Great 3-week travel routes for the UK winter - Australia, New Zealand and the Cook Islands

(…and importantly, are warm and sunny)

Part 3: Australia, New Zealand and the Cook Islands.

Why we love it: For anyone that’s not seen this part of the world, it’s a must. Not so different from the UK culture, great walking trails and nature plus stunning South Pacific tropical islands in the Cook Islands. 

This one is a bit of a stretch for 3 weeks, with 5-6 weeks definitely preferable. But if you’re ok with seeing just a few highlights, this could be for you. 

Week 1: Australia

Day 1-3: Sydney

• Explore the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

• Relax at Bondi Beach and take the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk.

Day 4-7: Melbourne

• Discover street art in Hosier Lane and explore Federation Square.

• Visit the National Gallery of Victoria and Melbourne Museum.

• Take a day trip to the Great Ocean Road to see the Twelve Apostles.

Week 2: New Zealand 

Day 8-10: Auckland

• Explore the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

• Visit the Sky Tower for panoramic views.

• Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for wine tasting.

Day 11-13: Rotorua

• Experience Maori culture at Te Puia.

• Visit the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.

• Relax in the Polynesian Spa.

The Southern-most point of New Zealand - can almost see Antarctica ;-)

Week 3: New Zealand - South Island and Cook Islands

Day 14-16: Queenstown

• Enjoy adventure activities (if that’s your thing!) like bungee jumping or jet boating.

• Take a scenic cruise on Milford Sound.

• Explore the nearby Fiordland National Park.

Day 17-21: Cook Islands

• Relax on Muri Beach and Aroa Beach with their crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

• Cross-Island Trek through Rarotonga's lush interior, offering stunning views and discover the picturesque Wigmore's Waterfall.

• Take an internal flight to neighbouring island, Aitutaki - explore the local village, known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

• Join a full-day lagoon cruise, stopping at stunning tropical locations like One Foot Island.

The stunning Aitutaki Lagoon, Cook Islands

We hope you found this useful and a good starting point to plan your trip. Get in touch if you have any other 3-week trip recommendations, or if you need help with planning your own.