About Your Journey
A delightful 6-day escape to Melbourne’s finest gardens
Immerse yourself in the colour and beauty of the renowned Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show on this delightful six-day escape, designed for over 60s New Zealand travellers. Alongside the spectacular floral displays in the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens, you’ll enjoy beautiful heritage gardens, elegant estates, winery dining, and plenty of time to explore one of Australia’s most vibrant cities.
Based at the Sheraton Melbourne for all five nights, this is a perfect blend of gardens, culture, and relaxation — with a Travelwise Tour Leader looking after every detail so you can simply enjoy the blooms, the city, and the company of like-minded companions.
Itinerary
-
Depart Auckland on Air New Zealand and arrive Melbourne early afternoon. Transfer to the Sheraton Melbourne Hotel for five nights and enjoy a welcome dinner together.
Included: D
-
Guided Heritage Tour of Fitzroy Gardens, including magnificent tree avenues, ornamental lakes, and Captain Cook’s Cottage. Then visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, with time for lunch (own expense) before a guided tour aboard an open-air minibus through one of the world’s leading botanic gardens.
Included: B, D
-
A full day at Australia’s premier flower and garden event, held in the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens. Marvel at the Great Hall of Flowers, wander the inspiring show gardens, and enjoy a delicious High Tea this afternoon. Dinner at leisure.
Included: B, HT
-
Travel to the Mornington Peninsula for a guided morning tea tour of Beleura House and Gardens. Continue to Pt. Leo Estate for a winery lunch and time in the Sculpture Park, then visit Cruden Farm, the former home of Dame Elisabeth Murdoch, with its collection of beautiful gardens.
Included: B, L
-
A free day to enjoy Melbourne at your own pace — laneways, boutiques, museums, cafés, or a return visit to the flower show. This evening, a special farewell dinner.
Included: B, D
-
After breakfast, transfer to Melbourne Airport for your Air New Zealand flight home, arriving Auckland mid-afternoon.
Included: B
Melbourne in full bloom.
Reserve your place on this unforgettable tour. Numbers are limited, so don’t delay.
Why you’ll love this trip
Travelwise’s exceptional planning takes care of every detail — Air New Zealand flights, five nights at the Sheraton Melbourne, transfers, and all included garden experiences — so you can simply enjoy the colour and beauty of the season. Your dedicated Tour Leader brings caring professionalism and genuine warmth, creating a true sense of community among like-minded over 60s New Zealand travellers. Thoughtful tour design balances spectacular floral displays with heritage gardens, winery dining, and free time in one of Australia’s most vibrant cities.
Inclusions & Activities
Airfares: Return Economy class airfares Auckland to Melbourne
Accommodation: 5 nights quality accommodation throughout
Sightseeing: All sightseeing and attractions as shown, including admission to the Melbourne International Flower & Garden show, Mornington Peninsula tour and more
Meals: Daily breakfasts plus lunches and dinners as specified
Transfers: Home pick up and drop off in Auckland Metro area
Tour Leader: Travelwise Tour Leader throughout, plus local guides
Catherine Stewart, Tour Leader
Your Tour Leader
Catherine Stewart
Catherine is a knowledgeable, enthusiastic Tour Leader at Travelwise who turns every trip into a delightful adventure. Catherine’s calm professionalism and storytelling flair make her the ideal guide for travellers who want to relax and soak it all in.
Before you book, you should know
Activity Level 2: A balanced pace with more time exploring throughout the day. Suitable for travellers comfortable with longer walks, standing during sightseeing, and walking over some uneven surfaces. A good choice if you prefer: Getting out and about, with a steady but manageable pace.
Departure: 14 March 2027
Other Notes:
Deposit: $500 pp
Balance Payment Date: 14 January 2027
Bookings may still be available after this date. Please contact us for availability.
Insurance: Not mandatory for this tour, however we recommend this for peace of mind.