New Zealand, Australia & Fiji Adventure 30 Days
Beautiful landscapes, immersive cultural experiences, and unforgettable adventures – you’ll experience it all on this teen adventure travel program in the South Pacific! Journey through New Zealand, Australia and Fiji, experiencing a variety of new and unique activities like Zorbing, waterfall rafting, SCUBA diving the Great Barrier Reef, island-hopping, and more. You’ll bond with your fellow participants in a small, tight-knit group, with leaders who create an welcoming family atmosphere from day one. This is no ordinary teen travel program, it’s a four-week summer adventure you’ll never forget!
Please note that a limited number of participants depart on day 23 while the 30-day participants continue on to Fiji.
Experience new cultures and thrilling activities in a smaller, tight-knit travel group.
Hotels, hostels & basic lodges.
Includes breakfast and dinner daily, plus 11 lunches.
Includes all recreation & activities listed.
On this program, all airfare is arranged by Westcoast Connection.
Up to 26 participants.
ON TOUR departures offer more independence and age-appropriate activities for older teens currently completing 11th or 12th grade.
Deluxe motor coach, professionally-driven private vehicles, and occasional public transportation including ferries.
Separate departure dates are assigned to create compatible co-ed age groups.
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
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.
Upon your arrival, you’ll feel the warm and friendly welcome from the people of New Zealand. Kiwis are known for their down-to-earth and humble nature, which is reflected in their respect for visitors, the environment, and the native Māori community. You’ll settle into life "down under" with a welcome orientation, a city tour, a hike up Mt. Eden, and a visit to the stunning waterfront. You’ll also have the chance to visit the All Blacks Experience, where you can test your rugby skills and witness the powerful Haka through an immersive, interactive experience.
Get psyched for your whitewater rafting adventure down the famous Kaituna River. With 13 major drops and a 22' descent over Tutea Falls - the largest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, you’re in for an adrenaline rush like no other!
Immerse yourself in a traditional Maori Village, where you will learn more about this wonderful culture at an interactive dinner experience.Walk 65 feet in the air through a series of swinging bridges as you marvel at the 120 year old famous Redwood Trees. Your adventure continues with an amazing scenic 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 on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing—one of the world’s top-rated day treks. You’ll hike alongside three epic volcanoes, including the iconic Mt. Doom from LOTR. No experience needed—your guides have all the gear and expertise to make this an unforgettable journey!
Along your way back to Auckland, journey to New Zealand's famous glowworm caves. Take a break from the adventure to return to city life in Auckland. Relax at your hotel and enjoy the facilities before a great meal and some city fun.
Welcome to Queenstown—the “Adventure Capital of the World!” Set on stunning Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by spectacular mountain peaks, it’s no wonder travelers call this one of the most beautiful cities they’ve ever seen. Get ready for the thrill of a lifetime as you ride the famous Shotover Jetboat, zipping over crystal-clear water through magnificent canyons. Then, shred the slopes of the Southern Alps while skiing or snowboarding! Wrap up your incredible New Zealand adventure with a dinner high above Queenstown, taking in the jaw-dropping views of this amazing place in the heart of New Zealand.
Go cable kneeboarding or wakeboarding on a man-made lake designed for this incredible sport.
Learn about the Great Barrier Reef in an educational session led by a local expert, then explore the world’s most extensive reef system. Discover sea turtles and countless vibrant species of fish as you snorkel or SCUBA dive at this incredible natural wonder, the largest structure created by living organisms. (For your safety, all SCUBA operators restrict participants with certain medical conditions. Please ask about your own circumstances if applicable).
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. Keep your eyes peeled for tree kangaroos and other nocturnal animals on a guided walk and night canoe and even search for platypuses.
Take a thrilling once-in-a-lifetime climb up the Sydney Harbour Bridge for stunning views. Check out the renowned Sydney Opera House on your guided tour. Head out for surf lessons at one of the most famous beaches in the world, Bondi Beach. Immerse yourself in a day at the Taronga Zoo, discovering Australia’s unique wildlife. Explore interactive exhibits and learn about vital conservation efforts to protect the country’s remarkable species. Explore the oldest area of Sydney, the Rocks and the newest, Darling Harbour. Say goodbye to participants from the New Zealand and Australia 23-day Adventure at dinner before you head off to magical Fiji.
After flying to Fiji, you'll hop off the plane and put on your Sulu - a traditional Fijian garment - before joining a formal sevusevu ceremony and beginning to learn the intricacies of cultural practices in Fiji. Next, head to the smaller township of Sigatoka to explore the local markets before heading to Sigatoka Sand-dunes National Park for a hike through coastal dunes, local forests and stunning beach vistas.
Board a high-speed catamaran ferry and sail to the breathtaking Yasawa Islands, where you'll be staying for the next two nights. It’s time for some island-living, as you explore the white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush surrounding hills of Kuata Island. Kayak, stand-up paddle board, and snorkel in the warm blue waters of the South Pacific and even have the opportunity to snorkel or SCUBA* with sharks. You'll also be able to relax with plenty of time at the beach and pool, enjoying sunsets over the ocean.
*SCUBA is for certified divers only
Head back to Nadi and explore the Nausori Highlands, a secluded mountain rainforest area known as one of the most picturesque places in Fiji. Hike to the base of a waterfall and cool off with a swim in the beautiful pool below. You’ll also visit a remote village and participate in a traditional welcome ceremony before touring the village and meeting some of the local families. On our final full day together, ride on the largest zip line in Fiji, where you’ll take in the stunning aerial views as you race through the forest canopy. Participate in a farewell kava ceremony with your new friends as you reflect on your time together. Finally, grab some souvenirs at a local market to remember your incredible adventures!
End your program in style with an island-hopping excursion, then relax on the white sand beaches and enjoy the warmth of the Fijian sun and its people. Finally, catch your final Fijian sunset with all of the friends you’ve made and head to the airport for your flight 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!
Auckland, New Zealand
The Auckland City Hotel is a modern boutique-style hotel in the center of the city. Here you’ll recharge from your international flight and walk around Auckland and explore.
Rotorua, New Zealand
While in Rotorua, you’ll enjoy a comfortable and down-to-earth stay at Haka House Rotorua where you can unwind after a day of exploring.
Whakahoro Region, New Zealand
Everyone who has stayed at the Blue Duck Lodge has described it as the true New Zealand! Breathtaking scenery, secluded and a genuine experience. Blue Duck is sure to be something that you will talk about forever.
Tongariro National Park, New Zealand
The Park Hotel Ruapehu property has a great ski lodge feel to it and offers a fantastic stay due to its great restaurant and proximity to the base of Mt. Tongariro. The large hot tub will certainly be enjoyed after your amazing trek across the mountain.
Queenstown, New Zealand
The Hakahouse Queenstown is located just a few minutes walking distance from the resort area allowing us to easily explore, ad enjoy this incredible area.
Sydney, Australia
The Pacific House Hostel is a modern accommodation located in the heart of Sydney that serves as the perfect base for adventure. Enjoy the amazing facilities including private rooms for our group with in-room bathrooms, plus a rooftop terrace and social spaces.
Atherton Tablelands, Australia
Nestled amidst the magnificent Atherton Tablelands and close to the rainforest, your three night On The Wallaby Lodge adventure will definitely be a highlight!
Cairns, Australia
Staying at the Cairns Plaza Hotel, we'll be perfectly situated with easy access to the waterfront, Esplanade Lagoon, and other Cairns attractions.
Momi Bay, Fiji
At the Momi Bay Eco-Lodge, our groups stay in authentic Fijian cabins which feature simple rooms and modern shared bathrooms. Throughout this quaint property, there are extensive gardens, sports fields, a games room, and a swimming pool.
Kuata, Fiji
Barefoot Kuata is a unique, secluded property is located steps away from the beach, with dorm-style rooms and all the amenities we need for our island break. The resort has a restaurant, free Wifi, a swimming pool and plenty of watersport activities to enjoy!
Nadi, Fiji
Nestled on 5 acres of tropical gardens, the Mercure Nadi has modern rooms, a beautiful pool and wonderful grounds and is a great place to spend the final nights of the program.
Flights: On this program, all airfare is arranged by Westcoast Connection.
Flight to Auckland, New Zealand
We begin this program with a chaperoned flight from Los Angeles to Auckland. For those coming from the New York area, we have a chaperoned NY to LA flight to connect to the escorted overseas flight from LAX. For our participants from outside the New York area, our program leaders greet you at LAX airport and are with you for the duration of the flight to Australia. Because of the International Dateline, you will lose a day, but you’ll make it up on the return flight when you get the very cool opportunity to live part of the same day twice. For participants outside North America, please reach out to us to discuss your flight options.
Internal Flight
Separate from the airfare to and from this program, there is an additional $995 USD fee for internal flights from Auckland to Queenstown, from Queenstown to Cairns, from Cairns to Sydney, and from Sydney to Nadi.
Return Flight Home from Nadi, Fiji
We offer a chaperoned flight back to the USA through either San Francisco or Los Angeles, then onto New York. Final flight details are determined in the spring. For travelers from outside these cities, we will help you arrange transfers at suitable times after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the USA.
New Zealand and Australia Entry Regulations
Participants require a separate entry visa for both New Zealand and Australia. Both governments have strict entry requirements and without the proper travel authorizations, participants will not be permitted to travel. This requires the completion of an e-visa that must be purchased prior to departure from North America and must be presented upon check in for your flight. Information will be sent to all families approximately 6 weeks prior to departure.
About ON TOUR
This program features separate, age-compatible departure dates, including ON TOUR departures for older teens currently completing 11th or 12th grade. These ON TOUR departures offer more freedom of choice than our other TRAVEL programs by balancing the greater independence that young adults crave with the structure and safety that parents expect. Itineraries include amazing activities and sights for the more mature student, as well as a later curfew. Opportunities to do some safe exploring in smaller groups to find that local cafe or indie boutique also makes this a standout experience for older students.
Meals & New Cuisines
Eating well while away from home is an important part of a summer’s success. Part of your travel experience will be immersing yourself in the local cuisine and culture so please bring with you an open mind and a willingness to try new things. In addition to eating in a variety of restaurants, you will also enjoy buffets and have some meals to prepare and eat together as a group.
We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.
Vaccinations
We recommend you follow the advice of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and consult with your physician for current immunizations and medication required for travelers to Fiji. These recommendations may change from time to time. We will send you detailed information in March (or upon enrollment if later) regarding the current recommendations for this itinerary.
Drinking Water
All accommodations on this program have filtered water available. As a precaution, we will have large containers of potable drinking water for you to fill up your own water bottles as needed.
Laundry
You will only need one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. Every week you may drop off your laundry at a local wash and fold service and then pick it up clean, folded and ready to go.
What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, 11 lunches, recreation & entertainment listed, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.
Not included is transportation to and from the program, cost of entry visas for both New Zealand and Australia, other lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.
Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!
Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
What if I need to contact my teen during the program?
Participants may bring their cell phones so parents may call and message their kids directly. You may also contact our Communication Centers which serve as the official link between programs on the road and parents. We are staffed every day during the summer and have somebody on call for after hours emergencies ready to assist you 24/7.
What is the difference between an Active Teen Tour and a Global Adventure program?
Our Active Teen Tours offer larger group sizes (generally 35-48 participants) and travel in deluxe motor coaches. Accommodations include quality hotels and occasional fun college residences.
Global Adventures are smaller group experiences (generally up to 26 participants on all itineraries other than the 17, 20 or 25-day Greece & Italy, 20-day Greece & Portugal or 10-day Greek Islands, which varies from 24-36 participants.)
Groups travel by private motor coaches and occasional public transportation internationally, and use passenger vans in the USA. Select European programs travel exclusively by train and public transportation. While these programs have a slightly bigger focus on adventure travel, we stay in quality hotels and lodges, always ensuring a good night’s rest.