Five High-Octane Thrills You’ll Only Have in Australia and New Zealand

When it comes to bucket list travel experiences, you’ll find a lifetime’s worth between Australia and New Zealand. The two countries boast some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring natural backdrops, including the Great Barrier Reef and Fiordland National Park. And their iconic cities, like global adventure capital Queenstown and culture-rich Sydney, offer urban thrills complemented by fine dining, museums, and art galleries. Exclusive Resorts has curated the country’s most extraordinary travel experiences into a two-week once in a lifetime journey. Here are the moments that will take your breath away.

HANG TEN AT LEGENDARY BONDI BEACH

A designated National Surfing Reserve less than an hour from the heart of Sydney, Bondi Beach draws sea worshippers from around the globe with its golden sand and perfect waves. Known as the home of surf lifesaving, the famous Bondi lifeguards are arguably as revered as some of Australia’s top pro surfers. After a tour inside Australia’s oldest surf lifesaving club, Exclusive Resorts Members can paddle out into the lineup with their own private surf coach. A one-on-one lesson guarantees first-timers will be riding waves and more experienced surfers can work on more advanced maneuvers like nose riding.

SCALE THE SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE

A climb to the top of Sydney’s iconic bridge will truly take you to new heights. The unique experience follows a network of catwalks and ladders along the top arch of the bridge, all the way to the 440-foot summit. From high above the harbor, you’ll have 360-degree views of the city, Sydney Opera House, and the Blue Mountains. You’ll return home with a group photo and tour certificate to commemorate your climb.

SAIL AN AMERICA'S CUP YACHT

The America’s Cup is the world’s oldest sporting trophy and ultimate yachting regatta. Racing yachts rise out of the water on hydrofoils and glide across the water at lightning speeds of 50-plus knots. In Auckland, Exclusive Resorts Members can get an adrenaline rush during a two-hour America’s Cup Sailing Experience. Sit back and enjoy the action as you sail down Auckland Harbour or take the helm and assist the crew as they trim on the grinders.

PARAGLIDE IN QUEENSTOWN

Queenstown is best known as being home of the world’s first bungee jump, located on the Kawarau Bungy Bridge. Members can take the plunge, but a tandem paraglide high above the city is equally thrilling and allows you to savor the scenery. Take off from Rock Gully at 4,100 feet and feel like a hawk riding the thermals as your guide navigates up and down the wind current. From high above you’ll be treated to a bird’s eye view of the region’s spectacular Alps and southern lakes.

GO ON A JET BOAT SAFARI IN MT ASPIRING NATIONAL PARK

Soak in the magnificent wilderness of New Zealand’s Mt Aspiring National Park on a high-speed jet boat safari along the Dart River. Your captain will navigate the ever-changing shallow channels of the braided river system, occasionally throwing 360s to kick up a blast of refreshing spray. Craggy snow-capped peaks, glowing blue glaciers, and cascading waterfalls provide a Lord of the Rings-worthy backdrop for your adventure.