Top Cities in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific

Many travelers’ first motivation for the long journey to Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific is to see the breathtaking natural landscapes. However, it’s the region’s cities—many of them situated within these stunning landscapes—that make visitors consider extending their stay. They’re warm, clean, culturally rich, and filled with friendly people. Moreover, the cities boast increasingly intriguing dining scenes, thanks to a culinary renaissance that has swept through this part of the world in recent years. Each year, for the World’s Best Awards, readers share their opinions on top travel experiences around the globe—rating cities based on sights and landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, and overall value.

Since the inception of the World’s Best Awards 22 years ago, Sydney has been recognized as the top city in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific 22 times in a row. It isn’t hard to understand why. A reader noted, “You cannot go wrong with a city that is surrounded by water on all sides. The beaches are fantastic, the people are friendly, the food is delightful, and public transit is exceptional.” Following the influential Danish restaurant Noma’s pop-up in Sydney in 2016, focus shifted to indigenous ingredients and food culture in New South Wales, which has solidified Sydney’s reputation as a global dining destination. Additionally, the vibrant dining scene includes several new restaurants such as Automata, Bar Brosé, the Dolphin, and Cirrus.

5. Auckland, New Zealand

Score: 81.87

4. Wellington, New Zealand

Score: 83.95

3. Melbourne, Australia

Score: 85.47

2. Queenstown, New Zealand

Score: 86.45

1. Sydney

Score: 87.31

After chef René Redzepi completed his Noma residency in Sydney, he highlighted the joy of cooking for Australians due to their unparalleled warmth and enthusiasm. This welcoming atmosphere is central to the appeal of visiting Sydney. Consequently, visitors find themselves in a spectacular city, filled with activities ranging from the Opera House and the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney to the famous Bondi Beach. Moreover, many readers appreciate that the city is easily walkable, with numerous outdoor activities such as harbor cruises and sunrise jogs. “Sydney never fails to impress,” shared one fan.