Southern Horizons: Australia & New Zealand in Private

Sydney NS

Australia Welcome Package, Private Airport Transfer with Meet & Greet, Sydney Harbour at Leisure, Flavors of Sydney: Curated Dining Recommendations

A welcome package with a detailed itinerary, supplier contact list, various brochures of the destinations you will be visiting and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon arrival at the first hotel on your trip.. For your comfort, an assistant will be waiting for you outside of Customs holding a sign with your name on it. This representative will assist you in meeting your private driver and accompany you to your accommodation in Sydney to assist with check-in.. During your free time, consider exploring the Harbour area with its many cafes, gift shops and gorgeous waterfront, or perhaps head to the Queen Victoria Building to shop at a few high-end designer boutiques. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to enjoy your time at leisure in sensational Sydney.. Sydney boasts an incredible dining scene, with standout restaurants offering world-class cuisine and breathtaking views. Quay, one of Australia’s most awarded restaurants, features Executive Chef Peter Gilmore’s nature-inspired tasting menus with panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. Bennelong, located inside the Opera House, celebrates Australian ingredients with a seasonal menu crafted in collaboration with top producers. Café Sydney, perched atop Customs House, is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced Australian fare and stellar wine list. For sky-high dining, Altitude Restaurant on the 36th floor of the Shangri-La Hotel presents stunning city views alongside a European-influenced menu. Icebergs Dining Room & Bar offers modern Italian cuisine overlooking Bondi Beach, while Mr. Wong is a CBD hotspot known for its exceptional dim sum and Cantonese flavors. Rockpool Bar & Grill, set in an Art Deco skyscraper, specializes in wood-fired meats and Australia’s finest wines. The Dining Room, nestled in The Rocks, offers sustainable Australian cuisine with an iconic Opera House backdrop. Other top recommendations include 6Head and Meat & Co, both renowned for premium steaks and waterfront views.

Accommodation: Amora Jamison Hotel (B) (Deluxe Double Double Room), Sydney NS

Sydney NS

Essential Sydney (with Lunch, 5 hrs) - Private

Delve into one of Sydney’s most vibrant and visually captivating neighborhoods with a private driver-guide, exploring key highlights that showcase the city’s rich heritage and modern charm. Begin in The Rocks, Sydney’s historic heart, where cobblestone streets, convict-era cottages, and the city’s first church reveal glimpses of early colonial life. Travel along Macquarie Street, home to architectural landmarks such as Australia’s first Parliament House, Hyde Park Barracks, and the grand St Mary’s Cathedral. Visit the Royal Botanic Garden before strolling to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, a sandstone lookout offering iconic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Rejoin your vehicle for a scenic drive through Woolloomooloo, Kings Cross, and Rushcutters Bay, stopping for a leisurely lunch at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia. Continue through prestigious suburbs including Darling Point, Double Bay, Rose Bay, Vaucluse, and Watsons Bay, where opulent residences meet sparkling harbor vistas. At Bondi Beach, enjoy free time to soak in the vibrant atmosphere or stroll along the esplanade. Return to the city via Oxford Street and Paddington, admiring charming boutiques and heritage architecture, before a private transfer back to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Amora Jamison Hotel (B) (Deluxe Double Double Room), Sydney NS

Sydney NS

Blue Mountains Deluxe Experience (with Lunch, 10 hrs) - Small Group

Experience the UNESCO-listed Blue Mountains National Park on a small group adventure, where towering sandstone cliffs, lush eucalyptus forests, and remote lookouts await your exploration. Departing from the city, travel to the Blue Mountains along with fellow participants and make your first stop of the day at Calmsley Hill, a working farm also home to kangaroos, emus, wombats, and koalas. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure. From Calmsley Hill, continue to ascend the Blue Mountains with a visit to one of a range of stunning outlooks over the Jamison Valley, offering beautiful vistas. Carry onward to Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote point removed from the crowds to appreciate the famous Three Sisters. Snap a few keepsake photos while your guide discusses the legends behind this iconic rock formation, and then head toward the village of Blackheath to enjoy a lunch at Hydro Majestic (drinks not included). Following lunch, visit Govetts Leap, one of the most famous lookouts in Australia; here, a magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 590 feet from the base of a cliff down to the valley below. Next, you’ll travel to the western boundary of the park and descend into Hartley Vale to learn the history of this picturesque farmland valley, which is also home to kangaroos, emus, and a number of endemic bird species. Conclude with a transfer back to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Amora Jamison Hotel (B) (Deluxe Double Double Room), Sydney NS

Sydney NS, Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Private Airport Transfer, Flight: Sydney to Uluru (Separate Purchase), Shared Airport Transfer, Kata Tjuta Domes (3 hrs) - Small Group

You will be privately transferred between your accommodations and Sydney Airport alongside a professional driver.. Board a flight in Sydney with service to Uluru. Approximate direct flight duration is 3.5 hours. This flight is not included in the price and must be purchased separately.. A shared transfer from the Uluru airport to your hotel and vice versa is provided. Waiting times at both the airport and hotels may vary, but are usually on average 20 minutes.. Travel with a small group of fellow participants into the striking landscapes of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, where your driver-guide leads you to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), a sacred site where dramatic domed formations rise from the earth and rare flora and fauna flourish. Begin the journey at the Southern Dune Viewing Platform for panoramic views of Kata Tjuta, and Uluru in the distance. Here your guide will reveal the many attributes of this diverse environment and describe the cultural significance of Kata Tjuta as a sacred Aboriginal men’s ceremonial site. Depending on the season, you will either have the chance to walk between the mighty conglomerate domes along the Walpa Gorge, or travel to the Western lookout, where you will learn about these mighty conglomerate domes and how they have eroded over millions of years. Finally, take a short drive on the famous Great Central Road to the western boundary of the National Park, before returning to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Desert Gardens (B) (Desert Deluxe Room), Sydney NS

Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Highlights of Uluru at Sunrise (with Breakfast, 3 hrs) - Small Group, Field of Light by Nightfall (with Dinner, 4.5 hrs) - Shared

Witness an unforgettable sunrise over the heart of the Red Centre alongside your driver-guide and a small group of fellow participants. Depart between 4:45 am and 6:15 am (depending on the time of the year) , travel toward Uluru and arrive in time to see the desert awaken in golden light. Watch the massive silhouette of this iconic monolith emerge from the shadows as the sky shifts through brilliant hues of pink, orange, and red. Your guide will lead you to a specially chosen vantage point and share the ancient creation stories of Liru and Kuniya, offering insight into the spiritual and cultural significance of the site to the Mala people. After taking in the extraordinary atmosphere, enjoy a light breakfast surrounded by the stillness of the outback. Then continue your experience with a visit to Mutitjulu Waterhole, a place rich in Anangu heritage and natural beauty. Conclude the morning with a drive around the base of Uluru, taking in its many faces and formations as your guide shares stories passed down for generations. Conclude with a shared transfer to your accommodation.. ‘A Night at Field of Light’ is a shared evening experience that transports you with fellow participants to a remote desert location, where more than 50,000 glass spheres bloom softly beneath the night sky, casting a mesmerizing glow across the majestic silhouette of Uluru. With Uluru as the backdrop, you will enjoy canapés and chilled sparkling wine to the sounds of a didgeridoo as the sun slowly sets. As darkness gradually falls and the colored lights of the 50,000 glass spheres come to life you will enjoy local Indigenous performance, welcoming you to this unique country, before being invited to join fellow travelers at the dinner table for a special three-course bush tucker inspired buffet menu. A knowledgeable guide will provide insights and background to the monumental installation and you are invited to immerse yourself and walk through Field of Light. After dinner you are welcomed back at the dune viewing area to enjoy a sweet treat, hot chocolate or port whilst viewing the illuminated installation in the darkness.

Accommodation: Desert Gardens (B) (Desert Deluxe Room), Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Uluru (Ayers Rock), Cairns, Palm Cove

Shared Airport Transfer, Flight: Uluru to Cairns (Separate Purchase), Cairns to Palm Cove (30 min) - Private Transfer

A shared transfer from the Uluru airport to your hotel and vice versa is provided. Waiting times at both the airport and hotels may vary, but are usually on average 20 minutes.. Board a flight in Uluru with service to Cairns. Approximate direct flight duration is 2.5 hours. This flight is not included in the price and must be purchased separately.. Meet your private driver for a transfer to Palm Cove. Approximate travel time is 30 minutes.

Accommodation: Peppers Beach Club (B) (Resort Spa Room), Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Palm Cove

Upolu Cay & Reef Sailing Escape (with Lunch, 9 hrs) - Shared

Cruise in style to the Great Barrier Reef, the ideal way to experience this famed natural wonder. Enjoy personalized snorkeling, certified and introductory diving lessons, and a glass-bottom boat tour alongside a friendly and professional crew and other fellow participants. At pristine Upolu Cay - a coral formation surrounded by crystal waters - set your sights on a moving system, the shape and size of which alters as the currents, wind and waves carve its form. A naturally occurring pontoon, the size and visibility of the cay, and access to it, is subject to a host of conditions; on certain days, fortunate guests will not only be able to spot the cay but also to physically set foot on the formation (this cannot be guaranteed). No matter the weather, this six hour cruise through the Great Barrier Reef will also include a range of scrumptious seafood lunch to enjoy in tow. With an enthusiastic crew committed to catering to your every need, a memorable and safe experience on the Great Barrier Reef is yours to discover. Please note: The cruise operates with a maximum of 75 passengers.

Accommodation: Peppers Beach Club (B) (Resort Spa Room), Palm Cove

Palm Cove

Palm Cove at Leisure

Spend the day soaking up the Australian sun in Palm Cove. Home to one of the country's loveliest beaches lined with palm trees, this is one of the most beautiful locations in Australia. Consider popping into several of the town's vibrant shops and restaurants or simply relaxing in this idyllic tropical location.

Accommodation: Peppers Beach Club (B) (Resort Spa Room), Palm Cove

Palm Cove, Cairns, Melbourne

Palm Cove to Cairns (30 min) - Private Transfer, Flight: Cairns to Melbourne (Separate Purchase), Private Airport Transfer, Melbourne Dining Suggestions

A transfer in a private vehicle with a driver between Palm Cove and Cairns is provided. Transfer time is approximately 30 minutes.. Board a flight in Cairns with service to Melbourne. Approximate direct flight duration is 3 hours and 25 minutes. This flight is not included in the price and must be purchased separately.. You will be privately transferred between your accommodations and Melbourne's domestic airport alongside a professional driver.. Melbourne is a food lover’s paradise, offering a rich tapestry of global cuisines and cutting-edge dining experiences. For a refined evening, try Vue de Monde, a fine-dining icon with stunning views and a modern Australian tasting menu. For a more casual yet quintessentially Melbourne experience, Chin Chin serves vibrant Thai flavors in a lively atmosphere. Coffee aficionados will appreciate Patricia Coffee Brewers or Market Lane Coffee for world-class brews. Explore Lygon Street for authentic Italian trattorias or wander through Fitzroy for eclectic cafes and wine bars. For an unforgettable local experience, book a spot at Attica, one of Australia’s top restaurants, known for its creative dishes and indigenous ingredients. Let us tailor reservations to your tastes.

Accommodation: The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins (B) (Savoy Room), Palm Cove

Melbourne

Hidden Lanes & Arcades of Melbourne (with Lunch, 3-4 hrs) - Small Group

Step into the enchanting laneways and hidden corners of Melbourne on a half day walking tour alongside a small group of fellow participants and a knowledgeable guide. Depart from Federation Square to uncover the city’s most captivating arcades, street art, and tucked-away gems. From the high arched ceilings of the Royal Arcade, opened in 1870, to the rich decorations of the Block Arcade, in operation since 1892, they never fail to impress. Housing a range of family-operated boutique curios, on this behind-the-scenes tour you’ll learn the fascinating history of this cosmopolitan city while being introduced to some of its most interesting districts. As you explore myriad passageways, you’ll spot cutting edge street art and also make a stop at a local chocolate shop for a light tasting. Toward the end of the experience, chat with your guide to develop a plan for the rest of the day or simply continue to explore the area on your own, perhaps returning to a few favorite gems in the afternoon.

Accommodation: The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins (B) (Savoy Room), Melbourne

Melbourne

Phillip Island Penguins & Moonlit Wildlife Experience (8–10 hrs) - Small Group

Discover Phillip Island’s dramatic landscapes and astounding variety of wildlife on a small group adventure with fellow participants. Your day begins when you drive southeast from Melbourne until you reach the Moonlit Sanctuary Park. Here get an opportunity to meet some of the most beloved endangered species of Australia, such as kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and an array of colorful birds and reptiles. The journey continues as you make your way to Phillip Island, the home of the renowned Penguin Parade. Head to Woolamai beach and get a glimpse of the hip Aussie surf culture as you watch surfers ride the waves. From here, travel to the western corner of the island to enjoy magnificent views of Bass Strait and the Nobbies - home to the largest colony of fur seals in Australia. Next, depending on the time of year, enjoy some free time for dinner (not included) in the town of Cowe or at the Penguin Parade Visitor Center before bearing witness to the most adorable black-tie event – The Penguin Parade. Head to the viewing platform and see the Little Penguins come ashore, decked out in their tuxedos as they hurry off to find their burrows. After a thrilling evening with the penguins you will be transferred back to your hotel in Melbourne.

Accommodation: The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins (B) (Savoy Room), Melbourne

Melbourne, Queenstown

Private Airport Transfer, Flight: Melbourne to Queenstown (Separate Purchase), New Zealand Welcome Package, Private Airport Transfer, Dining Recommendations

You will be privately transferred between your hotel and Melbourne's international airport alongside a professional driver.. Board a flight in Melbourne with service to Queenstown. Approximate direct flight duration is 3 hours and 15 minutes. This flight is not included in the price and must be purchased separately.. You will receive a welcome package on arrival which will include a welcome letter, detailed itinerary, voucher summary including supplier contact list as well as a 'sustainability pack' with reusable coffee mug and carry bag. No physical vouchers will be included. This will be available at your first hotel. Please request upon check in if not presented to you or in your room upon arrival.. A private vehicle will provide a transfer between the airport and your hotel.. Queenstown offers an eclectic dining scene to suit every taste, from casual bites to refined gourmet experiences. For iconic local flavor, Ferg Burger delivers legendary burgers, while Erik’s Fish and Chips satisfies classic seaside cravings. Seasonal visitors can enjoy the Queenstown Food Truck Festival for lively street eats, or head to Remarkables Market in Frankton for fresh local produce and artisanal treats. For contemporary New Zealand cuisine, Rata, True South Dining Room, and Botswana Butchery showcase premium regional ingredients in stylish settings, while The Grille by Eichardts and Nest Bar & Kitchen offer chic interiors and inventive menus. Asian-inspired flavors shine at Blue Kanu, Madam Woo, and White & Wongs, providing bold tastes and creative presentations. For unique experiences, Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ on the lakefront combines stunning scenery with hearty fare, while Amisfield Winery & Bistro pairs fine wines with seasonal dishes. From casual to sophisticated, Queenstown’s diverse culinary options promise memorable meals for every palate.

Accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel (B) (Oasis Room), Melbourne

Queenstown

Milford Sound Escape (with Light Lunch, 12 hrs) - Shared Tour

Discover the majesty of Milford Sound in comfort on this full day shared adventure. Travel in a glass roof van with a local expert for a relaxed, scenic journey through New Zealand’s stunning alpine landscapes. Along the legendary Milford Sound Road, pause at handpicked scenic stops far from the crowds before arriving at the “eighth wonder of the world.” Step aboard your cruise vessel, the elegant MV Sinbad, greeted with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, and settle into spacious seating as you glide through the dramatic fiord. Savor a selection of locally sourced dishes infused with Maori cultural elements. Throughout your experience, attentive hosts and a knowledgeable nature guide bring the story of Piopiotahi to life—sharing legends, insights, and helping you spot seals, dolphins, and other native wildlife. A perfect harmony of leisure, culture, and natural beauty, this experience offers an unforgettable day in Fiordland’s heart before your comfortable return to your accommodation.

Accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel (B) (Oasis Room), Queenstown

Queenstown

Dart River Wilderness Safari (4.5 hrs) - Shared Tour

Take part in the world famous Dart River Wilderness Safari. This tour includes an exhilarating jetboat ride deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mount Aspiring National Park - a must-do when in Queenstown! Make your way for check in at the Queenstown Information Centre for 8:15am (at the corner of Shotover and Camp Streets). You’ll experience a unique combination of breath-taking scenery and an exhilarating ride as you follow the braided, glacier-fed rivers by jet boat with exciting 360 degree spins along the way. The guides give an authentic touch, talking about the area’s rich history, the Greenstone trail and countless Maori legends. It’s a complete Queenstown to Glenorchy experience in an untouched natural wonderland. Always dress warmly, wear comfortable walking shoes/boots and bring eyewear (sunglasses or prescription glasses). Bring a sunhat and sunscreen in summer and a warm hat and gloves in winter (June - October).

Accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel (B) (Oasis Room), Queenstown

Queenstown, Rotorua

Private Airport Transfer, Queenstown-Rotorua Flight (Separate Purchase), Private Airport Transfer, Dining Recommendations

Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.. Board a flight in Queenstown with service to Rotorua. Please note that your flight will require a connection. Approximate flight duration is three hours and 25 minutes. This flight is not included in the price and must be purchased separately.. A privately driven vehicle will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel today.. Rotorua’s dining scene blends local charm, international flair, and scenic settings for every taste. Start with the Skyline Gondola, where a hilltop restaurant pairs sweeping views with contemporary New Zealand cuisine. In town, Atticus Finch offers vibrant share-style plates, Sabroso brings bold Latin flavors, and Ambrosia on Eat Streat delivers global dishes in a lively atmosphere. Families will love Eastwood at the Redwoods for wood-fired pizzas and relaxed dining or Secret Spot Hot Tubs for gourmet burgers in a casual outdoor space. The Fainting Goat serves hearty gastropub fare, while fine dining awaits at The Mains at On the Point, Urbano Bistro, and Barrel & Co., showcasing seasonal New Zealand ingredients. For refined evenings, POCO Tapas & Wine Bar and The Regent Room feature small plates and fine wines. Guests of Solitaire Lodge can enjoy an exclusive farm-to-table experience overlooking Lake Tarawera. From relaxed bites to elegant dining, Rotorua welcomes every palate with warmth and flavor.

Accommodation: Regent of Rotorua (B) (Superior), Queenstown

Rotorua

Eco-Thermal Tour (4 hrs) - Shared Tour, Te Pa Tu Maori Evening Experience (with Dinner, 5 hrs)

After an early morning pick-up, journey through the forests and farmlands outside of Rotorua en route to Wai-o-Tapu, host to New Zealand's largest boiling mud pool, colorful hot springs and the world-famous Lady Knox geyser, which – with luck – you’ll watch erupt before your eyes. Next, you’ll set off to Waimangu Thermal Valley where your experienced guide will provide details relating to the massive eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886 and its long-lasting effects on the local environment while exploring the exotic, seemingly-lunar landscape. This tour departs at 8:00 am, takes approximately four hours and 30 minutes to complete, and operates with a maximum of 15 guests.. Immerse yourself in a sensory journey at Te Pa Tu, a forest Pa (village) where culture, history, and cuisine come to life. Nestled among towering Tawa trees and illuminated by bonfires, this celebration and feast showcase the rich traditions of the Maori people, evolving with the seasons of the Maori lunar calendar. From November to April, during Summer's Tu Te Ra phase, the sun's energy and the abundance of harvest is honored, while delving into the history of Maori warfare and peace. From May to October, in Winter's Tu Te Ihi, it's a time to pay homage to the Matariki stars, symbolizing energy and passion. No matter the season, you'll savor Maori delicacies such as roasted tuna, creamy paua (abalone), smoked kahawai, and more, accompanied by torchlight guiding guests to a lavish yet relaxed four-course feast. Hangi takes center stage, complemented by fusion-style dishes like Wagyu picanha, watercress chimichurri, and kumara ice cream, each inspired by traditional ingredients and stories. Whether dining al fresco or in the wharekai (dining room), celebrate the spirit of hakari - feasting - and the essence of Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Accommodation: Regent of Rotorua (B) (Superior)

Rotorua, Auckland, Waitomo Caves

Transfer - Private - Rotorua - Auckland [Via Waitomo (3 hrs)] - Vehicle/Driver-Guide (Touring One Way), Glowworm Caves (45 mins) - Shared Tour, Dining Recommendations

You will be privately transferred between Rotorua and Auckland. Approximate travel time is three hours. There is an option for many iconic stops like Waitomo Glowworm Caves or Hobbiton in between these two cities; Please let your Destination Expert know if you would like to add any in.. Your shared guided tour will take you through over 250 meters of stunning underground scenery commencing with the impressive Cathedral. Your tour begins at the upper entrance of the cave and proceeds along a low narrow passage to the Tomo, a deep limestone shaft.  Your experienced tour guide will deliver a highly informative commentary about the formations and the history of the area. The highlight is an unrivaled boat trip through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto. Marvel at Mother Nature's light display as you glide silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. Meander underground along the Waitomo River and gaze in silence at the myriad of glow worm lights that make up the Glowworm Grotto. As you enter this galaxy of tiny living lights, you'll immediately experience a serene ambience and be fascinated and intrigued by tiny glowworms that light your way. Tours depart every half hour daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily, and are approximately 45 minutes in duration. The group size is limited to 25 passengers.. Auckland’s dining scene offers an exciting mix of contemporary, casual, and fine dining experiences to suit every palate. For a relaxed brunch or market-fresh bites, Ponsonby Central, Matakana Markets on Saturday mornings, and Auckland Fish Market provide vibrant, fresh options. Casual yet flavorful options include Depot and One Tree Grill, while Prego and East – Sudima offer Italian and modern New Zealand cuisine in stylish settings. For elevated fine dining, Sidart, Clooney, The French Café, and Ahi showcase innovative menus with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Seafood enthusiasts will enjoy Oyster & Chop, Sails, and Masu, while plant-based diners can experience Bossi, which offers vegan options. Wine lovers will appreciate The Wine Room by David Nash for pairing exquisite vintages with thoughtfully crafted dishes. For a truly unique experience, Velskov Maori Private Dining provides an intimate exploration of Maori culinary traditions. From casual markets to Michelin-level sophistication, Auckland’s diverse restaurants promise a memorable culinary journey.

Accommodation: Sudima Auckland City (B) (Premium King), Rotorua

Auckland

Best of Both Worlds (8 hrs) - Shared Tour

Following a hotel pick up, board a shared coach and tour Auckland while taking in incredible views of the harbor and yacht marina from Harbour Bridge, visiting Auckland Domain, Parnell village, Paratai Drive - with the most exclusive homes in Auckland - the waterfront and Queen Street. Continue on into the wilderness in the afternoon as you head roughly 20 miles (30 kilometers) from downtown Auckland into the city's largest Regional Park - the Waitakere Ranges. Here you’ll visit the Arataki Centre, lush rainforests, and stroll along one of the West Coast’s unspoiled beaches before being returned to your hotel in Auckland.

Accommodation: Sudima Auckland City (B) (Premium King)

Auckland

Private Airport Transfer

Meet your private driver for a transfer between the airport and your hotel.

Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport) ( ), Auckland