Explore More - 2019

TOP 10 MUST-SEES

TOP 10 MUST-SEES AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND Gain deep insight into the native and European cultures as you uncover the treasures of the “Land Down Under” 1 Soak up Melbournes café culture In a city famous for its restaurants, coffee lovers also find a diversity of bars and cafés that take coffee (and tea) drinking to new heights. From large coffee palaces to boutique cafés, there will always be somewhere to please your palate. 2Taste wine from Waiheke Island With hot, dry summers and stony soils, Waiheke Island is a perfect place to grow a variety of grapes. Prepare to indulge in high-quality wines on an excursion to two of the island’s renowned boutique wineries. 3Explore the Shire In 1998, Sir Peter Jacksons scouting team sought the perfect location to film their movies based on J.R.R. Tolkiens classic fantasy trilogy, The Lord of the Rings. An aerial search led them to Alexander Farm, a stunning 1,250-acre sheep farm in the heart of Waikato. 4 Climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge Get up close to one of the world’s most iconic landmark bridges. At the summit, you can see the harbor 400 feet below in all its glory. Then pause to celebrate your ascent and take in the unrivaled views. 5 Witness innovative restoration In February 2011, a 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck Christchurch, causing severe damage. Today, the city is preserving its rich heritage with innovative restoration plans. Take a moment to enjoy a ride on a restored tram highlighting the changing face of Christchurchs city center. 66 VIKING.COM EXPLORE MORE 2019

TOP 10 MUST-SEES Learn about Māori history Steeped in myths and legends, there is no better place than New Zealand to immerse yourself in the culture and history of Māori people. 9 Visit a natural phenomenon Koekohe Beach on Otago’s coast is home to the giant Moeraki Boulders. There are more than 50 spherical boulders and each one weighs several tons and measures up to 12 feet in circumference. Formed in the ancient sea floor sediment, they are estimated to be 60 million years old. Spot native wildlife Witness Australia’s most beloved and storied creatures in their natural habitat. During a nature walk in the Serendip Sanctuary, look out for eastern gray kangaroos, small wallabies and unusual Australian birds while you are on the trail. And at a nearby national park, view koalas in the wild. 7 10 Enjoy the flavors of Auckland Nicknamed the “City of Sails,” Auckland is renowned for its fresh seafood and lamb. One of the best ways to get a taste of this vibrant city is by touring its eclectic neighborhoods. Head to Auckland Fish Market for an interesting behind-the-scenes look and a taste of fresh seafood paired with delicious premium New Zealand wine. Uncover Sydney Opera House Pull back the curtain as you enjoy an insiders view of Australias world-class opera house on a tour. One of the world’s most recognized buildings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it hosts more than 1,500 performances each year. EXPLORE MORE 2019 VIKING.COM 67