Kia Ora Koutou to New Zealand
New Zealand has 14,000 kilometres of staggeringly beautiful coastline just waiting to be discovered
The waters are pristine, the fishing and diving are incredible and onshore you’ll find a diversity of landscape and activities you never dreamed possible. Explore off-the-beaten track destinations or hop between the North and South Islands to explore what each region has to offer. No matter how long you’re travelling for, one thing is for certain; you’ll never run out of places to see in New Zealand.
Here’s a glimpse of what the country has to offer – a taste of the unforgettable experiences in store when you choose to cruise these waters.
COROMANDEL
Famous Cathedral Cove is one of the “must visit” top free attractions on The Coromandel. Protected rainforests shrouded in mist and marine reserves ensure the Coromandel region’s natural beauty is well preserved; and the coastline is simply spectacular. From the hot springs that bubble up from the sands of Hot Water Beach to the high-arched cave, the natural wonder, that links Cathedral Cove to Mare’s Leg cove. The Mercury and Alderman Islands off the Coromandel Coast are surrounded by drop offs and rich reefs, home to stands of magnificent black coral, big game fish and the occasional orca. Water visibility here can reach beyond 30 metres and the islands are a popular cave diving destination.
NORTHLAND
The Bay of Islands is New Zealand’s premier cruising ground. You can explore a different island every day. A region synonymous with exclusive private lodges and cliff-top golf courses, the Northland of today is a far cry from when the Maori first paddled ashore over 1000 years ago. The region includes the game fishing ports of Russell and Whangaroa and the Bay of Islands. These spectacular isles, there are over 150 of them, are alive with history and marine life – where every secluded cove and empty beach has a story to tell. The Poor Knights Islands, remnants of ancient volcanoes, stand sentinel over a spectacular marine reserve and beckon divers from all over the world to come and experience the ocean’s crystal clarity.
NELSON TASMAN
Its sheltered situation and long sunshine hours make Nelson Tasman an ideal cruising destination. Explore the lagoons and islands of the vast Tasman Bay or head west to Abel Tasman National Park, known for its golden beaches, emerald bush-clad hills and native bird life. Grapes and hops thrive in the region’s fertile soil, so it’s not surprising that Nelson Tasman is home to some of New Zealand’s best wine and artisan beer producers. More than 350 working artists and craftspeople live in the region, and are no doubt inspired by its exceptional beauty. A private art tour will give you an opportunity to meet Nelson’s studio potters, artist studios and bead and glass galleries.
FIORDLAND & SOUTHLAND
One of New Zealand’s most dramatic and diverse regions with fertile farmlands, lush rainforests, sweeping coastlines and secluded islands. Fiordland’s spectacular lakes, majestic snow- capped peaks and impossibly high waterfalls are simply breathtaking. Kayak, dive or board a small plane and explore Fiordland’s incomparable beauty. Stewart Island and Rakiura National Park are the jewels of Southland’s crown. Home to New Zealand’s iconic flightless bird, the kiwi, the island is also known for its brilliant night skies.
MARLBOROUGH
Arrive by sea to explore Marlborough, an area famous for wine, food, fishing and wonderful walking trails. This region is steeped in Maori legend and has offered safe harbour to sailors for centuries. A myriad of deep coves, bays and fringed with secluded beaches and native bush, the 1500 kilometres of coastline that make up the Marlborough Sounds are a haven of scenic tranquillity. Share and explore the picturesque inlets with dolphins, seals and an abundance of other marine animals, or head ashore. Marlborough is New Zealand’s premier wine growing region, home of award- winning sauvignon blancs, superb aromatics, chardonnays and rich pinot noirs.
AUCKLAND
Auckland is a multi-cultural urban oasis of food, music, arts and culture. It’s where sparkling waters and lush landscapes meet city sophistication. An immensely varied destination that boasts glorious harbours, alluring beaches and bays, rainforest, walking trails, volcanic cones and idyllic islands. Not only is Auckland naturally beautiful, it is New Zealand’s most culturally diverse region and also offers great shopping and outstanding food and wine. Its temperate climate, sparkling waters and cosmopolitan lifestyle combine to make Auckland one of the most desirable places in the world. Go skydiving or whale watching, hike an ancient volcanic cone, taste local award- winning wine, or stargaze from the International Dark Sky Sanctuary of remote Great Barrier Island. Or visit three main wine growing regions, where superb wine and stunning scenery go hand in hand.
