Top Australia & the Pacific Culture - page 70

Drive Margaret River yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks the whole region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — Margaret River township, Dunsborough, Cowaramup or Augusta — choose the cellar doors you want from 59 on the map, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 82 stories cover the peninsula's people and places: as you pass Vasse Felix in Wilyabrup you'll hear how a 1965 research paper by agronomist John Gladstones convinced a Perth cardiologist named Tom Cullity that this remote forested strip had Bordeaux's numbers — and how in 1967 he planted the region's first commercial vines there. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long lunch at a cellar door, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops in the karri forest stretches of Caves Road. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.

Drive the Yarra Valley yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks the whole region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — Healesville, Coldstream, Yarra Glen, Seville, or straight out of Melbourne — choose the cellar doors you want, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 85 stories cover 63 cellar doors and the people behind them: as you pass Yering Station you'll hear how the Ryrie brothers planted Victoria's first vines on this riverbank in 1838, and how Paul de Castella later bought the run and made it famous, taking a grand prix at the 1889 Paris Exposition Universelle. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long lunch in Healesville, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops through the Upper Yarra. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.

Drive the Hunter Valley yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks Australia's oldest wine region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — Cessnock, Pokolbin, Broke or Lovedale — choose the cellar doors you want, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 84 narrated stories cover 62 cellar doors and the people behind them: as you roll into Pokolbin you'll hear how James Busby stepped ashore in the 1820s carrying vine cuttings gathered across France and Spain, and how every Australian wine region that followed traces its genetics back to that single act. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long cellar-door lunch, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops on the back roads toward Broke. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.

Drive McLaren Vale yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks the whole region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — McLaren Vale Township, Willunga, the coast, or straight from Adelaide — choose the cellar doors you want, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 116 narrated stories cover 78 cellar doors and the people behind them: as you pass Kay Brothers at Amery you'll hear how Herbert and Frederick Kay planted Block Six Shiraz into sandy loam in 1892 — and those same vines are still cropping today. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long lunch, double back, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops, so Blewitt Springs' patchy coverage never matters. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.

Drive Marlborough yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks the whole region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — most people begin in Blenheim or straight off the Picton ferry, though you can start anywhere and the GPS will pick you up — choose the cellar doors you want, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 85 narrated stories cover 48 cellar doors and the valleys between them: as you cross the Wairau plain you'll hear how this was sheep country until 1973, when Montana Wines pushed seventy-five thousand vine cuttings into stony ground every expert had written off as too cold, too windy and too far south for serious wine. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long lunch, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.

Taste your way through Newcastle East on a small-group walking tour that pairs five local food and drink stops with the city's best street art and sculptures. Your local guide shares the stories behind both: the makers, the murals, and the food scene reshaping our old harbour city. Over an easy 2.5 km stroll, you'll sample a curated selection of five tastings, including a craft beer stop, while discovering hidden laneway artworks and sculptures most visitors miss. It's a relaxed, sociable couple of hours built around connection and storytelling, ideal for food lovers, art fans, and anyone wanting to see the real Newcastle beyond the obvious. Small groups mean you'll never feel rushed, and there's always time for questions, photos, and a chat with your guide. Sample tastings: Three locally made craft beers (tasting paddle) Half an Italian gourmet panini Handmade dumplings Locally caught, panko-crumbed prawns Newcastle-made ice cream Please note: stops vary, but the quality never does.

This tour combines two of New Zealand’s iconic destinations in one day. Leave Auckland behind as you travel through countryside with your driver guide, enjoying comfort and stories. The journey blends cinematic magic with geothermal power and cultural depth, creating a mix of fantasy and discovery. At Hobbiton, stroll among hobbit holes, gardens, and the Mill, as if you have stepped into Middle earth. Guided stories share filming secrets, and a drink at the Green Dragon Inn adds to the charm of the Shire. Next up, visit Te Puia, the geothermal heart of Rotorua. See the Pōhutu Geyser, explore mud pools, and visit the Kiwi Conservation Centre. The tour also brings Māori traditions to life through carving, weaving, and storytelling. Together, Hobbiton and Te Puia create a day where film, culture, and nature meet.

Explore the enchanting Mavora Lakes and other iconic Middle Earth filming locations on this exclusive half-day tour from Te Anau. Guided by passionate experts on all things Lord of the Rings, discover the haunting beauty of the Dead Marshes, the Anduin River, and Fangorn Forest. Along the way, engage with authentic LOTR props and learn fascinating behind-the-scenes stories that bring the cinematic magic to life. Perfect for fans and adventurers alike, this tour offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of hobbits and elves while supporting local conservation efforts. - Duration: 5.5 hours with a maximum of 8 passengers per group - Visit stunning locations like Fangorn, Nen Hithoel and the Dead Marshes - Includes authentic LOTR props for memorable photo opportunities - Lunch is available for purchase at the Alpine Centre

Explore iconic filming locations from the Lord of the Rings in Glenorchy and Paradise on this half-day tour. Led by knowledgeable guides, visit sites like Ithilien, Isengard, and Beorn’s House, enhancing your journey with authentic props and behind-the-scenes insights. Enjoy a hot or cold beverage while capturing memorable photos with licensed replicas. This intimate tour, lasting 4.5 hours, is perfect for fans of all ages, though some walking on dirt tracks is involved. Discover the magic of Middle Earth while supporting local conservation efforts with a portion of your fee going to the Love Queenstown Community Fund. - 4.5-hour tour showcasing stunning LOTR locations - Knowledgeable guides with expert insights on the films - Includes hot or cold beverages and photo opportunities - Suitable for families, but wear appropriate footwear for walking

Embark on a Legendary Lord of the Rings Journey from Queenstown, this exclusive LOTR tour takes you deep into the Southland region, home to some of the most breathtaking and sought-after filming locations in Middle Earth. Our journey heads to Te Anau, where you’ll uncover the haunting beauty of the Anduin River and the Dead Marshes. From there, venture to the stunning Mavora Lakes, where cinematic magic meets unforgettable moments. Discover which fearless actor famously broke two toes near the edge of Fangorn Forest and relive the dramatic Breaking of the Fellowship as Frodo and Sam take their fateful steps toward Mordor. You’ll gear up for adventure with the largest collection of authentic, licensed LOTR props, including swords, axes, helmets, and even original scripts. Step into the shoes of your favorite characters, and let the spirit of Middle Earth guide you. This is an epic quest you’ll be talking about long after you leave the Shire!

Discover the magic of Middle-earth on this immersive half-day tour from Queenstown to the breathtaking landscapes of Glenorchy and Paradise. Visit iconic filming locations like Ithilien, Isengard, and Lothlórien while enjoying exclusive access to original scripts and production materials that enrich the experience. Handle licensed replica props, capture cinematic photos, and unwind with a beverage in an alpine setting. This tour, led by knowledgeable guides, is perfect for fans seeking an engaging and detailed exploration of the Lord of the Rings universe. - Immerse yourself in Middle Earth with a guided tour from Queenstown - Visit legendary LOTR filming locations in Glenorchy and Paradise - Enjoy small group sizes for a more personalized experience - Capture unique photos with the largest collection of licensed LOTR props

Starting at Circular Quay, we'll introduce you to the world-famous Sydney Opera House, sharing insights into its fascinating design and significance. Stroll through The Rocks, Sydney's oldest neighbourhood, and uncover its convict past, charming alleyways, and historic buildings. Continue through the Royal Botanical Garden Sydney, one of Sydney's main green spaces, and marvel at the impressive variety of flora. Explore the State Library of NSW, a significant hub of knowledge and cultural encounter, being the oldest library in Australia. Pass by the New South Wales Parliament and learn about its history and the government of Australia. Following the tour at Hyde Park and St Mary's Cathedral, where you can appreciate one of Sydney's central parks and one of the most spectacular cathedrals. But our adventure doesn't end there. After the awe-inspiring St Mary's Cathedral, we'll guide you through the bustling streets to Town Hall and the majestic Queen Victoria Building (QVB).

Explore the vibrant East End of Adelaide in the early evening on this 2-hour Food Tour. You’ll visit four unique venues, each showcasing diverse food options. This tour highlights local street art and shares fascinating stories of the city’s culture and history. Accompanied by an experienced local guide, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as you uncover hidden gems and savor delicious bites. Ideal for food lovers and those looking to experience Adelaide from a different perspective, this tour also supports the local community with a donation to charities. - Visit 4 different food stops in Adelaide’s East End - Discover local street art and unique stories from your guide - Small group size (max 12 people) for a personalized experience - Supports local charities with a donation from each ticket sold

Discover the cosy bars of Adelaide’s East End Delve into the Unique and diverse bar scene of Adelaide as you wander around the east end of the city centre. Join your experienced local guide and uncover four of these fascinating venues in one relaxing afternoon. Learn what makes each one special over a drink of your choosing (not included in tour). These cosy watering holes have been carefully chosen for their atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious drinks. Between bars, enjoy the relaxed vibe of the east end, as your tour host shares all sorts of little-known facts and street art with you.

Adelaide's most historic and beautiful coastal suburb is only a 30-minute tram ride out of the city centre. Our meeting spot is just a few steps away from where you alight the tram. As soon as you start the tour you are quickly enveloped in the historic charm of Glenelg as we regale you with stories about South Australia’s first mainland settlement and its characters. We will walk beside beautiful long sandy beaches, wander along historic streets and gaze upon luxurious seaside mansions while showing you the best spots to eat and shop in Glenelg. Discover why over 1 million tourists visit Glenelg each year. With its laid back coastal atmosphere it offers the perfect afternoon escape from the bustle of city life. This tour gives you the ultimate introduction to Glenelg in just 90 minutes. Informative, fun and immersive, you will have plenty of free time after to explore Glenelg at your leisure and enjoy its many attractions, activities and lively dining and shopping scene.

This engaging 2.5-hour walking tour starts in the vibrant heart of the city, weaving through its cultural precinct and East End laneways. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll explore iconic sites while tasting the diverse food offerings that define Adelaide. The experience culminates in the Adelaide Botanic Gardens with a First Nations guide, allowing you to connect deeply with the land's history and culture, including a traditional smoking ceremony. - Enjoy a guided tour with a local expert and a First Nations guide - Visit key sites including Rundle Mall and the Adelaide Botanic Gardens - Experience a unique smoking ceremony and ochre cleansing - Private Tour for an intimate experience Please note:: This tour only runs as a private tour and has a minimum price of $596 to run the tour

This experience is perfect for beginners wanting to understand art. It offers great value because you can learn valuable tips in art appreciation, admire top Western art at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) without spending hours wandering the museum. Guests will benefit from an immersive learning experience about the main Western art movements featured in NGV, including Byzantine, Renaissance, Mannerism, Baroque, Rococo, and Impressionism; and admire paintings by Rembrandt, François Boucher, El Greco, Jan Brueghel, Tiepolo and Monet. This tour suits travellers and locals, including families with children.

Discover the charm of Dunedin on this half-day tour led by local guides. Begin with a convenient ship pickup and delve into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Stroll down the world's steepest street, take in panoramic views from Signal Hill Lookout, and explore the serene Botanic Gardens, the oldest in New Zealand. Capture a photo of the stunning Dunedin Railway Station and experience the lively atmosphere of the oldest university in the country. Enjoy free time in town to relax and explore on your own before returning to your ship. - Half-day tour showcasing Dunedin's iconic landmarks - Visit the world's steepest street and Signal Hill Lookout - Explore the historic Botanic Gardens with ample time for a stroll - Experience local student life at Dunedin's oldest university and free time in the city at your leisure.

Explore Melbourne’s vibrant culture and rich history on a private 4-hour walking tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, discover iconic sites like Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, and the famous street art. Venture through historic arcades and hear fascinating tales from the Gold Rush era to contemporary Melbourne. Enjoy a complimentary coffee or tea as you traverse the city’s lively streets and uncover hidden gems that typical tourists might miss. - Personalized experience with a maximum group size of 8 - Meeting point at your hotel or a convenient location - Includes a ride on a Melbourne tram - Suitable for all ages; children must be accompanied by an adult

Tour Australia’s capital with a local guide on an easy day trip from Sydney. Your private guide and driver will pick you up from a location of your choice, such as hotel or port, in Sydney, for hassle-free transfers. See the highlights of the ‘bush capital’, such as museums, galleries, and wildlife—it’s your choice on this flexible private tour.

Waipoua Forest - Tāne Mahuta, Te Matua Ngahere & Kauri Museum Day Tour from Auckland Discover the ancient giants of Waipoua Forest on this full-day tour from Auckland. Visit Tāne Mahuta, New Zealand’s tallest kauri tree, and Te Matua Ngahere, one of the oldest and widest living trees in the world. Explore the Kauri Museum in Matakohe, showcasing the rich history of the kauri timber and gum industries. Travel in comfort with a knowledgeable guide, with scenic stops and light refreshments along the way. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and history in one unforgettable day.

Experience an unforgettable journey through culture, nature, and creativity across Rotorua and the Waikato. Begin at Whakarewarewa – the Living Māori Village, an authentic community where the Maori people live, work, and share their traditions. Witness their daily life amidst steaming geothermal vents, bubbling mud pools, and natural hot springs that have been used for generations. Enjoy powerful cultural performances, including the iconic haka, poi dances, and traditional songs. Continue to the serene Blue Springs of Putāruru, where crystal-clear, turquoise water emerges from underground aquifers, creating one of NZ’s most pristine and photogenic natural wonders. Conclude in Hamilton via Tirau, a quaint rural town famous for its corrugated-iron dog and sheep buildings, and cafés, perfect for a relaxed stop, coffee, and memorable photos. This journey blends immersive culture, stunning landscapes, and small-town charm for an authentic experience.

Experience Auckland’s best sights, stories, and landscapes in just 2.5 hours with a local guide who brings the city to life. This is more than a sightseeing drive — it is a journey through Auckland’s iconic landmarks, waterfront beauty, vibrant neighbourhoods, and volcanic heritage. Drive across the legendary Harbour Bridge while discovering the fascinating story of New Zealand’s famous Bungy Jumping, admire the stunning yachts at Westhaven Marina, explore the stylish streets of Ponsonby, and enjoy the greenery of Auckland Domain. The highlight is a visit to Mount Eden (Maungawhau), Auckland’s most iconic volcanic peak, where you’ll enjoy spectacular 360° panoramic views of the city, harbour, and islands. With flexible departure times and unforgettable photo stops, this tour is the perfect way to discover the essence of Auckland when time is limited.

Tick off Tasmania’s top sights with five of your best-selling day tours in one easy bundle. Wander through convict ruins at Port Arthur, hike to Wineglass Bay, explore the wild beauty of Bruny Island, and spot wombats at Cradle Mountain. You’ll also visit historic Richmond, take in the views from kunanyi/Mt Wellington, and meet Tassie devils at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s a great mix of scenery, wildlife, history, and local flavour—without the stress of planning. Please note: tours operate independently and may run in a different order. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels. The Hobart Highlights tour runs Saturdays only. Pickup times and locations may vary so please get in touch to confirm your pick up details.