The Kaplan family, parents traveling with their young adult children from the Philadelphia area, spent their holiday break exploring the best of Australia and New Zealand. The Family Traveler designed a completely custom itinerary tailored to their interests, travel style, and budget, covering Sydney and Cairns in Australia, followed by Queenstown, Rotorua, and Auckland in New Zealand over a three-week journey. Given the length of the trip and the active nature of their plans, the family selected comfortable mid-range hotels, knowing they would be out adventuring most of the time.

They shared that the trip was simply wonderful, filled with memorable experiences from start to finish. In Sydney, they loved both the city itself and the sense of community. Highlights included private guided tours of Sydney and a day trip to the Blue Mountains. While the location of the Amora Hotel Jamison was excellent, the property felt a bit tired and understaffed during the busy holiday period.

In Cairns, summer heat and humidity were intense, but the experience was elevated by an exceptional guide, Gavin, whose expertise as a naturalist made for a standout day to Daintree and Cape Tribulation. The family was thrilled to see rare wildlife, including a cassowary and the famous crocodile “Scarface” during their Daintree River cruise. They also enjoyed the Skyrail Gondola and the Kuranda Scenic Railway, though both showed signs of age. Their stay at the Crystalbrook Riley was comfortable and well-located.

Queenstown quickly became a favorite. The family loved the town’s charm and the variety of activities, including a spectacular helicopter flight to Milford Sound, scenic boat rides, and winery visits. The helicopter experience stood out in particular, thanks to an excellent pilot and seamless execution. Shopping and dining in town were also highlights, though the Rendezvous Heritage hotel did not meet expectations.

Next, they traveled to Kaikoura, where they were captivated by the dramatic landscape and warm, welcoming locals. A hands-on cooking class was a major highlight, as was ocean kayaking, which they enjoyed despite some initial hesitation. Their stay in the Family Tree House at Hapuku Lodge was visually stunning and beautifully appointed with modern amenities.

In Rotorua, the family stayed at the Pullman and enjoyed learning about the region’s geothermal features and Māori culture. Hiking and a visit to Hobbiton exceeded expectations, made even more magical by the lush blooms of the season. A dental emergency unexpectedly led to a memorable interaction with the local community, adding a unique personal moment to the trip.

On the way to Auckland, a visit to the Waitomo Caves proved to be an awe-inspiring experience. Their time in Auckland was equally enjoyable, highlighted by a private sailing excursion with an energetic young crew who made the outing especially fun. The young adult children also loved the Auckland Bridge Climb. A guided food tour offered both culinary delights and historical insight, and while the MSocial Hotel was somewhat quirky, its central location was appreciated.

Overall, the Kaplan family thoroughly enjoyed their journey, which offered a rich balance of adventure, culture, wildlife, and natural beauty. The trip provided meaningful opportunities to connect with two distinct countries and created lasting memories for every member of the family.