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About this trip
Welcome to the Ultimate Down Under Adventure!
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 14-day journey that seamlessly blends the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand with the vibrant energy of Sydney, Australia. Our all-inclusive luxury vacation ensures an unforgettable experience, combining top-rated accommodations, curated activities, expert local guides, convenient transportation, delectable meals, shared and private excursions, and even some flights for a hassle-free adventure. There's truly something for everyone on this extraordinary getaway!
Key Inclusions:
- Luxurious Accommodations: Immerse yourself in comfort and style with carefully selected, highly-rated hotels throughout your journey.
- Activities and Excursions: From exploring the mesmerizing landscapes of New Zealand to discovering the iconic sights of Sydney, you will be provided with a mixture of shared and private excursions with a mixture of downtime.
- Local Guides: Our knowledgeable guides will provide insights into the culture, history and hidden gems of each destination, ensuring a deeper connection with the places you visit.
- Transportation Throughout: Relax and enjoy the scenery as we take care of all your transportation needs, allowing you to focus on the adventure unfolding around you.
- All Meals Included: Indulge in a variety of culinary delights with included meals, showcasing the diverse flavors of both New Zealand and Australia.
- Some Flights Included: Streamlined travel with select flights included, making your journey even more convenient and stress-free. Your flights from Auckland to Queenstown and Queenstown to Sydney will be included for you.
Flexibility and Considerations:
- Optional Activities: Customize your experience by choosing from a range of optional activities to suit your preferences and interests.
- Itinerary and Hotels: Please note that due to weather and availability, the itinerary and hotel accommodations may be subject to change. Rest assured, any adjustments will only enhance your overall experience.
- Active Retreat: This adventure is designed for those seeking a bit of activity. Excursions and activities require walking. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes.
- Official Retreat Duration: Your journey officially commences with a welcome dinner on the first day and concludes after breakfast on the last day.
Travel Details:
- Arrival: Plan to fly into Auckland (AKL) on the first day to kickstart your adventure.
- Departure: The retreat concludes in Sydney (SYD), where you'll bid farewell to your unforgettable Down Under experience.
Get ready to create lasting memories, discover new horizons, and experience the best of Australia and New Zealand in unparalleled luxury. Book your spot now for a journey that promises adventure, relaxation, and everything in between!
Meet Your Host
Amy Walker, MSW, LCSW, CCM, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Owner of Walker Wellness Retreats. She started Walker Wellness Retreats in 2016 due to her love for travel and helping others experience the world.
Amy works as an online mental health therapist when she is not leading international retreats. She is passionate about helping individuals and couples work through barriers and find new ways to communicate, connect, and thrive. She loves international travel, wine tasting, whale watching, and the outdoors. Amy works alongside her husband, Brian Walker, to run Walker Wellness Retreats.
To meet more of the Walker Wellness Retreats team, visit the About Us page on our website.
Visa Requirements
New Zealand
You must apply for and be approved for the NZeTA before arriving in New Zealand. You can apply for the NZeTA online and stay for a maximum of three months.
The flat rate fee of $100 is paid when international visitors apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (required for citizens of visa waiver countries, which include the USA) or a tourist visa. Travelers from Australia and most of the other Pacific Islands are exempt, but citizens for all other countries will need to pay. You can request a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) online and should allow up to 72 hours for processing. Once approved, the NZeTA is valid for up to two years, and you can travel in New Zealand for up to three months at a time.
Australia
You must have a valid U.S. passport and a visa or an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. The ETA is a particular type of visa for short-term visits (for tourism or business) for up to three months. Apply online at the official Australian government website. There’s no physical visa label; it’s electronically linked to your passport.
Electronic Travel Authority (ETA): There is no Visa Application Charge (VAC) for an ETA, but there is a service fee of AUD20 to use the Australian ETA app. The app is available for free on the App Store and Google Play
Payment & Cancellation Policy
If you cancel your trip before the 90-day deadline, 25% of the total trip price is non-refundable, as are any airfare, train tickets, or ferry tickets purchased as part of your trip package due to the strict cancellation policy by foreign carriers (if applicable).
Trip cancellations requested after the final payment deadlines listed above are non-refundable, and guests are encouraged to file a claim with their travel insurance for reimbursement.
In the unlikely event Walker Wellness Retreats cancels the retreat, guests will be provided a full 100% refund of their booking.
Lastly, we partner with several third-party booking platforms that have separate deposit and cancellation policies. If you book through a third-party partner, please refer to their specific cancellation policies.
Questions about refunds or cancellations? Click here to view our payment and cancellation policy.
The deadline to book an international retreat is 30 days before the retreat begins; however, some exceptions can be made based on availability. Please email us at contact@walkerwellnessretreats.com to inquire about booking after the deadline has passed.
Optional Extension: Great Barrier Reef
Experience the Magic of the Great Barrier Reef and Indigenous Culture with Walker Wellness Retreats
Join Walker Wellness Retreats on this optional Cairns extension trip for an unforgettable 4-night, 5-day adventure. This journey includes snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the Tablelands, and immersing yourself in the rich indigenous culture of Cairns. Your stay at the luxurious Hilton Cairns will provide the perfect base for these exciting activities.
Day 1: Arrival in Cairns and Cultural Tour
- Flight from Sydney to Cairns: Begin your adventure with a scenic flight to Cairns.
- Check-in at Hilton Cairns: Settle into your elegant accommodations and enjoy the hotel’s top-notch amenities.
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Cultural Tour: Venture into the heart of Cairns' indigenous culture. With a small group, be warmly welcomed by Traditional Owners on their ancestral lands, just a short cruise away from Cairns City. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the wetland environment, with majestic rainforest-clad mountains as your backdrop.
- Mayi Bugan Rainforest Trail: Start from a working Indigenous Ranger base and, accompanied by knowledgeable Indigenous Guides, delve into the rich tapestry of native foods, traditional bush medicines, and ancient Aboriginal customs. Engage in captivating stories and marvel at authentic artifacts that unveil the deep connection between the land and its people.
- Light Refreshments: Relish light refreshments amidst the symphony of nature and let this immersive experience leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Day 2: First Snorkeling Excursion
- Snorkeling Adventure: Embark on your first snorkeling excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of colors as you explore the underwater world filled with diverse marine life, from vibrant corals to exotic fish.
- Relax and Unwind: After your snorkeling trip, return to the Hilton Cairns to relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or explore the local dining scene.
Day 3: Explore the Tablelands
- Tablelands Exploration: Discover the natural beauty of the Tablelands area outside of Cairns. Enjoy a day of exploration, including visits to stunning waterfalls, lush rainforests, and charming villages. This day offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the serene landscapes of Queensland.
- Return to Cairns: After a full day of exploration, return to your hotel to rest and rejuvenate.
Day 4: Second Snorkeling Excursion
- Final Snorkeling Excursion: Dive back into the clear blue waters of the Great Barrier Reef for another exhilarating snorkeling experience. Capture your last moments in this natural wonder and soak up the breathtaking underwater scenery.
Day 5: Departure
- Morning at Leisure: Spend your final morning at leisure, perhaps taking a last stroll around Cairns or enjoying the hotel amenities.
- Return Flight to Sydney: Conclude your trip with a flight back to Sydney, carrying unforgettable memories of your Cairns adventure.
Join us for this Cairns extension trip and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, the serene landscapes of the Tablelands, and the rich indigenous heritage of Cairns. This is a perfect opportunity to relax, explore, and experience one of the world's most extraordinary destinations.
Link for the trip: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/great-barrier-reef-walker-wellness-retreats-95841795
What’s included
- Accommodations14 days/13 nights in highly-rated accommodations
- Airport TransfersPick-up at Auckland Airport (AKL) and drop-off at Sydney (SYD)
- TransportationAll transportation during the retreat
- MealsAll meals during the retreat (breakfast, lunch, & dinner)
- ExcursionsPrivate and shared excursions as listed on the itinerary
- GratuityGratuities for tour guides, restaurant staff, and drivers
- FlightFlight from Auckland to Queenstown
- FlightFlight from Queenstown to Sydney
What’s not included
- AirfareInternational Airfare to Auckland and out of Syndey
- Additional ItemsSouvenirs, drinks, snacks, additional excursions, or other personal items
- Additional GratuityGratuities of a personal nature (hotel staff, spa services, etc.)
- Alcoholic BeveragesAny alcoholic beverages (unless listed on itinerary)
- InsuranceTravel insurance and medical insurance (required)
- Travel FeesAny travel-related fees (visas, passports, baggage, etc.)
- VisaVisas to enter Australia and New Zealand
Available Packages
Double occupancy includes a private bedroom and private bathroom for 2 people.
Helpful hints: If you have two people who would like to share a room, select 2 Double Occupancy packages. If you are traveling alone but want to be paired with another solo traveler, select 1 Double Occupancy package. If you are traveling alone and want your own room, select 1 Single Occupancy package below.
Solo occupancy includes a private bedroom and private bathroom for 1 person.
Helpful hints: If you are traveling alone but want to share a room with another traveler, select 1 Double Occupancy package above. If you are booking for two people who would like to share a room, select 2 Double Occupancy packages above.
Available options
$2700 for RT international airfare in to Auckland and departing from Sydney
Hilton Auckland Upgrade to Harbor View Room $300
Hilton Queenstown Upgrade to King Lake Wakatipu Suite $500
Park Hyatt Sydney Upgrade $1927
Itinerary
Welcome to New Zealand!
Upon arrival at Auckland Airport (AKL), Amy Walker will greet you with a Walker Wellness Retreats sign. Transportation to the hotel will be provided.
Depending on your arrival time, the day is free to spend at your leisure before the retreat officially begins this evening with a group welcome dinner and retreat orientation.
6:45 pm- Meet in the hotel lobby to take the short 5 minute walk to the restaurant.
7:00 pm - Dinner at Oyster & Chop.
Situated in the heart of Auckland's vibrant Viaduct Harbour with great water views from every table, their menu showcases the finest beef and lamb, grass and grain fed, sourced domestically and internationally from the best suppliers. A two-course meal is included, and alcoholic beverages are at your own expense.
Lodging: