If one has only time for a short visit downunder as they are heading off to work for a short period somewhere in the nether regions, what is a do not miss visiting?

Are you talking 'downunder' as in Australia, New Zealand or both. How long is a short visit?
The number of days would make the difference of just what you could see. You could see quite a lot of NZ in a couple of weeks. Australia is a vast country so a short break there would probably be best in one area. If you like the tropics then Cairns in a great spot to visit but it would really depend on what you like to experience. We have a lot to offer you.
You are very welcome in our little part of the world.

Gaeley

If seeing NZ, you cant beat the south island- has it all,beautiful scenery and really geared for the tourist (whale watching, swimming with the dolphins, bungy, etc)

I live in the north island and you have perhaps less natural wonders to see (Most of NZs population are in the north island, so it is more crowded- but would be nothing to you I think, there are only 4 million people in our whole country!)

However, there are spots in the NI worth seeing and they are closer to each other in distance!)

Short visit is one week and could be either New Zealand or Australia.

MLT,

Most people head for Sydney, Melbourne, Ayers Rock and the Barrier Reef - though not all in a week.

IMHO the best things to see in a short time are those things you have always WANTED to see - be they other people's 'must sees' or not.

MLT, I love the outback best, but you need more than a week - but you could fit in Alice Springs, Ayres Rock or Darwin. The Barrier Reef is probably one of the most popular places in Aust. for tourists.

New Zealand is a fabulous country too and I like both islands, they have very different places of interests. But it all depends on what appeals to you. Where ever you go I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

The South Island of NZ would be my pick if you only have a week. In fact, it would be hard to do it justice in a week but, depending on how "touristy" you want to go, try concentrating on Queenstown and the Sounds, or, for a more laid back approach, hire a car and do the West Coast.

Where abouts in the Nether regions will they be working? This may determine what city is the easiest to fly into for the quick visit to NZ or Aust.

Maybe something totally different, not the usual destination?

Wave Rock near Hyden in Western Australia? Not often publicised but absolutely amazing. Then a drive from Esperance to Albany along the rugged Coastline of Western Australia?

A drive along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria to see the 7 apostles?

I would recommend one incredible destination and see that thoroughly. Otherwise it is just a blur.

MLT....you have been to Australia before, haven't you?. What stood out to you and what did you see that you thought, I would love to see that again or more in depth.

My advice to you is to select a region especially in Australia as we are such a huge country, I can only comment on Australia, but I am sure our NZ friends would probably suggest the same.

After all the helpful advice you gave me when I came to Canada, it would be my pleasure to help in anyway that I can. If you should happen to find yourself in Adelaide, I would be more than happy to meet up with you for coffee and act as tour guide.

It all depends on what is a must see for you.

From my perspective, even though Australena may not approve , for just a short week , we will choose Sydney.

quote:

Originally posted by Yvon:
It all depends on what is a must see for you.

From my perspective, even though Australena may not approve , for just a short week , we will choose Sydney.

Yvon, hopefully next time you will get better weather.

I think it would also depend on summer versus winter.

Well Missie, the rain was not a problem for us.
We blessed Australia with our rain from North America.

quote:

Originally posted by Yvon:
It all depends on what is a must see for you.

From my perspective, even though Australena may not approve , for just a short week , we will choose Sydney.

Well I know you would because Dimpz & Spooky would make you most welcome when we join you for a lovely lunch by the water.

Cheers
spooky

That sounds interesting but too late for us.

If we could win the jack pot with a lottery ticket, for sure we will come back to Australia.