Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Sydney which includes modern architecture, a bridge and a city
Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific
Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific
Photo provided by Tahiti Tourisme
Australia showing a river or creek and a sunset

Relax under a palm tree on a tiny island, soak in thermal hot springs with views of snow-covered mountains and explore a vast, red desert in this continent of extremes.

Oceania comprises the two big islands that make up New Zealand, the vast continent of Australia and the small island nations that belong to Micronesia, Melanesia and Polynesia. As well as being incredibly varied in nature, these South Pacific nations are known to be easy-going, relatively undeveloped and super friendly.

Australia immediately stands out because of its sheer size and fame. The image of the rugged “Land Down Under” with hopping kangaroos, cuddly koalas and jumping crocodiles is certainly true, but Australia is about much more. Artistic, wealthy and modern state capital cities such as Sydney and Melbourne are among the most liveable in the world.

Between the tropical north and the temperate south of Australia, there are lush forests, fertile farmlands, sun-kissed wine regions and vast desert plains to explore. The laid-back “Aussies” are always happy to chat.

Meanwhile, their neighbors in New Zealand, the “Kiwis," have mastered the art of inventing thrilling adventure sports that allow you to explore their stunning country from all possible angles. Soar above, delve into, jump down from or bounce along rugged cliffs, thermal landscapes, turquoise lakes, snowcapped peaks, lush forests and rolling hills to experience the best of the South Island. While less dramatic, the North Island looks every bit as mystical as pictured in The Lord of the Rings movies.

To fulfil your fantasy of relaxing on a far-flung South Pacific island, try the likes of Vanuatu, Fiji and New Caledonia. The friendly locals will make you feel right at home. Samoa, the Cook Islands and Tonga are up-and-coming destinations with equally lovely people and cultures. To get off the beaten track, visit tiny idyllic nations such as Kiribati and Tuvalu.

Popular cities in Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

Southbank featuring a high-rise building, a city and a bridge
Melbourne
Known for Dining, Shopping and Museums
This stylish city fuses contemporary design with an elegantly preserved past. Soak up the future and the past in this relaxed capital of style.

Reasons to visit

  • Princess Theatre
  • SEA LIFE Melbourne
  • Melbourne Museum
Sydney
Sydney
Known for Dining, Ports and Shopping
Sydney has beaches by the bucket-load, must-see icons and a climate to die-for. But it also has a big brash heart that's certain to bowl you over.

Reasons to visit

  • Star Casino
  • SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
  • Sydney Opera House
Roma Street Parkland showing a garden, a city and a river or creek
Brisbane
Known for Dining, Shopping and Rivers
Come to laid-back Brisbane, the perfect base to discover the beautiful parks, mountains and islands of Australia’s Sunshine State..

Reasons to visit

  • South Bank Parklands
  • Queensland Performing Arts Centre
  • Gallery of Modern Art
Perth
Perth
Known for Dining, Shopping and Family-friendly
This may be one of the most isolated cities in the world, yet it has a beach scene full of beautiful people and a buzzing nightlife.

Reasons to visit

  • Elizabeth Quay
  • Murray Street Mall
  • Scarborough Beach
Sky Tower which includes a high-rise building, a city and city views
Auckland
Known for Dining, Shopping and Ports
A great city with rainforests and volcanoes on the doorstep, Auckland ticks all the boxes, from fine cuisine and culture, to wildlife and wilderness.

Reasons to visit

  • Sky Tower
  • Eden Park
  • Auckland Ferry Terminal
Gold Coast
Gold Coast
Known for Beaches, Dining and Shopping
Party the Australian way, visit the holiday hotspots, or enjoy the natural beauty of this glorious stretch of Pacific coastline.

Reasons to visit

  • Warner Bros. Movie World
  • Dreamworld
  • Surfers Paradise Beach