Azamara Cruises
A paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, New Zealand has something special for everyone. Promising spectacular scenery and wonderful wildlife around every corner, with characterful cities and a welcoming culture to boot, explore all that that this plentiful island has to offer in style onboard Azamara Pursuit, with the bonus of voyaging to tropical Southern Australia. This remarkable destination cruise departs from journeys around both the North and South islands before venturing across the sea to Tasmania and onwards to Australia, concluding the awe-inspiring voyage in Sydney.
On this 16-day cruise, everyone will feel that they’ve experienced the true majesty of New Zealand and Southern Australia in their own style. An array of exclusive excursions includes everything from strolling along white-sand beaches, vibrant city culture, to wildlife spotting and wine tasting. Even helicopter trips and dips in geothermic pools are a possibility on this voyage! Discover the adventurous tranquillity of this otherworldly paradise with a curated mix of culture, exploration, and natural beauty.
A boutique hotel at sea, the mid-sized ship of Azamara Pursuit offers guests the opportunity of more unique and immersive experiences than ever before. With an intimate but never crowded deck plan, indulge onboard with seven luxury dining experiences, a refreshing pool, sun-drenched decks, and a revitalising spa. Escape to this private retreat with a polished and contemporary style to relax and unwind after the adventures of the day.
Days 1 - 2
Arrive in Auckland and transfer to the Intercontinental Auckland, where you’ll stay for the next two nights. Explore Auckland, the only city in the world built on an active basaltic volcanic field! A captivating city of contrasts, culture, and endless exploration, which combines beautiful rainforests, parks, and beaches all so close to the city centre. Auckland’s dining scene showcases the rich flavours of the Pacific and cultural gems are scattered throughout the city in an impressive variety of restaurants, cafés and bars line the promenades and city streets to suit every taste. Discover a haven of olive groves, sandy beaches, vineyards, and fine dining on Waiheke Island, just a forty-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland.
Day 3
Quietly boasting pristine beaches, lush greenery, and diverse marine life – this island mirage marks the perfect start to your voyage. Known for its beauty and history, the Bay of Islands is also a popular golfing, fishing, and sailing destination with a relaxed maritime lifestyle. Dive into a maritime adventure playground with an abundance of wildlife including penguins, dolphins, whales, and more. Golden beaches, secluded coves, and dramatic coastlines offer a tranquil and spectacular setting for restoration and relaxation.
Day 4
Meaning a ‘place of rest or anchorage’ in Māori, Tauranga’s sparkling harbour and magnificent views make it a great place to relax and recharge. A coastal town located in the Bay of Plenty, there’s plenty of exclusive excursions to take advantage of. From gaining a glimpse of profound Māori culture and exploring historic sites, native forests, and scenic lakes, to taking a dip in geothermal pools or simply enjoying the stunning views and cultural life around almost every corner.
Day 5
Often referred to as the ‘Art Deco Capital’, Napier’s cityscape was largely rebuilt in Art Deco style after a devastating earthquake in 1931. Discover its architectural charm and visit the Pania of the Reef statue to be moved by her beautiful yet sorrowful story. In Hawke’s Bay, head to the nearby vineyards to enjoy the day tasting a plethora of local wines.
Day 6
Labelled the ‘coolest little capital’, what Wellington may lack in size, it certainly makes up for in vibrant and creative culture. Discover Wellington’s history, culture, and iconic landmarks during your day of exploring this fascinating city. Breathtaking views and great walking trails reward those who venture to the top of Mount Victoria. Taking inspiration from the land and sea, Wellington’s renowned food scene is a melting pot culinary delights and cultural wonder.
Day 7
On the opposite side of the bay to Wellington, Nelson marks the first stop of the cruise on the Southern Island. As the sunniest region in New Zealand, Nelson is renowned for its stunning and diverse landscapes, as well as being considered a magnet for creative people. Dare to fall in love with the fantastic activities this region offers. Whether that be meandering the local art galleries and walking the sun-bathed sands of Golden Bay or dining on the famous Nelson Bay scallops and sitting in the sun sipping the boutique wine – there’s no limit to the fun you can have in Nelson!
Day 8
After a few days of bustling cityscapes, take refuge in the picturesque seaside town of Picton, set in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds. Built around a sheltered harbour, the attractive seafront is dotted with independent cafés and restaurants paired by palm trees, forest-clad hills, and turquoise water. An ideal jumping-off point for wine tours, swimming, and marine-life spotting. Head into Marlborough, New Zealand's largest winemaking region, home to more than a hundred wineries with sweeping panoramic views of the vine rows. For seafood fans, no visit to Picton is complete without a taste of the fresh, locally grown/caught seafood.
Day 9
A city of many names, known as Ōtautahi, the Garden City, or the Most English City Outside England. With its strong cultural connections to its European ancestry reflected in its architectural history, Christchurch may feel like a home from home for some. Contrasting its quintessential quaintness is a lively hub of culture, contemporary city-life, and heritage surrounded by spectacular scenery just steps away. With so much to explore, for a moment of pause, drift along the Avon through the Botanic Gardens to learn more about the city in the most peaceful and relaxing way possible.
Day 10
Bordered by the Tasman Sea, this Scottish-inspired city takes its bearing and name from the historical Edinburgh, with Gothic architecture surrounded by an offbeat urban charm. Despite its namesake, contrarily Dunedin is renowned for its exotic climate which attracts more than just human visitors. The sweeping coastline and secluded coves provide a home for an amazing array of endangered species, making Dunedin the wildlife capital of New Zealand. An Idyllic stretching shoreline of white-sand beaches, crystal-clear blue water, and lush greenery aside volcanic rock formations – few places have such breath-taking surroundings so close the city.
Day 11
Nestled deep within the Fiordland lies the magical Milford Sound – New Zealand’s most stunning natural attraction. Dramatic forest-clad mountain peaks are met by the deep inky waters to create an immense and legendary landscape. Cruising into this untouched beauty offers a chance to immerse in the same awe-inspiring scenery that enchanted movie-goers in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Dramatic vistas of the glass-like sea rising into the snow-capped mountains perfectly embody the epic scale of Middle Earth. Whether you’re a fan of the films or simply seeking a remarkable natural experience, a voyage into the Milford Sound will provide a feast for the senses.
At Sea
Whilst sailing across the Tasman Sea, spend the day enjoying the many amenities of your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at the revitalising spa, keep active at the fitness centre or unwind on the sun-soaked pool deck, taking a dip in the refreshing pool. Later, tantalise your tastebuds in one of the fantastic restaurants before taking a seat for exciting evening entertainment.
Day 13
After a day at sea, feel refreshed with a wander along the beach and feel the warm soft sand between your toes. A lively capital which retains an old town salty-air feel, Hobart has a slower pace but is still brimming with adventure. Mount Wellington and towering sea cliffs are paired with calm rivers and secret coves to discover. Most famously, Hobart boasts an incredible food and wine scene with local produce making the short journey from farm to table and is fringed by scenic wilderness.
At Sea
Recharge and rejuvenate from the past two weeks of adventure with a restorative day of sailing across the seas. Treat yourself to health, beauty, and restorative treatments in the all-new Sanctum Spa or enjoy the onboard fitness options – offering a chance to truly focus on you. Watch the world go by, perhaps with a drink or two at the choice of bars, lounges, and social spaces. In the evening, dine in luxury and elegance at specialty restaurants.
Day 15
Australia’s very own Garden of Paradise, Eden on the Sapphire Coast is home to a rugged wilderness and eucalyptus forests which gives rise to its otherworldly aura of natural beauty. Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches of the sparkling coastline and at shoreline vantage points, keep an eye on the horizon for that all-important whale tail as Eden is renowned for its whale-watching. The plentiful coastline allows for a seafood feast and there are plenty of spots in town to indulge.
Day 16
Behold the shining lights and glitz of the iconic opera house as you cruise into the cosmopolitan city of Sydney, concluding your epic voyage. A two-night stay in the luxurious Capella Sydney allows you to explore all the sights and sounds of vibrant Sydney whilst returning to a secluded escape for that perfect night’s sleep before returning home to the UK.