Australia & New ZealandSeptember 15, 2009 – September 30, 2009For Reservations or Information Contact: Peggy Thompson 573-468-3191 Day 1 & 2 Overnight FlightDay 3 Arrive in Auckland-RotoruaThis morning we arrive in Auckland New Zealand also know as, "The City of Sails." Our day begins with an orientation tour of New Zealand's largest city. We'll travel past Victoria Park Market, Westhaven Marina, and America's Cup Village before heading on to the volcanic crater of Mt. Eden where we can enjoy spectacular views of the city and harbor. We continue to travel to Rotorua, where we will enjoy a welcome dinner with our tour manager. Day 4 RotoruaToday we begin with a visit to Waitomo Caves and a tour of the famous Glow Worm Grotto. Ride through the caverns illuminated by millions of glow worms that are endlessly fascinating, looking like blue stars on the ceiling. This afternoon we visit Whakarewarewa where we will take an educational journey through time, covering 300 years of history that are still present within this unique environment of this valley. See boiling pools, bathing and washing areas using the thermal waters and enjoy a cultural performance normally held in the beautifully carved ancestral house, Wahiao. In the evening we'll experience a Maori Hangi feast, followed by traditional music and dancing. Day 5 Rotorua-QueensTownThis morning we’ll visit Geyser Park and see Rainbow Springs National Park, best known for its trout and wildlife. Also enjoy our visit to the New Zealand Farm Show. Our time here will include a professional sheep shearing demonstration, milking a dairy cow by hand and machine, a live auction, butter making, dog trials, baby animal feeding and much more. This afternoon fly from Rotorua to Queenstown. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of your day is free to relax in this resort town along lovely Lake Wakatipu. Day 6The day is at our leisure. We might want to join an optional trip to Milford Sound. There we will enjoy the rugged grandeur of the Hollyford Valley as we travel through beach forest via the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound. Day 7 Queenstown-Mt. Cook-Local Home StayTraverse the spectacular countryside to New Zealand’s most famous national park, Mt. Cook. Spend afternoon time at Mt. Cook, one of the most impressive mountains in the world. In the afternoon we make our way through the scenic canterberry plains before arriving in Christchurch. This evening we are invited for a special experience, to dine and stay with a New Zealand family. These host families are chosen from a highly selective process to share the New Zealand culture with their guests. Day 8 Sight-Seeing in Christ ChurchThis morning enjoy a short sightseeing tour of “The most English city outside of England” highlighting magnificent gardens, the Neo-Gothic Cathedral and the downtown park district. The rest of the afternoon is at our leisure. Day 9 MelbourneThis morning fly to Melbourne, truly a city full of history, character and charm. The remainder of today is free to experience this city all from our centrally located hotel. The Queen Victoria Market...the southern hemisphere’s largest open-air market is just around the corner and offers a variety of fresh farm produce and a range of uniquely Australian items and souvenirs to take back home. Day 10 MelbourneEnjoy a tour of the fascinating city of Melbourne this morning, viewing Parliament House once home to the three different governments, Fitzroy Gardens and the Shrine of Remembrance. This afternoon we will learn how raw opals are processed from the mine shafts to their arrival in your favorite jewelry store. Later today you might want to take an optional trip to Phillip Island to visit the Koala Conservation Center and view the tiny fairy penguins as they waddle up the beach. Day 11 Melbourne-Canberra-SydneyThis morning we will be transferred to the airport for a flight to Canberra, Australia’s capital, and home to a World War II museum. Surprisingly an American Architect is credited for designing the Australian capital! We will enjoy an orientation of this unique city including the Australian War Memorial, before continuing onto Sydney for our 3 night stay. Day 12 SydneyAfter a big breakfast, the day is set for a great day of sight-seeing in Sydney, including visits to the historic Rocks District. The Rocks is the site of Australia’s first European settlement, the colorful street-scapes and beautifully restored buildings are home to a wide variety of entertainment venues and specialty shops. Next we will stop off at Darling Harbour with its rich history having an integral role in Sydney’s early market days. Day 13 SydneyThe day has been left free of organized group activities. You may want to join an exciting Bridge Climb on the Sydney Harbour Bridge or take time for some last minute shopping. Later this evening we’ll relax and enjoy a dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour. Enjoy a wonderful dinner while seeing many sights of the spectacular harbour including the opera house, Sydney Bridge and multi-million dollar homes of the rich and famous. Day 14 Sydney-USAAfter breakfast we will be transferred to the airport for our return flight home. Taking with us the fond memories of our trip. Post Option - Cairns - See event Flyer Below. Tour Includes
Tour Prices (Per Person)
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