Vacations, Tours & Travel Experiences to Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific Islands
The South Pacific is a world of its own with its special character and personality. Known as Downunder to many of us living in the northern hemisphere, a journey to this region can entail any combination of countries. Most visitors usually opt for a combination of Australia and New Zealand. However, it is very easy to include other wonderful destinations either going to or returning from the South Pacific.
Travel to Australia
Australia is both a continent and an island. When planning a visit, take into consideration the diverse nature of the country. There are exciting cosmopolitan cities, tropical jungles, rainforests, mountain ranges, deserts and wine-growing regions – all this in one country. Spend time in Sydney with its beautiful harbour, iconic opera house and historical Rocks district. Then move on to Melbourne, a cultural and sophisticated urban centre complete with suburban beach resorts (most of our trips to Australia include visits to both cities).
What are the top cities and places to visit in Australia?
Serene Canberra is Australia’s capital, architecturally designed as a model city. Adelaide offers not only its green parks but also the close by the fascinating animal sanctuary, Kangaroo Island and the outstanding wine region of the Barossa Valley. Perth has the ocean, pleasant parks, a sunny climate and nearby wine districts. When in Brisbane, make a point of visiting the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Tropical Cairns is a major gateway to the amazing Great Barrier Reef and also the Daintree Rainforest. The Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast with their excellent beaches, both offer an escape from North America’s cold climate.
Darwin can be combined with a visit to the extraordinary Kakadu National Park famous for its ancient rock art and waterfalls as well as its crocodiles. Unforgettable and mysterious Ayers Rock in the Red Centre and the Olgas are easily combined with Alice Springs. In Tasmania, you can immerse yourself in historic Hobart and take in some dramatic island scenery which includes mountains and lakes.
What are the must-see attractions in Australia?
There are many other aspects to Australia. You can cruise around the Great Barrier Reef, go skiing in the Snowy Mountains, experience the Great Ocean Road with its spectacular coastline running between Melbourne and Adelaide, enjoy excellent art galleries and museums and partake in fine dining. Whatever your interests, an Australia vacation will provide it. You will certainly want to go back again once having travelled there.
Travel to New Zealand
Just over the Tasman Sea, approximately a 3-hour flight away from Australia is New Zealand, a land of natural wonder with its spectacular mountains, active volcanoes, majestic fjords, picturesque lakes, bubbling hot springs, great beaches and rugged coastline. All of these ingredients are packed into two relatively small islands which can be seen and experienced while in New Zealand.
What are the top cities to visit in New Zealand?
The subtropical North Island contrasts perfectly with the more rugged and mountainous South Island. On the North Island, Auckland makes a good introduction to New Zealand with its attractive harbour, home to thousands of sailboats. Wellington, the country’s capital, known as the country’s centre for arts and culture, is scenically located between a stunning harbour and rolling green hills. Unique Rotorua introduces you to the world of thermal activity as well as offers insights into the Maori culture. In the far north, the Bay of Islands gives you not only delightful coastal resorts but interesting history.
Turning to the South Island, Christchurch will remind you of a typical English provincial city with its church spires, green parks and tree-lined River Avon. Queenstown is a treasure in itself with its stunning scenery, diverse outdoor activities and easy access to other interesting nearby places. It is the gateway to the dramatic Fjordland which includes the spectacular Milford Sound with its lush rainforest and majestic waterfalls and Te Anau, the starting point for several dramatic walking trails. Majestic Mount Cook cannot fail to impress with its massive, snow-clad peaks that make up the Mount Cook National Park. In the far south is Dunedin, a gracious and distinctive city with grand 19th Century buildings and beautiful gardens.
What are the top parks to visit in New Zealand?
Add to all of the above, the many beautiful national parks such as the Coromandel, the Abel Tasman and Tongariro National Parks plus the rugged coastline of the west coast of the South Island with its marine animal life, and there is absolutely no doubt that a New Zealand vacation is a true scenic wonderland.
Travel to Tahiti
Definitely break your journey in one of any of the delightful, tropical islands which offer all year round great weather with guaranteed sunshine. Tahiti is the heart of Polynesian culture with its towering jagged mountain peaks, tranquil, sheltered blue lagoons and white coral sand beaches set off by turquoise waters. Take your pick from romantic Bora Bora, breathtakingly beautiful Moorea or any of the smaller, less inhabited but equally stunning islands that make up Tahiti.
About Fiji
Fiji is an archipelago of more than 300 islands and is known for its rugged landscapes, palm-lined beaches and coral reefs with clear lagoons. Its major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, contain most of the population. Consider a scenic cruise to the outer islands or just languish on one of the many wonderful beaches. The Cook Islands has a culture firmly anchored by traditional Polynesian values and is steeped in history. You will definitely find yourself attracted to the very friendly Cook Islanders.
Travelling to Samoa, Tonga, and Papua New Guinea
Samoa and Tonga are other stopover possibilities, each with its own special character and attractions which definitely include beautiful beaches. For something different, head to Papua New Guinea which remains one of the world’s last frontiers where you can take a river cruise into the hinterlands of this exotic island.
Plan to visit the South Pacific and discover a world of delights, Downunder!
Also, visit:
- For trip, ideas see the left sidebar
- Goway's Downunder Special Services
- 56 reasons to go Downunder with Goway
- General travel information for Australia, New Zealand & The South Pacific
- Air ideas to get Downunder
- South Pacific Air Passes
Classic Australia: Sydney, Red Centre, Cairns, Melbourne
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore Australia's most diverse cities and natural wonders on this journey that takes you to Sydney’s Opera House and spectacular Ayers Rock. Visit colourful Melbourne, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, and learn about the traditional Aboriginal “Dreamtime."
More DetailsAustralia & South Pacific
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Active Sydney & Surrounds
Get to the heart of Australia’s most famous city as you hike, bike, and venture to some of Sydney’s most iconic sites. Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge, hike through the Blue Mountains, enjoy a wine tasting in the Hunter Valley, and surf at Bondi Beach for an Australian vacation you’ll never forget.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,784
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Adventures in Paradise Luxury Adventure Cruise: Cairns to Cairns
Escape to the remote paradise of Papua New Guinea to explore fascinating islands and exotic underwater worlds. Cruising aboard the True North, you’ll scuba dive through wrecks from World War II around the Deboyne Islands, visit the Trobiand Islands to learn about the villagers’ exotic customs, and fly in a helicopter over Benua Cave on Bougainville Island.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing, Luxury and Beyond
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Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort
Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort is the only resort set directly on breathtaking Aitutaki Lagoon, offering breathtaking views of arguably the world’s most beautiful lagoon.- Duration:
- 6-13 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,786
- Trip Type:
- Beach & Island Escapes, Romance & Honeymoon
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Auckland: Great Northerner: Premier Escorted Vacation
FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOURING: Take a New Zealand vacation that introduces you to the natural wonders and Maori culture of the North Island. Get acquainted with the country in picturesque Auckland before touring the ancient Maori sites of the Bay of Islands and Rotorua and closing out your trip in Windy Welly.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,545
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
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Auckland: New Zealand Discoverer: Value Plus Escorted Vacation
MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: A comprehensive New Zealand tour from top to bottom, this trip encompasses the Land of the Long White Cloud, including its most cosmopolitan cities, and its most impressive natural sights.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,195
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring
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Auckland: Northern Explorer: Value Plus Escorted Vacation
MODERATE | ESCORETED COACH TOUR: Experience the best of New Zealand’s North Island including the Bay of Islands and Rotorua.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,495
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
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Auckland: Scenic Sights: Premier Escorted Vacation
FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOURING: Beginning in Auckland in the North Island, travel south by coach exploring the best of New Zealand’s scenic sights including Waitomo Caves, Kaikoura, Franz Josef and Milford Sound.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 5,145
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Aussie Sampler
With kids in mind, this introduction to Australia visits historic Sydney and the Gold Coast. It even includes a trip to the Crocodile Hunter’s Australia Zoo.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,499
- Trip Type:
- Family Vacations
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Australia's Coral Atolls Cruise from Broome
The Rowley Shoals feature exaggerated corals, a kaleidoscope of marine life and stunning underwater clarity, but perhaps more important than anything else, they are visited by only a fortunate few! The Rowley Shoals are Western Australia’s premier coral playground!- Duration:
- 6 Days
- Prices:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Cruises & Sailing, Luxury and Beyond
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Australia's Kimberley Expedition Cruise from Broome
Few trips to Australia reach the unique natural sights of the Kimberley. Begin in Broome, gateway to the magnificent Kimberley wilderness and enjoy a cruise to the remote Australian Outback.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Cruises & Sailing, Small Group Touring
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Australian Culture, Wine and Wildlife with Airfare
FIRST CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: This Australia vacation brings together unique sights, unforgettable wines, and Aussie wildlife to create a Downunder trip you’ll never forget. Combine Australia's sophisticated cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, with a chance along with the natural wonders of Kangaroo Island.- Duration:
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,159
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
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Australian Experience
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Discover the land Downunder on this group vacation full of city tours, wildlife encounters, and great food and wine. See some of the highlights of Australia, including Melbourne, Sydney, and the Great Barrier Reef. Our Groups Only Specialist would be delighted to tailor your very own group vacation Downunder. Note: This is a sample itinerary, which is private and fully customizable for group travelers.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Specialty Groups & Events
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Bay of Islands Self Drive
Drive north from Auckland to beautiful Bay of Islands. Enjoy some leisure time and get to know the area before visiting the superb beaches of Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s northernmost point.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 549
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives
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Beautiful Cities of New Zealand Self Drive
FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Explore the beauty of New Zealand’s iconic cities and natural wonders at your own speed on this road trip. Connect from Auckland to Queenstown, visiting Rotorua and Christchurch as well as natural and cultural landmarks such as the Hobbiton Movie Set, Lake Taupo, and Milford Sound along the way.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,469
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives
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Best of New Zealand: Holiday of a Lifetime
FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Take in the wonders of New Zealand on this Holiday of a Lifetime. Passing north to south, you’ll explore the cities of Auckland, Queenstown, and Christchurch, marvel at natural wonders in Rotorua and Milford Sound, and enjoy the incomparable hospitality and beauty of this South Pacific nation.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,599
- Trip Type:
- Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring, Holidays of a Lifetime, Single Friendly
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Best of South Australia's Outback and Wine
Experience why South Australia is the state of WOW (wildlife, Outback, and wine) on this Australia vacation. As you travel across South Australia, you’ll enjoy easygoing culture in Adelaide, taste fabulous wines in the McLaren Vale and Clare Valley, and visit one of the icons of the Outback, Wilpena Pound, in the Flinders Ranges.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,699
- Trip Type:
- Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Best of the Outback: Ayers Rock to Darwin
FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Get to the heart of Australia’s red centre with overnight stops in popular Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs, Katherine, Kakadu and more.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 5,455
- Trip Type:
- Escorted Coach Touring, Single Friendly
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Blue Lagoon Explorer Cruise: Denarau to Denarau
This short cruise is ideal for those with limited time who want to sample the beauty of Fiji's islands, taking in the southern islands and Blue Lagoon. Relax on-board and enjoy attentive service while cruising blissfully past tropical islands.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,359
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Bora Bora Discovery
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience a taste of paradise on this short stay in Bora Bora. Enjoy comfortable accommodations at a beachside resort and head on a full day snorkelling tour through the island’s lagoon, which includes a BBQ lunch on a private motu. The rest of your time is at leisure.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 648
- Trip Type:
- Beach & Island Escapes, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Bora Bora Signature
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Located on an islet off the main island of Bora Bora, the 5-star Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa is nestled in a cove of white sand amongst a turquoise lagoon. Combining Polynesian tradition with state-of-the-art amenities, this beautiful resort allows guests to unwind and rejuvenate in style. Discover Bora Bora's lagoon while navigating a traditional sailing outrigger canoe, and dine at the famous St. James Restaurant.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,525
- Trip Type:
- Beach & Island Escapes, Private Experiences, Romance & Honeymoon
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Brisbane and Sydney in Style
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Start your vacation with a visit to sunny Brisbane and visit the famous Crocodile Hunter's Australia Zoo. Head on down to Sydney and see the city's iconic sights on a luxury yacht. Visit the beautiful Blue Mountains and witness cascading waterfalls and the famous Three Sisters.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,121
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Small Group Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Brisbane and the Top End of the Northern Territory
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Brisbane has emerged in recent decades as one of Australia's fastest-growing capital cities. Explore the city, see koalas and other native Aussie animals, and enjoy feeding wild dolphins. Next is the Northern Territory. Vacation through Australia’s “Top End”, beginning and ending in Darwin with stops at Kakadu and Katherine along with way.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,738
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Go as you Please, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Captain Cook: Northern Yasawa Island Cruise
Enjoy four relaxing nights on board Reef Endeavour cruising around the stunning Yasawa Islands. Snorkel, swim and explore the islands while enjoying entertainment and festivities at night.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,250
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Captain Cook: Southern Yasawa Island Cruise
Sail the beautiful calm waters of the Mamanuca and Southern Yasawa Islands and discover the real Fiji. Enjoy a welcome dinner with the Captain then spend your days in a tropical paradise.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,527
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Christchurch: Essence of New Zealand: Premier Escorted Vacation
FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH TOURING: Discover the best of New Zealand from Christchurch to Auckland on this brisk, first class coach tour that includes the Fiordlands, adventure-loving Queenstown, glacier country, the Marlborough wine region, Rotorua, the Bay of Islands, and more.- Duration:
- 20 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 8,495
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Escorted Coach Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas