Once the richest city in the world thanks to a gold rush, Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital with striking architecture, chic galleries and boutiques. Wave at a wallaby or get close to a koala at a wildlife park. Feel closer to the land on a ride on the Puffing Billy steam locomotive through the mountains and countryside. Back in the city, explore a different culture and visit Chinatown – the oldest one in the West.

Tucked along the coast of Gulf St. Vincent, Adelaide is South Australia ‘s cosmopolitan capital. While touring the city’s renown museums or attending one of its many vibrant festivals, be sure to visit Tandanya – Australia’s oldest Aboriginal-owned and managed multi-arts centre – to learn about the region’s original inhabitants. Wine enthusiasts shouldn’t leave without tasting Australia’s best known wine, Grange, which is made right in Adelaide.

Kangaroos, koalas, wallabies and fur seals and are some of the residents you may encounter while visiting Australia’s third largest island. In addition to diverse wildlife, Kangaroo Island features diverse landscapes for exploration and numerous outdoor adventures and relaxation. The island is also home to anglers and farmers that produce gourmet foods that shouldn’t be missed. You’ll come for the wildlife and natural beauty and stay for the local arts and cuisine.

Hobart is Tasmania’s capital city that blends culture, historical sites and a vibrant artistic community against a backdrop of staggering natural beauty. Get a taste of local life by strolling Salamanca Place in Sullivan’s Cove – a cobblestone square bustling with art galleries, boutique shops, restaurants and live music. Journey to the Tasman Peninsula to explore the island’s beautiful wilderness and perhaps spot the famed Tasmanian Devil

This dramatic South Island coastal town offers a mix of unique natural beauty and fascinating history. Rare, yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and the Royal Albatross all call Dunedin home. Equally impressive is the Victorian and Edwardian architecture that dates from its days as a gold rush town. New Zealand’s only castle sits high above the city and offers sweeping views from its famous gardens. Shop for a locally made souvenir, with crafts, artwork, wool and leather items being popular.

Travel to a Victorian past as you stroll by the city’s Victorian Gothic buildings. Take the cable car up the mountain for a fantastic view, or grab some sunscreen and head to the beach. Great views abound in Wellington: Journey around the spectacular harbour and enjoy its amazing views. See some of the sites where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed. Shopping opportunities are plentiful, with arts and crafts, jewellery, fine woolens and leather goods on offer.

Built around a sheltered harbour, Picton is lined with cafés and restaurants for you to choose from (we suggest the fish and chips). Popular attractions in Picton include a maritime museum and an aquarium. But this town is not short on recreational activities. Some of Picton’s favourite pastimes include fishing, dolphin watching and sea kayaking. Walk or bike the Queen Charlotte Track or spend the day exploring the scenic Marlborough Sounds. Check out one of the many wine tours (probably after biking the track). Then relax as you browse the local shops that offer a wide range of trinkets, including handmade jewellery, paintings from local artists and woodcarvings. Before leaving Picton, it’s time for more fish and chips along the shore. It’s the Picton way!

Napier calls itself the Art Deco capital of the world, but it’s also a leading wine-travel destination. Leveled by an earthquake in 1931, Napier was rebuilt in Art Deco style. Along with Miami Beach, Napier is one of the best examples of this style, with many of its structures well preserved. Take a walk down Marine Parade, a tree-lined ocean boulevard with fountains and gardens, or go out to the country to enjoy the lovely vistas, tour superb area vineyards and relax with a glass of wine.

Go walk-about and explore Tauranga, set on the beautiful Bay of Plenty. And indeed there are plenty of things to do. Head to the beach or discover Tauranga’s lovely parks and rich history. Visit a village buried by a volcanic eruption and captured in a moment of time – a fascinating yet moving experience. Take a selfie at Hell’s Gate, an aptly named geothermal park with boiling pools, fantastic geysers and mud baths, the largest of which is Poutamu, “the stairway to heaven.”

Surrounded by tranquil golden beaches, lush forests and dramatic coastal trails, Auckland is a nature lover’s paradise. The 48 volcanic cones that dot the surrounding area provide stunning panoramic views of the city and harbour. New Zealand’s largest city is also a shopper’s paradise offering everything from top designers to local open-air markets. Learn about the indigenous Maori and take home some native art pieces or jewellery. The fine, locally produced woolens also make excellent gifts.