Explore over 7,000km of New Zealand’s spectacular coastline while experiencing vibrant Māori culture and discovering wildlife thriving in their natural habitats. From Auckland, this voyage takes you to the pastoral wine country of Hawke’s Bay which gives way to the wild coastlines of the South Island, where our journey continues to the deep and quiet fiords of Murihiku (Southland). Enjoy access to remote and difficult-to-reach wilderness areas within the Marlborough Sounds and Fiordland and visit sheltered coves and islands to find fur seals, kakapos, and pods of friendly dolphins. Return to your ship after the day’s excursions to sample the country’s famed produce and wine. There is no better way to experience New Zealand than by small ship expedition.
- Walk through the lush Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the world’s youngest geothermal valley
- Stroll through the quiet forests of Ulva Island to spot New Zealand’s iconic birds, including the Stewart Island Weka, South Island Saddleback, Yellow-and Red-crowned Parakeet (Kakariki) and Rifleman (New Zealand’s smallest bird)
- Experience the vibrant energy and stories of Māori culture, with a cultural greeting at Hauiti Marae
- Discover the unique character of east coast towns, from the French-influenced Akaroa to Dunedin’s Scottish heritage and Napier’s distinctive art deco character
- Taste the renowned wines produced in the Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough regions on our specially curated New Zealand wine list
- Encounter many species of endemic birds and marine wildlife, including the Fiordland crested penguin, Yellow-eyed penguin, little penguin and New Zealand fur seal in Southland, the Sperm Whale in Kaikoura, and the dusky dolphin and Hector’s dolphin at Akaroa
- Enjoy walks through spectacular scenery in the Marlborough Sounds and the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
- Explore four of Fiordland’s most beautiful sounds – the astonishing and rarely visited Dusky and Doubtful Sounds, Thompson Sound, and otherworldly Milford Sound. Observe the wildlife, discover the history, and be immersed in the stillness of unforgettable Southland