South Pacific Wonders
Operated by Collette

South Pacific Wonders

From
CAD 9,649
Duration
18 days
Countries
Australia
Activity
moderate
Rating
4.5 · 181 reviewsvia Collette

The adventure

Discover the wonders of Aboriginal culture an a guided Collette tour with visits to Queenstown, the Agrodome and the warm Polynesian city of Auckland!

At a glance

Duration
18 days
Route
Countries
Australia
Activity level
moderate
Style
Culture & History
Group size
Ask
Flights
Not included
Solo travellers
Ask an agent

Day by day

A picturesque rural road winds through the rolling hills of the Australian countryside under a cloudy sky.
Your journey through

Australia

Day 1Depart from HomeCross the International Dateline, skipping a day ahead, and begin your adventure of a lifetime.
Stunning satellite image capturing Australia surrounded by deep blue ocean waters.Home
Cross the International Dateline, skipping a day ahead, and begin your adventure of a lifetime.
Day 2Cairns, AustraliaGreat Barrier ReefWelcome to Cairns, the tropical gateway to one of the world’s most spectacular natural attractions and a World Heritage site - the Great Barrier Reef. Established as a marine park in 1975, the reef is a haven for thousands of species of sea life, as well as turtles and birds. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. Tonight, we gather for a welcome dinner.
Explore the vibrant underwater world of a coral reef, teeming with colorful fish and marine life.Great Barrier Reef
Welcome to Cairns, the tropical gateway to one of the world’s most spectacular natural attractions and a World Heritage site - the Great Barrier Reef. Established as a marine park in 1975, the reef is a haven for thousands of species of sea life, as well as turtles and birds. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. Tonight, we gather for a welcome dinner.
Map showing Great Barrier Reef
Day 3CairnsCome to know the history of Australia’s original inhabitants at the Rainforestation Nature Park, where an Indigenous Pamagirri guide will show you some of their oldest customs and traditions. Enjoy an "Aussie" barbecue lunch before visiting Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures to see crocodiles on a nature cruise. Head through rainforests on boardwalks to see animals such as birds, reptiles, and wallabies. Visit with a koala and chat with a wildlife naturalist to learn more about these marsupials.
The 1907 School of Arts building with palm trees in Cairns, Queensland, Australia.Cairns
Come to know the history of Australia’s original inhabitants at the Rainforestation Nature Park, where an Indigenous Pamagirri guide will show you some of their oldest customs and traditions. Enjoy an "Aussie" barbecue lunch before visiting Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures to see crocodiles on a nature cruise. Head through rainforests on boardwalks to see animals such as birds, reptiles, and wallabies. Visit with a koala and chat with a wildlife naturalist to learn more about these marsupials.
Map showing Cairns
Day 4Cairns - Great Barrier Reef - CairnsBoard a high-speed catamaran for an exciting excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. Explore the reef from your base on Green Island. Enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride, stroll the island’s walking trails, relax on the beach, snorkel, or just watch the fish and sea turtles swim past from the pier. For a more adventurous encounter with the reef, an optional outer reef tour is also available.
Explore the tranquil tropical beach with clear turquoise waters and lush greenery at Dunk Island, Australia.Cairns
Board a high-speed catamaran for an exciting excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. Explore the reef from your base on Green Island. Enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride, stroll the island’s walking trails, relax on the beach, snorkel, or just watch the fish and sea turtles swim past from the pier. For a more adventurous encounter with the reef, an optional outer reef tour is also available.
Map showing Cairns
Day 5Cairns - SydneyThe morning is yours. Enjoy your last few hours in Cairns by relaxing and taking in the tropical atmosphere and surrounding neighbourhood. Then, fly to the bustling city of Sydney.
Serene forest stream flows over rocks in lush tropical setting, ideal for nature and tranquility themes.Cairns
The morning is yours. Enjoy your last few hours in Cairns by relaxing and taking in the tropical atmosphere and surrounding neighbourhood. Then, fly to the bustling city of Sydney.
Map showing Cairns
Day 6SydneySee where English colonists first settled during a city tour of Sydney, featuring Kings Cross, the Harbour Bridge, Chinatown, the Rocks, Circular Quay, and the Botanic Gardens. Take an expert-led tour of the Sydney Opera House, poised majestically on Sydney Harbour. Then, have the chance to join a special presentation at the National Opal Collection.
A vibrant view of Sydney Harbour Bridge with Luna Park and sailboats highlighting the iconic skyline.Sydney
See where English colonists first settled during a city tour of Sydney, featuring Kings Cross, the Harbour Bridge, Chinatown, the Rocks, Circular Quay, and the Botanic Gardens. Take an expert-led tour of the Sydney Opera House, poised majestically on Sydney Harbour. Then, have the chance to join a special presentation at the National Opal Collection.
Map showing Sydney
Day 7SydneyEmbrace the exciting city of Sydney during a day of independent exploration. Tonight, say farewell to Australia while on a dinner cruise of Sydney Harbour. Marvel at the scenic vistas of the harbour, showcasing Sydney’s magnificent skyline, the iconic Sydney Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge.
Scenic view of Sydney Opera House and bustling harbor in cloudy weather, New South Wales, Australia.Sydney
Embrace the exciting city of Sydney during a day of independent exploration. Tonight, say farewell to Australia while on a dinner cruise of Sydney Harbour. Marvel at the scenic vistas of the harbour, showcasing Sydney’s magnificent skyline, the iconic Sydney Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge.
Map showing Sydney
Day 8Sydney - Auckland, New ZealandSay goodbye to Australia, and hello to New Zealand as you arrive in one of the world’s most inspiring and sought-after destinations due to its clean air, stunning scenery, and friendly culture. Arrive in Auckland, the “City of Sails.” Auckland has the highest Polynesian population in the world, imbuing its chic atmosphere with the vibrant feel of the Pacific Islands.
Stunning view of Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House on a sunny day, showcasing the vibrant cityscape.Sydney
Say goodbye to Australia, and hello to New Zealand as you arrive in one of the world’s most inspiring and sought-after destinations due to its clean air, stunning scenery, and friendly culture. Arrive in Auckland, the “City of Sails.” Auckland has the highest Polynesian population in the world, imbuing its chic atmosphere with the vibrant feel of the Pacific Islands.
Map showing Sydney
Day 9Auckland - RotoruaGet to know the best of Auckland during a panoramic city tour featuring the America’s Cup Village, the War Memorial, vibrant Queen Street, and the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Next, travel to the dramatic geothermal landscape of Rotorua. Known as the Maori capital of New Zealand, over one-third of Rotorua’s population has Maori roots dating back over 1,000 years. Tonight, experience an authentic Hangi dinner celebration and learn about the warm-hearted Maoris as well as their lives before European colonists arrived in Aotearoa (New Zealand) and since.
A peaceful suburban scene capturing the essence of Auckland's residential area with lush greenery and houses.Auckland
Get to know the best of Auckland during a panoramic city tour featuring the America’s Cup Village, the War Memorial, vibrant Queen Street, and the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Next, travel to the dramatic geothermal landscape of Rotorua. Known as the Maori capital of New Zealand, over one-third of Rotorua’s population has Maori roots dating back over 1,000 years. Tonight, experience an authentic Hangi dinner celebration and learn about the warm-hearted Maoris as well as their lives before European colonists arrived in Aotearoa (New Zealand) and since.
Map showing Auckland
Day 10RotoruaThis morning, visit Whakarewarewa Thermal Village, New Zealand's premier Maori cultural and geothermal experience. Witness a landscape of erupting geysers, bubbling mud pools, and other geothermal wonders. Take part in an interactive demonstration on the art of weaving. You will also view the Kiwi bird and learn what is being done in an effort to remove the Kiwi from the endangered species list. Then, visit the Agrodome for a fun sheep-shearing demonstration and learn about the importance of agriculture to the nation. After dinner, relax or explore this lovely city on your own.
Traditional Maori building by Rotorua Lake with geothermal steam rising, captured in daylight.Rotorua
This morning, visit Whakarewarewa Thermal Village, New Zealand's premier Maori cultural and geothermal experience. Witness a landscape of erupting geysers, bubbling mud pools, and other geothermal wonders. Take part in an interactive demonstration on the art of weaving. You will also view the Kiwi bird and learn what is being done in an effort to remove the Kiwi from the endangered species list. Then, visit the Agrodome for a fun sheep-shearing demonstration and learn about the importance of agriculture to the nation. After dinner, relax or explore this lovely city on your own.
Map showing Rotorua
Day 11Rotorua - ChristchurchA short flight brings you to the historic city of Christchurch. Devastated by an earthquake in early 2011, see firsthand how the city known as the "Garden City” is recreating itself. This afternoon, <b>it’s your choice!</b> Experience the fascinating science behind earthquakes at Quake City, with engaging exhibits and stories that shake up your understanding <b>-OR-</b> embark on an icy adventure at the Antarctic Centre, where you can meet penguins and immerse yourself in the chill of Antarctica.
Explore the striking geothermal landscape and azure lake in Rotorua's unique natural setting.Rotorua
A short flight brings you to the historic city of Christchurch. Devastated by an earthquake in early 2011, see firsthand how the city known as the "Garden City” is recreating itself. This afternoon, <b>it’s your choice!</b> Experience the fascinating science behind earthquakes at Quake City, with engaging exhibits and stories that shake up your understanding <b>-OR-</b> embark on an icy adventure at the Antarctic Centre, where you can meet penguins and immerse yourself in the chill of Antarctica.
Map showing Rotorua
Day 12ChristchurchStart your morning with a visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. A leader in the conservation of New Zealand species, Willowbank offers the chance to view New Zealand’s “Big 5” - the Kiwi, the Kea, the Tuatara, the Kaka, and the Takahe - up close and personal. Then, learn about the local Indigenous culture of the Maori with a paddle on the Avon River in a traditional <i>waka</i> (canoe).
Stunning architectural view of the Christchurch Arts Centre, a historic landmark in New Zealand.Christchurch
Start your morning with a visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. A leader in the conservation of New Zealand species, Willowbank offers the chance to view New Zealand’s “Big 5” - the Kiwi, the Kea, the Tuatara, the Kaka, and the Takahe - up close and personal. Then, learn about the local Indigenous culture of the Maori with a paddle on the Avon River in a traditional <i>waka</i> (canoe).
Map showing Christchurch
Day 13Christchurch - QueenstownDepart Christchurch and trek south to Queenstown during a half-day of travel. Known as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” Queenstown is nestled against a picturesque bay and snowcapped mountains. Arrive in Queenstown in the afternoon and have time to explore independently before dinner.
Scenic view of the Bridge of Remembrance in Christchurch, New Zealand, spanning the Avon River.Christchurch
Depart Christchurch and trek south to Queenstown during a half-day of travel. Known as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” Queenstown is nestled against a picturesque bay and snowcapped mountains. Arrive in Queenstown in the afternoon and have time to explore independently before dinner.
Map showing Christchurch
Day 14QueenstownCruise Lake Wakatipu surrounded by Queenstown’s stunning landscape. Then, enjoy a lakeside "Kiwi" barbecue lunch, followed by a sheepdog demonstration, before sailing back. Later, take a gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak* for stunning panoramic views of the area. This evening is yours to enjoy charming Queenstown. Get some good rest ahead of a long day of travel tomorrow.
Breathtaking aerial view of Queenstown by Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by majestic mountains under clear skies.Queenstown
Cruise Lake Wakatipu surrounded by Queenstown’s stunning landscape. Then, enjoy a lakeside "Kiwi" barbecue lunch, followed by a sheepdog demonstration, before sailing back. Later, take a gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak* for stunning panoramic views of the area. This evening is yours to enjoy charming Queenstown. Get some good rest ahead of a long day of travel tomorrow.
Map showing Queenstown
Day 15Queenstown - Milford Sound - QueenstownEnjoy the rugged grandeur of the Hollyford Valley as you travel through an ancient beech forest via the Homer Tunnel. Cruise Milford Sound and see why this fjord is one of the most visited sights on South Island. Following your cruise, you may choose to return to Queenstown via a short optional flight (weather permitting) for spectacular views of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.
Stunning aerial shot of Queenstown, New Zealand with clear blue lake and snow-capped mountains.Queenstown
Enjoy the rugged grandeur of the Hollyford Valley as you travel through an ancient beech forest via the Homer Tunnel. Cruise Milford Sound and see why this fjord is one of the most visited sights on South Island. Following your cruise, you may choose to return to Queenstown via a short optional flight (weather permitting) for spectacular views of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.
Map showing Queenstown
Day 16QueenstownA free day offers an optional tour taking you through the majestic Queenstown countryside showcasing many of the locations where blockbuster movies have been filmed, or perhaps you’ll want to shop and people watch in the village. Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner.
Vibrant suburban street in Queenstown, New Zealand, nestled against lush mountains.Queenstown
A free day offers an optional tour taking you through the majestic Queenstown countryside showcasing many of the locations where blockbuster movies have been filmed, or perhaps you’ll want to shop and people watch in the village. Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner.
Map showing Queenstown
Day 17Queenstown - Tour EndsYour tour comes to a close today, leaving you with many pleasant memories of a wonderful adventure.
A stunning aerial winter view of Queenstown, New Zealand, showcasing snow-covered buildings and Lake Wakatipu.Queenstown
Your tour comes to a close today, leaving you with many pleasant memories of a wonderful adventure.
Map showing Queenstown

Traveller reviews

4.5

Based on 181 reviews · via Collette

Discover Australia

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Upcoming departures

DatesPrice / personAvailability
6 Oct 202623 Oct 2026CAD 9,649Sold outBook my trip
Operated by Collette

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