Bucket List South Pacific Islands Vacation: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti
We planned this Bucket List South Pacific Islands Vacation for this active recently retired couple from Phoenix. They wanted to experience three destinations with a mixture of active adventure, beach, wildlife and luxury lodges. This bucket list trip ticked all the boxes.
They started their Bucket List South Pacific Islands Vacation: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti in the islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia. For four nights, they relaxed in their pool villa at the intimate Intercontinenal Thalasso. They did a shark and ray feeding excursion, did some snorkeling and paddle boarding. And ended their stay with a relaxing couples massage and private dinner on the beach.
Next, they traveled to the beautiful north island of New Zealand on their Bucket List South Pacific Islands Vacation: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti. Staying in Auckland for a few nights, they enjoyed a private art and wine tour on Waiheke Island and got up close and personal with rugby players at the All Blacks Experience.
They continued their journey with a quick flight to the middle of the island, home of the geo-thermal sites, Rotorua. While in Rotorua, they toured the geo-thermal sites themselves, took a thrilling helicopter ride to a volcano and enjoyed a lovely lake cruise and hike in the neighboring town, Taupo.
From there, they fly to the majestic south island on their Bucket List South Pacific Islands Vacation: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti. They started in Nelson, a fun, funky university town and jumping off point for the serene Abel Tasman National Park. They spent three nights in the stunning Te Koi Lodge, where they enjoyed a hosted stay right on the peninsula. For one day, they enjoyed boating, kayaking, and hiking in Abel Tasman National Park on a small boat, making them feel like they were out with their mates for a fun afternoon.
Next they fly to Queenstown, the center for active adventure and the landscapes they had dreamt about. After a beautiful stay at Blanket Bay, they traveled to Te Anau to board their overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound. After waking up to dolphins playing by the boat and listening to nothing but silence, they returned to Queenstown to relax for another few days at Blanket Bay.
Then it was off to Australia on their Bucket List South Pacific Islands Vacation: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti. First it was a stop in cosmopolitan, vibrant Sydney, where they stayed at the magnificent Cappella Sydney. While in Sydney, they enjoyed a private walking city tour, a tour of the Sydney Opera House and a performance and a wonderful long lunch cruise on Sydney Harbour.
From there they traveled to the Red Center, Uluru and Kata Tjuṯa. The couple loved their stay at Longitude 131, a “glamping” experience with views to the beautiful Uluru. They enjoyed a lovely dinner under the stars and several trips into the national park.
The couple then flew to the Cairns area on their Bucket List South Pacific Islands Vacation: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti. After a short scenic flight over the one and only Great Barrier Reef, they landed at their next stop, Lizard Island. This stunning property sits on the Great Barrier Reef which allowed the couple to snorkel straight off the beach. They enjoyed the amazing food, service and unparalleled views while staying a the property.
For the last stop on their Bucket List South Pacific Islands Vacation: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, they landed in Brisbane, home of the 2032 Summer Olympics. And while there, they visited the famous Australia Zoo and enjoyed some behind the scenes experiences. They enjoyed their last day doing a private food and wine tour in the city.
And then is was time to fly home after enjoying the best of the three countries.
Accommodation
- 4 Nights Intercontinental Thalasso Pool Villa
- 3 Nights Qt Auckland
- 4 Nights On the Point Rotorua
- 3 Nights Te Koi Lodge
- 3 Nights Blanket Bay
- 4 Nights Cappella Sydney
- 3 Nights Longitude 131
- 3 Nights Lizard Island Beachfront Suite
- 3 Nights Emporium South Bank
Transportation
- All private airport transfers
- Return flights to Lizard Island
Touring
- Shark and Ray Excursion
- Private Waiheke Island Art and Wine Tour
- All Blacks Experience
- Half Day Geo Thermal Sites Tour
- Helicopter Flight – Tarawera and Orakei Korako
- Taupo Guided Hike and Lake Cruise
- Full Day Abel Tasman Cruise
- Overnight Doubtful Sound Cruise
- Sydney Harbour Long Lunch Cruise
- Sydney Opera House Tour and Performance
- Full Day Private Sydney City Tour
- Entrance to Australia Zoo
- Full Day Private Food and Drink Tours
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to the islands of Tahiti! You will into Papeete, the capital of Tahiti, the largest and most populated of the French Polynesian islands. Often called the “Island of Love,” it is the largest of the 118 islands and atolls that comprise French Polynesia. You will quickly board your short flight to Bora Bora. Immediately recognizable by the basalt tombstone of Mount Otemanu rising from the ocean, this half-atoll, half-mountain is surrounded by a spectacular lagoon and a series of smaller islands. Ancient Polynesians called it Parapora, or “firstborn,” because they thought it was the first island created after Raiatea. After a boat cruise, you will arrive at your resort for the next several days, the Intercontinental.
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Day 2
Wake up to the sound of gentle waves this morning. Enjoy a delicious breakfast and perhaps take a morning dip in the lagoon. Today, you can you completely relax on the beach, take a swim, read a book, enjoy the paddle board.
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Day 3
It’s time for some adventure today! Enjoy an exciting, full-day lagoon safari where you’ll have the chance to swim with reef sharks and giant (but harmless) manta rays. Don’t forget your camera! You’ll also have the chance to visit Bora Bora’s most photographed motu (small reef islet), Motu Tapu. Your adventure is complete with a delicious BBQ lunch.
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Day 4
Today is another day at leisure before continuing your epic bucket list vacation
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Day 5
After a short flight back to the island of Tahiti, you will fly to the “City of Sails,” Auckland. Auckland often takes a backseat to the natural wonders at its doorstep, but it is a cosmopolitan and picturesque city with many opportunities to explore museums, nightlife, and native bush island destinations. You will have the day to recover from jet lag and explore Auckland.
QT Auckland
Day 6
Today you will take a scenic ferry ride to the island of wine, Waiheke Island. Then you will visit three of Waiheke’s top vineyards and sample a range of their wines. Along the way enjoy a commentated scenic drive, learning about the Island’s history, geography, people and culture from your knowledgeable local. Your knowledgeable guide will also make art gallery stops along the way and then you will return to Auckland for a lovely dinner.
QT Auckland
Day 7
For most the day, you will have time to wander around the vibrant city of Auckland. Be sure to stop at some of the stops in the Britomart and stop for a coffee or wine along the viaduct harbour. You will make your way the SkyCity Hotel where you will immerse yourself in the All Blacks Experience. Your time at the All Blacks Experience will include a 45 minute guided tour where you learn what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. This will include learning the story and feeling the passion behind the All Blacks haka, up close and personal. You can then test your rugby skills against All Blacks and Black Ferns in our hands on, interactive zone.
QT Auckland
Day 8
Today take a flight to Rotorua, New Zealand, the center of the North Island. Home of the best geothermal sites and the most accessible Maori cultural experiences, Rotorua and its many rewards are worth the visit.
On the Point
Day 9
Today is a full day cultural tour of Rotorua. Visit the coolest geothermal sites including boiling mud pools and a series of colourful hot springs at Wai-o-tapu. Then see the Lady Knox geyser erupt. Spend the afternoon experiencing Rotorua’s Maori culture and thermal activity and see how they are intricately entwined. This includes a visit to the wood carving school, art and craft gallery, Rotowhio Marae, weaving display, kiwi house and finally the Pohutu geyser. Then visit the Lakefront area to see the Maori War Canoe and learn more about Maori history and customs.
On the Point
Day 10
Departing from the Rotorua Lakefront, take in Mokoia Island and our beautiful Crater Lakes District. Fly over the Tarawera outlet, and see if you can spot any trout spawning before the river turns into the mighty Tarawera Falls. Then, travel up and over the imposing slopes to land on the summit of Mount Tarawera, a now dormant volcano (last erupting in 1886, it is the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory). Marvel at the deep volcanic rifts and the views out to distant national parks and volcanos. For 15 minutes, your pilot will walk with you around the summit, offering commentary and their photography services. When you take off again, you will be flown south along the 17 km volcanic rift line which ends at Waimangu Volcanic Valley’s Steaming Cliffs and Inferno Crater. Next up are the vibrant colors of the Artist’s Palette and the ever-bubbling Champagne Pool at Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park. Further south, your pilot will descend over the mighty Waikato River to the hidden valley of Orakei Korako. Once landed, you will ferry across the river to begin your land based tour. You will have 1 hour to venture on a self-guided tour; experiencing hot springs, vibrant colors, New Zealand’s highest concentration of erupting geysers and largest silica terraces, not to mention a thermal cave. Grab a coffee or a snack from the cafe before reboarding your helicopter. Your return flight takes in views of farmland and the Paeroa mountain range before flying over Rotorua City and returning to our lakefront pier.
On the Point
Day 11
Today, you will have an opportunity to be a little active. Enjoy the experience of the Taupō region’s beautiful K2K trail, hiking from Kinloch to Kawakawa Bay. Reach the collection point on the Lake then relax, have some lunch, and rest your legs as you’re returned to Lake Taupō marina with on a scenic cruise.
You will see stunning wetlands, secluded beaches perfect for a swim and sweeping views of Lake Taupō are highlights of the hiking, then enjoy a beautiful cruise back to Taupō in comfort and style.
On the Point
Day 12
It’s time to leave the north island and travel to the top of the south island to the serene Abel Tasman National Park. After your flight and a short transfer, you will arrive at Te Koi Lodge. Te Koi the Lodge offers the ultimate escape for the seasoned traveler – a luxury lodge filled with charm and basking in natural beauty. Set amidst luscious gardens on a secluded point overlooking the stunning waters of the Waimea Estuary, Te Koi plays to all the senses.
Te Koi Lodge
Day 13
Today, you will get a taste of all the Abel Tasman has to offer from the comfort of a boat. You can just stay on board and relax or take one of the kayaks for a paddle. Go for a swim, snorkel over the marine reserve or be dropped off for a bush walk. Enjoy a delicious lunch and then do it all again.
Te Koi Lodge
Day 14
Spend this day at leisure enjoying the beauty of your lodge. Or venture into Nelson to enjoy the fun restaurants, art galleries and artisan colonies that make Nelson a fun spot.
Te Koi Lodge
Day 15
Hop a quick flight and arrive in Queenstown in the early afternoon and be escorted by private chauffeur directly to your hotel within walking distance of downtown Queenstown. A delight for scenery lovers and adrenaline junkies alike, Queenstown is the outdoor adventure capital of the country, if not the world. There are an endless supply of activities to fully experience the stunning natural landscape and to get your adrenaline flowing.
Blanket Bay
Day 16
You will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to Manapouri, where you will begin your Doubtful Sound overnight cruise. Give in to the wilderness, and escape to the secluded Pātea Doubtful Sound, located in the depths of the Fiordland National Park. Unlike a day cruise, this unique overnight experience completely immerses you in nature. Wake up feeling connected, in harmony, and full of wonder for Aotearoa’s native flora and fauna. The trip begins on the shore of Lake Manapouri, where you’ll hop onto a vessel to cross over to West Arm. Here, you’ll board our RealNZ coach to cross the scenic Wilmot Pass, before arriving at Doubtful Sound, and your home for the night.
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise
Day 17
Wake up to the sounds of silence and enjoy your breakfast onboard the vessel. You will arrive back around midday and then continue back to Queenstown.
Blanket Bay
Day 18
Spend today at leisure, you can take a scenic gondola ride to Bob’s Peak for breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy a wine tour in the nearby Central Otago region, sampling some of the finest Pinot Noir.
Blanket Bay
Day 19
Bid farewell to the Kiwis as you fly over the Tasman Sea to the “West Island” (as Kiwis sometimes refer to Australia) and land in the iconic Sydney. Fringed by numerous bays and beaches and presided over by the glistening Opera House, Sydney unveils a great photo opportunity at every turn. With its Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, the zoos and lively neighborhoods, Darling Harbour — Sydney is delightful and worth thorough exploration. For generations, the Department of Education building stood quietly, its golden sandstone facade forming an unassuming backdrop to the rhythm of the city. Reawakening as Capella Sydney, the heritage-listed icon welcomes guests inside for the very first time, setting a global benchmark for luxury accommodation, cuisine and cultural immersion. Balancing storied architectural features with a contemporary design aesthetic, Capella Sydney celebrates the Australian panorama through its interiors, location and experiences.
Cappella Sydney
Day 20
Your long lunch experience will begin with a welcome from your crew as you board our luxury cruiser, Ocean Blue, and depart for a surreal day out on Sydney Harbour. Soft drinks, sparkling wine, beer, still wine, tea, and coffee will be available from the moment you step on board. As we cruise past the world-famous landmarks including the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House your crew will be on hand to tell you about the past and modern-day history of the harbour. As a part of our lunch cruise in Sydney, you will see Woolloomoolloo Bay, the home of the Australian Navy’s Sydney Base Garden Island, then venture further down the harbour cruising past Double Bay and Point Piper which are the locations of the most expensive homes in Sydney. You then cruise past Clarke and Shark Islands which are two national parks in the middle of the harbour, with Rose Bay on your right. Shortly after you will pass by Vaucluse for your entrée and make the first stop at the renowned Doyles on the Beach at Watsons Bay. Disembark the boat and head down the wharf to the restaurant where you will have a choice of entrees and a selection of beverages to choose from. After you have finished your delicious entree, your crew will welcome you back on board. We will then cruise past the opening of Sydney Heads with Manly off to our right and then go around Middle Head to enter Middle Harbour. Then, we will stop at the Balmoral Jetty where you will disembark again for your main course at the Balmoral Public Dining Room. Here you will choose your main course from the menu and have a selection of beverages to choose from to accompany. After you have finished dining the boat will then head up to Spit Bridge and beyond to see some amazing landscapes and homes perched on the cliffs of Sydney’s upper-class North Shore district. Whilst onboard one of the best lunch cruises in Sydney Harbour, you will be able to enjoy delicious desserts and our cheese platter. Your return will be back through Middle Harbour and then we will re-enter the main harbour where you will see the Northern shores of Sydney Harbour. Cruise past Taronga Zoo and the prime minister’s house. This cruise is the long lunch and really does show you all the beauty of Sydney Harbour in one afternoon.
Cappella Sydney
Day 21
Today you get to visit the iconic Sydney Opera House. Go behind closed doors and experience the House from behind the scenes with this small group tour. Venture backstage through the corridors to our rehearsal spaces, into the orchestra pit before enjoying breakfast in the exclusive domain of our performers, the Green Room. And after a lovely dinner, enjoy a performance at the Opera House.
Cappella Sydney
Day 22
Journey around the neighborhoods of Sydney today on your private walking tour. This tour is an immersive journey through the city’s vibrant heart. Led by a homegrown local, visit iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and historic Rocks district. Immerse in surf culture at Bondi, Tamarama, and Bronte Beaches, lapping up beachside vibes. Explore Aboriginal art or coastal photography at Bondi’s galleries. Capture stunning harbour vistas at Dudley Reserve and luxurious harbourside suburbs. Engage with local makers at weekend markets and feast on fresh seafood in Manly. This captivating day captures Sydney’s essence, blending history, culture, beach vibes, art, and culinary delights in true Aussie style.
Cappella Sydney
Day 23
Transfer to the airport where you will catch your flight to Ayers Rock/Uluru. With views direct to Uluru and across the desert to Kata Tjuta, Longitude 131˚ is Australia’s most celebrated luxury camp. Dotted among the red-rust dunes of the Central Desert are sixteen tented pavilions, each offering connection with the outback landscape and its heritage as well as a glamorous base from which to explore the incredible Red Centre. Discover vibrant Aboriginal artworks alongside relics from the region’s explorers, a bar and restaurant offering contemporary Australian dining and friendly staff ready to share a yarn. After settling in, catch your first glimpse of “The Rock” as you learn about the importance of the Uluru to the aboriginal culture from an aboriginal guide.
Longitude 131
Days 24-25
These two days you will spend at the resort enjoying all that the area has to offer. From sunrise tours of Uluru to private dinners looking at Kata Tjuṯa to hiking experiences, you will be able to do as much or as little as you would like.
Longitude 131
Day 26
Rise early again today for another unique view of the rock. And then board your flight to Cairns. Travel in style with a spectacular, scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef. As you soar over 200 km of one of the most magnificent natural wonders in the world, you’ll marvel at the vastness of the reef and the countless shades of blue and green. Land on Lizard Island, your home for the next 7 nights, and settle into your Beachfront Suite.
Lizard Island Resort
Days 27-28
Your days are entirely up to you. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of the 2, the perfect honeymoon experience is at your fingertips. Lizard Island is the northernmost resort island on the Great Barrier Reef, offering easy access to some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world. There are also 24 private beaches to explore, so it’s easy to find a secluded spot with white sand and turquoise waves; the resort will even pack you a gourmet picnic basket. Back at the resort, enjoy a world-class spa, gourmet food and wine, and plenty of beautiful, hidden-away places to relax.
Lizard Island Resort
Day 29
You are in your final days of your trip now. You will fly to Brisbane for the finale! This fun city offers a vibrant cultural scene with attractions like the South Bank Parklands, where you can enjoy riverside walks, museums, and the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. The city is also known for its outdoor lifestyle, with numerous parks, gardens, and nearby beaches providing ample opportunities for relaxation and adventure.
Emporium South Bank
Day 30
You can’t get a more quintessential Australian wildlife experience than visiting the Australia Zoo and seeing Steve Irwin’s legacy firsthand. So today, you are off to see The Australia Zoo, founded by the original Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, which runs one of the largest wildlife conservation programs in the world. All money raised is returned to wildlife projects and conservation efforts around Australia. You can meet the animals and feel great about doing it, too!
Emporium South Bank
Day 31
For your last day, experience a culinary journey in Brisbane like no other. Start your day with a a welcome bubbles at Southside on Fish Lane, followed by a lavish East Asian banquet, a tour of an urban micro-winery, and a tasting at your choice of a renowned distillery or brewery.
Emporium South Bank
Day 32
After a transfer to the airport, you will board your flight back to the US.
About this vacation
Cost Per Person
Does not include the cost of airfare