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23 Mar 2023

Ready, set, Sydney!

Hop over the ditch for a spectacular holiday in Sydney. From historic laneways to the hippest bars, inspiring events to sparkling sands, there’s so much to discover. Return to work with some truly great stories to tell!

We’re excited to announce the return of another Aussie connection. From 27 March, the Emirates A380 is resuming its daily service from Christchurch to Dubai via Sydney.

Customers will be treated to the airline’s famed comfort and hospitality on their flagship aircraft, which introduces the highly sought after Premium Economy cabin. Emirates is the only airline to offer First Class Trans-Tasman travel and now has a choice of four cabin classes – Economy Class, Premium Economy, Business Class and First Class.

Convenient daily flight times complete the picture, arriving in Sydney just in time for a nightcap downtown and a mid-morning return to Christchurch.  After a stop in Sydney, customers can also fly Emirates beyond to Dubai and reach destinations across Europe, Africa, the Americas and the Middle East.

Whether you’re popping over for the weekend or stopping enroute to Dubai, there’s so much to explore in this stunning harbour city. Here are just a few of our favourite highlights.

City Vibes

Wander through the historic cobblestone streets of The Rocks, where European settlers first stepped ashore in 1788. This thriving entertainment precinct is chocker with fascinating tours, art galleries, events, hip hangouts and heritage pubs.

Discover The Grounds of Alexandria. This hidden gem is located in a former industrial precinct and now boasts sprawling gardens, a small animal farm, coffee roastery, artisan bakery and weekend markets. Take a magical walk through Disney-themed streets in their 100 years of Disney, on until the end of April.

Head down to Circular Quay, Sydney's transport hub and ferry terminal, right on the water. See the city’s iconic waterfront structures and get ‘gramming on the steps of the Sydney Opera House, before you jump onboard your next tour.

Natural Wonders

Explore the Bondi to Coogee walk. Start with a dip at the internationally renowned Bondi Icebergs before heading off on this picturesque 6km trail. Take in beautiful beaches, cliff tops and nourishing cafes before finishing up at Coogee Beach

See the ocean up close in Cabbage Tree Bay. This 20-hectare marine reserve is home to more than 150 species of fish. Go swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving to discover what these crystal clear waters hold. Don’t forget your waterproof camera kit!

Surf the waves at Freshwater Beach. According to legend, this is where surfing first gained popularity in Australia, and with its consistent waves and stunning shoreline it’s easy to see why. Lessons and board hire are available.

Events Galore

Sydney is a premier event destination and 2023 is packed full of reasons to head over for a long weekend (as if the city wasn’t reason enough!)

Vivid Sydney - 26 May to 17 June
Vivid Sydney transforms the Harbour City into an illuminated kaleidoscope of colour for 23 wonder-filled nights. The immersive event brings together mesmerising art displays and 3D light projections, an 8km Light Walk which lights up the Sydney Harbour foreshore, live music performances, thought-provoking talks and multi-sensory food events.

Tina - The Musical - on from May, Theatre Royal Sydney
The smash hit TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL rolls into Sydney in May. Enjoy a comeback story like no other, of a woman who dared to defy the bounds of racism, sexism and ageism to become the global Queen of Rock n’ Roll. Head here for more information and to get on the ticket waitlist.

Disney's Beauty and the Beast - on from June, Capitol Theatre Sydney
See the timeless romance of Belle and her Beast brought to life in spectacular Disney style. With lush new sets, incredible costumes and state-of-the-art technology, it has all the grandeur you’d expect from a Disney production. Secure your place on the ticket waitlist here.

Staying a bit longer?

Recharge in the Blue Mountains, just 90min drive from Sydney. Treat yourself to luxury accommodation or recharge at a wellness retreat while you explore this magical natural area brimming with waterfalls, rock walls and pristine rainforest.

Take a road trip to the Hunter Valley where amazing wine and foods, vineyards and spas await. Book a gourmet cooking class or wine matching course, ride through the vines on bike or horseback, float away in a hot air balloon… with 150 wineries in the region there’s a full banquet of options to choose from!

 

There’s so much to see and do in Sydney, these highlights are really only the teeniest-tiniest-tip of the iceberg. Everyone comes home with a unique story to tell… what will yours be?

 

Emirates, Air New Zealand and Qantas can all fly you direct to Sydney in just three and a half hours with 25 flights available per week from April 2023.