Day 1: Auckland, New Zealand
Shimmering Auckland lies on a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau harbors. Marvel at the cosmopolitan city’s volcanic landscape in suburbs boasting iconic cones with Maori and English names like Maungawhau/Mount Eden (the city’s highest point), Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill and Maungarei/Mount Wellington. Browse the shops of Queen Street or the Parnell area with their galleries and boutiques in quaintly restored Victorian buildings, or visit the Skytower for loftier views. See first-hand why Auckland is called the ‘City of Sails’ on a harbor cruise aboard a ketch-rigged sailing yacht before exploring an enticing array of eclectic restaurants, bars and cafes.
Day 2: Rotorua, New Zealand
From the popular beaches of Tauranga, where Mount Maunganui towers over calm Bay of Plenty waters, travel to a wonderland of geothermal oddities and the center of Maori heritage in Rotorua. Walk among the dramatic geysers, bubbling mud and verdant native bush of Te Puia before visiting a re-creation of an early Maori village and a kiwi conservation center. Head south of Rotorua to hike through majestic redwoods in Whakarewarewa Forest or perhaps travel to the Waikato region, where the well-preserved Shire at the Hobbiton Movie Set is a dream come true for fans of Peter Jackson’s film adaptations of JRR Tolkien’s beloved novels.
Day 3: Gisborne, New Zealand
This charming seaside community was named in honor of the crew member aboard Captain James Cook’s ship Endeavour who first sighted land in the area in 1769. Not only boasting a long maritime history and a vibrant Maori heritage and culture, Gisborne is also known for its wine, often called the “Chardonnay Capital of New Zealand.” Be sure to visit Gisborne’s splendid array of boutique wineries. And for a taste of Gisborne’s history and art, the Tairawhiti Museum is an essential destination in this city of warm smiles and even warmer hearts.
Day 4: Napier, New Zealand
The twin cities of Napier and Hastings, located within the region of Hawke's Bay on the East Coast of New Zealand's North Island, are unique. The area is blessed with a Californian-Mediterranean climate, boasting one of the highest sunshine averages in the country. The area is also dotted with colorful vineyards and orchards, with some of the most fertile farmland you will see. Within the region are more than twenty of New Zealand's finest vineyards.
Day 5: Wellington, New Zealand
Nicknamed New Zealand’s ‘Creative Capital’ and situated at the southern end of the North Island, Wellington is a compact city brimming with Victorian architecture, museums, theaters and art galleries. Besides the Academy Award-winning Weta Workshop and the nation’s distinctive Parliament, you’ll find Kiwis with a passion for expertly made coffee and craft beer served in laneway cafes and vibrant pubs. Stand atop Mt. Victoria for panoramic views of the harbor and stunning mountains and ride a cable car to lush botanic gardens. Visit Te Papa Tongarewa, NZ’s national museum, and the groundbreaking Zealandia ecosanctuary for fascinating insights into New Zealand’s cultural and natural treasures.
Day 6: Picton, New Zealand
Located in the Marlborough region of New Zealand, the town of Picton is near the head of Queen Charlotte Sound on the South Island. The town is named after Sir Thomas Picton, the military associate of the Duke of Wellington, who was killed at the Battle of Waterloo. The Edwin Fox Maritime Centre features the Edwin Fox, the only surviving ship that transported convicts to Australia, which is undergoing preservation and restoration.
Day 7: Akaroa, New Zealand
Set on a beautiful, sheltered harbor and overlooked by craggy volcanic hills, Akaroa is a popular resort town on Banks Peninsula in New Zealand. The name Akaroa means “Long Harbor.” Sailors from the HMS Britomart proclaimed British sovereignty for the land in 1840, but French settlers also settled in the area that year. There is still a heavy French influence found on the island, including many French local names.
Day 8: Timaru, New Zealand
Scenically poised on the east coast of the South Island, Timaru is the gateway to New Zealand’s most majestic mountains, including its highest peak Mt Cook. Timaru has recaptured much of its Edwardian heritage with vibrant plantings of roses and trees, and a pedestrian-friendly landscape of paved areas, seating and vantage points from which to enjoy the city’s setting between ocean and alps. Tour the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden and stroll the striking piazza, with its stunning views across Caroline Bay, complemented by the numerous café-bars and restaurants.
Day 9: Dunedin, New Zealand
This remarkably preserved Victorian city lies at the head of a fiord-like inlet and surrounded by lush, green hills. Due to the Otago gold rush of the 1860s, Dunedin was the largest and wealthiest city in the country and the first to have gaslight, water mains, hydro power and steam trams. Discover the geological wonders of the rugged Otago Peninsula while keeping an eye out for fur seals on the rocks and perhaps some yellow-eyed penguins. Visit Larnach Castle, a historic 19th-century property surrounded by gardens and splendid views. Explore historic Dunedin with its splendid Victorian and Edwardian stone buildings, delightful local crafts and restaurants serving Kiwi specialties.
Day 10: Cruising the Fjords of Dusky Sound
Day 10: Cruising the Fjords of Doubtful Sound
Day 10: Cruising the Fjords of Milford Sound
Day 11 & 12: Cruising the Tasman Sea
Day 13: Hobart, Australia
Hobart is regarded by guests as one of the region's most friendly, exciting and diverse destinations. In the State of Tasmania, Hobart is Australia's second oldest city. It is rich in character and history, nestling next to one of the most beautiful natural harbors in the world and at the base of Mount Wellington, which rises 3,600 feet from the sea. The working harbor is unique with Antarctic supply vessels and fishing boats coming and going throughout the year.
Day 14: Cruising the Tasman Sea
Day 15: Sydney, Australia
Make the most of your time in one of the liveliest, must-see cities of the Pacific Rim. From bustling Circular Quay along the glamorous waterfront, take in the graceful sails of Sydney’s iconic Opera House. Catch a glimpse of the past along the narrow, twisting laneways of the historic Rocks district in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Head west to the spectacular, untamed beauty of the Blue Mountains for a ride on the world’s steepest perpendicular railway. Get up close with Australia’s charming wildlife at the Koala Park Sanctuary, then end your day with a refreshing stop at a traditional Aussie pub.
