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Contrasts of Australia and New Zealand

From Melbourne to Christchurch
Operator
Trafalgar
Days
18
From
USD $9,977
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Dates & Prices

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From
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Apr 09, 2026
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Apr 26, 2026
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Jun 25, 2026
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Jul 12, 2026
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Aug 27, 2026
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Sep 13, 2026
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Sep 24, 2026
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Oct 11, 2026
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Nov 22, 2026
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Nov 26, 2026
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Dec 13, 2026
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Jan 14, 2027
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Jan 31, 2027
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Jan 28, 2027
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Feb 14, 2027
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Feb 11, 2027
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Feb 28, 2027
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Mar 04, 2027
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Mar 21, 2027
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From
Thursday,
Mar 18, 2027
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Sunday,
Apr 04, 2027
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* Departure Dates in bold denote Guaranteed Departures

All the Tour Operator Offers & More

LOW UNPUBLISHED PRICES ON TRAFALGAR TOURS

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Room Match Solo Traveler Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT5414
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Room Match Solo Traveler Savings

Room Match Solo Traveler Savings

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Are you travelling alone but don't want to pay a supplement? On many trips, you'll have the option to room share with another same-gender solo traveler, on a twin-bed basis. Plus receive our AffordableTours.com 10% extra savings.
Combine with past guest savings.
Must Book By Wed, Dec 31, 2025
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Solo travelers have the option to pay the twin share rate and be matched with a same-sex traveler on nearly all itineraries. On many trips, travelers can choose a solo room for a low single supplement, and on some departures, the upgrade is free. Free solo room upgrades are not available on all trips and/or departures, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Discounts (except for Global Tour Rewards) are not applicable to the solo room surcharge portion of the booking. Other conditions may apply.

2026 Price Drop Promise

Mention Promo Code: PT13431
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2026 Price Drop Promise

2026 Price Drop Promise

Promotion Details
Pay in full now and if the price goes down before you travel, you'll be refunded the difference with the Price Drop Promise on your 2026 tour. If the pricing drops, you can request a refund for the difference before the departure date. (Not all tours are applicable, contact your Travel Consultant for full details.)
Combinable with 10% Early Booking Discount.
Must Book By Tue, Sep 02, 2025
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Book early and pay in full within 7 days to qualify, and if the tour price drops later, Trafalgar will refund the difference. If full payment isn't made within 7 days, the promotion will be removed. If pricing drops, guests can request a refund of the difference. This must be done before the departure date. This offer is for the land-only portion of the tour. Flights, insurance, pre/post-night accommodations are not applicable. Guaranteed Lowest Price offer ends September 2, 2025. The LPG offer is combinable with the 10% Early Booking Discount that runs through 7/31/2025. Not applicable on Group bookings, Last Minute Deals, Trafalgar river cruises, Brendan FIT. Not all tours qualify for the guarantee. Additional restrictions apply.

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Tour Itinerary

Want a bit of everything? Sun, sand, city life, and wilderness all take centre stage on this Australia and New Zealand tour. Find yourself gliding across the Great Barrier Reef and getting to know the cities before Queenstown, Milford Sound, and hearing tales of Māori Warriors in just 18 incredible days.

  1. Day 1
    Welcome to Melbourne
    Stylish and friendly Melbourne extends a warm welcome to your epic tour (flights to arrive prior to 12pm). You’ll soon see you’re staying right in the heart of the action on the banks of the Yarra River, the perfect springboard for your time in the city. After settling into your hotel, get to know your Travel Director and fellow travellers over dinner at a popular restaurant perched on the Yarra River’s South Wharf, a great introduction to Melbourne’s cosmopolitan vibe.Accommodation: Crowne Plaza
    Meals:   Dinner
  2. Day 2
    Uncover Melbourne's Laneways
    Delve into the city this morning on a walk with your Travel Director to discover the little lanes, arcades, and cafe society of stylish Melbourne. View its famous, edgy street art - in the striking contrast to federation buildings and churches that Melbourne is known for - and immerse yourself in the city’s robust coffee aroma, admiring the exquisite Victorian façades lining grand boulevards. Now make a positive impact while you learn about Koorie peoples, cultures, and communities on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience tour and walk. You’ll love discovering the importance of Koorie peoples as part of a broader 21st century community. With a vison to ensure the rich cultural heritage, history and knowledge systems of First Peoples are valued, celebrated and an active part of society, the Koorie Heritage Trust is an organisation you’ll be happy to support. Afterwards, the day is yours to relax back at your hotel, go for a scenic stroll, do a little souvenir shopping, or find a spot on the banks of the Yarra River to grab a drink. Or choose to venture outside of the city on an optional experience such as the viewing of the incredible Little Penguins on Phillip Island. On this rare wildlife viewing experience you’ll watch the tiny, adorable penguins make their daily trek from the sea to burrows on the beach.Accommodation: Crowne Plaza
    Meals:   Breakfast
  3. Day 3
    Cairns, in the Tropics
    Get ready for a change of scenery and “locals” today as you fly north to Cairns. Then get right in the action meeting a Local Specialist for a private wildlife encounter at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures on a boat cruise through, where the crocs are the stars of the show popping up from the murky waters or lazing on the bank. Safe in your boat, your local guide will give you the inside scoop on the life and habits of these Cairns’ area locals. Inspired by your introduction to wildlife, you’ll love your next experience helping take part in a Rainforest Restoration project to protect the natural wonder of the nearby Notophyll Vine Forest, an area older than the Amazon. Your helping-hand planting trees supports the protection of this rare type of dry rainforest from development and restores it to its former glory as an important wildlife corridor rich with native birds - a mission you’ll feel good contributing to. Back in town, enjoy your evening on your own visiting the Cairns Night Markets. *If you are departing on an early flight from Melbourne, a boxed breakfast will be provided.Accommodation: Hilton
    Meals:   Breakfast
  4. Day 4
    View Colourful Coral and Tropical Fish
    No matter where you hail from, today is a bucket list experience exploring the tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef as we set sail on a high-speed catamaran - and you have a full day to do it. Kick off the day, then don your mask and fins for a snorkel (equipment provided) exploring this underwater wonderland up close. You’ll think you’re inside an aquarium as you wind your way through the rainbow of reefs and fish. Or, stay dry in your semi-submersible, air-conditioned craft with an underwater observatory to view the tropical species that live in the world’s largest coral reef system. Your local guide shares all their insights on the reef and its ecology. Learn about the colourful fish and plants that call the reef home and why it’s so important to protect this beautiful and fragile ecosystem. Refuel with a tropical buffet lunch and afternoon tea and coffee under the glorious Aussie sunshine before you cruise back into the city, all smiles after an amazing day.Accommodation: Hilton
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch
  5. Day 5
    Cairns, it's All Yours
    Soak up the atmosphere of tropical Cairns with a free day to explore the town, head further afield, or relax by your hotel pool. You can also choose to join a popular Optional Experience aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway through a lush forest past gorges, ravines, and waterfalls to Kuranda 'village in the rainforest'. Explore this quaint village of trails, wildlife sanctuaries, shops, and markets within a World Heritage rainforest before returning to the lowlands soaring above the canopy on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Tonight, join the group to trade tales from the day at Ochre Restaurant. With views of the inlet and mountains, watch the boats come in over the Harbour Lights’ boardwalk as you enjoy Australian cuisine featuring the best local produce.Accommodation: Hilton
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  6. Day 6
    Fly to Glorious Sydney
    You're only six days into your Australia and New Zealand tour and the journey continues leaving the golden beaches of Cairns behind and heading to Sydney, Australia’s largest city, harbour, and fun-loving metropolis. Settle into your centrally located hotel before an afternoon and evening free to explore. Why not soak up the incredible city views on a wander around the Royal Botanic Garden?Accommodation: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
    Meals:   Breakfast
  7. Day 7
    Savour the Sights of Sydney
    Take a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House and uncover the stories behind its iconic sails and world-renowned performers. Then head to Bondi for a behind-the-scenes visit to the Bondi Surf Life Saving Club, where a local guide shares what it takes to patrol one of the world’s most famous beaches. Your Be My Guest experience is hosted at the Bondi RSL Club by a Surf Club member, with views of the beach and a chance to share stories over a meal infused with local flavour. Later, cruise Sydney Harbour to take in the Opera House and Harbour Bridge from the water, a fresh perspective on the city’s most iconic landmarks.Accommodation: Sofitel Wentworth Hotel Sydney
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch
  8. Day 8
    Sydney, It's Your Choice
    Get your final fix of Sydney by checking out its sights and sounds anyway you want on this free day. But we have more than a few ideas. Perhaps a bird's-eye view of the city on the Sydney BridgeClimb. You might choose to wander further afield on an Optional Experience to the Blue Mountains. On your last night in town, take one last walk around the harbour before sitting down to dinner, saying a fond farewell to Australia before experiencing a change of scenery on the next leg of your journey in New Zealand. Tonight, celebrate your time in Sydney at dinner with your Travel Director.Accommodation: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  9. Day 9
    Kia Ora Auckland New Zealand
    Say a fond hoo roo to Australia on your Australia and New Zealand tour as you board your flight to Auckland. Upon arrival, ease into the warm, welcoming embrace of the City of Sails before meeting your Travel Director for dinner at The Grill and no doubt full of anticipation for your first full day in New Zealand tomorrow.Accommodation: Horizon by SkyCity
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  10. Day 10
    Delve into Auckland
    After a relaxed start, set your sights firmly on New Zealand's national game: rugby. The interactive All Blacks Experience explores an introduction to the game as a part of New Zealand culture. Afterwards get the lay of the land on a city sightseeing tour viewing the beautiful waterfront of Mission Bay, historic overlook of Bastion Point, and spacious gardens and sunken pool at the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial showing off views of Waitemata Harbour and the North Shore. You pass the Auckland Museum, located on the dormant volcano Pukekawa, meaning 'hill of bitter memories' referring to tribal battles fought on the site until 1828.Accommodation: Horizon by SkyCity
    Meals:   Breakfast
  11. Day 11
    Rotorua, the Cultural Hub
    Experience the real Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set where you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. You will be fully guided around the 12-acre set, including into an interior Hobbit Hole experience. You'll have plenty of time for photo opportunities in the interactive hobbit hole. Continue to Rotorua, where tonight you will Dive Into Culture and visit Te Puia's geothermal Valley. Learn about Maori history and culture on this Te Po guided experience, which includes a dinner of hangi-inspired cuisine and a cultural performance in a finely carved meeting house, Te Aronui a Rua. It ends on a high at the Pohutu Geyser, where, armed with a hot chocolate, you'll view one of New Zealand's geothermal wonderlands.Accommodation: Millennium
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  12. Day 12
    Adventure Capital Queenstown
    Your destination this morning in Rotorua is the National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa, where you’ll join a Local Specialist for a tour. Learn about the work being done to save this rare native bird, get up close and see kiwi eggs being incubated, the hatching process, and even newly hatched kiwi chicks at this national leader in kiwi husbandry. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience is not only fun but will give you fascinating insights into New Zealand’s national bird. The feel-good vibes will follow you all the way to Queenstown, the self-proclaimed adventure capital of New Zealand. It makes perfect sense – there are ski fields, white-water river and bridges strapped with bungy cords wherever you turn. And then there’s the dining scene; Queenstown is home to some of the country’s most awarded restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for bulging burgers or lakeside tapas, ask us for recommendations on this leg of your Queenstown New Zealand tour.Accommodation: Millennium
    Meals:   Breakfast
  13. Day 13
    Cruise Milford Sound
    Skirt Queenstown’s gleaming Lake Wakatipu, and traverse the Devil’s Staircase to Te Anau, the alpine gateway to World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park. Once you’ve paused to admire the drama at Mirror Lakes, Knobs Flat, Hollyford Valley lookout and Cleddau Valley, you’ll begin to understand why Rudyard Kipling called this the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’. Onboard your nature cruise, enjoy commentary from your eagle-eyed Naturalist guide, who not only narrates on the immense geological history of the Fjord, but will point out fur seals and dolphins should they choose to come out to play. The cruise includes a delicious picnic lunch. After a day of natural beauty, return to Queenstown for a free evening to stay in and wind down or dine at one of the restaurants overlooking Lake Wakatipu.Accommodation: Millennium
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch
  14. Day 14
    Indulge Yourself in Queenstown
    It’s your final day in Queenstown and the world is your oyster. Oenophiles will want to join an Optional Experience touring three premium boutique vineyards in the famous Otago region known for Pinot Noir. Or feel the wind in your hair with an adrenalin filled jet boat ride on the mighty Shotover river. Perhaps take a cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm for an authentic Kiwi Farming experience complete with a working sheep dog demonstration and morning or afternoon tea. With more sheep than people in New Zealand, you’ll know this is the real thing! This evening, we take a step back in time with our Travel Director over a Regional Dinner at the Postmasters Cottage built in 1907 in nearby historic Arrowtown. You’ll learn how after the cottage was almost demolished by developers, it was then saved and purchased by the passionate local community and ultimately restored and embellished with verandas and gardens. Lastly, sit down to fresh, local food and wines matched with friendly service that the Kiwis are known for.Accommodation: Millennium
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  15. Day 15
    Breathtaking Lake Tekapo
    Today your New Zealand tour takes you to Cromwell on the banks of Lake Dunstan, travelling to lovely Lake Tekapo. Visit Mrs. Jones' Fruit Stall to taste of some of the region's juicy stone fruit including apricots, nectarines, peaches, and plums. Is it Michael Schumacher’s Benetton F1 car or the $4.2-million Aston Martin Vulcan that draws crowds to the Highlands Motorsport Museum? During your visit to this extraordinary space you’ll have the chance to become familiar with some of the rarest cars in NZ motorsports history. And you don’t have to be a rev head to appreciate the machines on display – they’re genuinely impressive from every angle. Visit the grounds of the quaint, lakeside Church of the Good Shepherd and see the friendly bronze sheepdog statue. Late this evening after dark, you’re treated to a guided stargazing experience with a Local Specialist in the world-renowned UNESCO Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. See the famous Southern Cross, Magellanic Cloud, and Milky Way and get a better look at these sparkling wonders with a powerful optical telescope. You'll conclude the day in a Stays With Stories accommodation at Peppers Bluewater Resort overlooking Lake Tekapo. In this area known for its dazzling night sky, there’s plenty to enjoy just stepping outside your room.Accommodation: Peppers Bluewater Resort
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  16. Day 16
    Christchurch, the Garden City
    Get an early start to watch the sun rise over the lake or sleep in before heading north through South Canterbury to Christchurch, a beautiful English city rich in history and thriving after rebuilding itself from a devastating 2011 earthquake. Everywhere you look you can easily see how it’s earned its name, the Garden City. Begin at the Cathedral in Latimer Square, the temporary home of the Christchurch Cathedral, to admire its colourful stained-glass windows and sustainable cardboard construction that gives it the nickname “The Cardboard Cathedral". See the highlights of the city including Canterbury Museum, Christchurch Earthquake Memorial, Bridge of Remembrance, and see the English punting boaters in their striped hats along the Avon River.Accommodation: Distinction
    Meals:   Breakfast
  17. Day 17
    Meet a Local Farming Family
    Travel through rolling countryside to Hurunui Hills, a hill-country farm in North Canterbury. Enjoy warm Kiwi hospitality with the Bamford Family, who have been farming at Hurunui since 1884, with six generations focused on producing premium Merino sheep, wool, and Angus cattle. Soak up the stunning scenery, meet the farm animals, and discover what it is like to live off the land on this unique By My Guest experience. Then visit a local vineyard, Waipara Springs Winery, where it's time to relax and enjoy wine tasting and a platter-style lunch among the vines. A big day leads to a big evening, joining your Travel Director and travel mates for with a celebratory dinner featuring produce from the Canterbury region.Accommodation: Distinction
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner
  18. Day 18
    Farewell Christchurch
    Your adventure sadly comes to an end this morning. Before your transfer you to the Christchurch Airport, enjoy one last breakfast with your travel mates reflecting on your adventure, food, and wildlife-filled experiences across Australia and New Zealand (flights anytime).
    Meals:   Breakfast

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Inclusions

Dining Summary

  • 8 Dinner (D)
  • 17 Breakfast (B)
  • 4 Lunch (L)

Choice Highlights

  • Bondi Beach: Rub shoulders with the bronzed, beautiful people of Bondi Beach, as you join a surf lifesaver who will take you through the Members Only facility of Australia's oldest surf lifesaving club, followed by lunch with views over the sparkling Pacific Ocean.

Be My Guest

  • Bondi Beach: Rub shoulders with the bronzed, beautiful people of Bondi Beach, as you join a surf lifesaver who will take you through the Members Only facility of Australia's oldest surf lifesaving club, followed by lunch with views over the sparkling Pacific Ocean.
  • Hurunui: Step onto a working hill-country sheep farm. Experience what it is like to farm Merino sheep & Angus cattle in this beautiful part of the country. See the animals graze pastures in the open air and learn about where the best natural products come from.

Dive into Culture

  • Rotorua: Visit Te Puia for the Te Po experience, an evening of Māori culture and connection. Dine on traditional Hangi-inspired cuisine, followed by a captivating cultural performance.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

  • Melbourne: Make a positive impact while you learn about Koorie peoples, cultures, and communities at the Koorie Heritage Trust Gallery in Melbourne
  • Rotorua: Visit the National Kiwi Hatchery Aotearoa in Rotorua and learn about the efforts made to save New Zealand's national bird

Must-see Highlights

  • Explore The Sydney Opera House, All Blacks Experience in Auckland, Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, National Kiwi Hatchery in Rotorua, Highlands Museum Cromwell, and Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve in Tekapo with a Local Specialist
  • Discover Melbourne, Sydney, Cairns, Auckland, Arrowtown, Queenstown, Lake Tekapo, and Christchurch
  • Hartley's Crocodile Adventures in Cairns, Te Po Maori Experience in Rotorua, and a Merino Sheep Farm in North Canterbury
  • View Geothermal activity in Rotorua, and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo
  • Scenic Cruise On the Great Barrier Reef, and Milford Sound

Trafalgar Difference

  • Lake Tekapo: This resort overlooks the pristine waters of Lake Tekapo in New Zealand's South Island.

Whats Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • Porterage where hotels provide this service
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Must-see sightseeing
  • All land transport shown. All transfers shown
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • Optional Experiences and free time
  • A Trafalgar bonus - all Intra-Air Flights: Melbourne to Cairns, Cairns to Sydney, Sydney to Auckland, Auckland to Queenstown

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

Questions & Answers
  Ask A Question

Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?

Each person is allowed one "check-in," and one "carry-on." Remember to take all valuables with you as "carry-on", because electronic equipment, cameras, laptops, jewelry, business documents and money are not covered by the airlines' liability, so always carry them aboard with you.

Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?

Airfare from your point of origin to and from the trip is not included in the land price.

Customer Trip Reviews

Overall Rating
3.8
Accommodations
3.9
Itinerary
4.5
Professional Staff
3.9
Repeat with Operator
3.7
Value for Money
3.2
Ratings based off 11 reviews - currently showing 2 reviews with comments only
DC Daniel on Dec 27, 2018  
Accommodations
3
Itinerary
5
Professional Staff
5
Repeat with Operator
5
Value for Money
3

Overall good trip but a couple of the Accommodations were not up to standard I thought

KT Kenneth on Feb 13, 2015  
Accommodations
5
Itinerary
5
Professional Staff
5
Repeat with Operator
5
Value for Money
5

The Tour Directors in New Zealand and Australia were excellent. They were knowledgeable,helpful and patient. Their support and advice made a great trip even better.

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