Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific
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

Melbourne
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

  • SEA LIFE Melbourne
  • Melbourne Museum
  • Princess Theatre
Sydney which includes modern architecture, a bridge and a city
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 Lyric Theatre
Kangaroo Point which includes night scenes, a bay or harbour and a city
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
  • Eagle Street Pier
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
  • St George's Terrace
Devonport featuring a river or creek, a city and skyline
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
  • Auckland Ferry Terminal
  • New Zealand Maritime Museum
Adelaide
Adelaide
Known for Dining, Shopping and Family-friendly
With a mix of beaches and botanic gardens, museums, food and music festivals, it's easy to see why this is South Australia's coastal, cultural and culinary hub.

Reasons to visit

  • Adelaide Oval
  • Glenelg Beach
  • Rundle Mall