Australia/Oceania Tours for Young Adults
What if you kayaked to Cathedral Cove's natural arch, explored glow-worm caves at Waitomo, and then learned about Maori culture at Mitai Village? Take a cruise through Milford Sound's beautiful fjord, then hike around beautiful Lake Tekapo. New Zealand is small, so you can see a lot of different things without having to travel a lot between regions. You can see volcanoes, Maori traditions, and beautiful alpine scenery.
10 best trips for '18 to 30 Somethings' in Australia/Oceania
Compiled by
NinaAustralia/Oceania travel expert at TourRadar
New Zealand Highlights
“Incredible trip with Wild Kiwi! Saw the best of New Zealand in a well planned and executed itinerary.”
Kristen, traveled in November
New Zealand's adventure capital welcomes young travelers with bungy jumping in Queenstown and glacier walks at Franz Josef. The Hobbiton Movie Set, Waitomo's glowworm caves, and Milford Sound cruises showcase the country's diversity from premium accommodations.
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Karangahake, Waihi, Mount Maunganui, Hobbiton Movie Set, Rotorua, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, Waitomo, HamiltonSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Wild Kiwi From $4,575
5% off- US$4,346+$773 upfront costs
Ages 20-35 can try black water rafting through Waitomo's underground caves, jumping off waterfalls, and kayaking to Split Apple Rock in Abel Tasman National Park. Party nights at Mahinapua Hotel by the lake lead to Queenstown's Kawarau Bridge bungy jump, white water rafting down Kaituna River, and heli-hiking on Franz Josef Glacier.
Duration 17 days Destinations Auckland, Coromandel, Waitomo, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Westport, Hokitika, Franz JosefSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Kiwi Experience From
5% off- US$1,567
The Gumboot Tour
“The atmosphere on the trip was wonderful - everyone mixing and having fun together.”
Susan, traveled in March
Travelers aged 18-35 kayak out to Split Apple Rock in Abel Tasman, bungy jump from Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown, and hang out at Wanaka's lakeside bars. The wharf jump at Nelson Lakes and sunrise hikes up Roy's Peak come before cruising past Mitre Peak's 16-kilometer stretch to the Tasman Sea in Milford Sound.
Duration 12 days Destinations Christchurch, Kaikoura, Abel Tasman National Park, Westport, Hokitika, Franz Josef, Wanaka, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Kiwi Experience From
5% off- US$1,063
Welcome to Australia: East Coast (Sydney to Cairns, 18-35)
“I've now met friends for life and am forever grateful.”
Emily, traveled in February
Byron's Surf House rooftop bar sets the social scene for young adventurers (average age 23). Tackle Fraser Island by 4WD, dive into Great Barrier Reef snorkeling, and unwind at beachfront hostels along Australia's east coast.
Duration 30 days Destinations Sydney, Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise, Brisbane, Beerwah, Noosa, Rainbow Beach, Fraser Island, Airlie Beach, Whitsunday IslandsSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Welcome To Travel From
5% off- US$3,411
New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
“Great tour to experience 2 weeks of the highlights of the South island.”
Jolien, traveled in December
New Zealand's top thrills await 20-35 year olds in Queenstown's extreme sports scene, Franz Josef's glacier hikes, and Abel Tasman's kayaking ($200). Travelers connect during included breakfasts and group dinners.
Duration 16 days Destinations Wellington, Abel Tasman National Park, Cape Foulwind, Westport, Punakaiki, Franz Josef, Wanaka, Queenstown, Fiordland National Park, Milford SoundSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Shared Operator G Adventures From $2,699
15% off- US$2,294
NZ: North & South Island (Southbound)
“Everything was organised perfectly and ran smoothly. I had an amazing 2 weeks in New Zealand and would recommend it to everyone!”
Laura, traveled in March
New Zealand's adventure capitals welcome 18-35 year olds with legendary Queenstown nightlife, Rotorua's Dawn Canopy Tour, and Lake Taupō's skydiving. Fourteen exciting locations span both islands.
Duration 16 days Destinations Auckland, Waikato, Rotorua, Huka Falls Resort, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, Ohakune, Mount Ruapehu, Wellington, PictonSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $2,974
22% off- US$2,330
UltimateOz - Gap Year | Ultimate
“Base camp was the best part! Should be extended another day.”
Sofiane, traveled in November
Free drinks flow during Sydney pub crawls for ages 18-35. Thrills await at Stockton Sand Dunes, beach parties rock One Mile Beach, and connections form at the social Wake Up Sydney Central hostel.
Duration 8 days Destinations Sydney, Port Stephens, Nelson Bay, Coogee, Bondi Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Ultimate Travel From
22% off- US$905
New Zealand Explorer
“Both weeks were excellent, the accommodations are basic but fair for the price.”
Paul, traveled in February
Queenstown's extreme sports, Waitomo cave rafting, and Rotorua's cultural experiences await ages 20-35. Social hostel stays and optional Southern Alps skydiving create unforgettable memories.
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Hahei, Rotorua, Taupo, Waitomo, Raglan, Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford SoundSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Wild Kiwi From $2,126
7% off- US$1,977+$333 upfront costs
New Zealand Adventurer
“Would 100% recommend him to anyone. He goes out of his way to be a great tour guide.”
AnyaMurdoch, traveled in January
Youthful energy flows through Rotorua's zorbing (approx. $40) to Abel Tasman skydiving (approx. $300). Venture into Waitomo caves, ride Raglan's waves, and embrace social vibes in shared accommodations. Average age is 23.
Duration 14 days Destinations Auckland, Hahei, Rotorua, Taupo, Waitomo, Raglan, Christchurch, Punakaiki, Abel Tasman National Park, Kaikoura Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Wild Kiwi From $2,102
7% off- US$1,955+$329 upfront costs
Big South
“It was hands down the most spectacular place I have been too!! Would definitely recommend this trip to anyone looking at heading to New Zealand!!”
William, traveled in January
South Island thrills include Queenstown's famous bungy jumps, Franz Josef glacier hikes, and Abel Tasman kayaking (approx. $150). Wine tasting in Marlborough and group dinners foster friendships.
Duration 14 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Haast, Franz Josef, Hokitika, Punakaiki, Abel Tasman National ParkSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Wild Kiwi From $2,004
5% off- US$1,904+$322 upfront costs
What people love about Australia/Oceania Tours for Young Adults
The itinerary was very good always busy but I would of liked an extra day in kaikora and maybe a bit more time in Christchurch. The bus ride was very comfy and always entertaining it just got bit to hot sometimes. All the hostels was very good unfortunately we wasn’t able to make it franz Josef and had a night Dunedin and that hostle wasn’t very clean and didn’t feel safe their. 4 stars for meal didn’t mean to click 3 food was good could of done with couple extra meals. Sparkles was amazing she so bubbly and fun always made sure everyone was okay even when the landslide happened she was so chilled out and made such a poor situation all good and didn’t course stress , wonderful women and hope to see her again!!!
New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
- NZ: North & South Island (Southbound)
Contiki in New Zealand was amazing! I loved every minute of it. Everything was organised perfectly and ran smoothly. Susie our tour manager was fantastic, she knew her stuff and went above and beyond her job requirements. She was enthusiastic and helpful at all times. I had an amazing 2 weeks in New Zealand and would recommend it to everyone!
- UltimateOz - Gap Year | Ultimate
An amazing way to start your Australian adventure and make the big move feel not so daunting! A great week of fun filled activities, meeting new people and making new friends! Shoutout to Ben and Chloe for being awesome tour guides and for being so helpful
What our customers ask about Australia/Oceania Tours for Young Adults
What are the best destinations for young adults visiting Australia/Oceania for the first time?
The East Coast of Australia and New Zealand's South Island stand out as prime destinations for first-time visitors. The Australian leg typically includes the surf culture of Byron Bay the natural wonders of the Whitsundays and exploring K'gari (Fraser Island) by 4x4. New Zealand's South Island offers Queenstown's adrenaline sports the dramatic landscapes of Milford Sound and the coastal trails of Abel Tasman National Park. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "From surfing in Byron Bay to sailing around the Whitsundays - totally stunning! Would definitely recommend this tour to my friends." Places to stay run from budget-friendly spots like The Barn in Marahau to mid-range options such as the Mercure Resort in Queenstown.
How much spending money should I budget per day as a young traveler?
Daily expenses beyond tour costs average 80-100 USD in Australia and New Zealand. This covers basic meals (15-20 USD for lunch 30-40 USD for dinner) plus entertainment and activities. Adventure sports in places like Queenstown or Sydney can add 100-300 USD per activity to your budget. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The tour was great value with meals and key activities included but having extra money for nights out in Queenstown and optional activities like skydiving was essential." Many accommodations like BUNK Brisbane and Base Sydney provide kitchen facilities to help reduce food costs.
What are the most popular adventure activities for young travelers in Australia/Oceania?
Adventure seekers will find plenty of options throughout the region. Skydiving over Mission Beach costs around 300 USD while white water rafting in Cairns runs about 150 USD. Queenstown offers bungy jumping for 200 USD and many tours include surfing lessons in Byron Bay. As one TourRadar traveler recounted: "The activities were fantastic - the surfboarding and harbour cruise were my highlights I even got to drive the boat under harbour bridge!" Many tours book stays at adventure-focused spots like Base Adventure Lodge in Queenstown or Nomads in Byron Bay putting activities right at your doorstep.
What's the best time of year for young travelers to visit Australia/Oceania?
October through March brings the best combination of weather and social atmosphere. This period offers warm temperatures for coastal activities along Byron Bay and the Whitsundays plus ideal conditions for outdoor adventures on New Zealand's South Island. One TourRadar traveler mentioned: "We were very lucky with the weather - our visits to Noosa Fraser Island and Airlie beach were just amazing." Popular spots like YHA hostels in major cities and The Barn in Abel Tasman see more visitors during these months creating a lively social scene.
What kind of accommodation can young travelers expect on these tours?
Accommodations focus on social settings and value with options ranging from hostels to unique local stays. Some standout examples include the tipi tents at Arts Factory Lodge in Byron Bay beachfront bungalows at Base Magnetic Island and shared rooms at JUCY Snooze Christchurch. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The hostels were fine (and that's coming from someone who had never stayed in a hostel before!)" Most places offer common spaces kitchens and social areas designed for meeting other travelers.
What's the nightlife like for young travelers in Australia/Oceania?
The region's nightlife caters well to younger crowds with plenty of social spots. Popular areas include the bar scene along Queenstown's Shotover Street Byron Bay's Beach Hotel and the always-busy Gilligan's Backpackers in Cairns. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The night will finish with a farewell dinner and drinks to toast to the incredible adventures and friends we have made." Many hostels including Base Sydney and Nomads Brisbane organize social events and pub crawls. Most tours place you near these entertainment districts making it easy to enjoy the scene with your group.