An adventure to Australia and New Zealand is truly a bucket list item. Experience rainforests, red deserts, incredible beaches, and some of the world's coolest cities!
20 - 26 December 2025
26 - 29 December 2025
29 Dec - 3 January 2026
3 - 4 January 2026
Australia
In December, Australia generally sees warm to hot weather. Adelaide, Canberra, and Sydney typically have average December highs, and Melbourne's average is slightly lower. However, these areas are prone to heat waves, with temperatures sometimes soaring.
New Zealand
In December, early summer in New Zealand, temperatures often reach or exceed 27°C (80°F). The country's low humidity makes these warmer days comfortable, especially for hiking, with cooling sea breezes common due to New Zealand's extensive coastline.
Australia
Unless you are an Australian citizen, you will need a valid Australian visa to enter the country. All passport holders, regardless of age, must apply for a visa before leaving home.
You can only apply for the Electronic Travel Authority visa (subclass 601) through the Australian ETA app. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is located here.
New Zealand
US citizens are required to request a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before they travel.
These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.
We have designed some great playlists for you to enjoy during your trip through Australia and New Zealand full of local talent to discover!
Take your international flight from home to Sydney.
If you send us your flight details, we can include them on the itinerary for you.
Booked independently.
Disembark your flight into New Zealand and you’ll experience a seamless and personalised transition out of the Airport. As soon as you walk off the plane, you'll see your private attendant holding a sign with your name on it. This private attendant will stay with you every step of the arrival process and fast track you through Customs, Immigration and airport security ensuring a swift and hassle-free process.
Booked by Scenset.
You will be met by a private driver and vehicle and transferred to your accommodation.
Booked by Scenset.
Settle into the hotel and relax after your long flight.
The rest of the afternoon/evening has been left for you to explore at your own pace.
Why we love this for you? The Eichardt Private Hotel in Queenstown, New Zealand is an exceptional choice for discerning travelers seeking a luxurious and memorable stay. Situated in the heart of Queenstown, the hotel offers breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the majestic mountains that surround it. Guests can expect personalized, top-notch service and elegantly appointed accommodations that ensure a comfortable and indulgent experience.
The hotel also boasts world-class amenities, including exquisite dining options and a relaxing spa. With its prime location, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence, the Eichardt Private Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the wonders of Queenstown.
Here, old-world luxury and grand service prevail, while access to one of the world’s most exciting and vibrant destinations is just a step away. From Eichardt’s Bar where gold miners once lounged while sharing tall tales and big dreams to The Grille Restaurant, where a table here gives you a front-row seat to the finest waterfront views in the Wakatipu, you will get to experience the elegance of this iconic Hotel.
Booked by a guest
Today you will be met at your accommodation by your driver/guide.
Begin your adventure with a spectacular scenic drive to Glenorchy. Rightly recognised as “one of the most beautiful drives in the world”, the road hugs the turquoise shores of Lake Wakatipu as it winds through valleys and around mountain peaks.
Visit the iconic Glenorchy shed before arriving in Paradise, one of the most breathtaking (and famous) destinations in New Zealand. The name says it all and once you experience the combination of towering peaks, glacial valleys, emerald green braided river and pristine rainforest you’ll feel like you’ve found heaven on earth.
Heading back along the Glenorchy Road you can take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful and historic Bob’s Cove before making the journey to Coronet Peak (summer months) to enjoy panoramic views across the region. Your journey continues as you venture into the infamous Skippers Canyon. Your local guide delves into the rich history and legends of the area set against a simply stunning backdrop.
A stop will be made for lunch. Depart on your exclusive Dart River Jetboat Safari – one of the most scenic
Jet Boating trips in New Zealand. A 11⁄2 hour ride along the Dart River amongst towering mountains and the refreshingly beautiful wilderness of the Mt Aspiring National Park. Then take a short and easy walk, of 20-40 minutes, through ancient forests, unchanged for 80 million years. Hear an informative and entertaining commentary on the area and its history – including the quest by early Maori for highly prized pounamu (greenstone).
Ride back down the river in the Jetboat – stop off at a secluded spot for a gourmet picnic afternoon tea and more information on the movie locations of the surrounding area for Lord of the Rings and other movies.
Booked by Scenset.
Booked by a guest
Experience the most dramatic scenset New Zealand has to offer. Sit back and enjoy the journey through the grandeur of the Southern Alps, over Glaciers, Milford Sound, rainforests and frozen lakes to the heart of Fiordland. Descend through carved glacial valleys to Milford Sound.
This boutique catamaran was designed especially for Fiordland adventures, with full enjoyment of the incredible scenset in mind. While you relax onboard and enjoy the scenset in comfort, your knowledgeable crew will point out wildlife such as seals, penguins and dolphins, which you may encounter whilst cruising
Milford Sound/Piopiotahi.
The onboard chef will prepare a delicious lunch. After experiencing this very special part of the world your helicopter will arrive to take you homeward to Queenstown. Your helicopter flight includes a glacier/alpine landing.
Helicopter is subject to weather conditions
Booked by Scenset.
Booked by a guest
Queenstown is the South Island’s premier destination and it is easy to see why. With a cinematic background of mountains and lakes, this region has a unique and inspirational range of activities and experiences. As well as spectacular outdoor terrain, the region is famous for all manner of adventure activities such as bungy jumping, sky diving, white water rafting, jetboating, ziplining, biking and kayaking.
You might like to wind your way along the shores of mighty Lake Wakatipu to the frontier township of Glenorchy at the head of the lake. Visit the quaint and historic Arrowtown, which has its scenset in the days of the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860’s and now boasts excellent eateries. Sample gold medal wines in world beating surroundings; take a wine tour in Gibbston Valley. Board the stately steam powered TS Earnslaw for a nostalgic lake cruise on awe inspiring Wakatipu, disembarking at a high country farm for afternoon tea. While there, join in the farmyard walking tour and watch the working dogs and shearing demonstration. Head up the Skyline Gondola for stunning views of Queenstown and the lake below.
Be sure to enjoy an evening in one of the many great bars or restaurants in cosmopolitan Queenstown.
Recommendation only
Booked by a scenset
Your adventure begins at a beautiful bee farm. Indulge in a honey tasting experience and enjoy a selection of five artisan honeys from different parts of New Zealand including local raw honey and premium manuka honey. Uncover the rich history of the region, its diverse flora, and unique geography, and get up close and personal with these industrious bees in their large see-through observation hive.
Choose one of three hands-on private experiences with a beekeeper. You can make your own beeswax candles and honey soap, spin and bottle your own honey to take home with you, or for the adventurous bee lover why not climb into your own protective bee suit and experience Being-a-Beekeeper (summer only as the hives can’t be opened in the cooler months).
Your guide will transport you through picturesque Queenstown landscapes to the quaint and historic Arrowtown, which has its scenset in the days of the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860’s and now boasts excellent eateries.
Then, immerse yourself in New Zealand's native wildlife at Kiwi Park before savoring a delectable lunch at Mora Kitchen, offering a taste of local cuisine amidst breathtaking Queenstown scenery.
Lunch Included
Booked by a client.
Booked by a scenset
Sit back and relax and take in the stunning views as you ride the Skyline Queenstown Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the must-do activities in Queenstown! You’ll be carried 450 metres above Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu to the top of Bob's Peak, where you’ll enjoy the best views in the region unfolding before your eyes.
You get to experience a spectacular 220-degree panorama with breath-taking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter and Cecil Peak and, of course, Queenstown.
At the top take a thrilling ride enjoyed by all ages and abilities. The purpose-built Luge carts put you in complete control as you take on over 800 metres of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. Once you’ve conquered the course, hop on the chairlift and do it all again, and again, and again. Gentle and leisurely or steep and adventurous, you’ll be hooked. Once is never enough so three luge rides are included.
Gondola & 3 Luge Rides are included.
Booked by scenset.
Booked by a guest
Welcome to Australia! Today is all about settling in 'Down Under'.
This morning you will be met by a private driver and vehicle and transferred to the International Airport prior to your flight.
Time: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Time: will be provided
Booked by someone.
Disembark your flight into Australia and you’ll experience a seamless and personalised transition out of the Airport. As soon as you walk off the plane, you'll see your private attendant holding a sign with your name on it. This private attendant will stay with you every step of the arrival process and fast track you through Customs, Immigration and airport security ensuring a swift and hassle-free process.
Booked by Scenset.
Upon arrival in Sydney, you will be met by a private driver and vehicle and transferred to your accommodation.
Booked by Scenset.
Why we love it for you? Four Seasons Hotel Sydney is stunningly situated overlooking Sydney Harbour in the historic Rocks district, a short walk from the city's shopping and business centres. With panoramic views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the property combines a prime location in the historic Rocks area with spacious rooms, award-winning dining, indigenous spa treatments and service that anticipates your every request.
Booked by a scenset.
Today, explore the Blue Mountains and local wildlife!
Head off on an adventure to discover the stunning wilderness of the Blue Mountains with an unforgettable experience at Featherdale Wildlife Park for an exclusive 90-minute private zookeeper led tour of the park.
Located half-way between the city and the Blue Mountains, this VIP experience takes you on an intimate tour of Featherdale Wildlife Park. The park boasts Australia's largest collection of native wildlife in a natural bush environment. You’ll have the exclusive opportunity to get up close and personal with Australian wildlife - hand feed a Kangaroo, Wallaby, Pademelon or Quokka. Enjoy an amazing one-to-one encounter with a friendly cuddly koala, take a behind the scenes tour of the reptile house and visit the baby animal nursery.
Continuing on, be awed by the spectacular natural wonders that surround you as you drive deeper into the mountains, from towering sandstone escarpments covered by lush forests of gum trees to valleys full of wildlife.
Breathe in the fresh mountain air, stretch your legs with a hike (tailored to your wishes), explore the stunning rock formations, flora, fauna and waterfalls along the way. If you’re a keen hiker, The Wentworth Falls hike takes approximately one hour down into the valley floor alongside a giant waterfall. If you would like to be challenged further, your host has got you covered.
Enjoy a gourmet two-course lunch with a glass of crisp local wine or ice-cold Aussie beer in a picturesque mountain setting. After lunch, get a glimpse into the rich history of the Blue Mountains - you will learn how Indigenous Australian tribes have lived off the land for thousands of years. If you wish, visit the Aboriginal Cultural Centre or ask your host to show you some of the many well-preserved Indigenous Australian rock engravings. You’ll also visit the legendary Three Sisters and hear the extraordinary history of the curious rock formations - there’s so much to wonder and discover!
Your guide will return you to your hotel at approximately 5pm.
Booked by scenset.
Booked by a guest.
Today is all about exploring Sydney's beaches and hitting the water!
This family-focused experience begins by driving over the Sydney Harbour Bridge where you’ll enjoy the expansive and magnificent views over the harbour. Travel through Sydney’s leafy North Shore prized for its splendid water views and unique relaxed lifestyle.
First up is a private two-hour kayak tour with a qualified guide so you can experience Sydney Harbour in a completely different way, via sea kayaks through Middle Harbour. You will be led from the Spit Bridge location toward Grotto Point and Middle Head giving you a taste of the life around one of Sydney's wonderfully secret waterways. You will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views out into the Pacific Ocean as you paddle toward Middle Head, introducing you to the fascinating natural history of the area as well as the various flora and fauna you may encounter.
Next head down to beautiful Balmoral Beach, where you’ll enjoy some fresh Australian cuisine for lunch.
Balmoral Beach is one of the most picturesque harbour beaches - here you’ll find locals enjoying the tranquillity of protected swimming areas. If you wish, which we highly recommend, take a swim before lunch.
After lunch, it’s time to discover Aussie beach culture. Travel back across the Harbour Bridge over to the Eastern suburbs to Bondi Beach. Explore the beach on foot from one end to the other with your guide. Cruise past the kid’s pool and the famous grassy knoll on the far north end of the beach and find yourself at the ‘Rock Shelf’, a sandstone bed on the water’s edge with natural rock pools; perfect for the kids to splash and play in.
You’ll have time to swim, play and explore the beautiful area. Head up to the backstreets of Bondi Beach for an afternoon snack. Choose from the many fantastic local cafés, or a quick bite at one of the organic grocers or pop-up snack bars.
Your guide will return you to your hotel in the late afternoon.
Booked by Scenset.
Lunch paid locally.
We will provide recommendations of where to eat once your trip has confirmed, and closer to your departure date.
The rest of the evening has been left for you to relax and unwind.
Booked by a scenset representative.
For the next few days, embark on your Disney Cruise and enjoy your itinerary.
Transfer to Disney cruise.
Booked by a travel agent
Enjoy your Disney Cruise for 3 nights.
Booked independently.
Today, disembark from your cruise and spend the day relaxing and exploring.
On arrival back into Sydney today from your cruise, you will be met by a private driver and vehicle and transferred to your accommodation.
Booked by Scenset.
Check back into the Four Seasons Sydney.
The rest of the day has been left for you to explore at your own pace.
Booked by a scenset representative.
Today you will be met at your accommodation by a private driver and vehicle and transferred to the Airport prior to your onward flight.
Booked by Scenset.
Please refer to our terms & conditions here.