Discover the joys of rural life in the gorgeous countryside on the outskirts of Auckland and on idyllic Waiheke Island by visiting a farm and vineyard and meeting with artisans who find the setting inspirational.

Note: Due to varying terrain, this program is not suited for guests with walking difficulties or those who utilize a wheelchair or scooter.

DAY 1

Following disembarkation in Auckland you will begin a scenic driving tour of Auckland’s waterfront, with a stop for photos of the harbor from Bastion Point. You will also drive through residential neighborhoods in the eastern part of the city and through Parnell Village before arriving at your hotel for check-in.

Hotel check-in time is scheduled at 3:00pm. In the event that the rooms are not yet available before this time, the Hotel staff will gladly store your luggage securely, allowing you to make the most of your stay by enjoying the various facilities within the hotel or venturing out to explore the captivating city.

Today's meals are at your discretion, giving you the freedom to savor the culinary delights of your choice. However, at 5:00 pm, you may meet your fellow travelers, for a Welcome Drink at the renowned Skybar Champagne Lounge, located within the illustrious Sky Tower. Dinner will be on your own this evening.

DAY 2

Following breakfast at the hotel, you will depart for the countryside on the outskirts of Auckland. The land here is some of the country’s most fertile, making it ideal for growing fruits and vegetables and raising stock.

To provide you with an authentic understanding of the local lifestyle, our journey will take us into the picturesque countryside. During our adventure, we'll make a delightful stop for a cheese-tasting experience.

As we continue our journey, we'll head to the Vineyard Cottages, where your knowledgeable guide will personally handpick the freshest ingredients from the local producers.

Upon arriving at the venue, the warm and welcoming owner, Elle Armon-Jones, will personally guide you on an enchanting tour of the vineyard and the flourishing vegetable garden. Discover the passion and care that goes into cultivating the vines and producing the freshest vegetables.

Following the tour, you'll have the option to unwind on the verandah while lunch is prepared. As the delightful aromas fill the air, Elle will present a tasting of exquisite olive oils, each carefully crafted to perfection. Accompanied by stone-oven baked bread, this experience will add yet another layer of understanding to the intricacies of the local cuisine.

To elevate your culinary journey further, a thoughtfully curated selection of local beers and wines will be paired with the two courses.

Upon returning to Auckland, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You may explore the vibrant city at your own pace, perhaps discovering its unique attractions or simply indulging in some relaxation time. For dinner, you have the freedom to choose from the many incredible dining options that Auckland has to offer, allowing you to savor the city's diverse culinary scene in a way that suits your tastes and preferences. Dinner will be on your own this evening.

DAY 3

Following breakfast at the hotel, you will take the ferry to Waiheke Island. Along the way, the views include such scenic highlights as Devonport, Rangitoto Island, Browns Island, and the Auckland skyline. Upon arrival at Waiheke Island, your friendly local guide will be there to greet you and embark on a captivating journey through the island's breathtaking landscapes.

Our first stop will be at the magnificent Church Bay Studio, owned by the talented artist Gabriella Lewenz. Marvel at her vivid abstract oil paintings, which exhibit a captivating blend of colors and emotions, making her studio a true artistic haven. Next, we'll visit the Waiheke Community Art Gallery, a treasure trove of local and national art. Immerse yourself in the creative brilliance of New Zealand's finest artists, as the gallery showcases a diverse range of works that embody the spirit of Waiheke.

As we continue our journey along the scenic northern route, breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf and the distant Coromandel Peninsula will surround us. Our destination for lunch and wine tasting is the renowned Stonyridge Vineyard, a haven of relaxation nestled amidst olive groves, vibrant vineyards, and a charming South of France ambience. The menu is a celebration of fresh, seasonal produce, offering an array of delectable dishes, from platters to exquisite a la carte dining.

After savoring a delightful meal, we'll proceed to another local vineyard for an exceptional wine-tasting experience paired with Te Matuku Bay Oysters. Here, you'll have the opportunity to learn about the unique farming practices that make these oysters so special, as they are cultivated in a marine reserve at the remote Eastern End of Waiheke Island.

With hearts full of cherished memories, we'll make our way back to the wharf for the return ferry to Auckland.

Upon reaching Auckland, transfer you to your hotel, where you can unwind and indulge in the comfort of your accommodations. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Take this opportunity to further relax, rejuvenate, and do as you please. Dinner will be on your own this evening.

DAY 4

A full breakfast is served at the hotel and included in your package.

Please remember to settle your personal incidental account with the hotel prior to leaving.

You will be transferred to Auckland International Airport based on your flight details.

Check-out is at 11:00am.

Land Program Details Step by Step:

• Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program timings are approximate, given here for general reference purposes, and subject to change.

• Itineraries with the most up-to-date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up-to-date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

• The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

• A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.

DAY 1

10:00am Disembark the ship and commence with an Auckland City sightseeing drive

3:00pm Official check-in time

5:00pm Welcome drink (local wine, beer or refreshment) with your fellow travelers

Lunch and dinner on your own

Overnight at Grand by Sky City or a similar hotel

DAY 2

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Depart for the countryside

11:00am Cheese-tasting experience

12:00pm Vineyard Cottages:

Garden tour, olive oil tasting, and cooking demonstration

Two-course lunch paired with wine or beer

2:30pm Return to Auckland

3:15pm Arrive at the hotel

Dinner will be on your own this evening.

Overnight at Grand by Sky City or similar hotel

DAY 3

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

8:00am Meet your guide at the hotel

8:15am Transfer to the ferry terminal

9:00am Ferry to Waiheke

09:50am Arrive at Waiheke

10:15am Artisan studio tour

11:45pm Lunch at a bistro

2:00pm Visit the food producer and return to the ferry

3:30pm Ferry back to Auckland

4:20pm Arrive in the city and transfer to your hotel

4:45pm The remainder of the day at leisure

Overnight at Grand by Sky City or similar hotel

DAY 4

From 7:00am Breakfast starts at the hotel

11:00am Check out of the hotel

Transfer to the airport based on your flight time

Extra Nights:

• All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the same hotel used on the LAST NIGHT of your program.

• When you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 11:00am (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.

Transfers: All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up-to-date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.

Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.

Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 11:00am. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.

Expected Weather

New Zealand's seasons are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January, and February, while the coldest are June, July, and August.

What to Bring

As it will be autumn, some heavier clothing is suggested for cooler days/evenings. It is also recommended that you bring a rainproof jacket or umbrella just in case of a rain shower. Hats and sunscreen are essential as are good walking shoes.

Currency

U.S. dollars are generally accepted only in establishments such as souvenir stores; however, credit cards are widely accepted.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts, 50 hertz. Most hotels provide 110-volt ac sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. Power outlets only accept angled two- or three-pin Type I plugs (as used in Australia) depending on whether an earth connection is fitted. Bring a travel adaptor for electric devices.

Documents and Visa Requirements

Citizens of the United States do not generally require a visa to visit New Zealand, however, refer to your local New Zealand embassy for details and requirements.

Hotel address

Grand by Sky City Hotel

90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen circumstances. If a similar hotel is required, it will be of equal ratings and standards and guests would be notified in advance of travel. If guests are not notified prior to travel of any changes, then the hotel listed above will be used.

Program Includes:

• 3 nights at Grand by Sky City Hotel or similar including breakfast – Grand Room

• Lunch on Days 2 and 3 with 1 beer or a glass of wine per person

• Touring on Days 1, 2 and 3

• Welcome Drink on Day 1 – includes local wine, beer, or refreshment

Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.

Program Excludes:

• Personal expenses and hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

• Any meals or beverages not listed above

• Additional sightseeing and meals not mentioned in the itinerary

• Gratuities to drivers and tour guides

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather-appropriate clothing, hats, sunglasses, and flat comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements, or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.