Let us show you the wonders of Australia & New Zealand
Front Cover: Admire the pristine waters of stunning Milford Sound
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Experience – it’s
what sets APT apart
Pristine white-sand beaches; arid desert landscapes; spectacular ancient rainforests;
majestic alpine peaks; bustling cosmopolitan cities; and world-class cuisine. These are
just a few things that come to mind when I think of Australia & New Zealand. I invite you
to witness first-hand the vast contrasting landscapes; to discover the distinctive wildlife
and to experience the rich indigenous cultures of these two magnificently diverse countries.
Rob, Geoff and Lou McGeary
And there has never been a better time to do so than right now.
Unrivalled expertise – no-one knows Australia & New Zealand like we do
From humble beginnings in suburban Melbourne, APT has grown into Australia & New Zealand’s leading operator of
guided tours. And 85 years on, we‘re still proudly Australian family-owned. Our years of touring experience in Australia
& New Zealand have given us the expertise that few others possess. Our intimate knowledge of these destinations and
our established partnerships with regional experts means that you gain a local’s insight into every location we visit.
It’s this expertise that allows us to create the perfect experience for our travellers, time after time.
We value the satisfaction of our travellers above all else
We consider the enjoyment of our travellers to be of utmost importance to us at APT – it’s at the centre of everything we do.
It’s why we value our 98% customer satisfaction rating so highly, and why our people are constantly going the extra mile to
ensure that your holiday is the very best it can be.
We’re listening to you, and are proud to present tours designed with you in mind
We listen carefully to all of our customer feedback and use it to shape and evolve our holiday offerings. That’s why we now
offer a variety of options to suit every taste and budget. Our Fully-Inclusive Tours take care of every detail from the moment
you arrive at London Heathrow, whilst our Guided Tours allow you to choose from an exciting selection of itineraries that
you can join in Australia or New Zealand to form part of a memorable holiday – ideal if you’re visiting family or friends.
Freedom and flexibility, because your holiday should be exactly that – yours
A wealth of options await when you travel with APT, allowing you to shape your holiday to suit your own unique tastes.
Enjoy a variety of choice in destinations and touring styles; sightseeing activities and dining options; and so much more.
You really can design your own dream journey with APT.
Turn your holiday dreams into reality and join the APT family
and make this the time to join us for a truly unique departure from the ordinary...
Warm regards,
Geoff McGeary, APT Company Owner
EXPERIENCE – IT’S WHAT
SETS APT APART
Whether it’s your first time to Australia & New Zealand or you are longing to return, I hope that you’ll be inspired by our tours
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CONTENTS
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8
10
12
14
16
Discover Australia & New Zealand
Australia & New Zealand Experts
APT’s Enriching Sightseeing
Signature & Insider Experiences
Hand-picked Accommodation
Unique Dining Experiences
18
20
24
28
FULLY-INCLUSIVE TOURS
New Zealand Splendour
Visions of Australia
Australia & New Zealand Highlights
32
GUIDED TOURS
28 Days
26 Days
22 or 25 Days
34 New Zealand: Snow-capped mountain ranges, spouting
geysers and picturesque fiords await your discovery.
Marvel at everything this exciting country has to offer.
36 New Zealand Getaway
15 Days
38 Southern Escape
8 Days
39 Northern Explorer
9 Days
40 New Zealand Wonderland
17 Days
42 New Zealand Highlighter
14 Days
44 Southern Tourer
9 Days
46 Australia: This thrilling land of contrasts boasts unique
wildlife, timeless landscapes and cosmopolitan cities.
Choose from a range of exciting itineraries.
48 East Coast Adventure
12 Days
50 Grand Australian Discovery
16 Days
52 Australian Explorer
11 or 14 Days
54 Grand Tasman
10, 6 or 5 Days
56 Royal Tasman
12 Days
58 West Coast Adventure
18 Days
60 Western Wildflower Wonderland
15 or 13 Days
62 Top End & Kimberley Discovery
15 or 13 Days
64 Domes Explorer & El Questro
6 Days
65 Broome to the Bungle Bungle Range
5 Days
66
68
70
Learn More About Our Hotels
Freedom of Choice™
General Information & Conditions
Let Us Take Care
of the Details
Discover Australia & New Zealand with the experts
and enjoy a wealth of inclusions.
It’s often the small details that can mean the difference between a good holiday, and a great holiday.
At APT, we take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy a truly memorable journey.
Pioneers of guided touring in Australia
Wide range of touring styles
The essence of APT was born 85 years ago, and our many years
At APT, we understand that everyone has different needs – that’s why
of operating guided tours throughout Australia & New Zealand
we offer a range of holiday options to suit every taste.
have given us the experience to deliver truly wonderful holidays.
Testament to this is our 98% customer satisfaction rating.
Let us use our knowledge, experience and passion for Australia
& New Zealand to help you turn your holiday dreams into reality.
Experienced & passionate guides
Throughout Australia & New Zealand, the passion and expertise of
our highly professional Tour Directors, Drivers, Guides, Indigenous
Guides and Lodge Hosts will ensure your experience is truly
extraordinary. Discover these timeless lands with the people who
know them best. No other tour operator can offer the experience
and enthusiasm of our exceptional people.
Sightseeing, dining & more
We’ve used our extensive experience throughout Australia &
FULLY-INCLUSIVE TOURS
NEW FOR 2013 -14
Our Fully-Inclusive Tours feature expertly planned
itineraries with no hidden costs – return international
flights from London and an exciting 2 night outbound
stopover in Singapore* are all included in the price.
Discover everything New Zealand has to offer on our
28 Day New Zealand Splendour tour; immerse yourself
in the vast Australian landscape on our 26 Day Visions of
Australia adventure; or enjoy the best of both worlds with
our 24 Day Australia & New Zealand Highlights itinerary.
New Zealand to carefully select the best experiences to ensure
See pages 18-31 for details. *Singapore stopover is not
you get the most out of your visit. It’s your holiday, and with our
included on the Australia & New Zealand Highlights tour.
Freedom of Choice™ Sightseeing and Dining Inclusions on
selected itineraries, you can experience the destination your way.
In addition, with APT’s Signature Experiences, and Travelmarvel’s
Guided Tours
Insider Experiences, you can enjoy some truly exclusive or unique
Our Guided Tours offer thoughtfully designed itineraries that you
opportunities – and they’re all included in the cost.
can join in either Australia or New Zealand – allowing you the
flexibility to easily incorporate an APT tour into your trip Down
Under. You’ll even find a range of touring styles. Whether you’re
As the experts, we provide you with the best accommodation
looking for the quality and style of APT’s Guided Tours;
choices throughout your Australia & New Zealand journey.
the increased freedom and outstanding value of our Travelmarvel
Stay in properties that define a destination, from APT’s exclusive
by APT itineraries; or the sheer excitement of our Kimberley
Wilderness Lodges in the Kimberley; to the finest city-centre hotels,
Wilderness Adventures, there truly is something for everyone.
alpine retreats and island resorts across Australia & New Zealand.
Main Image: Discover Cathedral Gorge in the iconic Bungle Bungle Range with APT – the Australia & New Zealand experts
LET US TAKE CARE OF THE DETAILS
Hand-picked accommodation
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Discover Australia
The vastness of the Australian continent can be truly appreciated
enchanting country. Travelling by road is the only way to see the real
World Heritage Area
The Bungle Bungle Range
Windjana Gorge
Broome
Daintree
National Park
Port Douglas
Cairns
Katherine Gorge
El Questro
Wilderness Park
Discover this World Heritage-listed natural
wonder in the Purnululu National Park.
Gr
DARWIN
Kakadu
National Park
Kununurra
Purnululu
National Park
Geikie Gorge
NORTHERN
TERRITORY
Fitzroy Crossing
Port Hedland
Karijini National Park
Tom Price
Mission Beach
Kings Canyon
QUEENSLAND
Alice Springs
Tjuta
Kata Tjuta Uluru-Kata
National Park
Uluru
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Monkey Mia
NEW
SOUTH
WALES
Pinnacles
Nambung
National Park
Kalgoorlie
PERTH
Fremantle
Barossa Valley
ADELAIDE
Esperance
Albany
Red Centre
CANBE
Marvel at the vast sweeping plains and
iconic landmarks of the Red Centre.
VICTORIA
MELBOURNE
Launceston
HOBART
Monkey Mia
Meet the friendly resident dolphins of
Monkey Mia and Shark Bay.
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TASMANIA
Wildflowers
Cradle Mountain
Experience the splendour of wildflowers in
bloom along Australia’s West Coast.
View the dramatic landscapes of Tasmania’s
Cradle Mountain.
& New Zealand
on a guided tour – affording you a comprehensive insight into this
New Zealand and with APT you’ll see all the highlights along the way.
t
ea
Ba
rR
rrie
Great Barrier Reef
Bay of Islands
eef
Be enchanted by the breathtaking wonders
of the world’s largest coral reef.
Cruise the stunning Bay of Islands – an
aquatic wonderland.
Wellington
Enjoy plenty of time to explore the sights of
New Zealand’s capital city.
Daydream Island
Airlie Beach
Bay of Islands
Rockhampton
Fraser
Island
Fraser Island
Auckland
Witness the exceptional beauty of nature on
World Heritage-listed Fraser Island.
Hervey Bay
Waitomo Caves
Tongariro
National Park
BRISBANE
Gold Coast
Byron Bay
Rotorua
Taupo
NEW ZEALAND
Nelson
Blue
Mountains
Picton
WELLINGTON
Greymouth
Franz Josef Glacier
SYDNEY
Milford Sound
ERRA
Fiordland
National Park
Christchurch
Mt Cook
Queenstown
Dunedin
Sydney Harbour
Mt Cook
New Zealand: Fully-Inclusive Tours
– pages 20-23 & 28-31;
Guided Tours – pages 34-45
Australia: Fully-Inclusive Tours
– pages 24-27 & 28-31;
Guided Tours – pages 46-65
Absorb the beauty of Mt Cook and its
dramatic surrounds.
Milford Sound
Soak up the atmosphere on a full length
cruise of majestic Milford Sound.
DISCOVER AUSTRALIA &
NEW ZEALAND
Get up close to the instantly recognisable
icons of this spectacular harbour.
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Learn about the Dreamtime from local Indigenous artists at the Maruku Arts and Crafts Gallery
...from our
dedicated
office-based
staff to our
professional
drivers and
knowledgeable
Enjoy APT’s professional service
local guides,
we ensure you
enjoy a seamless,
insightful and
comprehensive
APT holiday
experience...
Let us take care of the details
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Australia &
New Zealand
Experts
Passionate and dedicated people.
With 85 years experience, you can rest assured you’re
travelling with the professionals.
Friendly & professional tour leaders
One of the most common comments from our guests is how friendly,
knowledgeable and professional our Tour Directors, Drivers and Guides
are when leading our journeys. It’s the small things like a friendly smile in
the morning and enjoying a laugh with guests on the road that make your
holiday with APT truly special.
Dedicated on-road team
Our team of Drivers, Guides, Lodge Hosts and local Indigenous Guides
are chosen from a range of backgrounds. They are philosophers, historians,
entertainers and well-established members of their community but, above
all else, they are dedicated to providing a personable, informative and
enjoyable experience. They will take care of you every step of the way.
Expert local guides provide in-depth commentary
We understand that, in certain locations, it takes a local to show you the
hidden gems that only residents know about. That’s why, in select
destinations, you’ll gain a deeper insight and enjoy the added benefit of
in-depth commentary from local guides. For instance, in Nitmiluk National
Park, a local guide will join us for a cruise along Katherine Gorge and
detail the region’s rich flora and fauna.
Meet one of our Tour Directors
Laurel is New Zealand born and simply adores her
home country’s diverse population, four distinct
seasons and kaleidoscope of scenery. Her background
in Foreign Affairs and hospitality, combined with an
inherent sense of adventure, provided the perfect training for her to become
an APT Tour Director. She finds inspiration in watching strangers become
friends and the fact that no two tours are ever the same.
AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND
EXPERTS
Laurel Macdonald
See Australia & New Zealand with the experts
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Witness the towering peaks of majestic Mt Cook
See breathtaking Katherine Gorge
...on your APT
holiday you’ll
enjoy an
in-depth
experience
of Australia &
New Zealand,
and, thanks
to our special
partnerships with
regional experts,
you’ll gain an
insider’s insight to
the regions
we visit...
Enjoy an easy walk to three-tiered Russell Falls
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Admire the pristine beaches and crystal-clear water of the Whitsundays
APT’s
Enriching
Sightseeing
The ultimate in value.
APT offers the most immersive exploration of the iconic
attractions and hidden gems of Australia & New Zealand.
Let your imagination run wild, not your budget
Every one of our enriching sightseeing experiences has been chosen based
on the unique nature of the places you visit. The result is a comprehensive
programme of inclusions that we have specifically designed to provide you
with the most intimate understanding of each destination. We believe a
complete holiday package should be exactly that, which is why we include
such a wealth of sightseeing activities, allowing you to sit back and relax,
knowing exactly where you stand with your holiday budget.
Bringing the local wonders to life
In select places, our friendly local guides will take you on a journey through
the regions they know and love. Through them, the place, its history,
its people and their culture will truly come to life before your eyes.
Thanks to APT’s established partnerships throughout Australia &
New Zealand, you’ll be afforded special insights that only a local could
provide. In Tasmania, you’ll discover Cradle Mountain’s Indigenous
significance, whilst in Western Australia, a wildflower expert joins us in the
Stirling Ranges. Discover the glowworm caves in Waitomo and Te Puia
Thermal Reserve in Rotorua with local guides. In the remote Kimberley
region, access to our exclusive lodges is only possible thanks to a special
partnership with the traditional Aboriginal owners of the land.
Different travellers have different interests. Which is why, in a range
of places during select tours, we offer you a choice of sightseeing
activities for you to personalise your holiday – at no extra cost.
Look for the logo throughout itineraries and see pages 68-69
for an index of all Freedom of ChoiceTM Sightseeing Inclusions.
APT’S ENRICHING SIGHTSEEING
Freedom of ChoiceTM Sightseeing Inclusions
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ignature &
zInsider
Experiences
Leaving you with lifelong memories.
Widely diverse, our Signature & Insider Experiences
allow you to discover Australia & New Zealand in
greater depth than the average visitor.
Experience the essence of the regions you visit
Our expertly designed Signature & Insider Experiences have been created
by us, especially for you. The following are but a taste of the extraordinary
opportunities that await, at not extra cost, in Australia & New Zealand.
APT’s Signature Experiences
Join us for a unique, APT exclusive Farm Dinner Experience at Longlands
Farm in Matamata. Admire the rural outlook and enjoy a delicious dinner.
Take an unforgettable journey along the scenic Milford Road. See the
enchanting Mirror Lakes and the Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain.
Take in Sydney’s iconic sights aboard a luxury catamaran. Indulge in a
delicious buffet lunch as you soak up the Sydney Harbour atmosphere.
A once-in-a-lifetime Australian Outback experience awaits you at the truly
unique Sounds of Silence Dinner. Enjoy drinks while listening to the
didgeridoo as the sun sets over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Then, indulge in
a delicious feast of Australian delicacies under the desert night sky.
zTravelmarvel’s Insider Experiences
Discover the fascinating Waitomo glowworm caves with a local expert.
Indulge your senses with a Scottish-themed evening in Dunedin.
Take a stunning sunset cruise in Monkey Mia, keeping en eye out for
resident dolphins. Feel the powerful spirit of Indigenous culture with a
traditional corroboree at Tjapukai By Night in Cairns.
zLook for the logos
Throughout itineraries, APT’s Signature Experiences and Travelmarvel’s
Insider Experiences are presented in bold, coloured text and are
highlighted by these logos.
Take part in a traditional Aboriginal corroboree at Tjapukai
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Admire the world-famous icons of Sydney Harbour
...APT embraces
local culture and
recognises the
difference between
visiting a destination
and truly immersing
See the stunning Mirror Lakes along the scenic Milford Road
yourself in it. That’s
why we’re so
proud to present
& Insider
Experiences...
By Night
SIGNATURE &
INSIDER EXPERIENCES
our Signature
Experience the Sounds of Silence Dinner
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Hand-picked
Accommodation
Relax and recharge in comfort.
APT carefully selects properties for their location,
distinctive character and impressive style.
Carefully chosen accommodation
On your holiday in Australia & New Zealand you’ll enjoy staying in a
diverse range of properties. Using our knowledge gained through years
of experience, we have chosen hotels and resorts based on their ideal
location, exceptional service, and unique ambience. From centrally located
hotels in the heart of vibrant cities, to quaint rural pubs; five-star resorts to
environmentally friendly wilderness lodges, we believe that where you stay
on a holiday helps you gain greater insight into your destination.
Centrally located hotels
We understand that our guests appreciate being within easy reach of the
city’s main attractions, whether you’re interested in some extra sightseeing,
a spot of shopping or simply looking to have a meal. That’s why we choose
hotels that are centrally located, ensuring you’re always close to the action.
Stunning resorts
When we select our resorts, we prefer a location that enables guests to
soak up the local ambience of a region. Immerse yourself in your
destination by taking a walk along a pristine beach, or through a lush
rainforest; reading a book by the pool; or simply relaxing away from the
hustle and bustle of the city.
APT’s exclusive Wilderness Lodges
Experience luxury camping with special stays at APT’s exclusive
Bell Gorge, Mitchell Falls, Hawk Dreaming and Bungle Bungle
Discover APT’s exclusive Wilderness Lodges
Wilderness Lodges. APT’s private lodges are built with our ‘touch of luxury
in the wilderness’ philosophy in mind, allowing you to enjoy the comforts of
home in some extraordinary Outback locations. At the end of the day you’ll
be welcomed into our lodges by our friendly lodge staff. After a hot shower in
your spacious ensuite, perhaps take a walk or relax in the tranquil surrounds.
To find out more about the great range of accommodation you’ll enjoy on
your APT holiday, see pages 66-67.
Unwind in style at the luxurious Amora Hotel Wellington
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Indulge in a truly unique accommodation experience at The Hermitage, Mt Cook
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Relax and escape from it all at Daydream Island Resort & Spa
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Relax with a drink and watch the sun go down over Uluru
Sample world-class cuisine in Australia & New Zealand
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Enjoy a range of exceptional dining experiences
Unique
Dining
Experiences
Take a gastronomic journey through
Australia & New Zealand.
From a gourmet barbecue under the stars in the Australian
Outback, to a traditional Hangi in New Zealand and
contemporary cuisine in world-class restaurants, you’ll
enjoy exceptional dining on every APT tour.
Tantalise your taste buds
Tempt your taste buds throughout Australia & New Zealand with
mouth-watering cuisine. Experience fresh locally grown ingredients,
succulent beef and lamb, tropical fruits, delicious seafood and premium
dairy products. All accompanied by a generous serve of the friendly
hospitality that both of these countries cheerfully extend.
Discover the flavours of Australia
Modern Australian cuisine defies easy definition, featuring a fusion of tastes
and techniques drawn from many different culinary cultures. Amongst the
delicious medley of fine foods available, unique local delicacies include
kangaroo, crocodile and barramundi.
Sample remarkable food in New Zealand
New Zealand boasts an impressive array of food and dining styles, sure to
impress even the most discerning of travellers. Deliciously innovative menus
are widely available throughout the country and feature fresh seafood,
lamb, beef, pork and venison, for which New Zealand is rightly famous.
Different travellers have different tastes. Which is why, in a range of
places during select tours, we offer you a choice of unique dining
options for you to personalise your holiday – at no extra cost.
Look for the logo throughout itineraries.
UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCES
Freedom of ChoiceTM Dining Inclusions
Indulge in fresh local seafood
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Fully-Inclusive
Tours
Perfect for the first time traveller
or for those seeking a truly
comprehensive discovery.
From the moment you arrive at London Heathrow,
your Fully-Inclusive Tour begins.
Relax, sit back and let us take care of all the details.
Flights & stopovers
With APT, your Fully-Inclusive Tour of Australia & New Zealand is exactly that
– there are no hidden costs. Enjoy expertly planned itineraries that take in all
the key sights and hidden secrets of Australia & New Zealand. In addition,
return scheduled flights from the UK are already included, as is a fabulous
2 night stopover on your way over in the vibrant and sophisticated city of
Singapore*. You may also wish to personalise your holiday with an
additional stopover in one of many fantastic destinations on your way home.
Please speak to your travel consultant for some inspiring ideas and prices.
Familiar tour group & APT Tour Director
Enjoy the comfort that comes from travelling with the same group of
people. In addition, your friendly and knowledgeable APT Tour Director
will accompany you every step of the way in Australia or New Zealand.
Sightsee & stay in luxurious comfort
Throughout Australia & New Zealand you’ll stay in outstanding
accommodation. Our hotels and resorts are carefully selected to enhance
your experience of a destination. Relax and see the sights from the comfort
of our spacious luxury coaches, fully equipped with all modern amenities.
Signature Experiences
& Freedom of Choice™ Inclusions
When you choose a Fully-Inclusive Tour with APT, you’ll enjoy access to our
exclusive Signature Experiences. These unique touring activities are already
included in your tour price and allow you to further immerse yourself in
your destination. In addition, make each holiday your own with the flexibility
of free time to explore entirely at your leisure, or our Freedom of Choice™
Sightseeing and Dining Inclusions on select itineraries. Look for the logos
on each Fully-Inclusive Tour itinerary and see pages 68-69 for details.
*Singapore stopover is not included on the Australia & New Zealand Highlights tour.
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FULLY-INCLUSIVE TOURS
Enjoy a truly remarkable Outback experience at the Sounds of Silence Dinner
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