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Bay of Islands, New Zeland

Bay of Islands, New Zeland

New Zeland

Bay of Islands

Excursions

Excursions that bring the spirit of travel to life

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE BAY AND KAURI FOREST

Departing from Waitangi, you ll embark on a delightful 40-minute journey through stunning countryside. Your English-speaking driver, who also serves as your guide, will take you to Kerikeri, where the deep green citrus orchards blend harmoniously with the russet-coloured fields. Enjoy a 40-minute stop at the charming Kerikeri Basin, New Zealand s most historic site. Here, you can see from a distance Kemp House, the country s oldest surviving wooden building, and the Stone Store, its oldest stone building. Capture the essence of New Zealand s history in this picturesque setting. A brief 10-minute drive then brings you to your next destination. Spend approximately 40 minutes between a walk to reach the Rainbow Falls, 400 yards along the Kerikeri River and a stop. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture the stunning waterfall as it cascades into the pool below. Your adventure continues with a scenic 30-minute drive to the majestic Puketi Forest, home to the colossal kauri trees that once blanketed most of the Bay of Islands. Take a 40-minute stroll along the elevated boardwalk, designed to protect the trees delicate feeding roots, and get up close to these ancient giants of the forest. Conclude your tour with a picturesque 40-minute drive back to port, enriched with the beauty and history of New Zealand s remarkable landscapes.

Please note: the tour is unsuitable for guests with mobility problems. Minimum age to participate: 5 years old. This tour may have multiple departures throughout the ship s time in port. You will receive all information about your specific departure the day before the excursion.<-p>

ISLAND AND CAVE EXPERIENCE

Embark on a mesmerising two-and-a-half-hour adventure, a thrilling boat ride around the stunning Bay of Islands. Your journey begins with a cruise through crystal-clear waters, leading you to the wild, ocean-facing side of the outer islands. Here, you ll delve into mysterious sea caves, each echoing with the sound of waves, and marvel at towering island cliffs that rise majestically from the water. One of the highlights of this trip is a visit to one of the bay s finest islands, where you can bask in the beauty of untouched nature. Our vessel, uniquely designed with a special hull, allows for intimate encounters with pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs, getting you closer to nature than ever before. During the journey, you ll enjoy a delightful stop at a picturesque island, offering you the chance to explore its hidden treasures at your leisure. Whether it s a leisurely walk along the shore or a quick dip in the azure waters, this island stop is sure to be memorable. On the return cruise, you ll glide past tranquil inner-island beaches, including the serene Army Bay, where the calm waters are perfect for a peaceful respite. You ll also pass the captivating Waewaetoria Island, known for its lush greenery and vibrant birdlife, and finally, the crown jewel of the Bay - the breathtaking Roberton Island, renowned for its scenic beauty and historic significance.

Please note: The stop for walking or swimming at one of the islands lasts approximately 30 minutes. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes and bring a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. The maximum weight limit is 330 lbs. The minimum age to participate is 2 years old. The boat s captain will provide essential information in English only. This tour is not suitable for guests with mobility problems. This tour may have multiple departures throughout the ship s time in port. You will receive all information about your specific departure the day before the excursion.<-p>

RELAXING CRUISE & TIME AT LEISURE IN RUSSEL

Indulge in a delightful three-and-a-half-hour excursion that combines a leisurely two-hour cruise with an hour of free time in the charming town of Russell, New Zealand s first permanent European settlement and seaport. Set sail from Waitangi pier on this serene cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands, exploring historic sites and stunning coastal scenery. Your journey begins as you glide along the coast towards Opua, then head over to Okiato, passing by the picturesque Omata Estate Vineyard and the Kororareka Oyster Farm. Relax and savour a delicious New Zealand-inspired buffet lunch on board, featuring a selection of meat or fish, potatoes, and fresh salads, accompanied by two drinks per person (wine, beer, or soft drink). As you enjoy your meal, soak in the breathtaking views and the tranquil ambiance of the Bay. Upon arrival in Russell, you ll have approximately one hour to explore at your own pace. It s fascinating to imagine that this gorgeous town was once known as the "Hell Hole of the Pacific" by whalers, traders, and sealers. Today, Russell is a picturesque waterfront village, rich in history with its old homesteads, historic churches, and charming wooden cottages. The blend of indigenous and European heritage is evident in the town s architecture and archaeological sites, making it a perfect place for independent exploration. After your time in Russell, reboard the boat for a scenic 30-minute return journey to Paihia Wharf.

Please note: The boat s captain will provide essential information in English only. This tour includes a moderate amount of walking, covering a distance of approximately half a mile and around 200 steps. Minimum age to participate: 5 years old. Guests of limited mobility are requested to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability before taking part. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call. This tour may have multiple departures throughout the ship s time in port. You will receive all information about your specific departure the day before the excursion.<-p>

GLOWWORM CAVE EXPERIENCE

Your half-day tour begins with a scenic 30-minute drive to the Kawiti Glow-Worm Caves, owned by descendants of M¿ori chieftain Kawiti who fought against the British in 1846. The caves are home to New Zealand s most famous flying insect, the glow worm (Arachnocompa luminosa), which belongs to the gnat family and is not related to the European glow worm, a beetle. Marvel at a galaxy of glow-worm lights, impressive limestone walls, and the delicate stalactites and stalagmites that took thousands of years to form. A small stream that flows through the cave is home to a pet eel. After exploring these natural wonders, you ll make your way to Kawakawa for some free time in a quaint town known as "Train Town" for the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway that runs down the middle of its main street. The town is also famous for its public toilets designed by Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, a former resident. Your tour concludes with a scenic drive back to port.

Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair or who are claustrophobic. Guides in languages other than English are limited. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in English only.<-p>

HOKIANGA HARBOUR AND KAURI FOREST

View the highlights of beautiful Northland and the famous Waipoua Forest. The coastal waters attract boating enthusiasts and deep sea anglers from all over the world, while the forest full of ancient kauri trees delights nature lovers. As you make your way there, stop for morning tea at Te Waimate Mission House, the only survivor of the three mission houses built at New Zealand s first inland mission station in 1832. Continue through Ohaewai and the Ngawha geothermal area to Kaikohe, past farming country to Opononi on the shores of the sand dune-lined Hokianga Harbour, one of the earliest areas to be settled by Europeans. At Waipoua Forest, take a guided walk to Tane Mahuta, the country s largest kauri tree, still growing after approx. 1,200 years. Kauri timber became New Zealand s very first export and was highly sought after for ships masts and as a building material, but this led to the rapid depletion of the once-vast forests and only a few stands remain. We then wrap up our day with a buffet lunch and charming concert by local school children at a hotel in Omapere.

Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests using a wheelchair. Guides in languages other than English are limited. Should a tour guide for your language be unavailable, the tour will be in English only. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call.<-p>

LIGHT TACKLE FISHING

Today s your chance to try your luck at angling in the Bay of Islands. The majority of the fish caught here are blue cod, terakihi, trevally, and snapper. Head out on the water where your guide will offer expert local fishing knowledge for the discerning angler and patient tuition for the novice to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to land their catch. All gear, including bait and tackle, is supplied.

Please note: A catch is not guaranteed. Fish caught will be kept by the fishing boat crew. Minimum age is 8 years. To make your day as enjoyable as possible, please ensure that you wear comfortable flat-soled shoes, layered clothing suited to the weather conditions (it is always cooler on the water than on land). Bring a hat, jacket, sunscreen, and bottled water. Guides available only in English.This tour is not suitable for guests using a wheelchair or with walking difficulties.<-p>

WAITANGI TREATY GROUNDS ¿ BIRTHPLACE OF A NATION ¿ ENTRANCE ONLY

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds is New Zealand¿s most important historic site where, in 1840, New Zealand s founding document was signed: Treaty of Waitangi. The Treaty Grounds features Te K¿ngahu Museum of Waitangi, the Treaty House, the carved Meeting House, and the world s largest ceremonial war canoe. Enjoy strolling through one of New Zealand s great beauty spots with its panoramic views of the Bay of Islands as you walk in the footsteps of the people who changed history. Discover the momentous events that shaped New Zealand at the state-of-the-art Museum of Waitangi. Let our guides enhance your experience on a fascinating guided tour. Check out the Meeting House, carved in 1940 by highly-skilled M¿ori craftsmen, and also the 1834 Treaty House, one of New Zealand s oldest surviving buildings. Witness spellbinding cultural performances as you learn the meanings behind M¿ori protocol and culture.

Please note: your all-inclusiveadmission ticket to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds entitles you to the following: entry to the state-of-the-art Museum of Waitangi, Waitangi: Birthplace of a Nation introductory film (22 minutes), an informative Guided Tour with one of our local guides (50 minutes), a high-energy, entertaining M¿ori Cultural Performance (30 minutes), full access to New Zealand s most important historic site, featuring iconic buildings, breathtaking examples of M¿ori architecture, the world s largest ceremonial war canoe and bush walks with spectacular views over the Bay of Islands.Please check the timings for the cultural performance and guided tours on the day as these are subject to change.Wheelchair users must be accompanied by a paying helper to provide assistance with getting on and off the coach- wheelchairs must be collapsible-foldable since the coach has neither a ramp nor a lift. Wheelchair users wishing to take part in this are requested to contact the Shore Excursions Desk promptly once they are on board so that arrangements can be made.<-p>

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