23 Day Pacific Explorer Itinerary

‘Haere Mai’ and welcome to Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city and the South Island's capital. A transfer has been arranged from the airport to your hotel.

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Christchurch is our "Garden City", blessed with beautiful parks and gardens right in the heart of town. English heritage buildings sit side by side with innovative post-earthquake regeneration in this vibrant place.

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Your New Zealand relaxed adventure starts now, collect your rental vehicle and head south on a the scenic drive to Oamaru.

While its façade is strictly of the Victorian era with ornately decorated grand white stone buildings that once housed upstanding banks, hotels and restaurants. Visit ‘out-there’ galleries, museums, shops and venues. Also worthy of a look is the nightly return to land of the Little Blue Penguin that nest under the local wharf.

The Art of Victorian Futurism
One of these quirky manifestations is the Steam Punk Museum and workshop, housed in a beautiful but imposing free-standing Oamaru stone building. The museum presents a theme of a dark post-apocalyptic vision of a future "as it might have been".

Approximate Distance: 250 km | 155 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Oamaru - 1 Night

The Famous Moeraki Boulders
These other worldly boulders are steeped in Maori Legend and formed about 65 million years ago. The soft mud-stone containing the boulders was raised from the seabed around 15 million years ago and sea erosion is exposing the erosion-resistant boulders.

Dunedin
Dunedin is now the second largest city in the South Island and positively thriving - a bustling university town that is packed with interesting sights from the wonderful cultural attractions to the thriving marine life and spectacular ocean front geography. Dunedin was founded by Scottish immigrants, who built the impressive buildings the city is now famed for. Dunedin is regarded as one of the best preserved Victorian cities in the Commonwealth.

Approximate Distance: 115 km | 75 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Dunedin - 2 Nights

Join the highly rated Otago Peninsula Wildlife Cruise, a voyage of discovery among a unique diversity and abundance of wildlife (10-20 species), great beauty, dramatic views and significant geological features Passengers can see what cannot be seen from land, to greet the mighty Northern Royal Albatross as it sweeps in from the open Pacific Ocean and soars above the spectacular inaccessible cliffs of Taiaroa.

These escarpments are alive with eight other species of birds nesting above families of Fur Seals. Close offshore, huge flocks of Sooty Shearwaters feed among other Shearwaters, Petrels and other species of Albatross. The abundance and diversity of wildlife makes a cruise different - a truly multi-species tour on a sheltered harbour that sparkles with scenic beauty, gems of geology and a colourful heritage.

Set amongst a skyline of great mountains and beside the gorgeous Lake Te Anau, Te Anau is one of the great scenic towns of the South Island. It's location in Fiordland puts Te Anau Township squarely on the doorstep to adventuresome of the most spectacular wilderness landscapes in New Zealand are accessed from here, including the incredible Milford Road, Doubtful Sound, Te Anau Glow Worm Caves and Milford Sound.

The name Te Anau translates in Maori to 'Caves of Swirling Water' and until a relatively recent discovery, the origin of the swirling waters remained lost in old Maori legend. The town is surrounded by beauty and brimming with great accommodation options, dining, and unique attractions. 

Approximate Distance: 290 km | 180 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

​Accommodation: Te Anau - 3 Nights

Follow the River Deep into the Waitutu Rainforest. BBQ on a Wild West Coast Beach

Today will take you literally beyond the beaten track - this 94 km (58 mile) jet boat adventure provides access to the most remote section of Fiordland National Park. Beginning with a crossing of Lake Haroto, following the mighty Wairaurahiri River down to the rugged southern coast while dodging giant overhanging trees and massive gnarled, moss-covered branches – the rainforest is everywhere.

This full day adventure includes several nature walks deep into the Waitutu rainforest viewing and identifying indigenous flora and fauna – You will soon realize why this place is considered a national treasure. Enjoy a delicious kiwi style BBQ on an idyllic beach with typical great Southern hospitality.

Milford Sound flights are the best way to reach this isolated gem. Situated on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, it is a world renowned area of extraordinary beauty. Milford Sound is actually named incorrectly a sound, it actually is a true fiord, which measures 12 km long and is up to 320 metres deep. A glacier landing, along with several other remote landings, even a gourmet lunch somewhere in the wilderness – Tell us what you want and we can arrange it! 

Wanaka is a compelling mix of spectacular alpine scenery, fine food, wine, and boutique shopping. The lakeside resort town of Wanaka is surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most wild and beautiful places. On the doorstep of Mount Aspiring National Park, the spectacular walks & hikes, skiing, water sports and boating options available here delight those passionate about the outdoors.

Wanaka is a destination that’s charming in all seasons. Staying around town is just as enjoyable; delight in the many delicious eateries and bustling pubs and enjoy a stroll on the lakeside walkway or a swim in the refreshing waters. 

Approximate Distance: 230 km | 143 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours

​Accommodation: Wanaka - 2 Nights

Get away from it all and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of New Zealand’s spectacular mountain landscape on a one day trek into the Mt Aspiring National Park. You'll be immersed in the dramatic mountain and bush scenery on this trek with views of the amazing glaciers of Rob Roy directly overhead. This guided trek takes you on a wonderfully scenic journey up the Matukituki valley where you will be surrounded by mountains and true wilderness. You will be escorted by knowledgeable and friendly guides with a wealth of experience in the mountains. 

The road to Mt Cook is one of the most spectacular drives in New Zealand, it hugs the edge of picture perfect 'Lake Pukaki'. This exquisite opaque turquoise coloured lake is one of the most photographed in New Zealand and for good reason, its astounding colour is caused by fine, glacier-ground rock particles suspended in the waters of the lake and reflected out to you the viewer - The colour needs to be seen to be believed.

The Aoraki Mount Cook National Parks  landscape is a mixture of high country tussock, farmland and snow-capped mountains and includes the highest peak in Australasia - 3755m (12,319 feet). The region attracts mountain climbers, hikers and scenery fanatics. Heli skiing, heli hiking and aerial sightseeing provide visitors with amazing memories. A variety of walking trails begin in or near Mount Cook Village - most take only a couple of hours. In the bar of the local hotel, huge windows provide a perfect view of Mt Cook.

Approximate Distance: 210 km | 130 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours 45 mins

​Accommodation: Mt Cook - 2 Nights

Start your day with a walk up the beautiful Hooker Valley, providing breathtaking views of some of New Zealand's highest and most enthralling peaks. Enjoy a stunning 11 km (6.8 mile) trek along over mostly flat terrain (there are some rocky bits) to the terminal lake of the Hooker Glacier. The journey encompasses an Alpine Memorial and passes over the turbulent Hooker River by Swing Bridge to unsurpassed vistas of Aoraki Mount Cook's south face and the surrounding glaciers. Take in the unique features of this alpine world in the shadow of New Zealand's and Oceania's highest peak, standing at 3,754 metres (12,316 Feet).

On your way back to Christchurch today you will find a superb location for some great photos at Lake Tekapo. Tekapo is one of three significant, neighboring lakes that border the Mackenzie Valley in New Zealand's South Island. Golden tussock grass carpets the surrounding hillside and roll away into the distance where the Southern Alps frame the horizon. The charming 'Church of the Good Shepherd' sits alone on its shores and the views to our highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook are remarkable.

Make the most of your last night in New Zealand by exploring Christchurch's foodie scene. With everything from relaxed cafes to fine dining on offer, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect spot to mull over your memories of the Land of the Long White Cloud.

Approximate Distance: 330 km | 205 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Welcome to Perth! Pick up your rental vehicle, settle into your comfortable accommodation and relax in Australia's sunniest capital city.

Explore Australia's Sunniest City

With soft sandy beaches, epic skyscrapers, huge green parks, and a thriving street art scene, Perth is a fascinating town to explore. It's home to one of the biggest city parks in the world – Kings Park & Botanic Garden – right in the heart of town. It's even bigger than Central Park in New York! This is a great place to get your bearings with sweeping views of the Swan and Canning rivers.

Perth's urban villages and small bistros offer plenty of dining options: fuel up the whole family for exciting adventures along the Western Australian Coast tomorrow.

Accommodation: Perth - 1 Night

Begin your adventure by travelling to the coastal fishing town of Cervantes via one of Australia’s most unique landscapes: the Pinnacles Desert.

Pinnacles Desert

Ten minutes from Cervantes, prepare for a weird and wonderful sight. The sandy yellow Pinnacles Desert is filled with rocky spires as far as the eye can see. There are thousands of these strange limestone formations, like giant stony desert mushrooms.

Settle down for the night in quiet Cervantes and get ready to meet some slippery sea lions tomorrow!

Approximate Distance: 200 km | 124 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Cervantes - 1 Night

En route to Kalbarri make a stop at Jurien Bay, a favourite destination for Western Australian families. Hop on a boat and visit the Australian Sea Lions at their island home.

Jurien Bay Sea Lion Tour
The Australian Sea Lion is a protected species found only on the coast of Western Australia. Here in Jurien Bay you can visit the sea lions on & around their island breeding colony. You'll spend 1 - 1.5 hours watching the curious sea lions coming to check you out! Don't forget to look for dolphins during your boat journey too.

Kalbarri: Where the Outback meets the Sea
Sitting at the mouth of the Murchison River, Kalbarri is known for its seaside cliffs, sand dunes and wild pelicans. Discover 400 million year old river gorges, dramatic coastal rock formations and a rainbow of wildflowers as you explore the secrets of this ancient landscape tomorrow.

Accommodation: Jurien Bay - 2 Nights

Approximate Distance: 410 km | 255 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins

Make the most of this magical place where you can experience remarkable natural beauty, 

• Follow one of the many walking trails, join a river cruise, or, if you're feeling adventurous, tackle a challenging hike or try abseiling and quad biking.
• Visit the region between July and November and you can see over 800 species of Western Australian wildflowers bursting into bloom
• Spot humpback whales from the coastal gorges and towering cliffs. The annual migration runs from June to November
• Feed the friendly local pelicans at 8.45am daily on the river foreshore
• Canoeing up the Murchison River is the perfect activity for a sunny afternoon, while thrill seekers may prefer abseiling and canyoning the National Park Gorges.
• You can take a boat charter tour all year round. There are many tours on offer including sunset cruises, dolphin, whale and private charters.

Continue north to Denham and the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.

Denham: Shark Bay World Heritage Area
Learn about Shark Bay’s hidden treasures at the awesome Discovery and Visitor Centre, or simply relax at Shell Beach and enjoy the sunshine. Keep an eye out for the world’s oldest living fossils - the Hamelin Pool stromatolites, believed to be about 3.5 billion years old. This is one of only two places in the world that they can be seen!

Monkey Mia
Just north of Denham, the Monkey Mia Reserve is surrounded by red sand dunes, white sandy beaches and waters brimming with marine wildlife.

What can you see here? Wild dolphins, green turtles, dugongs, sea snakes, sharks, sting-rays, manta rays and even whales at certain times of year. Scientists from all over the globe come to Monkey Mia to unravel the mysteries of the marine world. Tomorrow you have the chance to uncover the secrets of sea creatures great and small in this amazing location.

Approximate Distance: 400 km | 249 miles   Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Monkey Mia - 2 Nights

Join a 4WD Adventure with a local Aboriginal guide and explore the amazing Francois Peron National Park. Immerse yourself in nature and culture and feel the energy of this world class park, where the red sand from the deserts kisses the beautiful turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. 

Learn about the amazing conservation work being done today to restore the balance of nature as we take you to find any number of native species and discover firsthand why this place is a World Heritage Site. Visit fantastic look outs which provide breathtaking views across the beautiful bays. Look for turtles, rays, sharks, dugongs, manta rays, birds, and other rare and endangered wildlife.

Indulge in delicious and healthy home-style catering on the beach or other spectacular locations across this picturesque National Park. Enjoy a refreshing snorkel and swim in one the many sheltered bays and finish your day with a relaxing dip in the natural Hot Tub at the Peron Homestead.

After departing from Monkey Mia, continue north and stop off to marvel at the Carnarvon blowholes which can reach up to 20m high. This natural spectacle is caused by the ocean forcing water through the sea caves and up through holes in the rock.

Coral Bay & Ningaloo Reef
Coral Bay is a marine paradise and one of Western Australia’s top family holiday spots. Named for the beautiful coral gardens lying metres from the shore, this laidback seaside location is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Ningaloo Reef is Australia's only fringing reef where the coral starts right at the water's edge. You'll spend two nights at the waterside Ningaloo Reef Resort to explore this incredible World Heritage Area.

Approximate Distance: 580 km | 360 miles   Total Driving Time: 6 hours

Accommodation: Coral Bay - 2 Nights

With more than 500 tropical fish species inhabiting the 300-kilometre-long reef, why not spend your day in Coral Bay by keeping them company?

Coral Bay Suggested Activities

Coral Bay has plenty of safe-water options for the whole family, and here are some suggested ways to enjoy your day (own expense):

Take a full day or half day snorkelling cruise of the Ningaloo Reef.

• Hire glass-bottom canoes or see-through boogie boards and search the crystal clear waters below.
• Cruise the pristine waters on a glass-bottom boat to enjoy the stunning coral formations.
• Join a half day eco-interaction tour to find, and where possible snorkel with, the majestic Manta Ray.

If you prefer a lazy day, relax at the tropical gardens & pool at your accommodation, or bask on the beautiful beach.

Continue along the coast to Exmouth, a small resort town on Western Australia’s North West Cape.

Exmouth

Exmouth is the perfect base to explore the grand landscapes of the Cape Range National Park and northern Ningaloo Marine Park. Visitors flock here from around the world to swim with whale sharks and even humpback whales!

Exmouth is also the gateway to the rugged Cape Range National Park, which features breathtaking canyons, limestone ranges and 50 kilometres of unspoiled coastline.

Accommodation: Exmouth - 2 Nights

Approximate Distance: 155 km | 96 miles   Total Driving Time: 1 hour 45 mins

Embark on an exciting ocean adventure today with Exmouth Dive Centre. Depending on the time of year you travel, here is what your day has in store:

Whale Shark Swim (March to August)
Swim and snorkel with gentle Whale Sharks, getting up close and personal with the world’s largest fish as they cruise the waters of Western Australia’s Northwest Cape.

Humpback Whale Swim (August to November)
Thousands of humpback whales grace the waters off Exmouth between June through to the end of October. You will have the opportunity to swim with them, or observe them from the comfort of the boat if you prefer.

Snorkel the Reef by Boat (rest of the year)
Snorkel the Muiron Islands and Ningaloo Reef for a holiday experience you’ll never forget. Enjoy a genuine coral reef adventure in a location unlike anywhere else in the world.

After an amazing trip travel to Learmonth Airport and return your rental vehicle prior to boarding your onward flight.

Today we say farewell to Western Australia. There maybe time for some last-minute excursions or shopping before you head home. We know you will enjoy your holiday and our promise to you is to make your travels through Australia as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with a camera full of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your holiday!