thelowdownunder travel
G’day! Dreaming of surfing Bondi Beach, cuddling koalas, road-tripping the Great Ocean Road, or earning money while you travel? Welcome to the best years of your life – exploring Australia and New Zealand the fun, easy, and affordable way with Northern Lights.
We’ve been helping young travellers (18–35) live the Down Under dream since 2012. Over 25,000 happy legends have joined our trips, found jobs, and made friends for life. No boring bus tours with grandparents here – just epic adventures with people your age who love good vibes as much as you do.
Whether you want a ready-made group trip, help with your working holiday visa, or just the cheapest way to see both countries, we’ve got your back. Grab a flat white, kick back, and let us spill all the tea on how to do Oz and NZ the right way.
Why Australia & New Zealand Are Perfect for 20s/30s Travel
Let’s be honest – there’s no better time or place to travel than Oz and Kiwi land when you’re young. Beaches, parties, wildlife, epic nature, and English-speaking countries = zero stress and maximum fun.
You can work legally (bar jobs, farms, hostels pay $25–$35/hour), meet travellers from all over the world, and extend your trip for years if you want. Plus, the lifestyle is unreal – work a bit, surf a bit, repeat.
The Northern Lightss Difference – Why Travel With Us
We’re not a giant company. We’re a bunch of ex-travellers who got stuck Down Under because we loved it too much. Every guide has lived the working-holiday life, so we actually know what you need.
- Small groups (max 20 people)
- Guides 25–35 years old
- Party hostels + upgrade options
- Jobs help included
- 24/7 support line (we answer at 2 a.m. when you miss your bus)
Basically, we’re the big brother/sister you never had.
Our Most Popular Group Adventures
- 28-Day Ultimate Oz – Sydney to Cairns
- 10-Day Sydney, Surf & Sail
- 21-Day Kiwi Explorer – Auckland to Queenstown
- 14-Day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip
- Combo Oz + NZ 6-Week Package (most popular!)
Every trip includes accommodation, some meals, activities, and a legendary group leader.
East Coast Australia – The Classic Route
Start in Sydney → Byron Bay → Surf Camp → Brisbane → Noosa → Rainbow Beach → Fraser Island → Whitsundays → Magnetic Island → Cairns. You’ll see koalas, learn to surf, sail the Whitsundays, and skydive over the Great Barrier Reef if you’re brave.
Working Holiday Visas Made Simple
Aussie and Kiwi working holiday visas are a piece of piss to get (if you’re under 31 or 36 depending on country).
We help you:
- Fill out the application
- Open an Aussie bank account TFN
- Find your first job before you land
- Sort Medicare and superannuation
Most people pay for their entire trip in 3–4 months of work.
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How to Make (and Save) Money Down Under
Top jobs that pay well and are fun:
- Fruit picking ($1,000–$2,000/week during peak)
- Bar restaurant work in cities
- Hostel reception (free bed + wage)
- Construction or traffic control (big $$$)
Pro tip: Work regional for 88 days = second-year visa!
New Zealand – North & South Island Highlights
Don’t skip NZ! Think Lord of the Rings landscapes, bungy jumping, glowworm caves, and the friendliest people on earth.
Must-dos:
- Tongariro Crossing
- Milford Sound cruise
- Queenstown adrenaline activities
- Abel Tasman kayak
- Rotorua hot pools Māori culture
Best Time to Travel & Weather Guide
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Hot, busy, expensive
- Shoulder (Mar–May Sep–Nov): Perfect weather, cheaper
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Ski season in NZ, cheap hostels in Oz
We run trips year-round because every season rocks.
Budget Breakdown – How Much You Really Need
Real numbers from past travellers:
- 4-week group trip: $3,200–$4,500
- 3 months working holiday: $6,000–$9,000 total (including flights)
- 12 months: $12,000–$18,000 (you’ll earn most back)
Average weekly spend once working: $300–$500 and earning $800–$1,200.
Packing List + What NOT to Bring
Bring:
- Good walking shoes
- Swimmers boardshorts
- Power bank
- Reusable water bottle
- Padlock
Leave at home:
- Sleeping bag (hostels have linen)
- Towels (most places provide)
- Expensive jewellery
Real Traveller Stories
“I came for 3 months, stayed 3 years. Northern Lightss got me my first farm job and best mates ever!” – Sophie, UK
“Best decision of my life. Did the East Coast trip, then worked in Byron. Paid for my whole Europe trip after!” – Liam, Ireland
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to be super fit? Nope! Our trips are active but anyone 18–35 can do them.
- Can I join solo? 95% of people come alone and leave with 20 new friends.
- Is it safe for solo female travellers? Yes! Australia NZ are very safe, and our groups look after each other.
- What if I want to stay longer and work? We help with everything – visa, job, bank, phone – for free.
- Are the trips party-focused? Fun, yes. Messed-up drunk every night, no. Good balance.
- Can I bring a friend or partner? Of course! Couples and mates welcome.
Ready to Make Down Under Your New Playground?
You’ve just got the full lowdown – now it’s time to stop dreaming and start living.
Whether you want an epic group adventure, help landing a job, or both, Northern Lightss has your back. Thousands of legends have done it before you – now it’s your turn.
Grab your passport, book a free call or jump on one of our trips, and let’s make your 20s the best chapter yet.
See you on the beach, guys!
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