Start your program with an overnight flight across the International Date Line to Auckland. You'll lose a day here, but don't worry, you'll get it back at the end of the trip! Once you land, your orientation will officially begin with some of our favorite icebreakers and “get to know you” activities.

Immediately upon arrival, you will notice how friendly and how welcoming the people of New Zealand are. Kiwis pride themselves on being down-to-earth and humble and it shows in their respect for visitors, the environment and the native Maori community. You will settle into life "upside down" with a warm welcome orientation, a city tour, a climb up Mt. Eden and a visit to the beautiful waterfront.

Discover this geothermal area sculpted by volcanic activity, with hot springs and boiling mud pools. Your Kiwi guide will show you the area of volcanic activity in this active caldera. Get psyched for your whitewater rafting adventure down the famous Kaituna River that will be like no other trip! With 13 major drops and a 22' descent over Tutea Falls, the largest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, you will experience quite the adrenaline rush! Learn to perform the amazing Maori Haka war dance and then show off your skills at a traditional Maori Village, where you will learn more about this wonderful culture at an interactive dinner experience. Your adventure continues with an amazing downhill luge ride and the ultimate New Zealand adventure invention - zorbing in the region where it all began!

Experience the true New Zealand, with breathtaking views and lots of sheep! Stay at a genuine homestead with activities that may include kayaking, farming, sheep shearing, hiking and volunteer work with the endangered blue duck.

Look familiar? A substantial part of the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit were filmed here! Join professional alpine guides for what has been rated one of the greatest day treks in the world. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing involves a trek alongside three incredible volcanoes, including Mt. Doom from the LOTR trilogy. No previous experience is needed and your guides will provide all the equipment and expertise to navigate this stunning journey.

Take a break from the adventure to visit New Zealand's capital. Relax at your hotel and enjoy the facilities before heading over to trendy Cuba street for a great meal and some city life.

Known as the “Adventure Capital of the World”, Queenstown is situated on beautiful Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by spectacular peaks. Many travelers claim it’s the most beautiful city they've ever seen! You will quickly understand why once you experience the famous Shotover Jetboat gliding over crystal clear water through magnificent canyons and after you ski or snowboard the Southern Alps. Bid farewell to this extraordinary country and your unforgettable journey in the land of the long white cloud at a celebration dinner atop Queenstown overlooking this majestic area. After saying goodbyes to any New Zealand only travelers, the amazing adventure continues to the Land Down Under.

Fly to Australia and its most populous and well known city, Sydney. Take a thrilling once-in-a-lifetime climb up the Sydney Harbour Bridge for stunning views. Head out for surf lessons at one of the most famous beaches in the world, Bondi Beach. Check out the renowned Sydney Opera House on your guided tour. Explore the oldest area of Sydney, the Rocks and the newest, Darling Harbour.

Venture deep into the rainforests of the Atherton Tableland and check into our lodge surrounded by incredible scenery. View the miraculous 1,000-year-old, 200-foot tall Cathedral Fig Tree on our waterfall tour through the rainforest. You will be fascinated when you learn about its history and how it receives its nutrients. Mountain bike around Lake Eacham. Keep your eyes peeled for tree kangaroos and platypuses on a guided walk and night canoe. Spend time with all the amazing wildlife of Australia with a visit to Koala Gardens in the rainforest village of Kuranda.

Learn about the reef during an educational session run by a local expert. Go cable kneeboarding or wakeboarding on a man-made lake designed for this incredible sport. Relax at one of Cairns' amazing northern beaches. Snorkel or SCUBA dive at the most extensive reef system in the world (For your safety, all SCUBA operators restrict participants with certain medical conditions. Please ask about your own circumstances if applicable.)

Say farewell to your new friends as you part ways for your return home. You'll be flying back over the International Date Line, so here's where you get your day back!

The summer might be over, but all the memories you’ve made will last a lifetime!