Wild, wide and wonderful, Australia and New Zealand continually excite and inspire. 

With amazing Australia and New Zealand-wide 2023 On Sale deals now offering arguably the best value ways to explore our lands, we thought of one all-encompassing theme that ties the many unique and memorable experiences together for you, our readers, and guests, under one great theme – Tasting the Antipodes.

Let’s start across the pond in New Zealand with a question; What makes New Zealand wine so good? From world-famous Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris varieties, this small but influential country in the South Pacific has got what it takes. Could it be the climate… Or could it be the rich alluvial soil that covers much of this island nation?

There are nine major wine-producing regions in New Zealand with five located on the North Island, the most famous region being Hawkes Bay. While in Auckland, take some time to visit Waiheke Island. Just a short ferry ride across the harbour you can explore around twenty vineyards with tastings, restaurants, vineyard cafes, and spectacular views of the city on offer.

Heading to Melbourne and feeling thirsty? Whether you’re after a rooftop bar, old-school corner pub or basement bar, Melbourne will deliver. 

Now is the perfect time to discover Melbourne’s hidden bars and restaurants on our Tastes ofSouthern Australia 11 Day Guided Holiday.

The food and wine industry in South Australia has a proud and colourful history. While the industry may be young by global standards, forward-thinking wine producers and chefs continue to make their mark on the global scene. The immense potential of the countryside north of Adelaide was recognised as early as the 1800s for having a similar geography and climate to France’s famous Rhone Valley.

Our 5 Day Flavours of South Australia Inspiring Journeys culinary discovery is the perfect way to experience the best of S.A’s food and wine, visiting the famed Barossa, Adelaide Central Market and pop in for coffee and cake or a glass of wine with cheese, and shop for iconic Maggie Beer produce at Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop.

Bush Tucker, or bush food, is any food that’s native to Australia. The Aboriginal people, who have lived in Australia for at least 60,000 years, had a symbiotic relationship with the land and lived off the native flora and fauna for many generations. In the past five years, Australia’s leading contemporary chefs have wholly embraced indigenous ingredients and incorporated them into their restaurant menus. It’s part of the global trend to celebrate localism in food and make the most of what you’ve got in your own backyard.

Bush tucker is both super tasty and extremely nutritious – most foods are packed with micronutrients, protein and fibre, and low in sugar.

You can sample and enjoy Bush Tucker on many of our Guided Holidays, and SAVE, especially throughout the Northern Territory and Western Australia, here are just a few:

What better way to explore these two wonderful destinations than by sampling the very best of their food and wine? At AAT Kings we've assembled a range of fun, passionate, quirky, knowledgeable and talented people to help you do just that, and to make your holiday great and one you’ll remember forever. 

Our team will bring your holiday to life, and they’ll share their passion and knowledge for Australia and New Zealand in ways beyond expected.