New Zealand and Australia Bucket List Cruise
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Aukland, New Zealand
Straddling a narrow isthmus created by 60 different volcanoes, New Zealand’s former capital boasts scenic beauty, historical interest and a cosmopolitan collection of shops, restaurants, museums, galleries and gardens. Rangitoto, Auckland’s largest and youngest volcano, sits in majestic splendor just offshore. Mt. Eden and One Tree Hill, once home to Maori earthworks, overlook the city. One of New Zealand’s fine wine districts lies to the north of Auckland.
Auckland served as New Zealand’s capital from 1841 until 1865, when the seat of government moved to Wellington.
More about Auckland, New Zealand Points of Interest
- Waitomo Caves Region – Waitomo is a village on the North Island of New Zealand. It’s known for its extensive underground cave systems. Thousands of glow-worms light up the Glowworm Caves. The vast Ruakuri Cave features waterfalls and limestone formations. West, Mangapohue Natural Bridge is a high limestone arch over Mangapohue Stream. Northeast of the village, Otorohanga Kiwi House shelters several species of the rare native kiwi bird.
- Auckland Museums – A trio of exceptional museums displays the unique natural culture of the area. The Maritime Museum focuses on nautical treasures, the War Memorial on native origins and the Art Gallery on visual mediums.
- Auckland Harbour and Islands – An Auckland icon, the Harbor Bridge stretches over the sparkling Waitemata Harbor, dotted with colorful yachts. Unparalleled city views of the city, Rangitoto Island, Devonport and the Waitakere Ranges can be seen from its heights.
- West Auckland
- Auckland City and Surrounds – Auckland, based around 2 large harbours, is a major city in the north of New Zealand’s North Island. In the centre, the iconic Sky Tower has views of Viaduct Harbour, which is full of superyachts and lined with bars and cafes. Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park, is based around an extinct volcano and home to the formal Wintergardens. Near Downtown, Mission Bay Beach has a seaside promenade.
- New Zeland Culinary Experience – New Zealand cuisine is largely driven by local ingredients and seasonal variations. An island nation with a primarily agricultural economy, New Zealand yields produce from land and sea.
- North Shore –
- New Zealand Adventure Experience – New Zealand is an extraordinary playground. Not only does it have every landscape you can think of crammed into an area the size of California (but with about 34 million fewer people), it also offers a dizzying array of activities, most of which can be easily accessed by a city (or even luxury) base. With something for every level of derring-do and ability.
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
The Bay of Islands offers more than broad vistas of sea and sky, more than beaches, boating, and fabulous water sports. The Bay is the birthplace of modern New Zealand. Here the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, establishing British rule and granting the native inhabitants equal status. Rich in legend and mystery, the Bay of Islands has age-old ties to the Maori and to whalers, missionaries and New Zealand’s early settlers.
The Bay of Islands has lured explorers for countless centuries. The Maori say that Kupe, the great Polynesian adventurer, came here in the 10th century. Captain Cook anchored offshore in 1769, followed by assorted brigands, traders, colonists and missionaries.
Note: Bay of Islands is an anchorage port. Passengers transfer to shore via ship’s tender.
More about Bay of Islands, New Zealand Points of Interest
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds – It was here in 1840 that the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed between Maori and the British Crown. This historic site offers a commanding view of history and the Bay of Islands.
- Harbour & Islands –
- Kerikeri & Surrounds – Today Kerikeri is a major citrus fruit center and tourist destination. The town also boasts the historic Mission house (1819), Stone Store (1833), and is noted for its thriving art and craft scene.
- Russell – Russell, known as Kororareka[a] in the early 19th century, was the first permanent European settlement and seaport in New Zealand. It is situated in the Bay of Islands, in the far north of the North Island. New Zealand census recorded a resident population of 720, Much of the accommodation in the area consists of holiday homes or tourist accommodation.
- Cultural Experience – Learn about the history, traditions and contemporary lives of the indigenous Maori people who inhabit the Bay of Islands. Experiences include Marae life and travelling by waka canoe which are brought to life by descendants of the original families.
- Glow-worm Caves – The family owned Kawiti Cave tours were first established in the 1950’s by Te Tawai Kawiti, Great grandson of the famous Maori Chief, Kawiti. The limestone cave system is home to thousands of glow worms spread across the ceiling surrounded by breath taking stalactites and stalagmites.
- Paihia and Surrounds – Paihia is the main tourist town in the Bay of Islands in the far north of the North Island of New Zealand. It is 60 kilometres north of Whangarei, located close to the historic towns of Russell and Kerikeri. Missionary Henry Williams named the mission station Marsden’s Vale and eventually the Paihia became the accepted name of the settlement. Nearby to the north is the historic settlement of Waitangi, and the residential and commercial area of Haruru Falls is to the west. The port and township of Opua, and the small settlement of Te Haumi, lie to the south. The population of Paihia is 1719
- Haruru Falls – Haruru Falls is a small but wide waterfall. It’s where the Waitangi River is at its strongest, feeding into a significant lagoon that ebbs its way out to the Bay of Islands beside Te Tii Marae and the Waitangi Treaty grounds. A small town with accommodation options is built around it.
The falls are about 5km from the town of Paihia, and worth a trip to see. You can take a car and walk two minutes down a track to the Falls, passing a rope-swing installed bravely on a tree hanging off the cliff into the lagoon below.
Tauranga, New Zealand
New Zealand’s natural bounty is always on display at the Bay of Plenty. It was Captain James Cook who in 1769 aptly named this bay, thanks to the prosperous Maori villages of the region. Tauranga, the chief city, is a bustling port, an agricultural and timber center and a popular seaside resort. Tauranga is also the gateway to Rotorua – a geothermal wonderland that is the heart of Maori culture. A 90-minute drive from Tauranga, Rotorua is New Zealand’s primary tourist attraction.
Your ship docks near the foot of Mt. Maunganui, which rises 761 feet above the bay. Across the harbor, Tauranga offers scenic tidal beaches at Omokoroa and Pahoia. The region boasts fine beaches, big-game fishing, thermal springs and seaside resorts.
More about Tauranga, New Zealand Points of Interest
- Te Pa Tu Maori Village (Maori Concert & Hangi) –
- Rotorua – A place of natural beauty, Rotorua is the geothermal capital of New Zealand and home to 16 incredible lakes.
- Te Puia Thermal Reserve – Learn about the Maori culture at the fascinating Te Puia Thermal Reserve, home to a re-creation of an early Maori village, the magnificent Pohutu geyser, boiling mud pools, and the National carving and weaving school.
- Rainbow Springs – Spread over 22 beautiful acres, Rainbow Springs is a must-see destination for nature lovers. Explore the trout pools, view 135 varieties of native trees and observe exotic native birds, including New Zealand’s national emblem, the kiwi.
- Skyline Skyrides – Rotorua’s Skyline Skyrides is the perfect venue for a family day out. Enjoy the thrilling gondola cable-car ride up the side of Mount Ngongotaha, experience the fun of the high speed Luge, while soaking up the stunning panoramic views.
- Waiotapu – Wai-O-Tapu, Maori for “Sacred Waters”, is an active geothermal area found in New Zealand’s Taupo volcanic zone. This thermal wonderland boasts breath-taking erupting geysers, bubbling mud pools, mineral terraces and steaming volcanic lakes.
- Agrodome – See New Zealand through the eyes of a farmer on this unique 160-hectare sheep and beef farm. Watch sheep dogs in action, a sheep shearing demonstration, view 19 breeds of sheep and purchase woolen products at their shop.
- Polynesian Spa – One of New Zealand’s leading international day spas, the Polynesian Spa boasts many sumptuous spa and massage therapies. Enjoy their four relaxing hot spring pools, as well as the stunning views of Lake Rotorua.
Picton, New Zealand
Located at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound, Picton is your gateway to the South Island’s famed Marlborough District. Once known primarily for its lush farm lands and many sheep stations, Marlborough came to international attention thanks to a new agricultural product – wine. The release of the 1985 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc put New Zealand on the map and changed the world’s focus on winemaking in the Southern Hemisphere. Today, the Marlborough region boasts dramatic sea and landscapes, fascinating wine country, excellent restaurants and a number of the nation’s finest gardens.
Military names abound in this corner of New Zealand – the region is named for the first Duke of Marlborough, while the largest town, Blenheim, is named after his most famous battle. Picton is named for Sir Thomas Picton, a favorite of another general, the first duke of Wellington.
More about Picton, New Zealand Points of Interest
- Marlborough Wineries – Marlborough wines put New Zealand on the viticultural map.
- Queen Charlotte Sound – The sound’s colors range from turquoise to emerald – attract seals, sea birds and dolphins including common, bottlenose and Hector’s dolphins.
- Lochmara Lodge – The lodge is home to a Wildlife Recovery Center and an Arts Center with galleries and a sculpture trail.
- Omaka Aviation Heritage Center – Home to one of the largest private collections of World War I aircraft in the world.
- Pelorous Sound – One of the two major arms of the Marlborough Sounds. In keeping with the area’s penchant for place names honoring military heroes, Havelock is named after Sir Henry Havelock, hero of the Indian Mutiny.
- Makana Confections – This boutique confectioner has garnered international attention for its classic chocolate truffles and macadamia nut candies.
- Outdoor Adventure – The intricate waterways of the Marlborough Sounds make up a fifth of the New Zealand coastline, making it a perfect spot for exploring by kayak. The spectacular Queen Charlotte Track is one of the most popular walks in New Zealand.
- Winery
Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand
Travel down the tree-lined Avon Rive, tour English-style gardens and drive past a Gothic cathedral. No, it’s not England – it’s Christchurch, New Zealand’s most English city. The colonists who settled Christchurch transformed the treeless landscape by planting European trees and setting aside vast tracts as parkland. Today, parks dot the city, giving Christchurch an old-world ambience that belies its sophisticated style.
Settled under the auspices of the Church of England in the mid-1800s, Christchurch is a planned city that flourished with New Zealand’s agriculture and sheep industry. At the heart of the city lies Christchurch Cathedral, a Gothic cathedral built of local stone. The port of Lyttelton serves as your gateway to Christchurch.
More about Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand Points of Interest
- Canterbury Museum – The museum opened in 1870 and is world-renowned for its natural and human history collections. Don’t miss the outstanding Maori exhibits, Victorian Christchurch Street, and vast Antarctic collection.
- Arts Centre/Christchurch Art Gallery – This exciting venue hosts to a huge range of New Zealand-made art and crafts, shopping, education and entertainment. It’s also one of the best examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the country.
- Christchurch Cathedral – This neogothic Cathedral is the imposing midtown landmark. Climb the North tower’s 133 steps for a bird’s-eye view of the entire city. The Cathedral Square is considered the city’s lively center.
- Botanic Gardens – Founded in 1863 with the planting of an English Oak tree to commemorate the marriage of Queen Victoria’s son, the lush Gardens feature one of the finest collections of plants found in New Zealand.
- International Antarctic Centre – Experience what it’s like in the Antarctic. This interactive center lets you see, touch and feel what it takes to survive the “South Pole.” See penguins, climb into an igloo, and ride the hagglund.
- Christchurch Tramway – These vintage trams offer a unique way to travel about and see the city. The tram tour travels a loop throughout the town, making 11 stops along the way at many of the major attractions.
- Akaroa & The Banks Peninsula – Banks Peninsula was formed by volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. Originally a French whaling port, the historic town of Akaroa offers Victorian cottages, great dining and “The Giant’s House.”
- Tranz Alpine Railway – A two-hour trip aboard New Zealand’s famous train travels the Canterbury Plains to Arthur’s Pass National Park in the heart of the Southern Alps
Fiordland National Park (Scenic Crossing)l
New Zealand’s largest national park was formed millennia ago by massive glacial flows that carved deep fiords into the coast of New Zealand’s South Island. At the heart of Fiordland National Park lies Milford Sound. Lined by cliffs that soar nearly a mile above its surface, Milford Sound cuts into the heart of the Southern Alps. Rainforest clings to the cliffs and graceful waterfalls plummet into the void. Mile-high Mitre Peak dominates the upper reaches of the sound.
The town of Te Anau in Fiordland National Park is also your gateway to the South Island’s other natural wonders including Lake Wakatipu, the resort of Queenstown and Mt. Cook National Park.
More about Fiordland National Park (Scenic Cruising) Points of Interest
- Queenstown – This resort town on the shores of Lake Wakatipu is famed for its adventure tourism including para sailing, jet boating, skiing and bungee jumping.
- Lake Wakatipu – The peaks of the Southern Alps and the Remarkable Ranges surround New Zealand’s longest lake.
Port Arthur, Australia
Port Arthur is named for George Arthur, the Lieutenant Governor of Tasmania from 1823 to 1837. It was Arthur who converted a small convict lumber station on the Tasman Peninsula into the most feared penal colony in Australia. Preserved today as the Port Arthur Historical Site, the then state-of-the-art prison was designed to hold repeat offenders in isolation and hard labor. When it closed in 1877, it marked the end of a dark chapter in English and Australian history.
Both Port Arthur is also your gateway to the wild and scenic Tasman Peninsula. Its wave-lashed coast is the site of spectacular rock formations such as Tasman Arch, the Tessellated Pavement and the Devil’s Kitchen. The peninsula is also home to small farms, superb fruit orchards and acclaimed vineyards.
The Tasman Peninsula is one of the last refuges for the endangered Tasmanian devil. The Tasmania Devil Conservation Park is in the forefront of protecting these unique – if surly and downright disagreeable – remnants of Tasmanian prehistory.
Note: Port Arthur is an anchorage port. Passengers transfer to shore via ship’s tender.
More about Port Arthur, Australia Points of Interest
- Port Arthur Historic Site – As expert guides detail the history and modus operandi of this historic penal colony, which saw over 12,000 convicts from 1830-1877, explore open-air ruins, colonial gardens and over 30 restored buildings, commandant’s house included.
- Isle of The Dead – Over 1,000 burials, most convicts and ex-cons from the Port Arthur Penal Colony, took place from 1830-1877 in this eerily tranquil cemetery, a melancholic collection of mass graves and fading headstones on a bush-covered island.
- Coal Mines Historic Site – Port Arthur Penal Colony’s worst offenders were compelled to toil away for years at this historic site, Tasmania’s first operational mine, which still features the remains of narrow mine shafts and 18 dank solitary cells.
- Eaglehawk Neck – Port Arthur’s only passageway in and out, this long, slender isthmus was once patrolled by solemn guards and ferocious dogs, part of a strict security system designed to prevent convicts from escaping the penal colony.
- Tasmanian Devil Unzoo – This luxuriant conservation park brings you face to face with amazing species including kangaroos, wallabies, quolls and actual Tasmanian devils, furtive, meat-eating marsupials famous for their snarling, aggressive behavior.
- Remarkable Caves –
- Port Arthur Lavender Farm – Located on the stunning Tasman Pensinsula enjoy a truly amazing lavender experience. The farm grows a large variety of organic lavender which is distilled and turned into unique products including lavender chocolate and fudge.
- Tasman Arch –
Sydney, Australia
As your ship passes Harbour Heads, you are presented with the shimmering skyline of Sydney – hailed by many seafarers as “the most beautiful harbor in the world.” Two prominent landmarks, Harbour Bridge and the sail-like curves of the Sydney Opera House, grace the backdrop of this picturesque harbor. There is a wealth of adventure waiting in Sydney – from its cosmopolitan city center to miles of beautiful beaches and the Blue Mountains.
Australia’s oldest and largest city was born in 1788 with the arrival of the “First Fleet” transporting 760 British convicts. Today, Sydney is the largest port in the South Pacific and is often voted the most popular destination in the South Pacific.
More about Sydney, Australia Points of Interest
- Sydney Opera House – This masterpiece of late modern architecture is a symbol of both Sydney and Australia. It has earned a reputation as a world-class performing arts center and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Sydney Harbour Bridge – Spanning Sydney Harbour from the central business district to the North Shore, this icon, nicknamed the “coat hanger” by locals, is the world’s widest long-span bridge and tallest steel-arch bridge.
- The Blue Mountains – The sandstone cliffs of this region were once believed impassable. Today this major gateway to Western New South Wales boasts ancient ravines, lush forests and stunning waterfalls.
- Featherdale Wildlife Park – Enjoy face-to-face encounters with one of the country’s largest private collections of native Australian animals in a natural bush setting, easily accessible and within metropolitan Sydney.
- Bondi Beach – This beach is one of Australia’s most popular for residents and tourists. At a little over a half-mile long, this stretch of sand plays host to numerous festivals and events each year.
- MacQuairies Chair – Also known as Lady Macquarie’s Chair, this famous attraction was carved from a rock ledge for Governor Macquarie’s wife, Elizabeth and offers excellent views of Sydney Harbour.
- The Rocks – Sandstone cliffs give the area its name. Site of the first penal settlement, the district is rich in colonial history and is home to 5 star hotels, restaurants, pubs, shops, galleries and museums.
- Echo Point – Discover the “Grand Canyon” of giant rock formations, geological history, deep, tree-studded valleys and cascading waterfalls. View the world famous rock formation, The Three Sisters, and panoramic views of the Jamieson Valley, Mount Solitary and the Ruined Castle.
13 Day – Australia & New Zealand Bucket List Cruise
March 6 – March 20, 2027
Princess Cruises – Royal Princess
Ports of Call: Auckland, New Zealand | Bay of Islands, New Zealand | Tauranga, New Zealand | Picton, New Zealand | Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand | Fiordland National Park (Scenic Crossing) | Hobart, Australia | Port Arthur, Australia | Sydney, Australia | plus 4 fun days at sea
*Prices start at $4040 for a balcony cabin – Includes beverage package, premium desserts (2 per day), free WiFi, gratuities, taxes, port fees and insurance
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