Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Discover the natural beauty of Australia and New Zealand on this journey from Auckland through Sydney. In New Zealand, your students will learn about Māori history and culture at the Te Puia Thermal Reserve and through a traditional Hangi feast. Your class can also look forward to discovering the Glowworm Grotto, the iconic Sydney Opera House, and world-famous Bondi Beach.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to New Zealand (Auckland)
Day 2
Lose a day as you cross the International Date Line
Day 3
Arrive in Auckland
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Travel to Rotorua
Before you see Rotorua, you may smell it first: sulfur. It’s a fitting introduction to a city shaped by geothermal forces. Rotorua offers a striking look at volcanic activity, with steam rising across the city from several thermal areas. One of its geysers erupts multiple times each day, sending water high into the air.
Day 4
Whakarewarewa Valley geothermal guided visit
Explore Rotorua’s geothermal and cultural landscapes on a guided visit through Whakarewarewa Valley. See bubbling mud pools and steaming vents, visit a thermal reserve, and learn how Māori communities live alongside this environment. Observe kiwi in a nocturnal habitat and see traditional carving and weaving at the Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.
Agrodome New Zealand farm visit
Located in the heart of scenic farmland, this world-famous farm show offers a fun and educational look at New Zealand’s agricultural traditions. Learn about the various breeds of sheep found across the country, and when in season, enjoy a visit to the Farmyard Nursery.
Māori hāngī feast
Experience Māori culture through a traditional hāngī feast, where food is cooked using natural geothermal steam. Vegetables and meats are wrapped in leaves and slow-cooked underground, offering insight into an age-old, community-centreed cooking tradition.
Day 5
Travel to Auckland via Waitomo
Stop to see the Waitomo Glowworm Cave, first explored in 1887 by a local Maori Chief, Tane Tinorau, and an English surveyor, Fred Mace. Enter as they did, and as your eyes adjust to the darkness, imagine how they must have felt upon discovering the Glowworm Grotto--thousands of lights on the ceiling that are actually insects. See the caves' dry valleys, streams that disappear down funnel-shaped sinkholes and craggy limestone outcrops and formations.
Waitomo Caves and Glowworm Grotto visit
Descend into the Waitomo Caves, one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural wonders. Discover impressive limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, before gliding through the world-famous Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the cave ceiling.
Day 6
Auckland Tour Director-led sightseeing
Experience Auckland through Tour Director–led sightseeing that highlights New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and bicultural foundations. Visit Mission Bay to see how the harbor shapes city life, then travel to Maungawhau (Mount Eden), once a major Māori settlement. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of Auckland and the Waitematā Harbour while learning how geography and culture are closely connected.
All Blacks Experience guided visit
Step into the world of New Zealand rugby on an interactive guided visit. Explore immersive exhibits, test your skills, and learn about the legacy of the All Blacks and other national teams. Discover the history, traditions, and cultural significance of the sport, including the meaning and power of the haka.
Fly to Sydney
Day 7
Sydney city walk
Explore Sydney on foot through The Rocks, where cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively shops reflect the city’s past and present. Walk across the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge for sweeping harbour views, then stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens to experience native plants and scenic waterfront landscapes.
Sydney Opera House guided visit
Explore the Sydney Opera House and learn the story behind its iconic design. Discover architect Jørn Utzon’s vision, get a close look at the famous shell tiles, and step inside to visit performance spaces. Take in the craftsmanship and experience one of the world’s most recognized cultural landmarks.
Day 8
Bondi Beach excursion
Visit Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most famous stretches of sand, known for its surf culture, lifesaving history, and vibrant atmosphere. Learn what makes Bondi unique, then enjoy free time to relax, explore, or try surfing. Continue to The Gap for coastal views and Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair for iconic harbour views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Fish and chips lunch
Bondi Beach surf lesson (optional)
Grab a board and learn to surf at Bondi Beach. Start on the sand, then head into the water as experienced surfers and lifeguards guide you through the basics. With about 90 minutes of instruction, plus surfboards and wetsuits included, you’ll build confidence and catch your first waves.
Ferry ride across the Sydney Harbour
Hop aboard the Manly Ferry, one of Sydney’s most iconic experiences. Departing regularly to and from Manly to Circular Quay, the ferry cruises past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House before passing Kirribilli House the official residence of the Prime Minister.
Dinner on your own
Day 9
Blue Mountains and wildlife sanctuary excursion (optional)
Spend a day at the scenic Blue Mountain National Park - the traditional homelands of six groups of indigenous people – Darug, Gundungurra, Wiradjuri, Wanaruah, Darkinjung and Tharawal. Travel through rainforests and encounter new plants and wildlife. Observe the amazing sandstone rock formation known as the Three Sisters. The Blue Mountains offer a variety of lookout points for you to take in the views.
Day 10
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 3 Days in Cairns
Begin with a locally guided sightseeing tour featuring the Esplanade, Wharf Street, and the vibrant Cairns Night Market. From there, enjoy a relaxing half-day excursion to Palm Cove, known for its palm-lined beaches and tropical charm. Spend a full day exploring the Great Barrier Reef on a cruise with lunch and free time to snorkel or unwind. Cap off your stay with a memorable performance in Cairns, set against the backdrop of Australia’s tropical north before heading home.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to and from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Scenes from Australia and New Zealand
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.
