Day 1: Auckland to Sydney – A Full-Packed Welcome
Our adventure began with a touch of luxury flying Qantas’ Dreamliner in Premium Economy. With excellent food, attentive service, and a surprisingly good entertainment system, it was the perfect way to start. (Pro tip: on smaller Qantas flights you’ll need the Qantas Entertainment app download shows in advance to avoid hiccups!)
Arrival in Sydney was smooth, and we were warmly greeted by our AEA Luxury Tours driver, who not only knew the city inside out but also gave us a crash course in Sydney coffee culture (tip: a piccolo is their version of a small flat white).
We kicked things off at the Art Gallery of New South Wales a free experience offering sweeping harbour views and an impressive mix of Australian and international works. Lunch at Crafted by Matt Moran was a highlight, blending fresh, local ingredients with elegant presentation.
Our stay at Pier One Sydney Harbour, a heritage dockside hotel right by the Harbour Bridge, was perfect pet-friendly, full of character, and within easy walking distance to The Rocks, Circular Quay, and Darling Harbour.
The evening brought one of the most dazzling experiences of the trip: the Captain Cook Vivid Sunset Dinner Cruise. With a three-course meal and a top-deck view of Sydney’s Vivid fireworks, it was a great view, but we did feel you could see just as much from the waterfront, although less crowded on the boat. Afterwards, we explored the Vivid light installations around Darling Harbour interactive, colourful, and alive with families and friends soaking up the festival.
Day 2: Discovering Sydney’s Arts
After a generous breakfast spread (yes, mimosas included), I laced up my shoes for a scenic run along the harbour path passing the Opera House, leafy parks, and birdsong all the way.
Later, we explored Eve Hotel Sydney, a boutique-style stay for those wanting a quieter base outside the city centre. Lunch at Bar Julius was hearty and modern I couldn’t go past the Reuben bagel sandwich.
The afternoon was reserved for what became a group favourite: MJ the Musical. Nearly three hours long but so captivating it felt like half that, it was an exhilarating mix of music, dance, and storytelling. Even as someone who wasn’t a big MJ fan beforehand, I was blown away.
Dinner at Midden by Mark Olive, nestled beneath the Opera House, offered kangaroo on a plate and harbour views, though service felt a little stretched that night. Still, generous wine pours and a festive Vivid atmosphere kept spirits high.
Day 3: Oysters, Koalas & Coastal Charms
Heading north from Sydney, we discovered the serene Hawkesbury River with Sydney Oyster Tours. This family-run experience combined wildlife spotting (sea eagles, bird life and although we didn’t see them, rays!) ancient Aboriginal rock art 6000 years old, and hands-on oyster shucking. For oyster lovers, it’s paradise you’ll get up to 18 oysters each, paired with prawns and champagne.
From there, we continued to Newcastle a lively harbour city soon to welcome international flights. Quirky stops like the QT Newcastle hotel and a meal at Blanca (Mediterranean-inspired and delicious) added flavour to the day.
At Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, we walked the SKYwalk to see rescued koalas up close a unique mix of conservation and eco-tourism.
Our night ended at Bannisters Port Stephens, home to Rick Stein’s newest restaurant. With stunning bay views, fresh seafood, and excellent service, it was a fittingly elegant stop. Sharing the dining room with a couple celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary made the evening even more special.
Day 4: Sand Dunes & Hunter Valley Wines
This day was unforgettable. With Sand Dune Adventures, owned by the Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council, we rode quad bikes across the largest coastal moving sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Equal parts cultural and thrilling, this is something I’d recommend to anyone.
From there, we ventured into the Hunter Valley, starting at Brokenwood Wines. While the wines and food were impressive, the cellar door service left something to be desired. By contrast, Audrey Wilkinson Winery was warm, welcoming, and full of charm, Sean made the tasting a highlight, pairing wines with stories and humour. It’s a place you could happily linger all day.
That evening, we checked into Voco Kirkton Park, a stunning estate surrounded by kangaroos at sunrise, and enjoyed dinner at E’Remo Restaurant at Spicers Guesthouse. With authentic Italian fare, an incredible wine list, and heartfelt service, it was one of my favourite meals of the trip.
Day 5: Sweet Endings & Homeward Bound
Before heading back to Sydney, we indulged in a stop at a chocolate factory (always a good idea) and lunch at Saddles Mount White, where you can sip coffee while sitting on an actual saddle or relax outside overlooking a tranquil pond.
The drive back wound through native bush before we reached Sydney Airport. Just like that, our Vivid NSW adventure had come full circle ending as smoothly as it began.
Final Thoughts
This trip was the perfect blend of culture, food, nature, and pure fun. From fireworks on the harbour to shucking oysters in waders, quad biking across sand dunes to sipping wine in the Hunter Valley, every day offered something new and unforgettable.
Vivid NSW isn’t just about the lights it’s about everything that shines across this vibrant region. ✨