Day 8 Auckland
Arrive 7:30am, Depart 7:30pm
Experience New Zealand's most cosmopolitan city—a melting pot of British, Asian, Pacific, and Māori cultures. Your cruise from Auckland allows you to sample their diverse arts, entertainment, and traditions.
The Auckland Art Gallery has collected more than 15,000 paintings, sculptures, and prints, dating from 1376. Other attractions to visit include the Auckland War Memorial Museum, New Zealand Maritime Museum, National Museum of the Royal New Zealand Navy, and Museum of Transport and Technology.
Natural landmarks include Auckland Domain, a central park offering great views of Hauraki Gulf; Mount Eden, with 360-degree views from the city's highest volcanic cone; Mount Victoria, a volcanic cone overlooking downtown from North Shore; and Waiheke Island, a remote site of beaches, forests, vineyards, and olive groves. The hills surrounding the city are cloaked in rainforest.
Man-made landmarks include Sky Tower, offering panoramic views from downtown; Auckland Harbour Bridge, the connection to North Shore; and Auckland Town Hall, which includes a fine concert hall.
Day 9 Tauranga
Arrive 6:30am, Depart 5:30pm
Explore this chic coastal town in the North Island and you’ll discover the land of the Māori. Tauranga’s white sand beaches offer something for everyone. Relax and sunbathe on one of New Zealand’s most beautiful and popular coasts. Take a dip in the ocean or immerse yourself in a lush waterfall swimming hole. Watch dolphins frolic in the waves or swim with these lovable creatures. Learn to sail, try surfing, take a diving lesson, or refine your fishing technique. Water activities abound in Tauranga. If you’re a landlubber, you can tee up at a golf course on your Tauranga cruise or stroll down The Strand where you can enjoy cafés and a vibrant nightlife. Journey to charming waterfalls or board one of the many eco-cruises available in the Bay of Plenty. Sometimes called the New Zealand Riviera, downtown Tauranga offers galleries, shops, history, and a vibrant café and restaurant scene. The culinary culture brings together innovative chefs working in diverse traditions. Enjoy Italian, Indian, Turkish, Thai, French, and fusion flavours. Sip a hand-crafted drink or enjoy fresh-caught seafood from the Bay of Plenty. From casual al fresco dining to sophisticated New Zealand Riviera gastronomy, Tauranga offers something to tantalize every taste.