Bookend Australia or New Zealand with the South Pacific Islands

Australia and New Zealand are two of the most far-flung travel destinations for residents of the United States. These remote nations offer an endless supply of activities, including wine tastings, scenic road trips, wildlife encounters, and thrilling outdoor experiences that makes the lengthy flight worth every minute. 

While exploring the continent of Oceania, travelers often squeeze in a side trip to one of the Pacific Ocean Islands – this could even break up the journey home. These are the top four destinations from Australia and New Zealand. 

Fiji – best for relaxation and tropical beaches 

An archipelago of around 300 islands, Fiji is the quintessential destination for a tropical vacation combining culture and relaxation. A typical stay starts with beachfront lodging and snorkeling while cultural immersion may include visiting craft workshops, observing a ceremony or festival, and tasting Fijian cuisine. 

Fiji falls under the Melanesian subregion and is resided in by Indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians. “Bula” is both a means of greeting and a philosophy relating to hospitality and the warm treatment guests receive. 

As direct flights operate between Fiji and both Australia and New Zealand, this is one of the most convenient options. The average flight time is three hours from Auckland and four hours from Sydney or Brisbane.

Vanuatu – best for adventure seekers and cultural immersion

Vanuatu joins Fiji in Melanesia and comprises close to 80 islands. This is the most enthralling prospect for outdoor enthusiasts: activities include summiting volcanoes, swimming in blue holes, and shipwreck diving. 

The largest island, Espiritu Santo, is covered in verdant jungle studded with a startling number of blue holes. Some are more accessible than others while “secret” lagoons can feel like your private spa. 

Sacred to Indigenous Melanesians, Mount Yasur on Tanna Island is an active volcano which is rarely seen without a plume of ash. Despite that, it’s relatively accessible and hikers of all abilities make the trip over from Port Vila. 

Direct flights are only available from Australia. The average flight duration from Sydney is a little under four hours. 

French Polynesia – best for ultra-luxurious and romantic experiences 

French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France. Over 100 islands are grouped in five clusters known as the Austral, Gambier, Marquesa, Society, and Tuamotu islands. 

These small islands feature photogenic turquoise lagoons and volcanic mountains while coral reefs provide world-class diving. Besides unwinding on the sand, resorts encourage guests to experience Indigenous culture in French Polynesia through traditional workshops, stargazing, and nature treks. 

Popular with honeymooners, luxury resorts of the French Polynesia range from overwater bungalows to private island hideaways. 

Direct flights are only available from New Zealand. The average flight time from Auckland is five hours.

Niue – best for getting off the beaten path 

One of the smallest and lesser-known islands in the South Pacific Ocean, Niue is part of the Polynesian subregion and has the status of a self-governing island country in free association with New Zealand. This is a popular destination for New Zealanders seeking winter sunshine and unspoiled beaches. 

Niue’s volcanic topography produces a rugged coastline and crystal-clear swimming lagoons. The island is best explored by bicycle or on foot via the walking trails although car rentals are also available.

Nursing humpback whales and their calves pass Niue between July and October. Due to the depth of the ocean, this is one of the few places in the world where whales come close to the shore. Whale watching tours operate but are sometimes surplus to requirement as they can be viewed from the beach. 

Direct flights to Niue generally operate once per week from Auckland New Zealand and take three and a half hours.

Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations for a consultation on traveling to Australia, New Zealand, and the islands of the South Pacific Ocean.