New Zealand Cruise (21-Day Cruise & North Island Experience)



TRAVEL AGENT LOGIN
New Zealand Cruise
Home  >  New Zealand  >  North Island, New Zealand  >  21 Day Ultimate Cruise and North Island Experience

21 DAY ULTIMATE CRUISE AND NORTH ISLAND EXPERIENCE

CODE
21UNI
PLACES VISITED
Melbourne, Auckland, Bay of Islands, Rotorua,...
NEW ZEALAND CRUISE
On this 21 Day Ultimate Cruise and North Island Experience, indulge in AquaClass on Celebrity Eclipse, tour in ultimate style and see all the best of New Zealand has to offer.
Start Location: Melbourne End Location: Wellington
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
  • Sky Tower
  • Kauri Museum
  • Footprints Waipoua Forest Tour
  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds
  • Sculptureum Experience
  • Hamilton Gardens
  • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
  • Skyline Gondola and Luge Ride
  • Agrodome
  • Thermal mud pools and geysers
  • Tamaki Mãori Experience
  • Napier Vintage Car Tour
READ MORE >
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive in Melbourne

Arrive in Melbourne, where you will be met by your Grand Pacific Tours representative for a welcome lunch. Meet your fellow travellers before boarding the Celebrity Eclipse.
Overnight: Celebrity Eclipse
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Cruising

The Celebrity Eclipse® offers an unparalleled wealth of dining. As an AquaClass® guest you have exclusive access to your own restaurant, Blu, which offers healthy and delicious breakfast and dinner choices.
Overnight: Celebrity Eclipse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Sydney

Considered to be one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere, Sydney offers just about anything - from beaches and wineries to stunning landmarks and world-class shopping. The day is yours to explore. Port Times Arrive 08:00 Depart 22:00
Overnight: Celebrity Eclipse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 -5: Cruising

Cruise across the Tasman Sea to the Land of the Long White Cloud.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds

Sail into the narrow fiords of Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds. Your ship will seem to shrink in comparison to the towering cliffs topped by lush mountain terrain. Scenic cruising.
Overnight: Celebrity Eclipse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Dunedin

Situated on the magnificent Otago coastline, explore Dunedin's historic architecture and beautiful botanic gardens. Port Times Arrive 09:00 Depart 17:00
Overnight: Celebrity Eclipse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Christchurch

In Christchurch, you will see the state-of-the-art architecture, vibrant street art, bustling restaurants, laneways and green public spaces. Take time to explore the city by tram or Edwardian punt along the tranquil Avon River. Port Times Arrive 07:00 Depart 18:00
Overnight: Celebrity Eclipse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Wellington

Situated at the southern end of the North Island, Wellington was recently named the 'Coolest Little Capital'. On the waterfront is Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum, one of the best interactive museums in the world. Port Times Arrive 08:00 Depart 17:00
Overnight: Celebrity Eclipse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Cruising

Relax and enjoy the comforts of this stunning superliner. While at sea enjoy the onboard facilities, world-class cuisine and the entertainment not to mention your AquaClass® balcony stateroom.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Tauranga

Located in the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is situated at the entrance to one of the largest natural harbours in New Zealand. Port Times Arrive 07:45 Depart 18:45
Overnight: Celebrity Eclipse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Arrive Auckland - City Sights Tour

This morning sail into the beautiful 'City of Sails', Auckland. Disembark the ship, meet your Ultimate Coach Captain and enjoy a city tour of Auckland. This afternoon visit Sky Tower, one of New Zealand's most spectacular attractions. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre dinner drink at your hotel.
Overnight: Auckland
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 13: Auckland - Hokianga - Bay of Islands

Depart Auckland and travel to Matakohe to enjoy an informative talk at the Kauri Museum. After lunch travel to Hokianga, home to some of the largest remaining kauri trees in the world. Join the unforgettable Footprints Waipoua Forest Tour, where a local guide will explain how these trees are intertwined with the lives of the local Mãori and the important role played in the ecosystem that is the Waipoua Forest. Continue to Paihia, situated in the heart of the beautiful Bay of Islands.
Overnight: Bay of Islands
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14: Bay of Islands

Today is free to choose from the many optional activities available. You may like to take a coach trip to Cape Reinga via Ninety Mile Beach, the Hole in the Rock Cruise, or a spectacular scenic flight. The choice is yours and your Coach Captain will be available to assist.
Overnight: Bay of Islands
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 15: Bay of Islands - Auckland

This morning join a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the location of the signing of the treaty between the Mãori tribes and the British. Farewell the Bay of Islands and drive south via Whangarei and Warkworth to Matakana to visit Sculptureum, an art experience that is internationally unique. Enjoy time to wander through the Garden of Creative Diversity and to view the hundreds of displayed works in the Galleries and garden all designed to amuse and inspire. Return to Auckland where this evening is free to dine at leisure.
Overnight: Auckland
Meals: Breakfast
Day 16: Auckland - Rotorua

Travel to Waikato's most visited attraction, the Hamilton Gardens. A guided tour will take you on a journey from the peaceful Sung Dynasty Chinese Scholar's garden into an Italian Renaissance garden followed by the grandeur of the Indian Char Bagh garden. Next visit Hobbiton for lunch followed by an experience of the real Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set. A guide will escort you through the ten acre site recounting fascinating details of how the set was created. Continue to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua.
Overnight: Rotorua
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 17: Rotorua

Today begins with a Gondola ride to the Stratosfare Restaurant where a buffet breakfast and spectacular views are on offer. There is also time for a luge ride! Next stop is the Agrodome for an action-packed hour of farming entertainment and education that's unlike anything you've seen before. Travel to Te Puia for a tour of the boiling mud pools and awesome Geysers that Rotorua is famous for. Enjoy some free time this afternoon before travelling to a Mãori Village for an interactive and educational experience that culminates with a cultural performance and traditional Hãngi feast.
Overnight: Rotorua
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 18: Rotorua - Napier

Depart Rotorua and travel along the Thermal Explorer Highway to Huka Falls and Lake Taupo. Continue to Napier known at the 'The Art Deco Capital', where the most comprehensive collection of art deco buildings in the world can be found. This afternoon relive the glamour and style of the jazz era with a luxurious vintage car tour. Your driver will provide informative commentary on the city's fascinating history. Enjoy some time at leisure this afternoon.
Overnight: Napier
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 19: Napier (Free Day)

Today is free to explore the city at leisure. Napier is home to many fine wineries, restaurants, bars and cafes. The Sea Walls collection of magnificent murals painted on more than 50 walls around the city is a must do. This evening you will dine at Mission Estate Winery, established in 1851 and known as New Zealand's oldest winery and the birthplace of New Zealand wine.
Overnight: Napier
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 20: Napier - Wellington

Travel south into Wellington for a city tour of the national's capital which will showcase the history and culture. A highlight will be time to explore Gallipoli: A Scale of War exhibition at Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum. Cutting edge technology brings these stories to life through the eyes of New Zealanders who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your new friends.
Overnight: Wellington
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 21: Depart Wellington

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday
Meals: Breakfast
DATES & PRICES
We accept
Interested in this trip? Contact Us for 2025 dates and prices

Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHY CHOOSE ANDERSON VACATIONS?

Anderson Vacations
Other Companies

Small Group Tours

Travel with a limited number of participants for a personalized journey with a tour leader.

Experienced Tour Leaders

Who have gone through intensive vetting and training.

(But most contract their tour leaders from Anderson Vacations.)

Canadian Travel Experts

With at least 30 years of experience.

Min. 95% Satisfaction Rate

From past guests.

Travel to unique places, visit more attractions each day.

Without the distractions of tipping.

Activities and excursions included as part of the tour.

(Not as add-ons.)

Sustainability

Planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us.

 


WHAT'S INCLUDED
  • 9 nights in 4.5 star accommodation
  • 3 two night stays
  • Professional Coach Captain
  • Hotel porterage
  • 9 cooked breakfasts including a specialty breakfast: Stratosfare Restaurant, Rotorua
  • 8 sumptuous dinners including 3 specialty dinners: Mãori Hãngi and Concert, Rotorua; Winery Dinner, Napier; Farewell Dinner, selected beverages, Wellington
  • 1 Shire's buffet lunch: Hobbiton
  • Souvenir group photo
EXCLUSIONS
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Travel insurance (Strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
  • Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
  • Pre/post accommodation
  • Airfare to Melbourne and transfer to the welcome lunch on Day 1

 


Can't find what you're looking for? Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL 1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Ask A Question
Tour Questions

What is the maximum number of travellers in a group?

Anderson Vacations specializes in Small Group Fully Escorted tours. If the tour is classified as a ‘Classic Tour’ up to 24 persons may join the tour although tours commonly travel with anywhere between 18 to 24 travellers. If the tour is classified as a 'Tour of Distinction’ only up to 18 persons may join the tour and many 'Tours of Distinction' travel with 12 to 18 travellers.

What are Guaranteed Departures?

After dreaming about travel to an exciting destination, arranging for time off work, booking your flights the last thing you need is for your trip to be cancelled. Anderson vacation's pre-Guaranteed tours take the uncertainty away from planning your travel and give you peace of mind to book our tours. Pre-Guaranteed Tours are group tours that we have already confirmed as certain to travel on the specified date. All 'Guaranteed Tours' will travel except in the event of a natural disaster or a catastrophic event that is beyond our control. They may already have the minimum number of people booked or else are tours that are known to be popular. Only select departures of tours are 'pre-Guaranteed'.

What happens if I book on a tour that is not Guaranteed?

We pride ourselves on providing “a small shared group experience.” In the event that we have fewer than ten participants on a tour we will offer a “small-group surcharge” to ensure that the tour runs as scheduled. This fee, which is up to 15% of the “land” portion of the tour, will be offered to you as an option to continue with the trip. This fee will cover the costs associated with handling a smaller group.

What is the average age of passengers for this tour?

Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+.

How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?

Some tours are mainly coach based and may not be physically demanding while others may require walking inclines or on rough surfaces to access interesting locations. Please check with us and your booking agent carefully and discuss your mobility restrictions before completing any tour booking to ensure this style of travel is right for you.

Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?

Yes, we do accommodate dietary restrictions (within reason) such as, food allergies, vegan, vegetarian, etc. There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices.
Booking & Flight Questions

Do you arrange airport transfers?

Yes, we can assist you with airport transfers for you in most locations at a reasonable extra cost. Several tours have airport transfers already included. Please contact us for more details.

Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?

Yes, we can certainly assist with booking additional nights of hotel accommodation for you before and after your fully escorted tour. This is available upon request and subject to availability. Please inquire for further information and prices.

How much luggage should I bring?

Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for baggage is 20 kilograms or about 40 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages but there may be places where you will be required to wheel in your bags for quicker access. Be sure to advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of a coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations guidelines.

I am a solo traveller. Is there a single surcharge?

There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo travellers can choose to pay a Single Supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share with a co-traveller of the same gender, we have a Twin Share option that is offered for most tours where you share a hotel room with another same gender traveller. In this case, you will not be charged for Single Supplement.

Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?

Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire or contact us regarding this option, as prices and availability vary from tour to tour.

Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?

Yes, you can! Anderson Vacations works with many private groups and helps to customize a tour to traveller’s needs. Please contact us for more details.

Are gratuities included in the tour cost?

For convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals that are specified in the itinerary are included in the tour price. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 10-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Coach Driver (where appropriate) and Tour Director are entirely at your discretion. We recommend about CDN $5.00 per person, per day, for your Driver and CDN$7.00 per person, per day for your Tour Leader.

TOURS YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Ready? Have More Questions? Over 25 years offering custom trips and small group tours.
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS TRIP
OR CALL 1.866.814.7378
CLASSIC TOURS

The style our travellers have enjoyed for over 20 years, these tours feature inclusive itineraries to popular destinations including the 'must see' sites and attractions. Led by an expert Tour Leader, you will enjoy comfortable accommodation, and coach transport throughout the journey.

Click Icon to Read More.
TOURS OF DISTINCTION

These tours are defined by their incomparably unique itineraries, featuring 'off the beaten path' destinations and immersive experiences. An intimate group size allows us to stay in smaller, centrally located, unique and boutique style inns, lodges and hotels, utilize traditional local transportation and dive deep into each destination's local culture and traditions.

Click Icon to Read More.
INDEPENDENT TRAVEL

These travel experiences are fully customizable to better fit your needs. Every itinerary is created based on your comfort level, accommodation choices, and personal interests. Whether you are looking for a rail adventure, self drive holiday, unique experiences, or a short city stay our team will work with you on combining accommodation, transportation, and activities based on your preferences to create the perfect itinerary for you.

Click Icon to Read More.
INDEPENDENT TRIPS

These travel experiences are fully customizable to better fit your needs. Every itinerary is created based on your comfort level, accommodation choices, and personal interests. Whether you are looking for a rail adventure, self drive holiday, unique experiences, or a short city stay our team will work with you on combining accommodation, transportation, and activities based on your preferences to create the perfect itinerary for you.

Click Icon to Read More.