Perth To Auckland

A stunning setting along Swan River and the Indian Ocean welcomes you into the laid-back city of Perth. At Kings Park, one of the few urban parks that dwarf Central Park, take in breathtaking views of downtown Perth and plan your day. Explore the city’s range of eclectic neighborhoods, immerse yourself in indigenous art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia, or discover Australia’s native wildlife at the Perth Zoo. Travel to nearby Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region, to visit one of the many historic vineyards for a tasting of excellent local wines. Meanwhile, discover Fremantle’s distinct character through its 19th century port streetscape. Dive into its seafaring history at the Western Australia Maritime Museum and Shipwreck Galleries, visit Fremantle Prison or explore the Manjaree Heritage Trail for a glimpse of life before European settlement.

Known as Western Australia’s premier resort town, Busselton is the perfect getaway to experience the combination of a slow-paced seaside town and a bustling cosmopolitan city. This beautiful city is an interesting locale on its own, but it is also a gateway port to the well-known Margaret River wine region. Busselton is known for its impeccable coastline and the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the Underwater Observatory, a fantastic aquarium with more than 300 marine species waiting to be enjoyed. If you love natural beauty, enjoy the beautiful beaches and astonishing limestone caves. Culture and history lovers should visit the Busselton Museum or the Old Courthouse Art Complex, both providing an inside look into the ins and outs of the region both now and hundreds of years ago.

Western Australia’s oldest colonial settlement, Albany holds not only great historical significance but also immense natural beauty. Founded in 1826 as a British military outpost, the town evolved into a provisioning port for ships, a departure point for Australian troops bound for World War I, and eventually a base for the whaling industry. History buffs will be intrigued by sites such as the Anglican church, town hall, restored gaol and a one-of-a-kind whaling station museum, while the dramatic scenery of the rugged coastline will astound anyone fortunate enough to sail into Princess Royal Harbour. Known as Ataturk Entrance, the channel accessing the harbor from King George Sound is quite narrow, with forested peaks rising on either side from the rocky shores and sweeping white beaches. The view from your ship’s deck provides the perfect introduction to the natural wonders embracing this historic town.

Esperance is a town on the south coast of Western Australia. Its beaches include calm Blue Haven, and West Beach, with its surf breaks. Nearby, Cape Le Grand National Park has beaches like Lucky Bay, plus heathlands and wildflowers. Offshore, the Recherche Archipelago islands shelter fur seals and sea lions. On Middle Island, Lake Hillier is a striking shade of pink. In town, Pink Lake is sometimes pink.

South Australia’s coastal capital, Adelaide combines the charm of a picturesque country town with lively cosmopolitan offerings. Discover the region’s history at the South Australian Art Museum or browse local delicacies such as Adelaide Hills cheeses at the impressive Central Market. Visit Adelaide Oval, celebrated as the world’s prettiest cricket ground, for a behind-the-scenes look at the iconic stadium’s history. For a taste of the local wine culture, venture into the countryside to explore Barossa Valley, Clare Valley or McLaren Vale, three excellent nearby wine regions.

Head into the scenic Dandenong Mountains and ride the Puffing Billy steam train through the forest. Meet the koalas, wallabies and more at a wildlife park or explore local wineries. Take a walk and discover the city’s marvelous architecture, chic galleries and boutiques.

Built around a sheltered harbor, Picton boasts a picturesque seafront lined with cafés, restaurants and galleries. Popular attractions include a floating maritime museum and an aquarium. Local operators offer cruising tours, fishing, dolphin watching and sea kayaking. A beautiful local attraction, the Queen Charlotte Track is navigable on foot or bike. From Picton guests can also explore the scenic Marlborough Sounds.

Stroll past Victorian Gothic buildings, visit the exquisite botanic gardens, take the cable car up the mountain for a fantastic view, or head for the city beach. Journey around the spectacular harbor with its amazing views and visit a sheep or cattle station. See some of the sites where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed.

Spend time admiring the marvelous Art Deco architecture for which Napier is known. Enjoy the picturesque countryside, tour superb area vineyards and sample the vintages. Visit a huge nesting colony of gannets near the spot where Captain Cook landed.

Named in honor of the crew member on Captain James Cook’s ship Endeavour who first sighted land in the area in 1769, this thriving seaside community is wedded to the sea and its vibrant Maori heritage and culture. Often called the “Chardonnay Capital of New Zealand,” Gisborne has a splendid array of boutique wineries. For a taste of Gisborne’s history and art, the Tairawhiti Museum is an essential destination in this city of warm smiles and even warmer hearts.

Tauranga is a harbourside city in the Bay of Plenty region on New Zealand’s North Island. It hosts historic buildings like the Elms Mission Station, an 1847 Georgian-style home. A bridge over the harbour connects Tauranga to Mount Maunganui, a beach town with hot saltwater pools and an extinct namesake volcano with winding walking paths. Offshore is the active volcano White Island, accessible by helicopter or boat.

Enjoy this beautiful city, its enormous parks and spectacular views from Mount Eden. Learn about Maori culture; visit the famed Waitomo Glowworm Caves and their fantastic formations. Or head for the coast and the crashing surf, see a gannet colony and admire the sheep farms along the way. Visit an area vineyard or one of sixty volcanoes