Australia and New Zealand might just be the ultimate holiday destinations for the avid traveller with an infinite list of things to do, palates to please, and natural attractions to experience. There’s a little bit of something for everybody so even the fussiest travel companion will have a blast.
Outdoorsy types will love the breathtaking landscapes, panoramic views, and all the possibilities for outdoor activities that they present. And those looking for a culture fix will have a hard time whittling down their options for restaurants, wineries, museums, and even sporting events.
It’s easy to catch a direct flight to any of the major international airports from Singapore Changi Airport, be it Sydney or Brisbane, Christchurch or Auckland. Don’t limit yourself to just the big cities though, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover across the Antipodes.
When it comes to looking for the perfect accommodation during your vacation in Australia and New Zealand, it cannot get easier with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. With 45 properties across Australia and New Zealand, you will be able to find a stay that fits your budget and preferences.
DON’T MISS THIS LIMITED TIME OFFER: Get 4x Wyndham Rewards Points when you sign in to Wyndham Rewards, register for the promo and book your stay at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts properties in Australia or New Zealand via this link. Book by 17 September 2023 and complete your stay by 30 November 2023 to earn the extra points and redeem it for free night stays on your next vacation!
If you are not a Wyndham Rewards member yet, sign up for the membership for free here and enjoy exclusive perks.
1. Immerse yourself in nature that’s truly out of this world
Australia and New Zealand have some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. It’s no wonder the Lord of the Rings films were shot in New Zealand—some of its vistas are straight out of a fantasy book, making it one of the most popular film locations around the world for movie buffs. And pictures of the Australian outback look like they could have been taken on Mars!
There’s plenty to see and almost every kind of geography on offer: tropical rainforests, scraggly bushes, snowy mountain tops, and so on. Hikers are just spoilt for choice.
One hike that should go on your bucket list is the Uluṟu Base Walk at Uluṟu-Kata Tjuta National Park in Yulara, Australia. Uluṟu is a massive sandstone formation that has been sacred to the indigenous Aṉangu people for thousands of years.
The entire hike is 10km-long and will take you around the entire circumference of the rock. You’ll be surprised by how varied the landscape around the monolith can be. Some sections are lush with trees, some barren and desolate, and many serve as homes to a diverse range of wild animals and birds that reside in the national park.
Yulara is a 5h drive from Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia. Regional flights to Connellan Airport, the nearest airport from Yulara, are available from multiple international airports in Australia.
Another scenic hike you should embark on is the Frankton Arm Walkway in Queenstown, New Zealand. Be rewarded with breathtaking views throughout the three-hour hike (one-way) from Queenstown Gardens to Lake Wakatipu. It is an easy trail with many spots by the beautiful beaches and lakes to catch a break, or even a picnic!
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown sits right in front of the Remarkables mountain range, guaranteeing a great view.
Be treated with views of the mountains from rooms with full amenities, suitable for couples who wish to relax and recharge, or families looking to be close to nature.
To enjoy and experience the beauty of Queenstown to the fullest, we recommend a stay at La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown. It is located just 30min away by car from Lake Wakatipu. Situated by the Kawarau River and the Remarkables mountain range, you can relax and recharge in the rooms with a full view of the mountains.
During the ski season, you can hit the slopes of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cardrona, and Treble Cone - all located nearby La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown.
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Address: 18 Mountain Ash Drive, Remarkables Park, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
2. Savour world-class cuisine
While the Michelin Guide has yet to make its way to Oceania, both Australia and New Zealand are renowned for their delectable cuisine. The exceedingly high quality of their produce, in particular, is thanks to the abundance of coastlines, farmland, and climate zones that grow anything from tropical fruits to winter root vegetables.
It’s definitely worth visiting one of the many hatted restaurants serving Modern Australian cuisine, like Peter Gilmore’s Bennelong in the Sydney Opera House, or its sister restaurant Quay.
For a truly unforgettable meal, head to The Chef’s Table at Blue Duck Station on New Zealand’s North Island. The 10-seater restaurant offers a 3-4h long degustation menu using ingredients mainly farmed, foraged or grown on, or around the station. It’s also located on one of the highest points of the conservation area which is affectionately known as the Top of the World, boasting views of the Tongariro and Whanganui national parks.
Dinners begin with a 2h-long ATV bush safari tour of Blue Duck Station’s rainforest, waterways and hidden gems to learn about its ongoing conservation projects to protect New Zealand’s native bird life and rainforest. Prices start from NZD495 (S$400) for the combined tour and dinner experience.
With just 10 seats in the restaurants, you can imagine how competitive a reservation for The Chef’s Table at Blue Duck Station can be. Reservation slots are released periodically on their website and you should book a table for your company before visiting to avoid disappointment. With the help of unlimited high-speed data from ChangiWiFi, here's hoping you’ll win at fastest fingers first.
The Chef’s Table at Blue Duck Station
Address: 4265 Oio Road, Whakahoro Retaruke, Ōwhango 3990, New Zealand
Opening hours: 5:00pm to 11:30pm, Thursday to Sunday
If you are starting your road trip in New Zealand from Auckland and travelling down to Wellington or even further to Christchurch, you will certainly pass by North Island, where The Chef’s Table at Blue Duck Station is located.
Ramada Suites By Wyndham Victoria Street West is a modern hotel in Auckland with a welcoming atmosphere
With many positive reviews of Ramada Suites By Wyndham Victoria Street West, it is a go-to accommodation option for many travellers.
Ramada Suites By Wyndham Victoria Street West is located less than 30km-away from Auckland Airport and located in the city centre of Auckland, making it a perfect stop and accommodation choice for your road trip in New Zealand.
It is within walking distance from Aotea Square, where many events, concerts and markets are held all year round. If you are lucky, you might get to catch live shows and appreciate interactive art installations on display.
Register for the 4x Wyndham Rewards Points promo, book by 17 September 2023 and complete your stay by 30 November 2023 to earn the extra points and redeem it for free night stays on your next vacation!
If you are not a Wyndham Rewards member yet, sign up for the membership for free now.
Ramada Suites By Wyndham Victoria Street West
Address: 147 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
3. Catch waves, or just a tan, on the beach
Remember to pack your body sunscreen, because you’re going to want to soak up all the sunny goodness both Australia and New Zealand’s beautiful beaches have to offer. With a combined coastline of around 50,000km, both island states have plenty to offer in terms of beaches. Surfing was a part of the indigenous Māori culture and was known as whakahekeheke. After the arrival of European settlers, it evolved into the surfing culture that’s known today.
Surf enthusiasts can take a road trip along the famous State Highway 45, also affectionately known as Surf Highway 45. The highway is a 105km-long scenic road that hugs the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island between New Plymouth and Hawera.
Those looking to visit a family-friendly tourist destination should go to Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast in eastern Australia. It is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, with many water sports, entertainment and dining options suitable for the whole family.
Go up the SkyPoint Observation Deck if you’re looking to catch some of the best views of the coast. For those who want an adrenaline rush, you could climb up the steps of the SkyPoint Climb that is outdoors. Be rewarded with a view from one of Australia’s tallest buildings, plus a certificate of completion!
If you are game for a thrilling time at theme parks, plan for a visit to DreamWorld, Warner Bros. Movie World or WhiteWater World for a fantastic experience for all ages.
Wyndham Hotel Surfers Paradise is a short stroll from some of the most popular beaches at Surfers Paradise, making it one of the most convenient places to stay if you are exploring the Gold Coast.
Wyndham Hotel Surfers Paradise has one- and two- bedroom condo-style resort suites with separate living and dining areas that can comfortably accommodate four to six guests.
Breathtaking view of the coast while enjoying a barbecue on a shaded deck - that’s the experience that Wyndham Hotel Surfers Paradise can provide you with. With one- or two-bedroom apartments within the property, it boasts spacious rooms for families and couples to enjoy their beach holiday.
The best part? It is a 1min walk to the Surfers Paradise tram station, 5min walk to Surfers Paradise Beach, and a 3min walk to the Q1 building’s SkyPoint Observation.
Wyndham Hotel Surfers Paradise
Address: 3018 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia
An iconic beach on the other end of the coast of Australia is Scarborough Beach in Perth, Western Australia. It is one of Perth city’s longest uninterrupted stretches of sand with lots of bars, restaurants and activities for all in the family. Families with kids can especially look forward to oodles of family-friendly nature experiences to see and do in Perth, from Rottnest Island to Caversham Wildlife Park.
Enjoy unobstructed views of Scarborough Beach from rooms at Ramada By Wyndham VetroBlu Scarborough Beach.
The serviced apartments at Ramada By Wyndham VetroBlu Scarborough Beach are fully equipped for a comfortable stay, and be treated with a sea view in some rooms.
Ramada By Wyndham VetroBlu Scarborough Beach has a stunning view of Scarborough Beach and is a short drive away from Fremantle, known for the laid back atmosphere at cafes, markets and restaurants. Many guests rave about the breathtaking sunset you can catch from the hotel and the beach, plus being connected to free WiFi even when you are on the main beach!
Book the studio or one- to three- bedroom self-serviced apartments or any Wyndham Hotel by 17 September 2023 to earn 4x Wyndham Rewards points. You can redeem the points for free night stays on your next vacation!
Ramada By Wyndham VetroBlu Scarborough Beach
Address: 48A Filburn St, Scarborough WA 6019, Australia
4. Get up close and personal with local wildlife
Both countries are home to animals that aren’t found in the wild anywhere else on earth. Why not visit a wildlife sanctuary on your holiday?
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne in Wellington is the world’s first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary, only a 10-minute drive from the city centre. Its grand plan is to restore Wellington Valley’s forest and freshwater ecosystems as close to their pre-human state as possible. It’s estimated that this process might take 500 years. Over forty different species of native bird have been seen in Zealandia, including the Little Spotted Kiwi and the Titipounamu.
Zealandia is open everyday from 9:00am to 5:00pm. General admission tickets are NZD24 (S$19). End of Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington.
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne
Address: 53 Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
Opening hours: 9:00am to 4:30pm daily
Healesville Sanctuary in Australia’s Victoria state has an extensive conservation plan which includes breeding programs for endangered species like the Tasmanian Devil. Visitors can see marquee animals like koalas and kangaroos as well as lesser-known creatures like the Guthega skink and the brush-tailed rock wallaby. Admission fees to the zoo are also funnelled directly into these programmes, so you know your money is going to a good place.
Healesville is an hour’s drive north of Melbourne. Adult tickets cost AUD46 (S$40), and children get in for free on weekends and holidays.
Healesville Sanctuary
Address: Glen Eadie Ave, Healesville VIC 3777, Australia
Opening hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm daily
Wyndham Hotel Melbourne - a modern and spacious four star hotel located conveniently in the heart of Melbourne.
Unwind with your loved ones and family at the rooftop pool that offers unparalleled views of the city skyline.
If you are planning to stay in Melbourne during your trip to Australia, the Wyndham Hotel Melbourne might be a perfect accommodation for you.
Located in the heart of Melbourne, quirky cafes, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Zoo, Birrarung Marr, Melbourne Museum, and many other attractions are within a 15-minute drive from the hotel – meaning you’ll never run out of things to do while you’re there. With studio and apartment-style room types, it can accommodate a range of traveller groups within a single room - from couples to families of up to six guests.
Wyndham Hotel Melbourne
Address: 199 William St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
5. Visit some of the most unique museums on earth
Culture lovers have a lot to look forward to in both of these destinations. Tasmania houses MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), Australia’s largest privately owned museum. It describes itself as a “playground” and has art exhibitions, a massive library, a tennis court, a house of mirrors, and a recording studio named Frying Pan.
MONA
Address: 655 Main Rd, Berriedale TAS 7011, Australia
Opening hours: 10:00am to 5:00pm, Friday to Monday
Adult tickets are AUD35 (S$31).
Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Dunedin Museum of Natural Mystery is part art installation, part collection of curios. It was started by New Zealand artist Bruce Mahalski who frequently uses animal bones and shells in his own work.
The museum exhibits "biological curiosities, ethnological art and unusual cultural artefacts" like fossils, rare animal skulls, and some of Mahalski’s bone sculptures. The museum is part of Mahalski’s personal home and is usually open from Friday to Sunday.
The Dunedin Museum of Natural Mystery
Address: 61 Royal Terrace, Central Dunedin, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
Opening hours: 10:00am to 5:00pm, Friday to Sunday
Tickets are NZD10 (S$8).
6. Travel to wine country
You might have seen these names on wine bottle labels — Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay, the Barossa Valley and Margaret River. These are but some of the many wine regions across New Zealand and Australia.
You can’t visit Australia without trying its Shiraz. Also known as Syrah in Europe, Shiraz is a dark-skinned red grape variety that produces a full-bodied wine with heavy tannins. Shiraz is the most widely cultivated grape variety in Australia.
Turkey Flat Vineyards in the Barossa Valley has been growing Shiraz since 1847. Some of these original vines have been preserved and still produce wine. Turkey Flat’s Ancestor Shiraz is only made in the best years and produced in extremely minimal quantities.
Turkey Flat Vineyards
Address: 67 Bethany Rd, Tanunda SA 5352, Australia
Opening hours: 11:00am to 5:00pm, daily
New Zealand’s signature wines are the Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir styles. Marlborough, the country’s largest and most important wine-growing region, is especially famous for its Sauvignon Blanc. It also produces a wide variety of wines like Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Gris.
Consider adding a winery tour to your itinerary to familiarise yourself with the full range of wines on offer here. Hop N Grape’s full-day wine tour takes you to 4-6 different wineries in Marlborough with an experienced winemaker as your guide. Prices start at NZD155 (S$125) and include transport to and from your accommodation.
You will not miss the hotel, an iconic red-bricked heritage building in the heart of the central business district of Wellington.
Unwind in the comforts of art deco-styled rooms of TRYP by Wyndham Wellington, Tory Street.
There are 17 hotels in New Zealand by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, with three in Wellington. The most unique accommodation out of the three would have to be TRYP by Wyndham Wellington, Tory Street.
Housed in a heritage building, it takes inspiration from old-Chicago architecture and the Art Deco era for its interior decorations. With 77 rooms ranging from studio apartments, hotel rooms and penthouse (it is also the largest luxury penthouse in central Wellington), it is one of the best accommodation options in Wellington.
TRYP by Wyndham Wellington, Tory Street
Address: 15 Tory Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
7. Be a part of the sporting action
Australia and New Zealand co-hosted this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup that set worldwide viewership records. Watching the game on screen is no replacement for the electric atmosphere in the stadium. Catch a Liberty A-League game in person the next time you’re Down Under.
All the players from Australia’s famed Matildas WC squad got their start in this league including the current record holder for all-time leading scorer for Australia, the US National Women’s Soccer League *and* the UEFA Women’s Champion League Sam Kerr. Who knows, you might watch the next star in the making.
The season runs during the warmer months, usually from October or November until April. Matches take place in major cities across Australia and in Wellington, New Zealand whose home team Wellington Phoenix FC is the country’s only professional soccer club (for now).
If you have yet to visit Australia and New Zealand, now’s your chance. If you’re already a frequent flyer to this part of the world, we guarantee there’s a new holiday favourite (perhaps on this list!) that you haven’t discovered yet. From major cities packed with new adventures around every corner to scenic drives and natural attractions that promise a laidback escape - it's time to discover a side to these countries you've never seen before.
Can’t wait to embark on an unforgettable journey across the captivating landscapes of Australia and New Zealand from a Hotel by Wyndham? Register on Wyndham Rewards, book your stay at one of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ properties and multiply your Wyndham Rewards Points by four times when you book directly from Wyndham, from now till 17 September 2023. Register and find out all about the promo you should not miss here.
You can also discover more Hotels by Wyndham in Australia and New Zealand here.
This story is brought to you by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
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