11 days tour

New Zealand Coastal Expedition Auckland → Dunedin (2024)

New Zealand Coastal Expedition Auckland → Dunedin (2024)

This tour includes:

Meals

Locally inspired dining - a total of 29 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages

Accommodation

10 nights aboard the luxurious Le Soleal with excursions on Zodiac vessels 10 nights, Le Soleal

Guide

The services of an APT cruise director and expert expedition team

Transport

Coach Ship

Others

All-inspiring experiences in 12 destinations Enjoy a Maori cultural experience in Rotorua Indulge in a wine tasting in the famous Marlborough region Explore the French influenced seaside town of Akaroa

Not included:

Optional

Other activities and services are not included

Others

Other activities and services are not included

Insurance

Travel Insurance is not included

Flights

International flights are not included

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip New Zealand Coastal Expedition Auckland → Dunedin (2024)

  • Day 1 Day 1: Arrive Auckland, Embark Ship
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 1: Arrive Auckland, Embark Ship

      You will be met on arrival in Auckland and transferred to your ship. Later, meet your captain and crew at tonight’s welcome reception and dinner.

  • Day 2 Day 2: Tauranga
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 2: Tauranga

      Make your holiday your own by selecting an activity from your Freedom of Choice options.

  • Day 3 Day 3: Whakatane, Rotorua
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 3: Whakatane, Rotorua

      Arrive at Whakatane and drive to Rotorua. Pass through Rotorua to one of New Zealand’s leading cultural and thermal attractions for your Signature Experience.

  • Day 4 Day 4: Gisborne
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 4: Gisborne

      Captain James Cook named Gisborne in honour of one of his crew who first sighted land in 1769. Today, we find a sunny coastal town rich in Maori heritage and culture, featuring stunning beaches with stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear water.

  • Day 5 Day 5: Napier
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 5: Napier

      Take in the fascinating history of Napier and the Hawke’s Bay region on your selected Freedom of Choice activity today. Or you may wish to join a guided excursion to experience the world’s largest mainland gannet colony up close on an exhilarating visit to Cape Kidnappers (own expense).

  • Day 6 Day 6: Wellington
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 6: Wellington

      Today, enjoy your selected Freedom of Choice activity.

  • Day 7 Day 7: Picton
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 7: Picton

      Cruise through the winding waterways, secluded bays and admire the stunning lush green scenery of the iconic Marlborough Sounds as you make your way to the seaside town of Picton.

  • Day 8 Day 8: Akaroa
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 8: Akaroa

      Discover the scenic beauty, history, nature and culture of Akaroa in one complete comprehensive tour. Visit some of the most important historic sites such as Takapuneke, the site of the Brig Elizabeth Te Rauparaha massacre, Onuku Marae, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, and Britomart Monument, the place of the British declaration of sovereignty.

      Experience fascinating natural sites like the Heritage Park that provides stunning views over Akaroa, the Wildside Project, a community-driven collaboration for predator control and the protection of native species, and the internationally renowned Hinewai Reserve. Visit Barrys Bay Cheese, who produced its first cheddar in 1895 when it was just one of nine small, family-owned dairy cooperatives dotted around Banks Peninsula and remains one of the last traditional cheese makers on the Peninsula.

  • Day 9 Day 9: Lyttelton, Christchurch
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 9: Lyttelton, Christchurch

      Today, enjoy your selected Freedom of Choice activity in and around the beautiful South Island city of Christchurch. Home to almost 400,000 people, Christchurch is a picturesque city graced with 1,200 parks and gardens, earning it the title of New Zealand’s garden city.

  • Day 10 Day 10: Dunedin
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 10: Dunedin

      Enjoy an orientation drive through Dunedin that will introduce you to a well-preserved Victorian city. Soak up the grandeur of its architecture, from the classical ANZ Bank to the buildings surrounding the Octagon, an eight-sided plaza that forms the core of Dunedin’s lively business district. Visit the iconic Larnach Castle, built in the late 19th century by prominent businessman and politician William Larnach and known as one of New Zealand’s finest examples of Victorian architecture. Boasting intricate detailing, the castle features a unique blend of Gothic and styles with beautiful views of the Otago Peninsula. Afterwards, explore the peninsula further and discover its picturesque bays and stunning views at every turn. The peninsula is home to diverse wildlife including albatrosses, sea lions and penguins and offers a memorable experience in the heart of the South Island. Finish the day with a visit to Penguin Place, a conservation reserve located on the peninsula dedicated to protecting the endangered yellow-eyed penguin – native to New Zealand and one of the rarest penguin species in the world.

  • Day 11 Day 11: Disembark Ship, Depart Dunedin
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 11: Disembark Ship, Depart Dunedin

      After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

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Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but you’re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

You’ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Basic

Almost everyone is fit for these activities. Every hike or physical exercise last less than 30 minutes, such as paragliding and horseback riding. Please ask about specific conditions.

Age range

Age range

Min: 8 / Max: 99

Age range allowed for this experience.

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