Experience the wonder of two countries. We begin on New Zealand's North Island to explore vast caves illuminated by magical glowworms, walk through the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie set, and learn about the Maori indigenous culture. We stop in Christchurch on the South Island for stunning landscapes and Antarctic experiences. Hop over to Cairns, Australia, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel above the coral or simply enjoy the ocean views from the deck of the catamaran. Say hello to cuddly koalas when we visit Kuranda, a village tucked away in a rain forest. Our tour concludes in Sydney with a visit the iconic Opera House and more. This is the best of Down Under!
New Zealand & Australia
October 8 - October 19, 2026Highlights
- See the North & South Islands of New Zealand
- Visit Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Enjoy an Authentic Maori Cultural Experience
- Explore Australia's Great Barrier Reef
- Tour the Sydney Opera House & Bondi Beach
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for things to see and do
- And More... See itinerary for details
Itinerary
Thursday, 08 October 2026: Arrive Auckland, NZ; Welcome Lunch; City Tour (L)
Schedule your arrival into Aukland, NZ no later than 9:00am and take local transportation (or purchase an optional private transfer) to the hotel. The tour begins at 12:00 noon in the hotel lobby with our Welcome Meeting. We'll make introductions and have lunch together. Upon conclusion of lunch, we will enjoy a sightseeing city tour including a visit to Mount Eden, a scenic drive along Tamaki Drive, Wynyard Quarter, Auckland Domain and more. You will then have the rest of the day to relax or further explore on your own. Overnight Auckland - 1 night
Friday, 09 October 2026: Waitomo Glowworm Caves; Rotorua (B,L)
Leaving Auckland this morning, we travel by coach through the picturesque countryside to the small town of Waitomo to see the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, which feature swirling rivers and rocks that flow into delicate shawl-like formations. The highlight is the glowworm grotto where Mother Nature's light display is in full effect. It's truly a magical experience. Afterward, we make our way to Rotorua and as we do, we'll pass through Fitzgerald Glade where trees arch over the road to form a tunnel of natural greenery. Formerly a spa town, Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity and Maori traditions. Overnight Rotorua - 2 nights
Saturday, 10 October 2026: Hobbiton & Lord of the Rings Movie Set; Maori Dinner (B,D)
Today we set out for a unique location–the Hobbiton Movie set–built on a beautiful 1,250-acre farm near Matamata. On a walking tour around the 12-acre set, we learn how this working farm was transformed into The Shire from Middle-Earth for the Lord of the Rings trilogy and Hobbit movies and discover a few secrets to movie-making magic. We return to Rotorua for some downtime. This evening, we are immersed in traditional Maori culture as we enjoy a hangi dinner, which is cooked in the ground. A cultural performance allows us to learn more about the Maori history, carvings and tattoo art.
Sunday, 11 October 2026: Fly to Christchurch; Free Afternoon (B)
This morning we fly to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island. Known for it's stunning landscapes, the city is home to Maori heritage, cultural arts, a vibrant nightlife and more. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel and the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Overnight Christchurch - 2 nights
Monday, 12 October 2026: Christchurch City Tour; Botanic Gardens; International Antarctic Centre (B,D)
Christchurch, the Garden city, lies on the level plains that initially attracted the closely knit members of the Church of England who settled the area. It still retains some of its English charm including the willow and oak-lined River Avon and clustered medieval stone buildings. We begin the day with a city tour to see many of the major sights, including the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral and the Victoria Clock Tower. We'll stop in at the Botanic Gardens for a closer look. Established in 1863, the 75-acre property hosts an outstanding collection of exotic and indigenous plants. This afternoon, we visit the International Antarctic Centre, which aims to recreate the atmosphere and environment of Antarctica, providing a fun and interactive way to experience the "Great White South." The Centre even has a custom-built polar room with real snow & ice made onsite by snow-making artisans. We'll return to our hotel late this afternoon and share dinner together.
Tuesday, 13 October 2026: Fly to Cairns, Australia (B)
Today we say goodbye to New Zealand and G'Day to Australia! Our flight connects through Sydney but we are bound for Cairns on the northeast coast of the continent along the Coral Sea. After arriving in Cairns and checking in to our hotel, the rest of the day will be at leisure. There is a 2-hour time zone change so we gain a bit more time to rest and recoup. Overnight Cairns - 3 nights
Wednesday, 14 October 2026: Catamaran to the Great Barrier Reef (B,L)
Today, we cruise aboard the Ocean Spirit to Michaelmas Cay, a sandy reef island surrounded by coral gardens teeming with an incredible diversity of marine life. The cay is a protected seabird sanctuary hosting over 20,000 migratory seabirds and is one of the most important nesting sites in the Southern Hemisphere. This is an all-day excursion with plenty of time to snorkel or to ride in a semi-submersible sub with qualified marine biologists. Lunch is provided onboard.
Thursday, 15 October 2026: Kuranda Rainforest; Aussie BBQ Lunch; See Koalas (B,L)
After breakfast, we transfer to the Cairns Railway Station to experience yet another spectacular rail journey, the historic Kuranda Rail. Traveling slowly, it winds its way up the epic pioneer track through sugar plantations, past waterfalls and creeks before reaching the village of Kuranda. Take a stroll in the World Heritage Rainforest around the village and check out the markets. We then visit the Rainforestation Nature Park to enjoy cultural entertainment and activities including aboriginal dancers, a guided Dreamtime Walk, a boomerang-throwing demonstration and a "fair dinkum" (Aussie BBQ lunch). There will be time to visit the Koala & Wildlife Park where a series of elevated boardwalks provide close-up views of various Australian animals. We'll also take an amazing ride above the rainforest via the Skyrail, a gondola that glides just above the canopy and allows us to better experience the rainforest.
Friday, 16 October 2026: Fly to Sydney (B)
Enjoy a bit of a leisurely morning before we transfer to the airport for our approximate 4-hour flight to Sydney. Upon arrival, we will transfer to our hotel and the remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight Sydney - 3 nights
Saturday, 17 October 2026: Sydney City Tour with Opera House (B,L)
This morning we embark on a sightseeing city tour of Sydney. Starting at the historic "Rocks" area, we discover a maze of terrace houses and restored warehouses. We'll drive under the "coat hanger" (aka the Sydney Harbour Bridge) and alight at Mrs Macquarie's Chair, an exposed rock cut in the shape of a bench for breathtaking views. We'll also visit the famous surfing spot, Bondi Beach and the Victorian suburb of Paddington, which is comprised of restored terrace houses richly decorated with cast-iron lace. Our morning is capped with a tour of the renowned Opera House. With its white sculptural "shells" rising from the harbor, the Opera House is Sydney's most recognizable structure and one of the seven wonders of the 20th century. As the Opera House is first and foremost a performing arts venue, some areas may be restricted. After our tour, join your Tour Leader for a late lunch. The remainder of the day and evening are yours to enjoy as you wish.
Sunday, 18 October 2026: Personal Day to Explore Sydney; Farewell Dinner (B,D)
Today is your opportunity to explore on your own or with your fellow travelers. Your Tour Leader will have plenty of suggestions. On previous trips, women interested in climbing the bridge over Sydney Harbour started the day with this activity. If you're not afraid of heights, this is a much-loved activity. A day trip to the Blue Mountains is also a possibility or simply enjoy spending another day in lovely Sydney.
Monday, 19 October 2026: Return Home from Sydney (B)
Sadly, our adventure has come to an end. Make your return flight at your convenience. Transfers are not included but your Tour Leader can assist with coordinating ride-shares to the airport if you so wish.
New Zealand & Australia
October 8 - October 19, 2026Pricing
Room Share
$7,346.00Single Room
$9,047.00Non-Members
ADD $100.00Status of this Tour
1 Space Remaining
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Arrival & Departure Transfers
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages other than coffee, tea & still water unless otherwise noted
- Early check-in or late check-out fees
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Visa and/or passport fees
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Leader
- Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Saturday, 11 Apr 2026: Last day $750 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Tuesday, 30 Jun 2026: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Sunday, 9 Aug 2026 results in a cancellation penalty of 75% of your Total Tour Cost.
Sunday, 9 Aug 2026: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
WTT is not licensed to sell travel insurance. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
New Zealand & Australia
October 8 - October 19, 2026Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Documents Required for this Tour
VISA: US & Canadian citizens entering New Zealand will require a visa or Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). A separate visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is required to enter Australia.
All other passport holders should check with the Country's Embassy website to determine if they need a visa. Visa requirements are based on your country of residence. WTT will provide US citizens visa instructions shortly after Final Payment.
Arrival & Departure Information
When searching for flights for this trip, be sure to search "Multi-city" or "Multiple Destinations." For comparison, you may also want to search for one-way fares.
Arrival Airport: AKL - Auckland, New Zealand (Auckland International Airport)
Arrival Date: Thursday, October 8. Arrive no later than 9:00am.
Arrival Transfer: Transfer from airport is not included. Take local transportation. Optional individual private transfer available for purchase. Additional information will be provided in Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: SYD - Sydney, Australia (Sydney Airport)
Departure Date: Monday, October 19th. Depart at your convenience.
Departure Transfer: Use local shuttle or taxi service. WTT Tour Leader will assist in coordinating ride sharing.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are not included: WTT will provide suggestions to get to the hotel in your Final Travel Instructions about 2-3 weeks before the start of the tour. You'll also be able to see who else is arriving at the same time if you want to coordinate ride-sharing to the hotel. Note: This tour has the option to purchase a private arrival transfer.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Auckland: Skycity Hotel Auckland
Rotorua: Millennium Hotel
Christchurch: Distinction Christchurch Hotel
Cairns: Crystalbrook Bailey
Sydney: Paradox Sydney
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
Hotels outside the US may have smaller room sizes, may involve steps to enter the hotel and may not have air conditioning. While WTT strives to find hotels that are similar to US standards, we cannot guarantee it.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$182.00 Roomshare pp $363.00 Single Occupancy
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
Optional Purchases For This Tour
In addition to the Early Arrival Optional Package - available on all WTT tours - this tour offers the following optional purchases.
- Private Arrival Airport Transfer $128 pp
CANCELLATION TERMS: Cancellation of Optional Purchases, which become part of your Total Tour Cost, are subject to the same cancellation terms as the main tour.
New Zealand & Australia
October 8 - October 19, 2026Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
The activities on this tour are rated as follows:
- 40% Easy
- 50% Moderate (significant flight times and time zone adjustment; extensive walking, including steps and inclines)
- 10% Strenuous (length of tour)
Your Responsibilities as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Leader when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Leader will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Leader.
Dietary Restrictions on International Tours: WTT has limited to no control over food selections or variety from meal-to-meal, especially at hotels. While we do our best to accommodate dietary requests and ensure variety of options, we cannot guarantee either.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
For This Trip You May Want—
- Smart-casual wear if you'd like to dress up a bit for dinners.
- Jacket/sweater for the cool mornings and evenings or when out on the water.
- Inexpensive rain poncho or travel umbrella, just in case
- Swimsuit and cover-up—for snorkeling at Michaelmas Cay in Cairns and lounging at hotel pools
- Hat, reef-safe sunblock, sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Athleisure wear
- Hiking shoes or sturdy shoes with good tread
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
On every WTT tour, our policies regarding luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicles we use, the restrictions imposed by other forms of transportation such as small planes, and the requirement that all travelers be able to manage their own belongings without assistance.
- It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- You may bring ONE suitcase plus one carry-on. If carrying a purse, it should be able to be worn across your body, hands-free.
- Air New Zealand and Qantas are the air carriers for this tour and enforce their own baggage policies. You are responsible for any excess baggage fees you might incur.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient. The possibility of steps exist at most hotel entrances.
- You will be traversing many airports as part of this itinerary and will need to handle your own luggage throughout without requiring assistance. You will not have time to search for a porter.
What are the health recommendations for this tour?
What are the phone and internet recommendations for this tour?
- You should understand what your current cell phone plan includes in terms of data and minutes. Some, like certain T-Mobile plans, include an international package.
- Contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding an international calling plan. Most carriers have flat daily rates which will allow your US-based phone to be functional upon arrival in a foreign country.
- Managing data while traveling internationally is important. Using WiFi when available and communicating through apps like What's App help you manage data usage while traveling.
- Learn how to make an international call BEFORE you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the website www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
What are the electricity requirements for this tour?
You may need to purchase a universal adapter which supports a wide variety of sockets/plugs. You should also check your electronic devices for voltage compatibility. Many countries operate on 220V or 230V, which differs from most of North America. Most of today's electronics (laptops, phone chargers etc.) are multi-voltage and will work worldwide automatically, without a transformer. Consult your owner's manual for further details.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: whether the country you are visiting is a cash-based society, the number of meals you are responsible for, your individual shopping interests and habits, and tipping expectations.
- The official currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) and in Australia it is the Australian Dollar (AUD).
- Debit cards can be useful for cash advances. ATMs are typically the best way of obtaining cash as they are found in most airports and big cities and tourist areas. Be judicious about where you use your debit card to minimize fees on cash withdrawals. ATMS of major banks will often give much better exchange rates than currency-exchange kiosks.
- If using a debit card, it is good practice to limit the amount of cash available in the account and simply transfer money from another account if you need more at any point on tour. Always use caution when withdrawing money.
- There are no guarantees that your debit cards will work overseas. Some foreign countries limit the amount that can be withdrawn daily. You must know your 4-digit PIN for your debit card to use ATMs.
- Many travelers choose to exchange $100+ into local currency (through their bank or AAA) so they have cash upon arrival.
- Notify your credit card issuer that you will be traveling and provide dates of travel.
- Credit cards are widely accepted in most destinations. Many cards charge a foreign transaction fee which adds 3% or more on each purchase and up to 10% if using a credit card to withdraw local currency. Be sure to investigate your card of choice as many credit cards impose no foreign transaction fees and are better for international travel.
- If a merchant gives you the choice between making your transaction in USD or the local currency, always choose the local currency, to avoid dynamic currency conversion which includes a conversion fee.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
- Tipping is not expected in Australia or New Zealand. If you have exceptional service and would like to leave a tip, anything more than 10% is considered extraordinary.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
New Zealand & Australia
October 8 - October 19, 2026SPACE RESERVATION REQUEST
If becoming a member and signing up for a tour at the same time, you only need to fill out this form.

Our Promise to You
It doesn’t matter which tour you choose.
You’ll find your people and make memories that last a lifetime.

