Australia/New Zealand

New Zealand and Australia: The People Down Under

Program No. 15487RJ
Voyage on a premium ocean liner as you discover the vibrant culture, iconic wildlife, complex history and stunning natural beauty of Australia and New Zealand.

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At a Glance

At the far end of the world, the people of New Zealand and Australia have forged a unique bond with their surroundings. Journey from the vibrant, multicultural city of Sydney, Australia to Auckland, New Zealand; home to the largest Polynesian population in the world. Through field trips and on-board lectures, learn about Australian art, Maori culture, history, geography, and the lasting impact of human settlement on these two island nations.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking and standing for up to three hours; some uneven terrain; stairs without railings.

What You'll Learn

  • Explore the magnificent Sydney Opera House.
  • Sail through the stunning Fiordland National Park.
  • Learn about Maori culture and historic crafts in Rotorua.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Dave Stevenson
Dave Stevenson was a high school chemistry and science teacher, later in his career getting involved with teacher training and setting up a university program to encourage students to study science. In the mid-1980s, a year off work to travel through Europe gave Dave the travel bug. After taking early retirement in 2000, he and his wife Rose now travel as much as possible, to date accumulating 110 countries. In 2008, they discovered cruise ships and have now spent over 500 nights at sea.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Dave Stevenson
Dave Stevenson View biography
Dave Stevenson was a high school chemistry and science teacher, later in his career getting involved with teacher training and setting up a university program to encourage students to study science. In the mid-1980s, a year off work to travel through Europe gave Dave the travel bug. After taking early retirement in 2000, he and his wife Rose now travel as much as possible, to date accumulating 110 countries. In 2008, they discovered cruise ships and have now spent over 500 nights at sea.
Profile Image of Rose Stevenson
Rose Stevenson View biography
Rose Stevenson retired in 2000 from her career in accounting to pursue her passion for travel. She took her first cruise in 2008, she loves the cruising lifestyle and has visited six continents by cruise ship. When she is at home, she enjoys gardening, cooking for friends and keeping fit. She lives with her husband David on the beautiful Banks Peninsula, just south of Christchurch.
Profile Image of Peter Wilson
Peter Wilson View biography
Peter Wilson has qualifications in fine arts, economics, and education. He was an education officer at the National Gallery of Victoria and foundation manager of Brambuk Cultural Centre, established by Aboriginal traditional owners of Gariwerd-Grampians National Park, Victoria. He established Antipodes, a gallery for authentic Australian arts and crafts. With the University of the Third Age, he has conducted numerous courses on Australian art and culture. Peter enjoys meeting Road Scholars and discussing the revelations art can provide about the land and people of Australia.
Profile Image of Ken Rimmer
Ken Rimmer View biography
Ken Rimmer is a site coordinator for Melbourne and a group leader. Ken graduated from Victoria University in Wellington and worked for many years in administration and sales for companies such as IBM, Polaroid, and Xerox. He has lived in Melbourne since 1982, as does his son, daughter-in-law, and grandson. Ken is an enthusiastic cook and follower of sports, especially rugby and cricket.
Profile Image of Jill Bunning
Jill Bunning View biography
Jill Bunning originally trained as a school teacher before moving into travel over 40 years ago. For many years she was based in the UK and Europe, organizing and personally leading groups for various companies. Now back in Australia, Jill enjoys welcoming Road Scholar visitors to Sydney. She speaks conversational German and Italian and loves spending time with her family and attending the many shows that Sydney has to offer.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
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