The Trans-Tasman Adventure

Itinerary

Day 1

Auckland, New Zealand | Fri, December 12

Blending beachy recreation with all the delights of a modern, diverse, and thoroughly multicultural city, Auckland sits on the lucid blue-green waters of New Zealand's north island. Known as the “City of Sails”, its two harbors will tempt you with waterfront walks, and the chance to breathe fresh sea air deep into your lungs while absorbing spectacular views of Auckland's grand harbor bridge's span. Take in the true scale of Auckland's magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 meters to the Sky Tower, and looking out over the city's gleaming silver towers, which reflect on the abundant waters below. Views over the bay and adjacent islands await, and you can share elegant cocktails at this dizzying height, above the mingling yachts of Viaduct Harbour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area at Auckland Art Gallery, Toi o Tāmaki. Set beside tranquil fountains and handsomely landscaped flowerbeds of Albert Park, the French-Renaissance building houses New Zealand's most extensive art collection, and exhibits works from Mäori and Pacific artists. New Zealand is world-renowned for its captivating natural scenery, and day trips across the sparkling bays, to nearby islands like Waiheke, Tiritiri Matangi, and Rangitoto, are always tempting. Discover lava caves, grape-laden vineyards, and flourishing wildlife in the Hauraki Gulf's islands. You'll also find an exceptional 360-degree panorama over the city, to the horizon beyond, from the heights of ancient Mount Eden. The spectacular dormant volcano rises improbably from a city suburb and also lends its name to Eden Park - the unusual, translucent stadium of New Zealand's mighty All Blacks.

Day 2

Tauranga, New Zealand | 11 Excursions | Sat, December 13 | 08:00 - 18:00

Tauranga is New Zealand's sunny capital - with wide sweeping beaches and surfers curling across cresting waves. Climb to the top for spectacular views of the natural harbor, or take winding coastal footpaths to explore the unfolding scenery. An entry point to the vast indent of the Bay of Plenty, the volcanic peak of Mount Maunganui is a fittingly dramatic welcome. Brooding, geothermal energy creates spectacular natural attractions across this region, while plunging waterfalls, and fascinating Maori culture ensure that the Bay of Plenty has a lot to offer visitors. Said to receive New Zealand's highest amount of sunshine, the hanging kiwi, citrus fruit, and avocados add an exotic touch to the area's landscape - especially around Te Puke. Vibrant teal and orange colors await at the stunning geothermal area of Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, where mud pools bubble and steam rises from the earth. There are more hot pools, and some of the country's best scenery, at Lake Rotoiti - where you can kayak across the smooth surface and enter a cave that glows gentle blue, with its darkened roof illuminated by glittering glow worms. Enter New Zealand's fantasy world, with a visit to some of the country's celebrated filming spots - which have featured as doubles for JRR Tolkien's Middle Earth's fantasy settings. Offshore, the wonderful White Island's volcanic cone peeks from the waves, and New Zealand's most active volcano certainly knows how to put on a show, belching out smoke across the water.

Day 3

Gisborne, New Zealand | 7 Excursions | Sun, December 14 | 09:00 - 19:00

With a population of around 35,000 and located on the north island, Gisborne exudes history at every turn. Maori for "Great standing place of Kiwa", Kiwa was a leading figure aboard the Maori ancestral canoe, Takitimu, which ran aground in Gisborne around 1450 AD. After landing, Kiwa became a coastal guardian, eventually marrying Parawhenuamea, the keeper of the streams. The union point of three rivers and the first place to see the sun, the city is filled with light and laughter and gracefully squeezes surfer's beaches with the district's colonial past. Captain Cook made his first landfall here, John Harris set up his first trading station in the then village and today, Gisborn is the major center of Maori cultural life. Suffice to say then that the city is a watery wonderland. With its picture-perfect beaches, what savvy traveler does not want to add being among the first people in the world to say they have watched the sky change color as the sun bursts from out of the sea. A place of nature, spectacular beach cliff views are all just part and parcel of everyday life here, and easy walks from the center of town to the Titirangi Reserve will award you with yet more unbelievable 180-degree vistas from Poverty Bay to Gisborne City; stretch your eyes with the panorama, while stretching your legs on one of the many enjoyable walks. A perfect place to stroll, amble, and wander, like much of New Zealand Gisborne keeps a healthy respect for history and nature and enjoys a very laid-back feel.

Day 4

Napier, New Zealand | 9 Excursions | Mon, December 15 | 08:00 - 17:00

Sip the fine wines of legendary producers, visit Cape Kidnappers's crowds of birdlife, and wander the stylish streets of the world's art deco capital, during your time in handsome Napier. Located on the huge arc of Hawke's Bay, Napier enjoys a generous Mediterranean-style climate and a breezy cafe culture. A green, outdoor town, wander Marine Parade, which borders the rich blue Pacific and invites you to stroll along a tree-lined two-mile seafront. Take the gentle hike up to Bluff Hill, for panoramic views over the lively Napier Port and out towards Cape Kidnappers - given its name following a clash between Captain Cook's settlers and the local Maori population. Here you'll encounter one of the world's largest mainland gannet colonies creating a colorful cacophony by the sea. Set on sheer cliffs, the golden-headed birds are an incredible sight, swirling overhead and dancing before you. The city's renowned Art Deco architecture glows in the sunshine of New Zealand's North Island. Built following the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake, which ripped through the region in 1931. The rebuild, in the architectural fashion of the time, has left an authentic treasure trove of 30s-style buildings. Grapes thrive in the warm, dry climate of Napier and Hawke's Bay, which is one of New Zealand's oldest wine regions. Swirl glasses in waterfront bars or head out to walk among the vineyards of pinot gris and syrah grapes, learning of the climate conditions that help add sophisticated flavor to every bottle.

Day 5

Wellington, New Zealand |12 Excursions | Tue, December 16 | 08:00 - 18:00

Sprawling around a hook-shaped peninsula, Wellington is a vibrant and energetic seaside capital. A compact, well-stocked city of buzzing bars and chatting cafes, New Zealand's capital is a bright and breezy place with an infectious, easy-going atmosphere. Known as the creative hub of the South Pacific, there are shows to see, art installations to enjoy, and rich flavors to savor here. The sounds of rare and beautiful birdlife fill the hills around the city, and the bush of the green belt provides an easy-to-access sanctuary, for strolls and cycle rides. The Botanical Gardens break up the buildings, even more, while an iconic, cherry-red cable car rumbles up Wellington's slope to the city's best viewpoint, looking out over the city's scenic harbor from above. Zealandia has provided an urban home for rare and endangered birdlife, bringing many species back from the brink. Varied museums cover everything from Maori traditions to earthquake simulations and even the real-life Kraken - a displayed colossal squid. Wellington is only New Zealand's third-biggest city, but spend some time here and you'll realize that's a blessing. Eminently scrollable, you can stop in at countless cool cafes to top up your caffeine levels whenever your energy is flagging - the smell of a fresh artisan espresso is never far away. The wines grown nearby are revered, and the city's craft beers are also making waves. Wander the breezy waterfront, and admire the surfers riding the wind-whipped rollers of the self-proclaimed "coolest little capital in the world".

Day 6

Lyttelton (Christchurch), New Zealand | 6 Excursions | Wed, December 17 | 07:00 - 18:00

New Zealand's "Garden City" is a place of quiet streets, leafy parks, and beautiful tree-lined boulevards. Christchurch has an unmistakable English flavor to it and serves as the gateway to southern New Zealand's natural wonders. The rebuild of the country's oldest city continues apace - following the earthquakes that devastated it in 2011 - and the South Island's biggest city is now blossoming, having evolved into a confident and cultural powerhouse. Colorful street art adds an edge to the city, while shiny new bars and restaurants contribute to the sense of revitalization and renewal. Visit museums, and take tours to learn more of the reconstruction, which has made incredible progress in recent years. The old-time charm of a punt on the River Avon is still a quintessential Christchurch experience. Sail amid weeping willows drooping to the water, as you drift through a blur of colors in the botanical gardens. Surrounded by extinct volcanoes, soaring lakes, and the rolling farmlands of the Canterbury Plains, spectacular scenery sprawls around the city. Pay a visit to the Southern Alps' snow-covered peaks, the stunning hot pools and rushing streams of Hanmer Springs, or the Hector's dolphins who swim at Akaroa. A city that has faced immense challenges - both natural and manmade - over the last decade, it's hard not to feel inspired by Christchurch's defiant character and friendly people, who share an open and welcoming outlook that shines stronger than ever.

Day 7

Dunedin (Port Chalmers), New Zealand | 10 Excursions | Thu, December 18 | 08:00 - 19:00

The south-easterly coast of New Zealand's wild southern island is a haven for outdoor adventures, with masses of raw scenic beauty and thrilling coastline. Heading the Otago Harbour, Dunedin is a cosmopolitan city of culture and architectural splendor, with a distinctly tartan flare. Settled by the Scots in 1848, the romantically misty valleys and moody landscapes, continue to capture the hearts of visitors to these distant shores. Searing bagpipes echo down the streets in the Edinburgh of the South, which wears its Scottish origins proudly. Gothic revival architecture is scattered liberally, including the magnificent university - with its glorious clocktower - and the city's grand cathedral. Head to the elegant Octagon to see the statue of Robert Burns, whose nephew was a city founder. The railway station is perhaps the pick of this city's many artistic structures. Its glowing gardens and pretty mosaics add extra detail to the elegant, gingerbread building. It's also the perfect jumping-off point for romantic rail adventures along the coastline. The melodramatic coastline of the Otago Peninsula boasts dramatic cliffs and sea-sprayed beaches, as well as an abundance of animals. Explore cliffs laced with tunnels and hidden walkways, to get you up close and personal with Yellow-eyed penguins. Sea lions and seals also sprawl out on windswept beaches, drifting in and out of indulgent dozes. The south island's second-largest city regularly receives a top-up of youthful energy thanks to its healthy student population. Not that Dunedin is lacking a distinctly quirky personality of its own, as showcased by the event where locals race thousands of chocolate orbs down the world's steepest street - Baldwin Street. Museums in the city tell of Chinese influences, as well as the stories of early Maori settlers. Round off an active day sampling a South Island institution - an icy beer from Speight's Brewery.

Day 8 – 10

Day at sea | Fri, December 19 - Sun, December 21

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

Day 11

Hobart, Tasmania, Australia | 14 Excursions | Mon, December 22 | 07:00 - 23:00

Mount Wellington's looming, cloud-wisped form is an ever-present sight as you explore booming Hobart, the cosmopolitan capital of Australia's most southerly state. A former British penal colony, nowadays Australia's second-oldest city is a place to live the free and easy life. Encircled by dramatic cliffs, landscaped gardens, and rolling vineyards, Hobart is also well-stacked with cultural pursuits including museums, and respected - if controversial - galleries plastering new and old art to their walls. With fresh sea breezes and a fabulous location, Hobart is a creative place, where you can browse the produce of local artisans in Saturday's massive Salamanca Market - which draws visitors from all across Tasmania and beyond. Eat at waterfront restaurants, or rise up Mount Wellington's slopes to appreciate the remoteness of Hobart's location. From this elevated platform, you can look down across views of flowing forests, undulating mountains, and endless ocean swallowing up the city. Further away, animal sanctuaries introduce you to the island's famous inhabitants, including the famous Tasmanian devil. Thirsty? Hobart has a long brewing tradition - so enjoy a refreshing ale poured from the country's oldest brewery. The climate's blend of generous sunshine and cool Antarctic breezes helps Hobart to produce its acclaimed wines, and thick clumps of pinot noir grapes hang from vineyards dotted along the valleys nearby. Taste the wines, accompanied by a platter of artisan cheese and sausage. Whiskey aficionados aren't left in the cold either, with international award-winning distilleries close by.

Day 12

Day at sea | Tue, December 23

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

Day 13

Geelong, Australia | 8 Excursions | Wed, December 24 | 08:00 - 18:00

At just one hour southwest of Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road, Geelong is known for its enviable position. The city's proximity to the capital (not to mention its welcoming waterfront on Port Phillip Bay) has made the city a magnet for Melbournian weekenders in recent years, so expect a young, hip city vibe permeating the Geelong sidewalks. Geelong was known as an agricultural and pastoral town in the past. During the Australian Gold Rush of the 1850s, Geelong became an industrial center becoming one of Australia's center points for wool mills, rope works, and paper mills. Vestiges of these bygone days still stand, with the National Wool Museum and the Old Geelong Gaol imperative visits for historians. By the 1960s population stood at 100,000, although gentrification of the suburbs means that the city is now experiencing record growth, economic development, and investment. The results can be seen in the vibrant waterfront precinct, the Art Deco Eastern Beach, and the number of visiting vacationers, which is increasing each year. Unsurprisingly, the great outdoors takes pride of place here. Water sports and beach combing are popular, but let's not forget that at just one hour from the You Yangs National Park and Serendip Sanctuary koala, kangaroo and other wildlife spotting is a must. This is wine country too, and the city's surrounding region is known for some of the loveliest tasting wines in Australia. If neither koalas nor cabernet is your bag, then head for the city center for plenty of shopping options.

Day 14

Day at sea | Thu, December 25

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

Day 15

Eden, Australia | 6 Excursions | Fri, December 26 | 07:00 - 15:00

Known for the migrating whales that cruise through its waters between May and November, Eden sits in New South Wales's scenic Twofold Bay. While the whales are now protected and cherished here, the town was initially founded as a whaling center and has many fascinating stories to tell. Namely, a unique symbiotic relationship with the killer whales. Rewarded with the tongues of freshly caught whales, the orcas would help to round up baleen whales in the bay, making it easy for humans to land them. This mutually beneficial exchange came to be known as The Law of the Tongue. Find out more about it, and the area's whaling past, at Eden Killer Whale Museum - where you can see the skeleton of the most famous orca accomplice, Old Tom. A yearly whale festival now celebrates the return of the magnificent whales to these waters. Head into Ben Boyd National Park for amazing bird watching, and to see the arches of soaring rock formations rising beside fire-red cliffs. View the glorious coastal scenery of frothing aqua-seas and rugged headlands, from the viewing deck on top of Boyd's Tower. Initially devised as a lighthouse, it would later be used as a lookout to spot whales breaching the bay's waters, and to see Old Tom splashing his tail to alert the whalers. Travel through more glorious scenery and tangled rainforest, to the verdant promontory of Green Cape Lighthouse. Jutting out into the South Pacific Ocean, the pearly-white lighthouse caps crumbling cliffs and offers sweeping views of the jagged cliffs and wave-thrashed rocks. The wrecks that lie offshore attest to the respect these sometimes-punishing waves demand.

Day 16

Sydney, Australia | Sat, December 27 | 07:00 - 00:00

With its glorious harbor, lavish golden beaches, and iconic landmarks, Sydney is Australia's showpiece city. Creative and curious, discover the world-class cuisine, Indigenous culture, and irresistible beach life that make Sydney one of the world's most dynamic, exciting destinations. Sydney's sparkling harbor is the heart of a richly cultural city. Overlooked by the metallic curves of the masterpiece of an Opera House, and that grand arched harbor bridge. Take it all in from the water, and admire the iconic landmarks, which are set before the city's gleaming skyline backdrop. If you're feeling adventurous, take the legendary climb up the smooth curve of the bridge - nicknamed the Coathanger - to soak in the shining city's spread from a unique perspective. Spread out to tan on one of the world's most famous stretches of sand - Bondi Beach. Restaurants and bars burble away in the background, while the sun beams down, and surfers curl and leap over pure rollers. Swim in spectacular salty ocean pools, or wander the beautiful Bondi to Coogee coastal walk for more of this sun-gorged stretch of prime coastline. Leaving the thrills of Australia's largest city behind is surprisingly simple - take to the skies to be flown above skyscrapers and rippling ribbons of waves, out to majestic peaks, sheer cliffs, and iconic rock formations - like the Three Sisters of the Blue Mountains. Or, drop in on wildlife sanctuaries caring for the country's animals - from hopping kangaroos to adorably cute, cuddly koalas.