Dinogo Readers' Top 10 Cities and Islands in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific for 2024

Traveling to Oceania requires commitment: a flight from the U.S. usually takes around a day, there's a significant time-zone shift, and it can be pricey. Thus, this region often represents a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for many travelers eager to witness stunning natural landscapes, bustling cities, ancient cultures, thrilling activities, and the largest coral reef in the world. From Australia to New Zealand, Fiji, and French Polynesia, Oceania is brimming with destinations to discover.

Voting Process Explained

For our annual World's Best Awards survey, T+L invites readers to share their travel experiences globally, providing insights on the best hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. In total, over 186,000 T+L readers participated in the 2024 survey, casting more than 700,000 votes across over 8,700 entities (including hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Cities were evaluated based on the following criteria:

Attractions and landmarks
Cultural experiences
Culinary offerings
Welcoming atmosphere
Shopping opportunities
Affordability

Islands were rated based on the following factors:

Scenic natural features and beaches
Available activities and attractions
Culinary options and restaurants
Hospitality of the locals
Overall value

Respondents rated each attribute as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The overall scores reflect the average of these ratings.

What Captivated Readers About Cities in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific

Dinogo readers are absolutely enamored with Australia, as reflected by three Australian cities making this year’s list. After securing the top position last year, the unique city of Hobart in Tasmania has slid to No. 5, with voters praising its “very good restaurants, nice hotels, and easy-to-navigate downtown.” In the second position is Melbourne, adored for its vibrant culinary and shopping landscape. One reader enthusiastically noted, “The quaint alleys filled with shops are true treasures,” while highlighting the beauty of “Federal Square and the stunning parks along the river.” Additionally, two cities from New Zealand secured spots, with the adventure-filled Queenstown at third and Auckland, the largest city in the country, at fourth.

Curious to discover which city took the No. 1 ranking? Continue reading to unveil the answer.

City Champion

Sydney

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Dinogo

This Australian city consistently ranks highly, frequently clinching the No. 1 position. This year, it regains its top status because, as one reader expressed, “Sydney is a place you will always remember.” Its more than 100 stunning beaches and the iconic coastal trails that connect them leave a lasting impression, along with its vibrant restaurant and bar scene, impressive museums and galleries, and a breathtaking skyline adorned with architectural marvels. The excellent weather, welcoming locals, and straightforward navigation through streets and waterways only add to its charm. In simple terms, as one voter put it, Sydney is “truly one of the finest cities in the world.”

Complete City List

1. Sydney, Australia

Reader Rating: 87.30

2. Melbourne, Australia

Reader Rating: 86.62

3. Queenstown, New Zealand

Reader Rating: 85.29

4. Auckland, New Zealand

Reader Rating: 84.48

5. Hobart, Australia

Reader Rating: 84.24

Insights from Readers on Islands in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific

The islands within the South Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand are frequently celebrated as some of the most stunning globally, characterized by powdery sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultures. This year, the islands of French Polynesia once again captured readers' hearts, with Moorea, Bora-Bora, and Tahiti securing the third, fourth, and fifth positions on the list, respectively.

“An absolutely stunning showcase of nature’s wonders,” one voter raved about Bora-Bora. “The atmosphere is warm and fragrant, and the colors are simply breathtaking.” Another remarked: “The island has successfully developed lush resorts without losing its authentic charm or feeling overly commercial.”

Moorea received similar accolades. “Moorea was incredible, and we’d return in an instant,” a reader expressed. “It’s verdant, intimate, and charming, with a non-commercial vibe, plus the water and snorkeling were superb.”

However, nothing compares to the snorkeling experience at our top choice, the Great Barrier Reef Islands. Continue reading to discover why it holds the No. 1 spot.

Winner of the Islands

Great Barrier Reef Islands

A couple gazing out from the shore of a Great Barrier Reef Island

Image courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland

The Great Barrier Reef Islands have once again topped the list for the second consecutive year. This collection of roughly 980 islands encircles the UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the world’s largest reef, featuring around 3,000 distinct reefs that support over 600 species of coral and more than 2,000 species of marine life and mammals. In essence, you’re bound to encounter a dazzling array of sea creatures. Visitors can choose from numerous accommodations, ranging from the luxurious wellness resorts of Hamilton Island and the family-friendly Fitzroy Island to the renowned Lizard Island and the secluded Heron Island. For those in search of ultimate privacy and luxury, Hayman Island—with its beloved Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort—is the perfect base to discover the region's stunning natural beauty and expansive underwater realms.