Australia & New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand
15 Days | 9 Guided Tours | 2 Countries | Sydney, Australia to Auckland, New Zealand
Explore the rich heritage, cultures, and landscapes of Australia and New Zealand, from Māori traditions and colonial history to the charming cities and coastal beauty that make this region so distinctive.
Gain a deeper understanding of the Indigenous and European influences that have shaped Australia and New Zealand over generations. Learn about Australia’s colonial and penal history from descendants of the country’s earliest settlers, wander through the Victorian architecture of Dunedin, the elegant English-style gardens of Christchurch, and the art deco streetscapes of Napier. Along the way, experience the sounds of the didgeridoo and the powerful traditions of Māori culture as you become immersed in the stories, heritage, and character of these southern lands.
Itinerary
-
Begin your voyage in Australia’s cultural jewel, framed by a spectacular natural harbor.
Founded as a penal colony in 1788, Sydney has evolved into a vibrant, free-spirited metropolis. As you embark and settle into your stateroom, explore the city's iconic harborside, home to the magnificent Sydney Opera House and the neighboring 70-acre Royal Botanic Garden. Steps away lies The Rocks, a bustling historic district of shops and galleries that was once the rough-and-tumble haunt of 19th-century sailors. Today, you can wander its sandstone streets and even enjoy a pint at the Lord Nelson, Sydney’s oldest surviving pub brewery, before setting sail.
-
Relax on board as you cruise along Australia's scenic southeastern shore.
Trace the beautiful coastline of the Bass Strait, taking in the panoramic ocean views as you sail. Today is the perfect opportunity to experience the ship’s diverse dining options. Savor a variety of international flavors at the World Café, enjoy a casual meal al fresco on the Aquavit Terrace, or sample regional specialties in The Restaurant as you head further south.
-
Discover the cultural capital of Australia, renowned for its Victorian charm and vibrant arts scene.
Set on the expansive shores of Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne is celebrated for its exceptional quality of life. The city experienced an immense boom during the 1850s gold rush, transforming it into one of the world's wealthiest ports. Today, it retains a distinct British flair, visible in the elegant Victorian architecture along Collins Street, its famous narrow shopping lanes, and the historic Fitzroy Gardens. Spend your day exploring the arts, distinct neighborhoods, and manicured green spaces of this dynamic metropolis.
-
Follow the historic route of early explorers through a vital southern waterway.
Spend the day sailing the Bass Strait, the historic passage separating mainland Australia from Tasmania. Charted by British explorers George Bass and Matthew Flinders in 1799, this discovery revolutionized maritime trade by trimming 700 miles off the arduous journey from Europe and India. As you cruise these waters, look out toward the Furneaux Islands in the east—remnants of an ancient land bridge—and King Island to the west, a vital sanctuary along the migration route for numerous bird species.
-
Step into Old England amid the historic streets and deep-water harbor of Tasmania’s capital.
Tasmania, Australia’s smallest state, was named after the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, and its capital city of Hobart was originally founded as a penal colony for roughly 300 inmates. Today, this charming city boasts the world's second-deepest natural harbor and a picturesque location on the banks of the Derwent River. Its remarkably preserved architecture dates back to Georgian and Victorian times, where traditional pubs easily transport visitors back to Old England. Nearby, the open-air museum of Port Arthur offers a sobering chronicle of the British convict system during the 18th and 19th centuries.
-
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as you cross the historic waters between Australia and New Zealand.
Take your turn "crossing the ditch," the affectionate local phrase for a voyage across the Tasman Sea. Use this day at sea to unwind on deck, take in the vast ocean horizons, and enjoy the ship's premium amenities. It is the perfect opportunity for an al fresco lunch or dinner at the Aquavit Terrace, where you can pair casual international favorites with a creative cocktail inspired by your upcoming destinations.
-
Cruise the dramatic southern waters separating New Zealand's South Island from Stewart Island.
Sail through the narrow Foveaux Strait, a wild and beautiful stretch of water that separates the South Island from Stewart Island, known in Māori as Rakiura—"the Land of Growing Skies." Take in the views of Bluff, the South Island’s southernmost settlement, anchored by the sweeping slopes of Bluff Hill. To the south lies Stewart Island, a pristine, densely forested sanctuary with fewer than 400 residents, offering a glimpse into one of the most untouched and remote corners of New Zealand.
-
Discover a vibrant Scottish-heritage city surrounded by spectacular, untouched wildlife.
Dunedin and its picturesque harbor port, Port Chalmers, sit at the edge of a dramatic 12-mile-long inlet. Known as a major cultural capital and home to New Zealand’s oldest university, Dunedin blends a lively student energy with magnificent Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Across the water on the rugged Otago Peninsula, the distinctive Harbour Cone summit shapes the skyline. This pristine coastal region is a haven for rare wildlife, serving as home to fur seals, yellow-eyed penguins, and the world's only mainland breeding colony of royal albatrosses.
-
Explore the "Garden City," a charming destination rich in British heritage and lush parklands.
Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city, beautifully preserves its English roots through its striking Gothic Revival architecture and the peaceful Avon River, where you can watch traditional punting boats glide by. True to its nickname, the city is enveloped in green spaces, headlined by its world-renowned Botanic Gardens. Spanning across a tranquil loop of the river, these gardens showcase an extraordinary collection of plants from six continents, alongside a meticulously curated rock garden and a vibrant water garden of lilies and irises.
-
Immerse yourself in the "coolest little capital in the world," where vibrant culture meets striking architecture.
Wellington is a compact, character-filled city that enjoys a splendid harbor setting. Known for its creative energy, New Zealand's capital boasts a diverse architectural landscape, ranging from historic wooden cottages and sleek Art Deco lines to the distinctive neoclassical Parliament House. As the nation's cultural heart, the city is alive with world-class museums—including the interactive Te Papa Tongarewa—alongside thriving theater, symphony, ballet, and film scenes. Explore its steep, colorful hillsides and bustling waterfront, which is packed with exceptional cafes and craft breweries.
-
Step back in time in the Art Deco capital of the Southern Hemisphere.
Rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1931, Napier features a breathtaking cityscape of Art Deco architecture often compared to Miami Beach. Beyond its beautifully preserved pastel facades, the city is a major industrial hub, holding claim as the largest wool center in the Southern Hemisphere. It is also home to the National Aquarium of New Zealand, a world-class marine sanctuary. Just beyond the city limits lies Hawke's Bay, the country's oldest wine region, where you can sample world-class vintages from vineyards first planted by French missionaries in the mid-19th century.
-
Journey into a geothermal wonderland rich in Māori myth and coastal beauty.
Nestled on the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is anchored by the dramatic silhouette of Mt. Maunganui, an extinct volcano guarding a coastline of pristine white-sand beaches. While the city itself boasts a thriving maritime culture, it is best known as the gateway to Rotorua, a spectacular landscape of bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers, and steaming thermal fields. Long revered by the local Māori as a sacred gift of fire from the gods, this surreal, cauldron-like region offers a powerful look at the volcanic forces that continue to shape New Zealand.
-
Conclude your unforgettable voyage in the "City of Sails," where urban sophistication meets maritime adventure.
Auckland, the vibrant heart of the North Island, earns its famous nickname from a stunning harbor packed with world-class yachts and a proud history of hosting the America’s Cup. Spend your time wandering through the lush, tree-lined pathways of Albert Park, exploring the extensive Māori and natural history collections at the neoclassical Auckland War Memorial Museum, or taking in panoramic views from the observation deck of the Sky Tower.
On Day 15, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travelers and the crew as you prepare for your journey home. If you aren't ready for your journey to end, you can choose to extend your stay to discover more of Auckland's stunning wine islands and volcanic landscapes.
Note itinerary available in reverse.
Save $2,400 per couple based on The Viking Savings Events available until 30 Jun 2026.
From AU$10,995 per person share twin Veranda Stateroom or a Deluxe Veranda from AU$11,495 per person share twin based on departure 09 December 2027 from Sydney to Auckland.
-
One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call
Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
All onboard meals, featuring regional specialties & always available classics
Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner
24-hour specialty coffees, teas & bottled water
Port taxes & fees
Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase
Visits to UNESCO Sites
Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances
Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.
Self-service launderettes
Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge
24-hour room service
Onboard gratuities
Your Stateroom Includes:
King-size Viking Explorer Bed with luxury linen
42" flat-screen LCD TV with intuitive remote & complimentary Movies On Demand
Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
Premium Freyja® toiletries
Direct-dial satellite phone & cell service
Security safe
110/220 volt outlets
Ample USB ports
Pureora Forest Park, New Zealand
*Prices are per person in Australian dollars & discount has already been calculated into price shown. They are based on double occupancy, subject to availability, and correct at the time of publication, 18 May 2026. All offers are subject to availability and valid only for new bookings on selected departures. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. Travel agent service & credit card fees may apply. Contact your Wanderlust Travel Expert for full details.
Interested in this experience? Mention this Deal Code: 1206 when speaking with your travel agent. Don't have an agent? Click here to connect with one of our experts.