crafts with very fine examples of Neo-Gothic.

Approximate Distance: 205 km | 127 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Dunedin - 2 nights

Visit the beautiful Otago Peninsula and a private conservation area that ensures exclusivity with brilliant opportunities to photograph Hooker's Sea lions, Yellow-eyed Penguins, Blue Penguins, a breeding colony of New Zealand Fur Seals and other sea bird colonies. At Taiaroa head from a cliff face we watch and observe Royal Albatross flying about the headland to and fro from the ocean. Then aboard the 'Monarch' cruise that allows viewing of the entire Royal Albatross breeding area and usually allows viewing of Albatross flying or sitting on the ocean as well as seeing many other species that live and breed around the headland.

Visit the Moeraki Boulders - The Orbs of Arai Te Uru and the nearby penguin colony

The famous Moeraki boulders lie scattered along a beach 40 kilometres south of Oamaru. According to Maori legend, the boulders are gourds washed from the great voyaging canoe Araiteuru when it was wrecked upon landfall in New Zealand some 1000 years ago. 

Continue to Oamaru

In the late 19th century, the town prospered through goldmining, quarrying and timber milling. Some of the wealth was spent on elegant whitestone buildings made from local limestone, which make Oamaru a town containing some of the best-reserved heritage buildings in all of New Zealand.

Enjoy the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony - Premium Evening Tour

Oamaru is home to the little (often known as fairy or blue) penguin. This is the smallest species of penguin in the world. The little blue penguin is nocturnal as far as its land activities are concerned and can only be viewed after dark.

Approximate Distance: 115 km | 71 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 30 mins

Accommodation: Oamaru - 1 night

Akaroa (Long Harbour) was the site of the country's first French settlement and descendants of the original French pioneers still reside here. It's a charming town that strives to recreate the feel of a French provincial village, down to the names of its streets and houses.Take a scenic cruise exploring the beautiful, sheltered harbours. You'll experience a rich variety of marine life including the unique and playful Hector's Dolphin and the rare Little Blue Penguin.

Approximate Distance: 300 km | 186 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours

Accommodation: Akaroa - 2 nights

With Black Cat Cruises you will enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience, supported by experienced local crew with world class facilities. Our experience and dedication to our local environment delivers a New Zealand must do activity here in Akaroa. It's the ultimate dolphin experience as you will be swimming with the endangered Hector's dolphin, the world's rarest and smallest oceanic dolphin. Voted the number one bucket list activity in New Zealand - come tick it off the list with Black Cat!

Travel 1 hour 30 minutes to Christchurch today and return your rental vehicle on arrival. 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.

Christchurch is famous for its fabulous dining, entertainment, breathtaking scenery and cultural heritage. This evening, combine all of the above onboard the Christchurch Tramway
Restaurant where dining is not only a culinary delight but also a trip back into history.

Meal: 4 course Dinner

Approximate Distance: 85 km | 53 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 30 mins

Accommodation: Christchurch - 3 nights

Head through the centre of the South Island to Twizel, near New Zealand's highest peak, Mt Cook. Visit Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and spend the afternoon hiking the region, taking in the alpine scenery. Learn more about mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary at the Visitor's Centre.

Aoraki/Mount Cook is both a village, a national park and the name of New Zealand's highest mountain. Located in central South Island, the park includes a mix of rocks and glaciers, as well as alpine plants including the world's largest buttercup, the Mount Cook lily. There are several short walks that reward with spectacular views.

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Christchurch - 3 nights

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or traveling with family, there is always a lot to do. Discover new things to do around Christchurch.

The garden city is packed with surprises. Admire the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens or the changing face of the city centre. Expertly guided gently along the Avon River on our authentic Edwardian Punting tours. How about seeing the Gothic Revival architecture at The Arts Centre.

Stop in at the Riverside market - an exciting new development consisting of a 7-day trading, indoor market, linked to a vibrant network of boutique retail, restaurants, cafes & bars.

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

We know you will enjoy our Wine and Wilderness Highlights of Australia and New Zealand, our promise to you is to make your travels throughout hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with a memory card full of photos and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your time downunder! Return your rental car back at the airport, have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon.