New Zealand in Depth

Explore Dunedin on New Zealand’s South Island, a port city surrounded by bush-covered hills. Discover its well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture, reflecting the city’s Celtic heritage. Walk through its civic buildings, explore street-art-filled alleyways, and visit its parks. See the city’s connection to New Zealand’s castle heritage as you explore Dunedin’s historic character.

Explore Dunedin on New Zealand’s South Island, a port city surrounded by bush-covered hills. Discover its well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture and learn about its Celtic heritage and connection to New Zealand’s only castles. Walk past elaborate civic buildings, explore alleyways decorated with street art, and visit its parks.

Included Activities

Nature’s Wonders
3.5 hours
Explore the Otago Peninsula, where coastal headlands surround diverse wildlife habitats. Visit the wildlife reserve at Taiaroa Head to look for fur seals, sea lions, cormorants, and yellow-eyed penguins. Travel by motor coach to the peninsula’s tip, then transfer to a specialized eight-wheel-drive Argo for a ride through remote landscapes. Continue by mini coach through the reserve and reach a lookout above Penguin Beach, where you can watch yellow-eyed penguins in their natural habitat. You may also see blue penguins, New Zealand fur seals, sea lions, and coastal birds during this guided excursion.

Orokonui Ecosantuary
3 hours
Visit Orokonui Ecosanctuary, a biodiversity restoration project set across 307 hectares of Otago cloud forest. Walk through open grasslands, regenerating bush, and ancient forest within a 9-kilometer predator-proof fence. Look for native species such as Kaka, Takahe, Tui, Korimako (Bellbird), Kakariki, Toutouwai (South Island Robin), Tuatara, Jeweled Gecko, and Otago Skink. Learn about the sanctuary’s habitat restoration work and conservation efforts while exploring the Orokonui Forest Explorer Tour. Your visit directly supports the sanctuary’s ongoing conservation work.

In 1770, Captain Cook sailed through this fiord as the sun began to set, earning Dusky Sound its name. These remote Fiordlands are home to rare species. Among them is the endangered Fiordland penguin – squat little birds with bushy yellow eyebrows who breed in this region. At 40 km long, this is one of Fiordland’s largest inlets, with waterfalls, rainforest and more than 300 islands including Resolution and Pigeon islands.


New Zealand's deepest fiord, Doubtful Sound was named by Captain Cook due to navigation concerns. Today, a cruise through here reveals the sound's beauty, lush cliffs with waterfalls like Browne Falls (619 m) and Helena Falls, and a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins. The area also offers sightings of seals, penguins, and various whale species, including Southern rights, humpbacks, minke, sperm and orcas.

Shaped during the ice ages, the 16-km-long Milford Sound is a visual spectacle. Rugged cliffs rise from inky waters, the ice-capped mountain of Mitre Peak glints golden in the sun and 1,000-m-high waterfalls tumble down the rockface. The sound is most dramatic when it rains - the clouds hang low and waterfalls roar like thunder. In this isolated wilderness, bottlenose dolphins and penguins find a safe home, and fur seals sunbathe on the rocks.

Stewart Island, New Zealand's pristine, southernmost inhabited island, features the fishing village of Oban on Halfmoon Bay. The island's fern-filled forests provide a wilderness refuge, and national parks cover 85 percent of the island, a birding haven with penguins, shearwaters, mollymawks, pigeons, bellbirds, tui and fantails. Stewart Island's kiwi birds, usually nocturnal, are known to venture forth during the day.

Included Activities

Ulva Island Walk
1.5 hour
Enchanting Ulva Island, just a stone’s throw from Stewart Island, is the southern-most bird sanctuary in the world. It is a paradise for bird watchers and lovers of the natural New Zealand environment. Home to a variety of native birds which are rare or endangered in other parts of New Zealand, Ulva Island is a 266 hectare/500 acre bird sanctuary which has been pest free since 1997. Ulva Island has attracted international attention for species recovery and conservation. The island is managed by the Department of Conservation as an ‘open sanctuary’ where there are no invasive species and native birds can be seen at close quarters. The ship’s zodiacs will take you to the island where your internationally-renowned local Island guides will meet you as you step ashore. Commence on your guided walk, which takes you over much of the island. Listen as the guide offers highlights of the rich bird and plant life as well as early Maori and European history. Keep your ears and eyes open for some of New Zealand’s native birds, such as the noisy kaka (forest parrot) and the large native kereru (wood pigeon) whose wings make a distinctive sound almost like a buzz when they are in flight. Notes: An easy walk at a gentle pace on well-maintained gravel tracks. Highest point on Ulva Island is 100m above sea level. The full track system on Ulva Island is 4km, however this tour only includes a relaxing walk for approx. 1.5 hours. There is a short walk on the soft sand beach and approx. 15 steps involved. Ulva Island is pest-free and visitors are encouraged to do a thorough biodiversity check of their gear to ensure they are not carrying unwanted stowaways (rats) and seeds/weeds to Ulva Island.

Akaroa, New Zealand's first French settlement, retains its Gallic charm: a je ne sais quoi in street names, architecture and character. On the once-volcanic Banks Peninsula with two dominant craters, Akaroa Harbor hosts dolphins. The petit museum recounts early residents, while local salmon, olives and wine continue the French flavor of fine food.

Caught between ocean and mountains, Kaikoura thrives on encounters with native wildlife and culture. Once a whaling hub, Kaikoura remains focused on its rich natural heritage.The coast draws whales, seals, dolphins, petrels, penguins and albatross. The scenic Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway passes a seal colony. The award-winning Kaikoura Museum, in the landmark ‘craypot’ building, and historic pink Fyffe House recount early settler life.

Included Activities

Whale Watching
2 hours
As a Maori-owned company, Whale Watch Kaikoura cherishes the twin values of hospitality (manakitanga) to visitors and reverence (whakaute) for the natural world. It is a philosophy that embraces people, the land, the sea and all living things as one (Ki Uta Ki Tai) from the mountains to sea and everything in between. The company is indispensable to the development of the town as a sustainable tourism destination, and continually provides sponsorship to local schools, community groups and sports clubs, as well as contributing to marine mammal research in the area. Designed especially for whale watching, your catamaran is equipped with engines that minimize underwater noise and non-polluting restrooms. The main passenger cabin is enclosed and the outside decks offer great viewing and photo opportunities. Watch the large plasma screens displaying an award-winning marine wildlife animation that reveals Kaikoura's hidden wildlife wonders. Discover how a sperm whale survives in the dark and very cold depths of the Kaikoura Trench, and why the green-eyed Plunket shark is easy prey for a giant squid. Whale Watch is New Zealand's only marine-based whale-watching g company offering the possibility of an exciting up-close encounter with the world's largest toothed predator -- the giant sperm whale -- in its natural environment. Every outing is different, and the sightings vary. Sperm whales – if you are lucky enough to see one – are the stars of the show. These are year-round residents. A typical whale watch outing may include an encounter with New Zealand fur seals, pods of dusky dolphins, and the endangered wandering albatross. Depending on the season you may also see migrating humpback whales, pilot whales, blue whales and southern right whales. Notes: Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guarantee

The laid-back gateway to the Marlborough Sounds, Picton is a port town with a vibrant waterfront dotted with cafes and galleries. The Picton Sounds Aquarium showcases unique local marine life like seahorses and the tuatara, a rare living fossil over 200 million years old. Surrounding Picton are lush vineyards which offer cellar door tours and wine tastings of Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand's most celebrated wine.

Included Activities

Cruising Round the Bays
2.5 hours
Cruising through the Sounds is an experience that you will never forget. Board your catamaran and travel out into Queen Charlotte Sound. Once you’re on the water, you will see just how wonderful Mother Nature can be. Feed the famous pet fish in Double Cove, cruise past the unspoiled bays nestled along the shoreline, and travel the inner part of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Sit back and relax with complimentary tea and coffee as you learn the history of the Queen Charlotte Sound from your friendly skipper.
 

Step ashore into one of New Zealand's most beloved natural treasures — a sun-drenched coastline of golden beaches, sculptured granite headlands, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Explore sheltered coves, wander trails through native bush alive with birdsong, and take in sweeping coastal vistas that showcase the very best of New Zealand's extraordinary natural beauty

New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, blends culture and natural beauty. Tucked between the harbor and the hills on the North Island, this small city boasts cool galleries, great coffee and relaxed craft beer spots. Te Papa, the national museum, immerses visitors in New Zealand's history and Maori culture. Movie tours in “Wellywood” offer glimpses of Middle Earth and beyond. The pine forest trail winds to the top of Mount Victoria for city views.

Included Activities

Te Papa & Zealandia
3.5 hours
There's much to see on this four-hour adventure that takes in two of Wellington's most visited attractions. You'll gain a unique and authentic perspective of New Zealand's history at Te Papa Tongarewa, which means "the place of treasures of this land," the country's national museum. A short drive from port takes you along the oceanside to this vibrant museum. Situated on the waterfront in an impressive, contemporary building, it brims with great treasures and artifacts showcasing the history of this country, the Maori culture and the natural world. From the remains of the world's largest squid to a diorama of a colorful marae (meeting house), there's something for everyone to enjoy. Visit the gift shop before heading to Zealandia: Karori Sanctuary Experience. Just minutes from downtown Wellington yet worlds away from everyday life, Zealandia, a 550-acre interactive eco-sanctuary, is nestled within a lush valley and protected by a five-mile predator-proof fence. Created with the mission to restore Wellington’s forest and freshwater ecosystems to their pristine state, it is centered on a sparkling reservoir, home to some of New Zealand’s rarest and most exotic wildlife, experienced on a two-hour guided tour. Then, reboard the motorcoach to return to the port.

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of the  knowledgeable experts.

Surrounded by coastline, Tauranga on New Zealand's Bay of Plenty offers abundant fishing, sailing, diving and kayaking. Inland, natural attractions include the waterfall at McLaren Falls Park and Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park with native New Zealand flora and fauna like kauri trees, ferns and kiwi birds. Literary fans enjoy The Hairy Maclary and Friends statues celebrating Lynley Dodd's beloved animal characters in this scenic city.

New Zealand's modern history traces back to the Bay of Islands, the initial European settlement, and the location of the 1840 signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. Beyond the landmark Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the charming waterfront towns of Paihia and Russell are dotted with colonial architecture and seafood restaurants. Idyllic coves, whales and rugged natural formations like Hole in the Rock feature further into the 144 islands.

Included Activities

Hole in the Rock Cruise
3 hours
Designed for comfort, the "power-cat" catamaran features comfortable indoor and open-deck seating, During your cruise, you’ll sail past the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse, the only historic lighthouse managed by the Department of Conservation with its internal workings still in place, and the famous 98-foot-tall Cathedral Cave, one of the longest sea caves in the world. The captain will circle Piercy Island, also known as Motukokako Island, at the outermost limits of the Bay of Islands, and weather permitting, sail through the Hole in the Rock. Perhaps one of the most naturally beautiful sights in all of New Zealand, this 210-foot hole at sea level was created over centuries by wind and waves. On the return trip en route to Waitangi wharf you'll meander through some of the 144 islands, observing each at close range. You may see birds such as Australasian gannets, black winged gulls, red and black beaked gulls, Caspian and white fronted terns soaring over the beaches. If the sea conditions are not favorable or it is deemed to be too rough and the boat is unable to go out to the hole in the rock, an alternative inner island experience will be substituted. Bottlenose and common dolphins are the most frequently encountered marine mammals in the Bay and there is always a chance that a pod may appear alongside the catamaran, but it is not guaranteed. Your power catamaran features comfortable indoor and open-deck seating, full restroom facilities, and a range of drinks and snacks available for cash purchase.

New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland, sprawls across volcanic hills and harbors. It's a vibrant, multicultural metropolis with steep streets and cultural attractions like the Auckland Art Gallery and Auckland War Memorial Museum with Maori treasures (taonga) and exhibits on New Zealand. The revitalised dockside area, Britomart, is home to chi-chi shops, restaurants and bars, and the 328 m (1,076 ft)-high Sky Tower offers breathtaking views.