Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

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
From historic monuments to ultra-modern malls, ancient art to cutting-edge culture, Melbourne effortlessly blends past and present.

Reasons to visit

  • Princess Theatre
  • SEA LIFE Melbourne
  • Melbourne Museum
Sydney which includes a city, night scenes and modern architecture
Sydney
Known for Dining, Ports and Shopping
Blessed with more than 100 beaches and buzzing with youthful vitality, when it comes to the good life it’s hard to beat the Harbour City.

Reasons to visit

  • Star Casino
  • Circular Quay
  • Sydney Opera House
Kangaroo Point showing a bay or harbour, night scenes and a city
Brisbane
Known for Dining, Shopping and Rivers
From trendy galleries to trendier bars, diving to biking, Brisbane is ready and willing to be whatever kind of destination you want it to be.

Reasons to visit

  • South Bank Parklands
  • Queensland Performing Arts Centre
  • Queensland Museum
Perth
Perth
Known for Dining, Shopping and Family-friendly
With its beautiful beaches, striking harbours and vast swathes of desert, Australia’s most remote state capital is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the climate.

Reasons to visit

  • Elizabeth Quay
  • Murray Street Mall
  • Scarborough Beach
Devonport featuring skyline, a river or creek and a city
Auckland
Known for Dining, Shopping and Ports
A city surrounded by natural wonders, Auckland is perfect for all kinds of adventures, from eating out on the water, to going on safari to peeking inside a volcano.

Reasons to visit

  • Sky Tower
  • Auckland Ferry Terminal
  • New Zealand Maritime Museum
Adelaide
Adelaide
Known for Dining, Shopping and Family-friendly
Nestled between the ocean and the Adelaide Hills, the South Australian capital is a hive of creativity, historical wonder and culinary delights.

Reasons to visit

  • Adelaide Oval
  • Adelaide Zoo
  • Glenelg Beach