AACI - AACI New Zealand & Australia, February 10-25, 2026

Welcome to Auckland New Zealand.

Flight arrival EK448 11:05AM
Customs Clearance and Biosecurity.

Travel from Auckland airport for Rotorua via the Bombay hills of New Zealand.

Lunch break on the way to Rotorua.

Arrive in Rotorua at 5pm and check in to the hotel.

19:30 Dinner

ROTORUA

Explore the geothermal activity and Maori culture that are unique to Rotorua.

After Shacharit and breakfast in the hotel, we start at Wai O Tapu - geothermal wonderland, featuring 18 colourful mineral pools; We continue to Waimangu Volcanic Valley - the youngest volcanic valley in the world, formed in 1886 as result of Mt. Tarawera eruption. Enjoy a leisurely walk along magical steaming river, bubbling geysers, mineral lakes and more. A bus will pick you up from the bottom of the valley to the start of the track.

From Waimangu travel to the Polynesian spa to immerse yourselves in natural hot springs on the shores of lake Rotorua. Showers, toiletries and towels are included.

From here we go on an afternoon-evening tour of Te Puia Maori village and cultural centre with our private guide. Inlcudes an indigenous evening experience and a traditional Maori HANGI dinner (kosher, of course...)

Evening at the Polynesian spa and pools. Showers, toiletries and towels included.  

After Shacharit and breakfast we leave Rotorua to Auckland, we visit enroute the Redwood forest in Rotorua , walk at the heights of the tree peaks, and visit Waitomo caves.

Redwood Forest - Treewalk: This award winning attraction is great for all ages and at 700-metres long, is a one of a kind New Zealand treewalk consisting of a series of 28 suspension bridges, which traverse between 27 majestic 117-year-old Redwood Trees. The treewalk sits at 20-metres above the forest at its peak and the walkway has been specifically designed and constructed to preserve the trees, plants, and the surrounding natural environment by using a uniquely constructed New Zealand-first technologically designed sling, which is suspended from the Redwood trees.

Enjoy at your own pace with no safety harnesses or training required and appreciate the peacefulness and spirit of this special forest.

Along the walk are informative story boards that will educate all the family on local stories and forestry.

Travel to Waitomo, lunch break enroute or on arrival at Waitomo.

On our arrival in Auckland we will visit Chabad House and Rabbi Aharon to enjoy a Kiwi BBQ dinner.

From here we will head to our hotel in the city centre, our home for the next 3 nights.

AUCKLAND

After Shacharit and breakfast we start the day with a panoramic tour of the city, Mt.Eden observation, Auckland Memorial Museum and Domain with the Kauri trees. We will visit the Hebrew Congregation at their new location, the local synagogue, Kadima school and meet the Rabbi. 

Lunch at Kadima Cafe. 

We will be back at the hotel by 4pm to prepare for Shabbat at our hotel.

Kabbalat Shabbat and dinner at the Hotel under the authority of the hashgacha of Chabad Auckland with Sefer Tora from Chabad for Shabbat.

Enjoy a relaxing Shabbat in Auckland. 
Shabbat services and all Shabbat meals will be at the hotel. 

In the afternoon, there is an optional walk to the Viaduct Marina and to Queens Wharf.

Note: Auckland Hebrew centre and Synagogue have recently moved out of the city centre to one of the suburbs. We therefore won't be near the shul.

Domestic flight to Queenstown.

6:00am Begin the day with Shacharit followed by breakfast at the hotel. A packed lunch will be provided for the journey.
7:00am Depart the hotel
7:30am Check-in for the domestic flight to Queenstown.
9:30am Flight departs
11:35pm Arrive in Queenstown

Upon arrival in Queenstown, our friendly South Island driver will greet us at the airport.

We’ll head to the iconic Queenstown Skyline Gondola, where we’ll ride the cable cars to the top of Bob’s Peak. Enjoy a scenic ride.

Lunch Stop: Savor your packed lunch atop Bob’s Peak, taking in breathtaking views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the stunning Remarkables mountain range (yes, that’s their real name!). The Skyline Café offers a selection of hot and cold drinks to complement your meal.

Optional Activity: For those seeking a thrill, there’s time to experience the exciting Luge ride at the top!

Afterward, we’ll descend via the gondola and head to Queenstown’s vibrant Town Centre along Lake Wakatipu. We’ll also visit the serene Botanic Gardens before proceeding to our hotel, where we’ll settle in for the next three nights.

Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel.

Scenic Tour to Fiordland National Park & Milford Sound

7:30am  Begin the day with Shacharit followed by breakfast at the hotel. A packed lunch will be provided for the journey.

8:45am  Depart the hotel for a short transfer to Queenstown Airport, where we’ll board our private scenic flight to the majestic Milford Sound.

Today, we embark on an unforgettable journey to one of New Zealand’s hidden treasures: Milford Sound, the crown jewel of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world, this breathtaking fiord (not a sound, despite its name) is framed by towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. Its remote location and pristine beauty make it a must-see for every traveler, captivating visitors in rain or shine with its ink-dark waters and awe-inspiring vistas.

Tour Highlights:

• Scenic Flight to Milford Sound: Soar over the stunning Southern Alps, with panoramic views of shimmering lakes, rugged mountains, dense rainforests, and tumbling waterfalls.
• Milford Sound Cruise: Glide along the fiord’s tranquil waters, marveling at its dramatic cliffs and marine life, all the way to where it meets the Tasman Sea.
• Return Flight to Queenstown: Enjoy another spectacular flight over the Southern Alps, offering a final glimpse of this extraordinary landscape.

You may wish to take with you for the tour today:

• Non-slip shoes/boots
• Waterproof jacket
• Warm sweater/fleece jacket
• Sunscreen/ sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• Camera/phone
• Personal medication including for asthma and allergies

19:30 Delicious dinner back at the hotel.

Shacharit and breakfast.

Today, get ready for a fascinating  half-day journey of the region’s backcountry. 

Itinerary:

• Shotover Jetboat Experience: Our adventure begins at the Shotover river. Buckle up for the world-famous Shotover Jet, thrilling over 2.5 million adventurers since 1970! This high-speed jetboat ride takes you skimming through the dramatic, narrow Shotover River Canyons. Hold on tight for exhilarating 360-degree spins and heart-stopping maneuvers as your skilled driver navigates the shallow waters, weaving perilously close to jagged cliffs. Surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Shotover River, this is an adrenaline rush you won’t forget! Life jackets are provided, but be prepared for splashes, so dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing.

• Nomad Safaris 4WD Adventure: We will be met at the river by Nomad Safaris’ specialized 4WD jeeps, driven by expert guides known for their enthusiasm and local knowledge.  
  We drive the rugged 4WD jeep on a personalized off-road tour into the stunning Wakatipu Basin. You’ll explore the historic gold mining area along the Arrow River, where you’ll have the chance to try your hand at gold panning—a nod to the region’s 1860s gold rush heritage. Visit iconic filming locations and marvel at the breathtaking scenery of Queenstown’s backcountry. Expect river crossings, rugged terrain, and panoramic views of mountains and valleys. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the area’s history and cinematic connections, making this a perfect blend of adventure and discovery. Morning or afternoon tea is included to keep you refreshed.

• We will be back in town following the tour and have the chance for local shopping and free time in town and along the lake.

What to Bring:

• Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor adventure (layers recommended, as weather can change)

• Non-slip, closed-toe shoes

• Sunscreen and sunglasses

• Camera or phone to capture the stunning views and action shots

• A sense of adventure!

Dinner back at the hotel. 

Shacharit and breakfast.

Today we fly from Queenstown to Christchurch, a short 1 hour flight.
This domestic flight flies so low that it may feel like a scenic flight.

Upon arrival in Christchurch, we visit the International Antarctic Centre, where you’ll experience interactive exhibits, a simulated Antarctic storm, and learn about life on the icy continent.

Next, we head to the city centre and visit Christchurch Botanic Gardens. To make the most of our time, we’ll enjoy a guided tour aboard a motorised garden cart, allowing the group to comfortably explore the beautifully landscaped inner gardens while learning about the flora and the garden’s history.

From the gardens, we’ll enjoy a leisurely walk through the historic Arts Centre, continuing to the Bridge of Remembrance—a striking war memorial arch—before making our way through Christchurch’s unique Open-Air Shopping Street, lined with boutiques, cafés, and street art.

We then check in to our hotel to relax and refresh.

Dinner at the hotel.

After Shacharit and breakfast, we set off on a scenic drive to Akaroa, a charming harbour town with a rich French heritage, nestled in the heart of an ancient volcanic crater on the Banks Peninsula. Known for its historic buildings, boutique shops, and breathtaking coastal views, Akaroa offers a distinctly European atmosphere right here in New Zealand.

Upon arrival, we embark on a harbour dolphin cruise, where you’ll have the chance to spot the rare and playful Hector’s dolphins, unique to New Zealand. For those interested, there is also an option to swim with the dolphins (weather and conditions permitting), a truly unforgettable and immersive experience.

After the cruise, we’ll enjoy some free time to explore the quaint village, grab a coffee, or browse the local galleries and shops, before travelling back to Christchurch.
We expect to arrive back in the city at approximately 4:00 PM.

We would have free time in town, for last shopping , and time to prepare for our early departure tomorrow morning.

We'll enjoy our last delicious dinner in New Zealand at the hotel. 

MELBOURNE

6:05am flight departure to Melbourne.
7:55am arrival in Melbourne.

Upon our arrival, we will meet our tour guide. Our Melbourne itinerary is packed with cultural, historical, and scenic highlights.

We will visit the Royal Botanic Gardens of Victoria and the Shrine of Remembrance, which commemorates the sacrifices of Australian soldiers, including the Battle of Be'er Sheva. We will visit Victoria Market, a bustling marketplace offering a diverse range of fresh produce, gourmet delights, and artisan crafts.

Koorie Heritage Trust - First Peoples Arts and Cultural Organisation, where we'll discover the rich artistic traditions of Australia's First Peoples. 
We will stroll through Melbourne's famous lanes and arcades, uncovering hidden gems and vibrant street art along the way; Federation Square, an iconic cultural precinct hosting museums, galleries, and cultural events; the historic Flinders Street Station, a Melbourne landmark.

Time allowing, if any of the above isn't visited today, we will visit on 16/2. 

4pm Check in at the hotel

Shabbat at the hotel and the shul next door.

Shabbat in Melbourne.

All Shabbat meals are at our hotel.

We continue exploring Melbourne city with focus on the Jewish history and Jewish community.

We will visit St Kilda synagogue and meet with one of the community representatives; visit the Holocaust Museum for a guided tour.

Enjoy some rest time in St Kilda before an early dinner. Our evening tour lasts until midnight.

3:30pm - Early dinner at the hotel.

5:00pm - Leave for Phillip Island Natural Reserve to meet the penguins on their return to land after a full day at sea. 
Phillip Island is home to the largest Little Penguin colony in the world. We will enjoy watching these amazing seabirds waddle home from the ocean to their burrows from our viewing point.
We get up close and personal with the little penguins from our extra special Penguins Plus grandstand.

We will take supper with us on our late night activity, and return to our hotel around midnight.

PLEASE BRING A WARM JACKET WITH YOU TO PHILLIP ISLAND

10:00 - 11:35am Fly from Melbourne to Sydney.

Meet your Sydney guide at the airport upon arrival.

After dropping off our luggage at the hotel and collecting our boxed lunch, we drive to Bondi, one of Sydney's prominent Jewish suburbs, renowned for its beautiful beach and vibrant atmosphere. 

Enjoy a leisurely lunch break at the famous Bondi Beach, soaking in the sun and stunning coastal views.

We then embark on a guided tour of the picturesque Eastern Suburbs of Sydney, home to most of the city's Jewish population. Discover charming neighbourhoods, historic landmarks, and stunning views. Capture breathtaking views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge from strategic vantage points, offering panoramic vistas of the city's iconic landmarks.

Dinner at a Kosher restaurant at Rose Bay.

Following dinner, we drive back to our hotel at the heart of Sydney's Circular Quay.

SYDNEY – BLUE MOUNTAINS

A day tour to the Blue Mountains is ahead of us. After Shacharit and breakfast at the hotel we will collect our packed lunches to go and will depart at 8:30 am to visit Featherdale – the wildlife reserve where we will be able to see (and touch) Australian's incredible indigenous animals and reptiles such as kangaroos, Koala bears and wallabies.

We will continue to the Blue Mountains where we will also get to experience all the Sky rides in the valley: the SKYWAY -float above the valley across the mountains; the CABLEWAY -the steepest cableway in the southern hemisphere taking you to the belly of the valley and the WALKWAY-a path through a Jurassic rainforest.

Back to Sydney.

Dinner at Pita Mix or at the hotel

Shacharit and Breakfast.

Depending on final flights times of all passengers we will make plans for today. 

If flight depart at late afternoon / evening, we will allow a morning at leisure to enjoy hotel facilities with 11am check out, and we'll then proceed to 3-4 hrs activity to sights we haven't included yet. 

End of Tour