Dramatic landscapes, pristine beaches and towns full of character are just the start of what the New South Wales has to offer...
The famous Illawarra escarpment bounds the beaches and dominates the region, ensuring amazing views wherever you go. Exciting wineries, fantastic restaurants, beautiful countryside greets the visitor to The Hunter Valley. Located less than 2 hour's drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offers a natural wonderland of untamed bush, spectacular rock formations and native wildlife. Or visit Port Stephens, an idyllic coastal Paradise where the emphasis is on pleasure. Take a drive of your life through the Pacific Coast Touring Route, stretching between Sydney and Brisbane.
The opportunities are limitless...

CLICK HERE FOR THE MAP OF NEW SOUTH WALES

AVIS RENTAL CARS
Avis Australia's leading car rental company offers you a great choice of low kilometre, late model, air-conditioned vehicles at great rates... and of course you'll always receive that famous "We try harder" service...
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BUDGET RENTAL CARS
Australia's premier city and its surrounds are best explored with the convenience of a Budget rental vehicle. From the moment you arrive at Sydney International Airport Budget can quickly get you on your way...
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MAUI MOTORHOMES
Maui has created a rental fleet specifically designed for holidays of leisure and comfort...
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BRITZ CAMPERVANS
Have you dreamed about discovering the excitement and adventure of Australia. You can with Britz Campervan Rentals! Their extensive range of campervans and four wheel drives (4WDs) allow you the freedom and choice to explore the great diversity of Australia...
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With more than 37 km of unspoilt coastline and a subtropical climate, The Tweed is a haven for holiday-makers. Discover its quiet estuaries, charming villages and deserted beaches, or explore the Tweed River and Mount Warning National Park.

The seaside towns of Kingscliff and Cabarita rank among The Tweed’s best kept secrets, offering a relaxed vibe and stunning scenery. Accommodation in the area ranges from fi ve-star resorts with spa facilities to selfcontained B&Bs with ocean views.

Things to do

• Feast on ocean-fresh seafood at the Tweed River mouth.
• Dive with turtles at Cook Island Marine Reserve.
• Indulge in retail therapy at Kingscliff and Cabarita.
• Kayak or canoe along scenic Cudgen Creek.

Events

• Wintersun Rock’n’Roll Revival Festival, Tweed Heads, in June.
• Kingscliff Art, Food and All That Jazz Festival, in September.
• Wollumbin Indigenous Festival, in October.

Don’t miss

• The acclaimed new Tweed River Art Gallery, near Murwillumbah.
• A relaxing cruise from Tweed Heads; or hire a houseboat and discover the river for yourself.
• Murwillumbah’s World Heritage Rainforest Centre, a great introduction to the area.
• Tropical Fruit World near Kingscliff.
• The miniature horses and cows at Crystal Creek near Murwillumbah.

Byron Bay’s natural credentials are impeccable - humpback whales cruise past the headland, storms create rainbows on the mountains across the bay, hang-gliders ride the thermals above the lighthouse. Australia’s most easterly point casts a spell over everyone who goes there.

Over the past two decades, Byron Bay has become an escape for urban refugees, and especially those with artistic inclinations. Architects, designers, craft workers and software engineers have set up shop, grafting their talents and energy on to this small, relaxed coastal village. Today Byron Bay is a chic seaside town with glorious beaches, a New Age tinge and loads of style.

Things to do

• Have a totally sinful breakfast at The Pass Café. Do penance afterwards with a long walk along the Cape Byron Walking Track and a swim.
• Set yourself up with a fruit smoothie at an outdoor café and watch the world go by.
• Check out the latest in beach fashions at the town’s surf shops.
• Sample the nightlife at the Arts Factory - restaurant, performance space and art-house cinema all in one.

Events

• The East Coast Blues and Roots Music Festival at Easter is the largest of its kind in the country, attracting top international stars.

Don’t miss

• A sunrise stroll along the Cape Byron Walking Track.
• A yoga session on the beach.
• Stunning Kings Beach at Broken Head Reserve.
• Local macadamia nuts, at their best in the hills where they grow.
• Take-away fish and chips on the beach at sunset.

Few areas in the world can boast a more diverse range of landscapes and natural wonders than the state of New South Wales. And within only two and a half hours drive from Sydney you can find some gorgeous holiday regions.

Nestled on Sydney’s doorstep are the Blue Mountains, Illawarra, Hunter and Port Stephens. You’ll find scenery that soothes the soul, spectacular national parks, golden beaches and indulgent day spas. Gourmet food and local produce bursting with flavour, from local cheeses, jams and wine to seafood caught just hours before it lands you on plate! There are top chefs, cosy cafes and farmers markets - all designed to tempt your taste buds.

So why not book a flight from New Zealand to Sydney, pick up a hire car and begin exploring New South Wales. All you need is a good map, a sense of adventure, and a desire to visit some of the most beautiful parts of Australia.

The roads of New South Wales are endless and so are the possibilities.........

New South Wales, there’s no place like it.

Sydney Surrounds Map

Take a day or two and discover the seaside villages, beautiful beaches and natural wonders in the Illawarra coastal region.

Located just one hour south of Sydney, the Illawarra region is a scenic and diverse band of coastline stretching 85km south from the Royal National Park through Wollongong, Shellharbour and the seaside town of Kiama. The famous Illawarra escarpment includes walking tracks and spectacular views down to uncrowded beaches. Visit the famous blowhole at Kiama and tee off for a round of golf at one of the many championship golf courses located along the coast. If adventure is your thing...fl y high with a tandem hang glider at Bald Hill, or enjoy an adrenalin pumping Top Fun Jet Fighter Flight.

Visit www.illawarratourism.com.au for detailed information.

3 DAY / 2 NIGHT SOUTHERN DISCOVERY
Dramatic landscapes, pristine beaches and towns full of character are just the start of what the Illawarra has to offer. Add world-renowned natural attractions, an array of restaurants and accommodation options and a handy location just south of Sydney and you’ve got the ingredients for the perfect holiday destination.
The Illawarra is a scenic, yet diverse band of coastline stretching 85kms south from the Royal National Park through Wollongong, Shellharbour and the seaside town of Kiama. The famous Illawarra escarpment bounds the beaches and dominates the region, ensuring amazing views wherever you go. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, family fun or a chance to get back to nature, the Illawarra has it all.
The best way to discover the wonders of the Illawarra region is by rental car or campervan. A perfect self drive destination, Illawarra offers diverse landscapes and is an excellent add-on to a Sydney escape. Below is a suggested itinerary which takes in the best the region has to offer.

DAY 1 - SYDNEY TO WOLLONGONG
Depart Sydney - head south via the Royal National Park to your first stop at Bald Hill, Stanwell Tops. Bald Hill is a international hang gliding venue and provides magnificent panoramic views of the Illawarra providing a great photo opportunity.
Travel west along Lawrence Hargrave Drive to Symbio Wildlife Gardens. At Symbio you can cuddle a koala, hand feed a kangaroo, pat a snake or get up close and personal with a crocodile. Set on 16 acres of natural bushland, Symbio has Australian native, farmyard and exotic animals that allows a ‘hands on wildlife experience’.
Heading south down Bulli Pass into Wollongong, stop and visit the Science Centre & Planetarium at Fairy Meadow. The Science Centre is suitable for all ages with over 130 exhibits, a planetarium, laser concerts, science shows and a great science gift shop.
As you head into Wollongong, take a drive around Flagstaff Hill and Wollongong Harbour also known as Belmore Basin - stop for some fish and chips or continue on to the Five Islands Brewery Company the largest microbrewery in New South Wales. Here you can sample one or more of the 10 locally brewed beers while enjoying the views overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
The Wollongong City Gallery is worth a visit while you are in Wollongong. This gallery is New South Wales largest regional art gallery with a collection of contemporary aboriginal and Illawarra colonial art and an exhibition program that changes monthly.
The Wollongong Botanic Gardens with ocean views and a myriad of blooms and ever greens is a must for garden enthusiasts. Another local icon is the impressive Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere and a great place to relax and appreciate the Buddhist culture.
Overnight in Wollongong - experience some fine dining at one of the many local restaurants.

DAY 2 - WOLLONGONG TO SHELLHARBOUR TO KIAMA
Travel south passing over Lake Illawarra to the Shellharbour Village - stop for a hearty breakfast at one of the many café’s or restaurants or just enjoy the historic buildings and harbour. Proceed to Killalea State Park that provides magnificent views of ‘The Farm’ one of the best surfing locations on the coast. If golf is your game why not tee off at the newest course on the coast at Shellharbour Links.
If adventure is your thing - take a scenic flight, microlight flight or Top Gun Jet Fighter Flight at the Illawarra Regional Airport at Albion Park or for those train enthusiasts visit the Illawarra Light Railway Museum.
Jamberoo Recreation Park provides entertainment for the whole family with numerous rides available. There are water slides, surf hill, bobsled tracks as well as the new Billabong Beach and Rapid River. Great picnic and barbecue facilities are also available.
A short drive will bring you to the award winning Minnamurra Rainforest located within the Budderoo National Park and take a stroll along the elevated board walk set amongst lush vegetation to the falls.
Travel through historic Jamberoo to the seaside town of Kiama. Take your time to explore the historic Terrace Shops with their range of arts, crafts, home wares and delightful treats before making your way to the famous Kiama Blowhole. People have been visiting Kiama for years to see this forceful water explosion that provides a magnificent photo opportunity.
Proceed south to Crooked River Winery a boutique winery with spectacular views of the vineyards and rolling green hills of Gerringong. Sample their wide selection of red and white wines or enjoy one of their specialty ports.
Overnight at Kiama - experience fine dining at one of the many
restaurants available.

DAY 3 - KIAMA TO SYDNEY
Today brings another journey - you can travel further along the South Coast to visit Jervis Bay, you can travel west to the Southern Highlands and on to Canberra or you can simply make your way back to Sydney.

From fine wines and gourmet food to luxury accommodation and stunning scenery, a Hunter Valley getaway offers a true taste of the good life.

An easy 90 minute drive north of Sydney you will fi nd the Hunter, one of Australia’s most popular tourist spots. Beautiful countryside, rolling hills of grapevines, expansive surf beaches and rugged wilderness all make the Hunter a must see destination for New Zealand visitors. There are over 120 cellar doors offering tastings of the estate grown wines.

The Hunter Valley has two main signature varieties - Semillon & Shiraz, plus Chardonnay. The Hunter Valley now features two boutique cheese makers and numerous olive and olive oil producers.

Visit www.huntertourism.com for detailed information.

Just a few hours north of Sydney, Port Stephens’ beautiful bay, unspoilt beaches and national parks offer lots of opportunities for holiday adventurers.

Port Stephens is the collective name for a huge sheltered bay occupying a submerged valley and stretching more than 20km inland. It is located just 2 1/2 hours drive north of Sydney. It is known for its white beaches, crystal water and subtropical climate. Port Stephens is also well known for its resident 80 bottlenose dolphins. Another popular activity is a 4WD tour of the massive sand dune systems along Stockton Beach.

Visit www.portstephens.org.au for detailed information.

Stretching between Sydney and Brisbane, the Pacific Coast Touring Route is one of Australia’s great self drive holidays. The ultimate combination of magnificent coastline with spectacular hinterland plus a year-round temperate climate makes it the perfect holiday any time of year, for all ages, interests and budgets. From beautiful beaches and fantastic fun parks to lush rolling hills and tropical rainforests, not to mention delicious local seafood and fresh produce, the Pacific Coast Touring Route has it covered.

DAY 1 - SYDNEY TO HUNTER VALLEY
Your first stop this morning is at the Australian Reptile Park at Somersby. Say hello to Eric the giant croc or let the kids loose around the interactive exhibits in Spider World and Lost World of Reptiles. Continue to the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine-producing region, offering over 80 boutique and world renowned wineries. Don’t miss the newly opened Hunter Valley Gardens, with 25 hectares of spectacular display gardens, vineyards, a winery and a boutique shopping village. The Hunter is also great for golf, as well as luxury day spa and beauty treatments.

DAY 2 - HUNTER VALLEY TO PORT STEPHENS
There’s no better way to start a morning in the Hunter than with a sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the vineyards with Balloon Aloft. After breakfast, adrenalin junkies can maintain the high with an action-charged quad bike tour of the Stockton sand dunes, a sweeping expanse of sand with views stretching to Port Stephens. Continue into Nelson Bay for where a dolphin watching cruise with Moonshadow or Imagine is a must. To keep you in a blissful state, check in to your accommodation at Shoal Bay Spa & Resort and book in to the spa for a pampering treat.

DAY 3 - PORT STEPHENS TO PORT MACQUARIE
Hit the road early, stopping off on the way at Crowdy Head National Park for a swim or walk on the beach. Port Macquarie is one the oldest penal settlements outside of Sydney. Many early structures are still standing, such as St Thomas Church, the historical Museum, the Court House and Douglas Vale Vineyard. Art lovers can also discover hidden treasures along the public art trail or galleries trail. Take an afternoon walk at the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, a gorgeous 72 acres of rare coastal rainforest with a 1.3km elevated boardwalk, guided tours, environmental theatre and ecological display.

DAY 4 - PORT MACQUARIE TO COFFS HARBOUR
Start your day with a morning stroll along the harbour foreshore of Port Macquarie, where dolphins often play in the calm waters. You may like to hire a boat, take a cruise through the Everglades or explore the tranquil bays and beaches by kayak. At Lighthouse Beach on the outskirts of Port Macquarie you can even go for a camel ride! Call into the award-winning Cassegrain Winery on the Pacific Highway, just North of Port Macquarie, where you can taste premium table wines or eat lunch overlooking the rose gardens at Ca Marche Restaurant. Continue on via the scenic Waterfall Way to Bellingen where there’s lots to see, including local galleries, antique stores, Hammond & Wheatley’s department store or the Old Butter Factory.

DAY 5 - COFFS HARBOUR TO BYRON BAY
Hit the road early today in order to make the most of the sensational scenery on the way to Byron Bay. Make sure you call in on the way to the historic river port town of Ulmarra for morning tea and to browse the antique shops for rare treasures. For lunch, stop off at Yamba for freshly-caught prawns, then find a shady spot along the river to enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch. Continue on to Byron Bay, where you can wander down the main street, escape to the stunning beaches or hike along the headland. Just watching the sunset is tranquillity itself. Enjoy dinner at one of Byron’s many award-winning restaurants - try Rae’s on Watego’s, Fins, Dish, Restaurant Wild or Olivio.

DAY 6 - BYRON BAY TO TWEED HEADS/COOLANGATTA
No trip to Byron is complete without a morning walk to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, perched on Australia’s most easterly point - and afterwards, you’ll have worked up an appetite for a delicious brunch at one of the many groovy cafes in town or along the beaches. Grab a towel and head to one of Byron’s famous surf beaches for a swim, a surf lesson or just to watch the locals hanging five! You may prefer to spend the morning exploring the hinterland and rainforest areas around Byron before the short drive to the border towns of Coolangatta/Tweed Heads.

DAY 7 - TWEED HEADS/COOLANGATTA TO BRISBANE
Another great morning walk is around Point Danger Lookout and down along the stunning, protected beaches of Rainbow Bay, Kirra and Greenmount, all offering some of the best surfing in Australia. For lunch, catch your own mud crab and have it cooked for you on a Tweed Endeavour Cruise. Treat yourself to a massage, a round of golf or a spot of retail before continuing onto Brisbane and the end of your tour.