Discovering the Magic of New Zealand
Embarking on an 9,300-mile journey from Louisville to New Zealand is a daunting yet rewarding experience. With flights lasting over 20 hours, the anticipation builds as you travel to the other side of the world. Upon arrival in the South Pacific, the breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches and vibrant culture make every minute in the air worthwhile.
In November 2024, our group of 30, including NoCo residents Jerry and Karen Zegart, embarked on a 13-night cruise aboard the luxurious Celebrity Edge, enjoying New Zealand’s springtime with mild temperatures and blooming flora. Circumnavigating the island, each port of call presented unique scenery and unforgettable excursions.
Bay of Islands
Our adventure began in the Bay of Islands, rich in history and natural wonders. At the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, New Zealand’s most significant historical site, we gained insight into the nation's past. Flagstaff Hill provided sweeping views overlooking the bay, while visits to Haruru Falls, Paihia, Opua, and Long Beach showcased the region’s diverse beauty and wildlife.
Our adventure began in the Bay of Islands, rich in history and natural wonders. At the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, New Zealand’s most significant historical site, we gained insight into the nation's past. Flagstaff Hill provided sweeping views overlooking the bay, while visits to Haruru Falls, Paihia, Opua, and Long Beach showcased the region’s diverse beauty and wildlife.
Auckland
In Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, we ascended the Sky Tower for panoramic views. Westhaven Marina, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, offered a vibrant waterfront experience and an opportunity to watch thrill-seekers bungee jump from Harbour Bridge. Queen Street provided unique eateries, art galleries and upscale shopping at high-end boutiques. While some hiked Mount Eden, others ventured to Hobbiton movie set to relive the magic of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
In Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, we ascended the Sky Tower for panoramic views. Westhaven Marina, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, offered a vibrant waterfront experience and an opportunity to watch thrill-seekers bungee jump from Harbour Bridge. Queen Street provided unique eateries, art galleries and upscale shopping at high-end boutiques. While some hiked Mount Eden, others ventured to Hobbiton movie set to relive the magic of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
Tauranga
Tauranga greeted us with geothermal wonders, including erupting geysers and bubbling hot pools. We explored a kiwi plantation and hiked the Tikitapu Nature Walk, immersing ourselves in lush forest and native birdlife.
Tauranga greeted us with geothermal wonders, including erupting geysers and bubbling hot pools. We explored a kiwi plantation and hiked the Tikitapu Nature Walk, immersing ourselves in lush forest and native birdlife.
Christchurch
Christchurch impressed with its sprawling botanical gardens and picturesque Mona Vale Gardens. The International Antarctic Centre offered an immersive experience with sub-zero temperatures and winds in a realistic Antarctic storm, an all-terrain Hagglund ride, and a dynamic 4D theatre showcasing life in Antarctica. Christchurch Airport is a major gateway to Antarctica
Christchurch impressed with its sprawling botanical gardens and picturesque Mona Vale Gardens. The International Antarctic Centre offered an immersive experience with sub-zero temperatures and winds in a realistic Antarctic storm, an all-terrain Hagglund ride, and a dynamic 4D theatre showcasing life in Antarctica. Christchurch Airport is a major gateway to Antarctica
Dunedin
Dunedin, my favorite stop, featured Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world. We explored Larnach Castle, the country’s only castle, and admired the Gothic-styled Dunedin Railway Station and its gardens. Signal Hill and the Otago Peninsula provided incredible wildlife encounters, including penguins and sea lions.
Dunedin, my favorite stop, featured Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world. We explored Larnach Castle, the country’s only castle, and admired the Gothic-styled Dunedin Railway Station and its gardens. Signal Hill and the Otago Peninsula provided incredible wildlife encounters, including penguins and sea lions.
Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound & Milford Sound
No cruise to New Zealand is complete without sailing through the awe-inspiring fjords of Fiordland National Park. Often called the 8th Wonder of the World, Dusky, Doubtful, and Milford Sounds stunned us with towering cliffs, snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and glacier-carved valleys. Dolphins played alongside the ship, while fur seals and crested penguins dotted the shores. Our cruise ship slowly cruised through all three sounds, offering a 9-hour magical journey filled with ever-changing landscapes that unfolded like a scene from a movie.
No cruise to New Zealand is complete without sailing through the awe-inspiring fjords of Fiordland National Park. Often called the 8th Wonder of the World, Dusky, Doubtful, and Milford Sounds stunned us with towering cliffs, snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and glacier-carved valleys. Dolphins played alongside the ship, while fur seals and crested penguins dotted the shores. Our cruise ship slowly cruised through all three sounds, offering a 9-hour magical journey filled with ever-changing landscapes that unfolded like a scene from a movie.
Final Thoughts
New Zealand is a dream destination—a perfect blend of vibrant cities, rich culture, and astonishing wildlife. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or a deep connection with nature, this island nation leaves an indelible mark on the heart, making the long journey more than worthwhile.
New Zealand is a dream destination—a perfect blend of vibrant cities, rich culture, and astonishing wildlife. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or a deep connection with nature, this island nation leaves an indelible mark on the heart, making the long journey more than worthwhile.
Special thanks to Kim Daffron, our travel adviser, for coordinating this adventure for our group.