Auckland

Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Settle into the Park Hyatt Auckland, your Scenic Special Stay, which offers waterfront views and cosmopolitan charm. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner, raising a toast to the unforgettabl... Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Settle into the Park Hyatt Auckland, your Scenic Special Stay, which offers waterfront views and cosmopolitan charm. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner, raising a toast to the unforgettable journey ahead across the North Island of New Zealand. Read More

Auckland

Continue your exploration of the ‘City of Sails’, so named for its bustling marinas full of boats and picturesque harbourside setting. A melting pot of cultures, Auckland offers world-class dining, stylish waterfront precincts, and a thri... Continue your exploration of the ‘City of Sails’, so named for its bustling marinas full of boats and picturesque harbourside setting. A melting pot of cultures, Auckland offers world-class dining, stylish waterfront precincts, and a thriving arts scene, all within easy reach of pristine beaches, rainforests, and wine regions, making it a gateway to both adventure and relaxation.Scenic Freechoice: Enhance your Auckland visit with a selection of Scenic Freechoice activities:Auckland Harbour Cruise: Enjoy panoramic views of the skyline, waterfront, iconic landmarks and volcanic islands with live commentary of Auckland’s maritime heritage.Waitakere Wilderness Experience: Explore black sand beaches and native rainforest on a guided half-day tour. Admire traditional Maori carvings and learn about their significance for the area. Wander rainforests among lush native silver ferns, manuka and kauri trees before arriving at your pinnacle vantage point overlooking the Tasman Sea.Auckland City Revealed Tour: Learn about Auckland’s history, culture and volcanic landmarks. Gain insights into the Maori history of the area and the legends and stories behind region and see some of Auckland’s most picturesque vistas.Flavours of Our City Walking Tour: Discover Auckland through its vibrant food culture on this guided tour that blends gourmet indulgence with city exploration. Stroll lively streets and hidden laneways as you sample artisan cheeses, handmade chocolates and freshly roasted coffee. Along the way, your guide shares stories of Auckland’s history, diverse cultures and iconic landmarks. Scenic EnrichNew Zealand Rugby: Connect with the heart of New Zealand culture, rugby, as you learn about the spirit of the game that shaped the nation. Your All Blacks experience includes being guided by a former All Black or Black Fern, followed by a wine-matching dinner at one of Auckland’s top restaurants. Read More

Auckland

Leaving Auckland today you’ll journey into Middle Earth with a visit to Hobbiton™ Movie Set, exploring detailed film sets from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, including the Shire’s iconic hobbit holes and lush gardens. Continue to Taupo... Leaving Auckland today you’ll journey into Middle Earth with a visit to Hobbiton™ Movie Set, exploring detailed film sets from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, including the Shire’s iconic hobbit holes and lush gardens. Continue to Taupo, home to New Zealand’s largest lake. Check into Huka Lodge in one of the world’s most prestigious luxury lodges for a three-night special stay. Read More

At Sea

At Sea

Auckland

Auckland is called the City of Sails, and visitors flying in will see why. On the East Coast is the Waitemata Harbour—a Māori word meaning sparkling waters—which is bordered by the Hauraki Gulf, an aquatic playground peppered with small islands where many Aucklanders can be found "muc... Auckland is called the City of Sails, and visitors flying in will see why. On the East Coast is the Waitemata Harbour—a Māori word meaning sparkling waters—which is bordered by the Hauraki Gulf, an aquatic playground peppered with small islands where many Aucklanders can be found "mucking around in boats."Not surprisingly, Auckland has some 70,000 boats. About one in four households in Auckland has a seacraft of some kind, and there are 102 beaches within an hour's drive; during the week many are quite empty. Even the airport is by the water; it borders the Manukau Harbour, which also takes its name from the Māori language and means solitary bird.According to Māori tradition, the Auckland isthmus was originally peopled by a race of giants and fairy folk. When Europeans arrived in the early 19th century, however, the Ngāti-Whātua tribe was firmly in control of the region. The British began negotiations with the Ngāti-Whātua in 1840 to purchase the isthmus and establish the colony's first capital. In September of that year the British flag was hoisted to mark the township's foundation, and Auckland remained the capital until 1865, when the seat of government was moved to Wellington. Aucklanders expected to suffer from the shift; it hurt their pride but not their pockets. As the terminal for the South Sea shipping routes, Auckland was already an established commercial center. Since then the urban sprawl has made this city of approximately 1.3 million people one of the world's largest geographically.A couple of days in the city will reveal just how developed and sophisticated Auckland is—the Mercer City Survey 2012 saw it ranked as the third-highest city for quality of life—though those seeking a New York in the South Pacific will be disappointed. Auckland is more get-up and go-outside than get-dressed-up and go-out. That said, most shops are open daily, central bars and a few nightclubs buzz well into the wee hours, especially Thursday through Saturday, and a mix of Māori, Pacific people, Asians, and Europeans contributes to the cultural milieu. Auckland has the world's largest single population of Pacific Islanders living outside their home countries, though many of them live outside the central parts of the city and in Manukau to the south. The Samoan language is the second most spoken in New Zealand. Most Pacific people came to New Zealand seeking a better life. When the plentiful, low-skilled work that attracted them dried up, the dream soured, and the population has suffered with poor health and education. Luckily, policies are now addressing that, and change is slowly coming. The Pacifica Festival in March is the region's biggest cultural event, attracting thousands to Western Springs. The annual Pacific Island Secondary Schools’ Competition, also in March, sees young Pacific Islander and Asian students compete in traditional dance, drumming, and singing. This event is open to the public.At the geographical center of Auckland city is the 1,082-foot Sky Tower, a convenient landmark for those exploring on foot and some say a visible sign of the city's naked aspiration. It has earned nicknames like the Needle and the Big Penis—a counterpoint to a poem by acclaimed New Zealand poet James K. Baxter, which refers to Rangitoto Island as a clitoris in the harbor.The Waitemata Harbour has become better known since New Zealand staged its first defense of the America's Cup in 2000 and the successful Louis Vuitton Pacific Series in early 2009. The first regatta saw major redevelopment of the waterfront. The area, where many of the city's most popular bars, cafés, and restaurants are located, is now known as Viaduct Basin or, more commonly, the Viaduct. A recent expansion has created another area, Wynyard Quarter, which is slowly adding restaurants.These days, Auckland is still considered too bold and brash for its own good by many Kiwis who live "south of the Bombay Hills," the geographical divide between Auckland and the rest of New Zealand (barring Northland). "Jafa," an acronym for "just another f—ing Aucklander," has entered the local lexicon; there's even a book out called Way of the Jafa: A Guide to Surviving Auckland and Aucklanders. A common complaint is that Auckland absorbs the wealth from the hard work of the rest of the country. Most Aucklanders, on the other hand, still try to shrug and see it as the parochial envy of those who live in small towns. But these internal identity squabbles aren't your problem. You can enjoy a well-made coffee in almost any café, or take a walk on a beach—knowing that within 30 minutes' driving time you could be cruising the spectacular harbor, playing a round at a public golf course, or even walking in subtropical forest while listening to the song of a native tûî bird. Read More

Waiheke Island

With its pale sandy beaches, vine-draped hills and clear Hauraki Gulf waters, Waiheke has long been regarded as one of the world’s most appealing island retreats. Popular with day trippers arriving by ferry from Auckland, it sees only a select number of smaller cruise vessels an... With its pale sandy beaches, vine-draped hills and clear Hauraki Gulf waters, Waiheke has long been regarded as one of the world’s most appealing island retreats. Popular with day trippers arriving by ferry from Auckland, it sees only a select number of smaller cruise vessels anchoring off its gently folded coastline, preserving a relaxed, village-like feel. You might follow a headland path shaded by crimson-flowering pohutukawa, paddle between sheltered bays by kayak, or linger over tastings at boutique estates to understand why Waiheke is often described as New Zealand’s “Island of Wine”.This evening, perhaps visit Elements for dinner, where Italian specialities and regional wines complement the day's vineyard discoveries.  Read More

At Sea

Napier

Arriving in Napier, it can feel as though the clock has paused in the 1930s. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, the city centre was almost entirely rebuilt in the Art Deco style of the era, with clean lines, pastel facades and geometric detailing. Today, its palm-lined streets, s... Arriving in Napier, it can feel as though the clock has paused in the 1930s. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, the city centre was almost entirely rebuilt in the Art Deco style of the era, with clean lines, pastel facades and geometric detailing. Today, its palm-lined streets, sunlit promenades and carefully preserved buildings create one of the world’s finest concentrations of authentic Art Deco architecture, complemented by a relaxed café culture and easy access to Hawke’s Bay’s acclaimed vineyards. Later, after sailing, visit the open bridge on Deck 7 to meet the Captain and navigational team, and gain first-hand insight into a Scenic Discovery Yacht’s state-of-the-art technology from one of the most inspiring vantage points on board. Read More

Picton

It’s worth waking up early this morning so you can experience the Marlborough Sounds as you sail into Picton. Ask your butler to deliver coffee to your suite so you can soak it in from your private verandah.   Spend the day in Picton, a picturesque town that looks almo... It’s worth waking up early this morning so you can experience the Marlborough Sounds as you sail into Picton. Ask your butler to deliver coffee to your suite so you can soak it in from your private verandah.   Spend the day in Picton, a picturesque town that looks almost tropical with its towering palm trees and clear turquoise water. Wander the pretty waterfront promenade, lined with shops, cafes and galleries, or visit the museum inside the Edwin Fox convict ship, dry docked offshore. Picton is a short drive from the famous Marlborough wine region, which produces around two-thirds of New Zealand’s wine.This evening, perhaps enjoy fine French dining at Lumière+, where Champagne and elegant cuisine echo the sophistication of the Marlborough region. Read More

Kaiteriteri, South Island

Scenic Eclipse II will call at two ports in the Tasman Bay today. Kaiteriteri is arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful beach, a perfect arc of golden sand fronting startling blue water. It’s also the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, a gorgeous coastal park known f... Scenic Eclipse II will call at two ports in the Tasman Bay today. Kaiteriteri is arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful beach, a perfect arc of golden sand fronting startling blue water. It’s also the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, a gorgeous coastal park known for its sea kayaking, walks and wildlife.   It’s just a short cruise to the city of Nelson, one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand. It’s bursting with open-air cafes, bustling markets, breweries, cycling trails and the pretty Botanic Gardens. Enjoy a later departure tonight, giving you a chance to experience a little Kiwi hospitality after dark.Return on board for a nightcap at the Sky Bar, where the evening extends with cocktails and conversation under the stars. Read More

Nelson

Kaikoura

You’ll arrive in Kaikoura later this morning. This tiny town sits in a spectacular natural environment, flanked by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the snow-capped Seaward Kaikoura Range on the other.  The town began life as a whaling station in the mid 1800s; visit the ol... You’ll arrive in Kaikoura later this morning. This tiny town sits in a spectacular natural environment, flanked by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the snow-capped Seaward Kaikoura Range on the other.  The town began life as a whaling station in the mid 1800s; visit the oldest surviving building, Fyffe House, or the Kaikoura Museum to learn more about its history. It’s also an ideal place for wildlife encounters. Whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in these waters, and an impressive array of seabirds fill the air, including the mighty albatross. This evening, relax at the Observation Lounge with a book, or gather with fellow guests at the Scenic Lounge Bar to share the day's wildlife encounters. Read More

Akaroa

Arrive this morning in Akaroa, site of New Zealand’s only successful French settlement. Established by French settlers in 1840, it still carries its heritage lightly with French street names, characterful cottages and a Gallic note in some of its cafés and cuisine. Akaroa... Arrive this morning in Akaroa, site of New Zealand’s only successful French settlement. Established by French settlers in 1840, it still carries its heritage lightly with French street names, characterful cottages and a Gallic note in some of its cafés and cuisine. Akaroa also looks over a sheltered harbour frequented by rare Hector’s dolphins, and is framed by an historic lighthouse and rolling green hillsides. Back on board, tonight could be the night you enjoy Night Market @ Koko's+ with new friends. Stay up late at the Scenic Lounge Bar or retire to the Observation Lounge library for a moment of blissful solitude before bed. Read More

At Sea

Cruising Doubtful Sound

Step into history as you cruise Doubtful Sound, named by Captain Cook in 1770 when its narrow entrance persuaded him to sail elsewhere. Today, its breathtaking beauty remains wonderfully secluded, offering a serene escape. Glide past towering cliffs, keep an eye out for play... Step into history as you cruise Doubtful Sound, named by Captain Cook in 1770 when its narrow entrance persuaded him to sail elsewhere. Today, its breathtaking beauty remains wonderfully secluded, offering a serene escape. Glide past towering cliffs, keep an eye out for playful bottlenose dolphins, and perhaps spot the elusive Fiordland crested penguin along the shore.Later, enjoy the serene beauty of Dusky Sound as Scenic Eclipse II gently cruises through one of New Zealand’s largest and most dramatic fjords. Towering rainforest-clad cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and mist-covered peaks create a breathtaking backdrop. Accessible only by sea or air, this remote wilderness offers a rare and intimate cruising experience, setting a tranquil tone for the rest of the day. Read More

Dusky Sound

Despite being discovered by Cook more than 240 years ago, Dusky Sound is one of the few truly untouched destinations left on earth. Found on the southwest corner of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, Dusky Sound has the auspicious title of “titanic mason” given to it by the Maoris... Despite being discovered by Cook more than 240 years ago, Dusky Sound is one of the few truly untouched destinations left on earth. Found on the southwest corner of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, Dusky Sound has the auspicious title of “titanic mason” given to it by the Maoris, as no other explanation seems to fit; it is almost impossible to comprehend the sheer breadth of geological events that created this seemingly perfect sculpture, as the sheer cliffs that rise vertically upward from the ocean dwarf the ship. This incredibly beautiful fiord offers many magical wildernesses and stunning scenery that bathe in “Lord of the Rings” grandeur. A breeding site for Fiordland Penguins, Dusky Sound is an important ornithological area too, with a wealth of birdlife to be found here. This remote, untouched region is also home to a wide range of sea life, as the fresh and salt water combine to create an extraordinary aquatic environment. An unforgettable journey for both the experienced and the uninitiated, anyone looking to visit a place unmarked by the passage of time will be spoilt its breathtaking beauty. Read More

Milford Sound

The rugged West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island offers some of the country’s most stunning scenery. You’ll cruise through Fiordland National Park, which covers more than 1.2 million hectares of granite peaks, shimmering lakes, deep black fjords and spectacular wa... The rugged West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island offers some of the country’s most stunning scenery. You’ll cruise through Fiordland National Park, which covers more than 1.2 million hectares of granite peaks, shimmering lakes, deep black fjords and spectacular waterfalls. Rudyard Kipling described Milford Sound as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. The best way to experience the sound is from the water and today Scenic Eclipse II will cruise slowly through this spectacular place, coming close to land so you can admire the waterfalls tumbling from 1,000-metre cliffs and look out for seals sunning themselves on the rocks. You may like to join fellow guests on the Sky Deck to watch the magic unfold over a cocktail.  Read More

Oban, Stewart Island

Stewart Island sits 30 kilometres off the southern tip of the South Island. It is one of the last inhabited outposts before you reach Antarctica. Its only settlement, the tiny village of Oban, clings bravely to the northern shore.    This is New Zealand off the grid, a remot... Stewart Island sits 30 kilometres off the southern tip of the South Island. It is one of the last inhabited outposts before you reach Antarctica. Its only settlement, the tiny village of Oban, clings bravely to the northern shore.    This is New Zealand off the grid, a remote place of spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. The island is a haven for many birds, including the cute and curious brown kiwi, who outnumber humans and are active day and night. The Mãori name for Stewart Island is Rakiura, which means the land of glowing skies.Return on board for dinner at Koko's Asian Fusion for a vibrant contrast to the island's tranquillity, before live music brings your evening to a gentle close. Read More

Port Chalmers

Wake up in Port Chalmers, the gateway to Dunedin, one of New Zealand’s most historic cities. Founded in 1848, it has a proud Scottish lineage – in fact, Dunedin takes its name from the old Gaelic for Edinburgh, Dùn Èideann. Stroll the well-preserved streets t... Wake up in Port Chalmers, the gateway to Dunedin, one of New Zealand’s most historic cities. Founded in 1848, it has a proud Scottish lineage – in fact, Dunedin takes its name from the old Gaelic for Edinburgh, Dùn Èideann. Stroll the well-preserved streets to admire grand Victorian and Edwardian architecture, much of it built on wealth from the Otago gold rush.Outside town, the surrounding Otago Peninsula is regarded as one of the country’s leading wildlife and eco-tourism destinations, where you can keep a look out for abundant birdlife, penguins, seals and sea lions.This evening, perhaps indulge in a treatment# at the Senses Spa, or enjoy a leisurely dinner in your suite, where your butler can create an intimate dining experience tailored to your preferences. Read More

Timaru

Your Signature Yacht Cruise ends in Timaru, a charming port town known for its stunning coastal landscapes and warm Kiwi hospitality.After one last sumptuous breakfast on board, it’s time to bid farewell to new friends and the Scenic Eclipse II crew, taking with you memories for... Your Signature Yacht Cruise ends in Timaru, a charming port town known for its stunning coastal landscapes and warm Kiwi hospitality.After one last sumptuous breakfast on board, it’s time to bid farewell to new friends and the Scenic Eclipse II crew, taking with you memories for a lifetime. You will join a standard transfer from Timaru to Christchurch.Please book your flight to depart out of Christchurch after 02:00 PM.#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.  ^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.Submersible not in operation in New Zealand. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.   Read More