Itinerary Notes
Please note that most accommodation for 18-to-Thirtysomethings in New Zealand is multi-share. For more details, refer to the Trip Details section.
Day 1
Auckland
Arrive at any time. No activities are planned until the evening welcome meeting, so feel free to explore the city.
For those eager to start their adventure, consider adding the 'Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience' to your tour. Work with a crew to sail around Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour on a competitive yacht and enjoy breathtaking views. Please note: If booking this extra activity, a pre-night stay in Auckland is recommended as it may begin early in the morning on Day 1.
Meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and get to know more about the tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Check the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the time and location of the meeting. Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. This is exclusive to 18-to-35s tours.
Optional Activities:
Maritime Museum Visit
NZD24 per person
Explore Auckland's maritime history through seven galleries. Entry: NZD 24 per person.
Waiheke Island Excursion
Three to eight hours
NZD45-130 per person
Take a ferry to Waiheke Island, known for its beautiful beaches and wineries.
Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience
NZD195 per person
Be part of the crew as you sail around Waitemata Harbour.
Day 2
Auckland to Raglan
Begin your journey with a scenic drive to Bridal Veil Falls, where you’ll walk through native bush to this stunning waterfall. Then, head to the surf town of Raglan for some sea kayaking. Your accommodation is located in the heart of the surf and arts community, where you'll stay for the next two nights.
The day includes:
Private vehicle from Auckland – Raglan, three hours, 160 km
Sit back and enjoy the changing landscape from the comfort of a private vehicle.
Sea Kayaking in Raglan, one and a half to two hours
Explore the secluded bays and unique coastline by kayak, hoping to spot wildlife and even orcas. Discover the distinctive pancake rocks along the northern shore.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 3
Raglan
Spend the entire day in Raglan, a world-renowned surf town. Take an included surf lesson, then enjoy free time to explore or relax in the laid-back coastal atmosphere.
The day includes:
Surf Lesson
Learn how to catch a wave with a three-hour lesson, including instruction on land before heading into the surf.
Free time in Raglan
Use your free time to surf, relax on the beach, or enjoy a drink while chatting with fellow travellers.
Meals Included: Breakfast and dinner
Day 4
Raglan to Rotorua
On the way to Rotorua, stop at Waitomo, where you can visit the famous Waitomo Caves to see glowworms illuminate the cave ceilings. In Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity, spend the evening at Te Puia Village for a cultural experience in a thermal valley.
The day includes:
Private vehicle from Raglan – Rotorua, three hours
Relax and take in the views during the drive.
Te Puia Geyser by Night in Rotorua
Experience the Te Puia Geyser and learn about Maori culture with a local guide. Enjoy a traditional meal cooked in the natural hot springs.
Optional Activities:
Waitomo Valley Walk
Up to one and a half hours
Free
Explore the rugged landscape on foot
Waitomo Cave Excursion
NZD90 per person
Take a peaceful boat ride through the glowworm-studded caves.
Black Water Rafting
NZD188 per person
Float through underground rivers and see glowworms in the Ruakuri Cave. Entry: NZD 188 per person.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 5
Rotorua to Taupo
Spend the morning exploring Rotorua's geothermal wonders. In the afternoon, head to Taupo, stopping to visit the stunning Huka Falls. Upon arrival, take a relaxing afternoon sail on New Zealand’s largest lake.
Explore Rotorua's hot springs or opt for a white-water rafting excursion. Then, hop in your private vehicle for a one-to-two hour drive to Taupo. Once there, visit the mighty Huka Falls, where over 220,000 litres of water flow over a 11-metre waterfall every second.
Optional Activities:
Whitewater Rafting
NZD125 per person
Take on thrilling rapids in Rotorua.
Rotorua Canopy Tours
NZD189-259 per person
Explore the treetops of a Kiwi forest.
Hot Springs
NZD45-75 per person
Relax in Rotorua's natural hot springs.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6
Taupo to Wellington
Travel to Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, and enjoy a visit to Te Papa Museum, home to historical Maori artifacts and modern exhibits. Take a cable car ride for panoramic views or stroll along the Oriental Parade.
Sit back and take in the scenic drive to Wellington in a private vehicle, taking five to six hours. In Wellington, you'll enjoy the city's nightlife with the group. Play games at Blend Bar and dance the night away in this cool city.
Optional Activities:
Te Papa Museum Visit
NZD35 per person
Explore exhibits on Maori culture and natural history.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 7
Wellington to Sydney
Fly to Sydney, Australia. After about four hours in the air, enjoy a leisurely evening in Australia's largest city. Explore 'The Rocks,' a historic area by the harbour.
Optional Activities:
The Rocks Neighbourhood Visit
Free
Wander through this historic area filled with cafés, pubs, and charming shops. Take photos of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Day 8
Sydney
Today, take a one and a half hour ferry ride from Sydney to the famous Manly Beach. With world-class surfing, clear waters, and pine tree-lined shores, it’s easy to see why it’s a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Take a surf lesson, relax, or explore the shops and restaurants.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 9
Sydney
There is so much to do in Sydney. Even though just a few free days aren’t enough to see it all, it’s still worth it! Opt to visit the Sydney Opera House, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, check out some of the renowned museums, or eat at some incredible restaurants.
Optional Activities:
Sydney Opera House Visit
43-185AUD per person
Stroll along the waterfront to admire Sydney's most iconic landmark, designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1973. Take a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site to discover its history, folklore, and more.
Around two million people visit each year to see concerts and cultural performances at the Opera House. Experience the booming grand organ, with more than 10,000 pipes – it took 10 years to build and is the largest mechanical organ in the world.
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
Three to four hours
Climb one of the most famous bridges in the world – the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Take in panoramic city views of Sydney from the top – a perfect photo opportunity and memory to take home!
Day 10
Sydney
Enjoy one last day in Sydney! Make sure to tick off those last few must-dos in this amazing city. If you need ideas for today, make sure to ask your CEO, as there is always something to do here.
Day 11
Sydney/Arrawarra
It’s all aboard today as you take the train north to Coffs Harbour. The train takes nine hours, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the views. After arriving at Coffs Harbour station, the group will travel to Spot X Surf Camp, our base for the next few days.
Settle in and take in the scenery from the comfort of a private vehicle from Coffs Harbour to Arrawarra.
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 12
Arrawarra
Take to the waves with an included surf lesson at the secret Spot X. Learn to paddle, stand, and ride a wave into shore! With top-notch instructors in the water, get ready to ride the swells like a local in no time. Afterwards. head out for a swim or simply chill on the beach. The rest of the morning is yours!
Spend some time in the sun and laughing in the waves with your travel tribe before heading out on a kangaroo trek. Then, it’s time for a free afternoon to enjoy your surroundings. Soak up views of Solitary Islands Marine Park, embark on a rockpool scramble to look for fish traps and sea creatures, or wander over to Mullawarra Beach for a picnic. Your only real task today is to have fun!
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 13
Arrawarra/Byron Bay
Adventure through lush national parks, stunning beaches, rolling green hills, and small but vibrant towns full of charm and authentic Australian culture as the group drives from Arrawarra to Byron Bay - taking three hours. Grab lunch in the surf and arts town of Byron Bay before walking to Cape Byron Lighthouse to see the easternmost point in the country. If luck is on your side, you may glimpse migrating whales and pods of resident dolphins.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 14
Byron Bay
Welcome to Byron Bay… the city of surfing and sunbathing! The day is yours to explore: stroll along hidden beaches, surf the waves, or indulge in a relaxing massage. Want to get your adrenaline pumping? Go skydiving, try sea kayaking, or embark on a dolphin-watching tour.
At the end of the day, hop on a surfboard for one last ride because, as the locals say, “You haven’t surfed until you’ve surfed Byron Man!”
Optional Activities:
Skydiving in Byron Bay
Two to five hours
409AUD per person
Take in the awe-inspiring beauty of Byron Bay from an eagle's perspective. Suit up, get briefed, and board the propeller plane to soar high above land and sea. Strap in with your instructor, take a deep breath, and leap into a once-in-a-lifetime freefall. This is what a natural high truly feels like!
Byron Bay Ocean Kayaking
Glide through the waters of the iconic Byron Bay on a half-day kayaking adventure. Paddle past the most easterly point of the Australian mainland, see the Julian Rocks Marine Reserve, and ride the waves back to shore. Be on the lookout for dolphins and whales (in season) who call these waters home. Epic? Definitely.
This activity takes place in the ocean, and conditions can sometimes be rough due to weather. Though fun, first-time kayakers may find it challenging.
Day 15
Byron Bay / Brisbane
Travel from Byron Bay to Brisbane, another stunning seaside city in Australia! Today is free for you to explore this vibrant city. You could visit the City Botanic Gardens, hike Mount Coot-tha, or explore some of Brisbane’s amazing bars and restaurants. In the evening, we recommend checking out the Eat Street Northshore night market or grabbing a beer under the illuminated Story Bridge in Fortitude Valley.
Day 16
Brisbane / K'gari (Fraser Island)
Early rise today for your journey to K'gari (Fraser Island), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The drive takes around three hours. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by the Butchulla people, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. After the ceremony, embark on a 4WD tour, swim in Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie), hike through the rainforest, and walk along the beach during sunset. In the evening, gather around the campfire with your new friends.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 17
K'gari (Fraser Island) / Noosa
Today, you'll climb sand dunes on a 4x4 beach tour, explore the Maheno shipwreck, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Eli Creek, which pumps millions of litres of spring-fed fresh water into the ocean each hour. In the afternoon, say farewell to K'gari and head to your next coastal destination, Noosa.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 18
Noosa
Imagine rocky coastlines against perfect turquoise waters. Now head out with your CEO to witness it firsthand. Take a ferry and hike through Noosa National Park to reach the secluded Hell's Gate beach. While it may sound intimidating, it is well worth the effort and truly spectacular. Keep an eye out for koalas along the way. In the afternoon, enjoy free time in Noosa. Opt for lunch on Hastings Street and some relaxing beach time or rent a surfboard. Then take the ferry back before dinner.
Day 19
Noosa / Airlie Beach
Enjoy another free day in Noosa! Do some shopping along Hastings Street, sip coffee on the beach, or catch some waves. Many people consider Noosa the best place for surfing in all of Australia. You can also relax back at the hostel or take part in some of the optional activities available. In the afternoon, pack your bags and head to the train station for an overnight journey to Airlie Beach, home to the Whitsundays.
Overnight Train (seats) - Noosa to Airlie Beach
Relax as you travel overnight to Airlie Beach.
Optional Activities:
Skydiving Noosa
Get ready for an adrenaline rush as you soar above Noosa from 15,000 feet. Feel the thrill of freefall at 200 km/h before the euphoric parachute descent.
Noosa Everglades Kayak Adventure
Join a guided kayak adventure through the Noosa Everglades and Upper Noosa River. Enjoy a hearty lunch, take a refreshing dip, and immerse yourself in the wilderness.
Eumundi Market
Catch public transport to Eumundi Market, the biggest and best artisan market in Australia, known for its locally made treasures.
Day 20
Airlie Beach
Arrive in Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. After settling in, enjoy a relaxed day at the beach, take a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef, or shop around town. Airlie Beach is yours to explore.
Day 21
Whitsunday Islands / Airlie Beach
Today is an unforgettable day at sea! Hop aboard an ocean raft and zoom through the turquoise waters. Enjoy time snorkelling, bushwalking, and relaxing on the beach. The day will be as close to perfect as possible.
Whitsunday Islands boating excursion
Eight hours
Spend the day exploring the Whitsunday Islands. Visit Whitehaven Beach, snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, and enjoy the tropical fish.
Optional Activities:
Whitsunday Islands snorkelling
Use the included snorkel gear to explore the marine life of the Great Barrier Reef (fins are not provided due to coral conservation efforts).
Meals included: Lunch
Day 22
Airlie Beach / Cairns
Embark on a scenic drive to Cairns, stopping for breaks along the way to stretch your legs and take in the sights. It’s a long travel day, up to eight hours, but well worth it to reach the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Day 23
Cairns
Cairns is the perfect destination for those who love warm weather and the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a free day to book one of the many optional activities, such as snorkelling or whitewater rafting. Cap it all off with a Big Night Out in Cairns with your fellow travellers. Celebrate with drinks after an adventure-filled day.
Optional Activities:
Skydiving Cairns
Take in the breathtaking beauty of Cairns from 15,000 feet. Experience a freefall before landing gently with your parachute.
Whitewater Rafting Cairns
Raft the Class 3 & 4 rapids of the Tully River, one of the best rafting locations in Australia and New Zealand.
Great Barrier Reef Snorkelling from Cairns
Snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef and meet the tropical fish in Australia’s largest coral reef system.
Day 24
Cairns
Depart at any time.
