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Oceania Itinerary: Australia & New Zealand

  • Christchurch, Franz Josef, Wanaka, Te Anau, Queenstown, Melbourne, Sydney
  • 15 nights / 16 days, prices start from USD$8,000

Experience two of the world’s most stunning destinations on this immersive journey through New Zealand and Australia. From the Southern Alps and glacial lakes to cosmopolitan cities and coastal wildlife, this itinerary blends natural beauty with culture, adventure, and modern luxury. Ride one of the world’s great scenic railways, cruise among fjords and harbours, and explore vibrant city laneways — all while staying in carefully selected boutique accommodations that showcase regional character and charm. 

THE TRANZALPINE TRAIN IS WIDELY KNOWN AS ONE OF THE WORLD'S GREATEST TRAIN JOURNEYS

Top Highlights

  • Ride the legendary TranzAlpine Train across New Zealand’s Southern Alps
  • Explore Franz Josef Glacier and the lush rainforest surroundings
  • Cruise to Mou Waho Island on Lake Wanaka and spot native wildlife
  • Sail Sydney Harbour aboard a private luxury lunch cruise
  • Witness the famous Penguin Parade on Phillip Island
  • See koalas and kangaroos in the wild with expert naturalist guides
  • Discover Melbourne’s laneways and hidden local culture
  • Experience the magical glowworm caves and Milford Sound in Fiordland

What’s Included

We design unforgettable and luxurious journeys just for you. Our bespoke trips include:

  • Double room accomodations
  • Breakfast at hotels
  • Private transfers
  • Private tours and experiences
  • Full support from your travel designer and on the ground
  • Domestic flights

Itinerary

Arrive in New Zealand

Christchurch, New Zealand

Arrive in Christchurch, the gateway to the South Island. Spend your first day exploring this charming and resilient city at your own pace — wander the Botanic Gardens, browse the boutiques and cafés along the Avon River, or visit the local art scene. On the second day, embark on the breathtaking TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth, one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Traverse the patchwork farmland of the Canterbury Plains, follow the Waimakariri River into alpine terrain, cross dramatic viaducts, and descend through rainforest to the west coast.

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION: The Classic Villa — a beautifully restored Italian-style historic home turned elegant 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of Christchurch.

Franz Josef, New Zealand

Continue to Franz Josef, a lush rainforest village framed by glaciers and mountains. Here, you’ll experience the serene landscapes of New Zealand’s West Coast, where the warmth of timber interiors and natural art reflect the surrounding wilderness. Enjoy time to explore local walking trails, visit the glacier viewpoint, or relax in the thermal hot pools nestled among the trees.

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION: Westwood Lodge — a luxurious lodge set in a tranquil bush garden, only a short walk from Franz Josef village.

Wanaka, New Zealand

Travel to the stunning alpine town of Wanaka, known for its relaxed charm and spectacular scenery. Discover the beauty of Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve, accessible via a short lake cruise with Eco Wanaka Adventures. Climb through native bush to the island’s small lake — Arethusa Pool — and take in panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. Mou Waho is predator-free and home to native birdlife including weka, wood pigeons, and the New Zealand falcon.

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION: Wanaka Springs Lodge — a peaceful retreat with landscaped gardens, natural springs, and sweeping mountain views. 

Te Anau, New Zealand

Nestled on the edge of Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is the perfect base for exploring New Zealand’s most dramatic natural wonders. Cruise across Lake Te Anau to explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where you’ll drift silently beneath a canopy of glittering bioluminescence. The following day, journey along the famous Milford Road to board a Milford Sound Nature Cruise, passing towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and playful dolphins.

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION: Te Anau Lodge — a converted 1936 convent offering classic charm, lake views, and warm New Zealand hospitality.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Complete your New Zealand adventure in Queenstown, a picturesque alpine resort town known for adventure, fine dining, and breathtaking views. Enjoy time to stroll along the lakefront, explore boutique shops, or take the gondola for sweeping views of the Remarkables mountain range.

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION: Browns Boutique hotel: A STYLISH, EUROPEAN-INSPIRED HIDEAWAY OVERLOOKING QUEENSTOWN’S TOWN CENTER, JUST MINUTES FROM THE LAKE AND RESTERAUNTS.

Melbourne, Australia

Fly across the Tasman Sea to vibrant Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital. Discover the city’s creative side on the Hidden Secrets Lanes and Arcades Tour, where local guides reveal tucked-away cafés, boutiques, and street art in the city’s famous laneways. Spend a safari day tracking wild koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat, and another visiting Phillip Island with a ranger to witness the enchanting Penguin Parade at dusk. Between adventures, enjoy Melbourne’s food scene and local charm.

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION: Oaks on Market — a contemporary apartment-style hotel just steps from Melbourne’s laneways, cafés, and galleries.

Sydney, Australia

Your final stop brings you to Sydney, a glittering harbour city of icons and coastal energy. Join a Sydney walking tour, exploring The Rocks, the Harbour Bridge, and the Opera House while uncovering stories of the city’s colonial past and vibrant present. Then, enjoy the ultimate farewell experience aboard a Sensational Sydney Cruise — a luxury motor yacht lunch cruise with swimming, kayaking, and gourmet dining as you sail past Sydney’s most famous landmarks.

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION: Amora Hotel Jamison — a centrally located, contemporary five-star hotel offering modern luxury and easy access to Sydney’s best attractions.

Depart from Australia

We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itinerary is a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you.

Hear it from our clients first

Our family vacation to Greece, which included Athens, Crete, Santorini and Mykonos, was unforgettable!

The accommodations were lovely and centrally located to maximize our time at all of the hot spot destinations. Our private guides were very informative with all of the history and culture that Greece has to offer. Various transportation needs were met through planes, boats and private transfers which made travel effortless from one destination to the next. Thank you GHardy Tours for putting together a remarkable experience for the whole family to enjoy and providing memories to last a lifetime.
— Tammy and Jason /
Toronto, Ontario
Hear it from our clients first

The GHardy team planned the perfect family vacation to Italy for us!

The hotels, private tours and excursions were all exceptional and exactly what we were hoping for! We didn’t have to stress over anything – we just showed up and there was always someone to meet us. We also took great comfort knowing if any issue did arise, the G/Hardy Tours team, as well as a 24/7 emergency contact on the ground in Italy were always a message or call away.
— Kerri Torrey /
Toronto, Ontario
Hear it from our clients first

Thank you so much for arranging everything for our Italy trip.

We had an amazing time without focusing on planning logistics. Your driver and guides are top of the line and mesmerized us with their in-depth knowledge. We cannot express our sincere gratitude with everything you have done for us. Thanks to you, we LOVED, LOVED, LOVED our experience in Italy!
— Rob Romero /
King City, Canada
Hear it from our clients first

I had an absolutely incredible experience with GHardy Tours for my trip to Switzerland.

From start to finish, everything was flawlessly organized and executed. The attention to detail was remarkable – from the seamless travel arrangements to the carefully selected accommodations that provided stunning views of the Alps. I can confidently say this was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had. I’m already looking forward to my next adventure with them!
— Tamara Bahry /
Toronto Canada

Why we are the top choice for your next luxury trip.

Our unique approach to planning transformative experiences ensures our clients gain more than just a vacation: they come away with a greater understanding of the world, their place in it, and how the journey has enriched their lives.

  • We prioritize personalized experiences tailored to guests’ wants and needs, from holiday getaways to educational trips and everything in between.
  • Travel is about more than just going from point A to point B. It's an experience; we're here to help you create the best possible one for you and your family or friends.
  • Taste. Indulge. Immerse. Each destination has unique flavours and dishes. Bespoke travel is the perfect way to indulge your senses.
  • Our team of experienced travel planners has an eye for detail, meaning no stone goes unturned when crafting the perfect itinerary. Whenever you want it, the way you want it.