Judy

We plan to visit Australia (Sydney) for one week and then to NZ for one week. We will fly in and out of Sydney.<BR><BR>What day trips do you like to take from Sydney?<BR><BR>What areas in NZ could we see with leisurely driving or by train, etc in 6-7 days?

LizF

You won't need day trips from Sydney at all. All you will need is to travel around Sydney as it has a lot to offer. Read the other posts on and about Sydney to find out. <BR>Just a word of warning though - you will not have seen Australia by just going to Sydney!

Norman

You can do a daytrip to the Blue Mountains which are well worth seeing. Book at station or Travel Agents<BR><BR>Norman

Alan

Definitely agree with both the above posters. Try to see the Sydney area on foot whenever possible.... there are beach walks along the coast which can use a day profitably. My favourite is the Spit Bridge to Manly walk.... four hours, and as well as several beaches you get some breathtaking views, see some aboriginal rock art, sneak a peek at some of Sydney's most expensive homes, and have the pleasure of a ferry ride across the harbour at the end of the day. All this for just public transport costs: bus to the Spit, ferry back to the city. <BR><BR>If you do the Blue Mountains, Katoomba is the place to head for; you don't need a guided tour, you can just hop on the train (about 2 hours) and then walk to the entrance to the valley (about another 30 minutes). There are walks ranging from an hour to a full day, all indicated and mapped, and well signposted. <BR><BR>A final thought -- since LizF is quite right when she says that there's more to Australia than the Sydney area -- is a day trip (an overnight stay would be even better) to Canberra, Australia's capital. It's a Washington clone, thought a bit soul-less by many Australians, but full of museums and galleries which will show you some of the treasures of Australia.<BR><BR>Have a great time!

marg

If you want to take a short trip out of Sydney, head north to the Hunter Valley (wines) and then return via Port Stephens (lovely beaches, dolphins etc). Either look for a tour or hire a car - it's only about 1 1/2 hours out of Sydney and freeway most of the way.

sonia

where in NZ are you flying into? cant give you much help without knowing if you are flying in to the north or south island!! I dont think you will get to see both on a leisurly drive.