Private journey brochureInternational Signature · No. 13
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
Luxury Escorted Journey · 18 Days · 2 Countries
The journey
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
Two countries. Two landscapes. One extraordinary journey.
- Duration
- 18 Days / 17 Nights
- Route
- Melbourne · Great Ocean Road · Sydney · Auckland · Rotorua · Christchurch · Lake Tekapo · Queenstown · Milford Sound
- Collection
- International Signature
- Journey
- No. 13
The destination
Australia brings together cosmopolitan cities, dramatic coastlines and iconic Australian experiences, while New Zealand adds volcanic landscapes, alpine scenery, pristine lakes and Fiordland.
The itinerary deliberately avoids packing too many cities into the journey. Instead, it gives guests time to experience each destination properly.
From Melbourne's sophisticated laneways and the dramatic limestone sea stacks of the Great Ocean Road to the harbour majesty of Sydney, across the Tasman Sea to Auckland's volcanic vistas, Middle-earth at Hobbiton, Māori heritage in Rotorua, and the breathtaking alpine grandeur of Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, Queenstown and Milford Sound—this is the definitive Southern Hemisphere expedition.
Signature experiences
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
The moments this journey is built around — each one arranged, confirmed and looked after before you arrive.
- 01Melbourne City Culture & Iconic Laneways
- 02Full-Day Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles
- 03Sydney Harbour
- 04Opera House & The Rocks
- 05Bondi Beach & Coastal Watsons Bay
- 06Auckland Waterfront & Mount Eden Volcanic Viewpoint
- 07Hobbiton Movie Set Private Guided Tour
- 08Rotorua Geothermal Wonderland & Living Māori Heritage
- 09Christchurch Heritage Architecture & Botanic Gardens
- 10Turquoise Waters of Lake Tekapo & Church of the Good Shepherd
- 11Aoraki / Mount Cook Scenic Alpine Heartland
- 12Queenstown Skyline Gondola & Lake Wakatipu Panoramas
- 13Milford Sound UNESCO Fiordland Wilderness Cruise
Day by day
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 01
Arrive Melbourne — The Journey Begins
Welcome to Australia. Upon arrival at Melbourne International Airport, meet your Velora representative and proceed with a private transfer to your luxury hotel. Melbourne, with its elegant architecture, artistic spirit and cosmopolitan character, sets the perfect tone for the journey ahead. After check-in, the remainder of the day is intentionally kept relaxed, allowing you to recover from your international journey and settle into the rhythm of Australia. Overnight in Melbourne.
- Airport Meet & Greet Assistance
- Private Luxury Transfer to Hotel
- Check-in at Grand Hyatt Melbourne
- Evening at Leisure
- Day 02
Melbourne — The City of Lanes, Culture & Character
After breakfast, begin your introduction to Melbourne, a city where heritage and contemporary culture exist effortlessly together. Your private exploration takes you through Federation Square, the iconic Flinders Street Station, St Paul's Cathedral, the Yarra River precinct and the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens. Continue towards St Kilda, one of Melbourne's most loved coastal neighbourhoods, before discovering the city's famous laneways and elegant urban quarters. The evening is yours to experience Melbourne at your own pace—perhaps over a relaxed dinner or an evening stroll through the city. Overnight in Melbourne.
- Federation Square & Flinders Street Station
- St Paul's Cathedral & Yarra River Precinct
- Royal Botanic Gardens & St Kilda
- Melbourne's Historic Arcades & Laneways
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 03
Great Ocean Road — Where the Ocean Meets the Wilderness
Today unfolds one of Australia's most spectacular scenic journeys. Depart Melbourne and travel towards Torquay, the gateway to the legendary Great Ocean Road. The route follows dramatic Southern Ocean cliffs, beautiful beaches and lush hinterland landscapes, passing charming coastal towns such as Lorne and Apollo Bay. Continue towards the magnificent Twelve Apostles, the towering limestone formations that have become an enduring symbol of Australia's coastline. The Great Ocean Road is recognised as one of Australia's most famous scenic coastal journeys, with the Twelve Apostles among its defining experiences. After soaking in the immense views, return to Melbourne in the evening with the day's landscapes etched into memory. Overnight in Melbourne.
- Full-Day Great Ocean Road Coastal Drive
- Torquay, Lorne & Apollo Bay Coastal Towns
- Twelve Apostles Limestone Sea Stacks
- Loch Ard Gorge & Southern Ocean Lookouts
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 04
Melbourne → Sydney — From Culture to the Harbour
After breakfast, bid farewell to Melbourne and proceed to the airport for your domestic flight to Sydney. Upon arrival, your private transfer will take you to your luxury hotel. Sydney welcomes you with its unmistakable combination of harbour, beaches and sophisticated city life. After check-in, the rest of the day is free to unwind or explore the surroundings of your hotel. As evening falls, enjoy your first glimpse of the city's vibrant waterfront atmosphere. Overnight in Sydney.
- Private Transfer to Melbourne Airport
- Domestic Flight to Sydney
- Private Transfer to Shangri-La Sydney
- Evening Waterfront Leisure
- Day 05
Sydney — Icons of the Harbour City
Today is dedicated to discovering the icons that define Sydney. Begin with Circular Quay and the magnificent Sydney Opera House before continuing towards the Harbour Bridge and historic The Rocks precinct. Visit Mrs Macquarie's Chair for one of the city's most beautiful harbour viewpoints, with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge creating an unforgettable backdrop. Continue through the Royal Botanic Gardens before returning towards the waterfront. The evening remains free, allowing you to experience Sydney at your own pace. Overnight in Sydney.
- Circular Quay & Sydney Opera House Exploration
- Historic The Rocks Precinct & Harbour Bridge
- Mrs Macquarie's Chair Iconic Harbour Viewpoint
- Royal Botanic Gardens Coastal Walk
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 06
Sydney — Coastal Elegance & the Spirit of Bondi
After breakfast, discover another side of Sydney as you follow its spectacular eastern coastline. Visit the legendary Bondi Beach and continue through the elegant neighbourhoods and harbour viewpoints towards Watsons Bay. The combination of golden beaches, dramatic coastline and sophisticated neighbourhoods showcases why Sydney is one of the world's great coastal cities. The afternoon is deliberately unhurried, giving you time for shopping, cafés, relaxation or an optional private harbour experience. Overnight in Sydney.
- Iconic Bondi Beach Visit & Coastal Promenade
- Eastern Coastal Suburbs Scenic Drive
- Watsons Bay & South Head Harbour Panorama
- Unhurried Afternoon for Shopping & Cafés
- Day 07
Sydney → Auckland — Across the Tasman
Today marks the transition from Australia to New Zealand. After breakfast, transfer to Sydney International Airport for your flight across the Tasman Sea to Auckland. On arrival, meet your local representative and proceed to your luxury hotel. Auckland, known as the City of Sails, is beautifully positioned between two harbours and surrounded by volcanic landscapes. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps taking a relaxed walk along the waterfront and enjoying your first evening in Aotearoa New Zealand. Overnight in Auckland.
- Private Transfer to Sydney Airport
- Flight Across the Tasman Sea to Auckland
- Meet & Greet at Auckland Airport
- Evening Stroll at Auckland Waterfront
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 08
Auckland — The City of Sails
After breakfast, set out to discover Auckland's distinctive character. Explore the waterfront and Viaduct Harbour before continuing towards Mission Bay and Mount Eden, one of the city's most impressive volcanic viewpoints. From here, enjoy panoramic views across Auckland and its surrounding waters before returning towards the city centre. The afternoon is free for shopping, cafés and independent exploration. Auckland is also an ideal introduction to New Zealand's blend of urban sophistication and spectacular natural surroundings. Overnight in Auckland.
- Viaduct Harbour & Waterfront Exploration
- Mount Eden Volcanic Crater & City Lookout
- Mission Bay Scenic Coastal Drive
- Afternoon at Leisure in Downtown Auckland
- Day 09
Auckland → Hobbiton → Rotorua — Into Middle-Earth
Leave Auckland behind and travel south through the beautiful countryside of Waikato. Today's highlight is a visit to the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set, where rolling green hills and peaceful farmland create the setting made famous by The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Continue onwards to Rotorua, a destination shaped by geothermal activity and Māori heritage. Upon arrival, check into your resort and enjoy the evening amidst Rotorua's unique landscapes. Overnight in Rotorua.
- Scenic Drive through Waikato Farmlands
- Guided Tour of Hobbiton Movie Set & Shire
- Green Dragon Inn Refreshment
- Arrival in Geothermal Rotorua
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 10
Rotorua — Earth, Fire & Māori Heritage
Today offers a deeper connection with New Zealand's volcanic heartland. Explore Rotorua's geothermal landscapes, where steaming vents, bubbling mud pools and volcanic activity reveal the powerful forces beneath the earth. Later, experience the living heritage of Māori culture through a carefully curated cultural experience, including traditional performances and local hospitality. This evening brings together the natural and cultural character of Rotorua in one memorable experience. Overnight in Rotorua.
- Geothermal Parks, Geysers & Steaming Mud Pools
- Living Māori Cultural Experience
- Traditional Haka & Waiata Performances
- Authentic Hāngī-Inspired Cultural Dinner
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 11
Rotorua → Christchurch — Welcome to the South Island
After breakfast, transfer to Rotorua Airport for your flight to Christchurch, the gateway to New Zealand's magnificent South Island. Upon arrival, meet your representative and proceed to your hotel. Explore Christchurch's beautifully landscaped gardens, heritage architecture and rejuvenated city centre during a relaxed orientation. The atmosphere changes dramatically here—the volcanic landscapes of the North Island give way to the grand alpine character of the South Island. Overnight in Christchurch.
- Flight to Christchurch (South Island)
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens & Avon River Walk
- Rejuvenated City Centre Orientation
- Transitional Cathedral & Heritage Precinct
- Day 12
Christchurch → Lake Tekapo — Into the Alpine Heartland
Today the journey becomes increasingly scenic as you travel through Canterbury towards the Mackenzie Basin. Vast open landscapes gradually give way to the Southern Alps as you approach the remarkable turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo. Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, beautifully positioned against the lake and mountains. As evening approaches, settle into your scenic accommodation and enjoy the serenity of this extraordinary alpine setting. Overnight in Lake Tekapo.
- Canterbury Plains & Mackenzie Basin Scenic Drive
- Turquoise Waters of Glacial Lake Tekapo
- Iconic Church of the Good Shepherd Visit
- Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Setting
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 13
Lake Tekapo → Aoraki / Mount Cook → Queenstown
After breakfast, continue towards the magnificent Aoraki / Mount Cook region, surrounded by some of New Zealand's most spectacular alpine scenery. The journey itself becomes part of the experience as mountain ranges, turquoise lakes and vast valleys unfold along the route. Continue towards Queenstown, dramatically positioned on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Southern Alps. Arrive and settle into your luxury hotel, with the evening free to simply admire the extraordinary setting. Overnight in Queenstown.
- Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park Alpine Views
- Lake Pukaki Turquoise Vista Stops
- Lindis Pass & Kawarau Gorge Mountain Journey
- Arrival at Queenstown on Shores of Lake Wakatipu
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 14
Queenstown — Above the Lake
Begin your Queenstown experience with a journey on the Skyline Gondola, rising above the town to reveal sweeping views across Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Return to the town centre and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Queenstown offers an exceptional choice of experiences—from refined cafés and boutique shopping to scenic adventures and wellness experiences. Velora keeps this afternoon deliberately flexible so every traveller can enjoy Queenstown in their own way. Overnight in Queenstown.
- Skyline Gondola Ride to Bob's Peak
- Sweeping Panoramas of Lake Wakatipu & The Remarkables
- Queenstown Town Centre Waterfront Stroll
- Flexible Afternoon for Boutique Shopping & Cafés
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 15
Milford Sound — Into the Wild
Today is one of the defining experiences of the entire journey. Travel from Queenstown towards Fiordland through the spectacular Milford Road, where mountains, glacier-carved valleys, pristine lakes and native rainforest accompany the journey. Continue into Milford Sound, or Piopiotahi, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed wilderness destination shaped by ancient glaciers. Enjoy a scenic cruise through the fiord, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Milford Sound remains one of New Zealand's most iconic natural experiences, and the journey through Fiordland is almost as remarkable as the destination itself. Return to Queenstown in the evening. Overnight in Queenstown.
- Milford Road Scenic Alpine & Rainforest Highway
- UNESCO World Heritage Fiordland National Park
- Milford Sound Nature Cruise Under Towering Cliffs
- Stirling Falls, Mitre Peak & Wildlife Spotting
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 16
Queenstown — A Day to Experience It Your Way
After several days of spectacular landscapes, today is intentionally left open. Enjoy a relaxed morning beside Lake Wakatipu, explore the charming historic village of Arrowtown, indulge in a private Central Otago experience or simply spend the day discovering Queenstown's cafés, boutiques and scenic viewpoints. For those seeking something extraordinary, optional scenic helicopter flights and premium adventure experiences can be arranged. This is Velora's philosophy of luxury travel—not every moment needs to be scheduled. Some moments are meant to simply be lived. Overnight in Queenstown.
- Relaxed Lakeside Morning at Lake Wakatipu
- Optional Historic Arrowtown Gold Mining Village Excursion
- Optional Central Otago Pinot Noir Winery Experience
- Optional Alpine Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing
Day by day — continued
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Day 17
Queenstown → Auckland — The Final Evening
Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Queenstown before transferring to the airport for your flight back to Auckland. Upon arrival, proceed to your hotel and spend your final evening in New Zealand at leisure. This evening can be enhanced with an optional farewell dinner, bringing together the stories and experiences of the journey—from Australia's coastal cities to New Zealand's extraordinary alpine wilderness. Overnight in Auckland.
- Final Morning Leisure in Queenstown
- Domestic Flight from Queenstown to Auckland
- Private Transfer to Cordis Auckland
- Celebratory Farewell Dinner
- Day 18
Auckland — Until We Meet Again
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Auckland before your private transfer to Auckland International Airport for your onward international flight. As you depart, carry with you memories of two extraordinary countries—Melbourne's culture, the Great Ocean Road's wild coastline, Sydney's harbour, Rotorua's living heritage and the breathtaking mountains and fiords of New Zealand. Your Southern Grandeur journey ends. But the stories you collected along the way are just beginning.
- Farewell Breakfast at Cordis Auckland
- Private International Airport Transfer
- Departure with Lifelong Southern Memories
Where you stay
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
- Melbourne (3 Nights)Grand Hyatt Melbourne
- Sydney (3 Nights)Shangri-La Sydney
- Auckland (2 Nights)Cordis Auckland
- Rotorua (2 Nights)Pullman Rotorua / equivalent premium property
- Christchurch (1 Night)Distinction Christchurch Hotel / equivalent
- Lake Tekapo (1 Night)Peppers Bluewater Resort
- Queenstown (4 Nights)QT Queenstown / equivalent luxury property
- Auckland (1 Night)Cordis Auckland
What is included
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
What is included
- 17 Nights Premium 4.5/5-Star Luxury Accommodation
- Twin-Sharing Basis Across Handpicked Stays
- 17 Breakfasts + 16 Lunches + 17 Dinners
- Special Māori Cultural Dinner Experience in Rotorua
- All Airport Transfers in Private Premium Vehicles
- All Sightseeing Transfers in Premium Air-Conditioned Coach
- Domestic Flights (Melbourne → Sydney, Rotorua → Christchurch, Queenstown → Auckland)
- Full-Day Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles Excursion
- Melbourne & Sydney City Guided Explorations
- Bondi Beach & Watsons Bay Coastal Touring
- Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour & Entry Tickets
- Rotorua Geothermal Wonderland Experience
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens & Heritage Orientation
- Scenic Mackenzie Basin & Lake Tekapo Church of the Good Shepherd
- Aoraki / Mount Cook Regional Exploration
- Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride with Lake Views
- Milford Sound UNESCO Wilderness Nature Cruise
- Dedicated Velora Tour Manager Throughout
- Local English-Speaking Guides & Destination Coordination
- Pre-Departure Briefing & Documentation Support
- 24×7 Velora Emergency Support Throughout the Tour
What is not included
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
What is not included
- International Return Airfare from India
- Australia & New Zealand Visa Fees (Full documentation assistance provided)
- Travel Insurance
- Meals and Beverages Other Than Those Specifically Mentioned
- Personal Expenses, Laundry, Telephone Calls, Mini-Bar & Room Service
- Alcoholic Beverages, Porterage, Tips & Gratuities
- Optional Activities (Scenic Helicopter Flights, Jet Boating, Wine Tasting Tours)
- Any Increase in Government Taxes, Airfare or Currency Fluctuations
- GST / TCS Extra as Applicable
The investment
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
| Per person, twin sharing | ₹6,95,000 |
|---|---|
| For a couple (per person) | ₹7,98,000 |
| Single supplement | ₹1,85,000 |
| Taxes | GST 5% & TCS Extra as applicable |
| Group size | Small Exclusive Escorted Group |
Premium luxury experiential positioning including 4.5/5-star accommodation, internal flights, private touring, dedicated tour manager, and major admissions. International airfare and visas quoted separately based on departure city and travel date.
To reserve
Write to hello@velorajourneys.in quoting journey no. 13, or speak to the travel designer who sent you this brochure. Dates are held for seven days while a proposal is prepared.
Important information
Australia & New Zealand – The Southern Grandeur
Important information
- Australia & New Zealand visas are required for Indian passport holders; complete documentation guidance provided.
- Milford Sound cruise and alpine excursions are weather dependent and subject to operational conditions.
- Domestic flight schedules may require minor sequence adjustments.
- Rates are subject to availability and currency exchange rates at the time of final confirmation.
The Velora difference
Eighteen days across Australia and New Zealand brings together two distinct worlds—vibrant cosmopolitan harbours, wild ocean cliffs, volcanic heartlands, and pristine alpine fiords. The stories you collected along the way are just beginning.
Two countries.Two landscapes.One extraordinary journey.
Curated not compiled — luxury beyond destinations.