Silversea Luxury Cruises To NAPIER

Discover the rich traditions and history of the Maori family on this genuine culture and heritage tour held on ancestral lands, which have been set aside as a conservation reserve. Your Maori guide will enjoy sharing his/her rich and colourful heritage with you.

As you drive down picturesque Marine Parade, you will see Cape Kidnappers off in the distance. The scenic Hawke's Bay countryside will unfold as you travel through the Tuki Tuki Valley, passing farmland, orchards, and vineyards with iconic Te Mata Peak on the horizon. As you approach the coastal village of Waimarama, the dramatic coastal landscape appears with breath-taking views of Motu O Kura in the Pacific Ocean. During the hour long drive, your guide will entertain you with stories and legends of how their ancestors came to this land over 700 years ago.

Hakikino Ancestral Lands

Upon arrival at the Hakikino ancestral lands, a representative chosen by you will meet the warriors challenge and you will hear the welcome call echo across the hills and valleys. You'll be greeted in the outdoor arena of the 'Arch of the Ancestors' by the family and participate in the moving and powerful customs of the greeting ceremony.

After the traditional welcome, you will spend time with the family in small groups to be shown and to learn about their different crafts and customs. You will see demonstrations of some of the following various traditional activities; warrior fighting drills, the art and skill of poi, the importance of stones, ancient musical instruments, native eel in the natural wetland habitat and others.

Water and a kiwiana confectionary will be offered and a craft shop offers local Maori items. The traditional farewell includes action songs and performances by the family.

This is an intimate, personal and spiritual way to discover the ways of Maori people. Finally re-board the coach with your guide and relax, ask questions and enjoy the countryside views as the coach returns you to the pier and your waiting ship.

Please note: This tour involves a panoramic drive with a moderate amount of walking, some of which may be over unpaved surfaces, with some steps to climb at the ancestral grounds. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair. Participation is limited; however, a minimum number of guests is required to operate this tour. The drive to/from Waimarama is approximately one hour in each direction. An alternative venue may be used in wet weather conditions.

Hawke's Bay's history shares its early winemaking successes and stories as the oldest wine region in New Zealand and continues today with both classic wine styles and other experimental varieties. This picturesque drive takes you across the Heretaunga Plain to the Tuki Tuki Valley, visiting two boutique wineries, Abbey Cellars and Clearview Estate.

Depart the pier via coach with your driver-guide and drive through the Art Deco district of downtown Napier before crossing the Heretaunga Plains to Abbey Cellars.

Abbey Cellars

This striking Gothic abbey building was built by owner Warren Haworth whose focus is to make small volume Bordeaux-style red blends, notably their Cabernet and Merlot. Enjoy a wine-tasting with your hosts before re-boarding your coach for the next winery.

Clearview Estate Winery

Next, visit Clearview Estate. Founded by Tim Turvey and Helena van den Berg in the early 1980s, this winery is renowned for its friendly staff and quality wines. The rustic, art-filled cafe and tasting room are set in a sunny, sheltered location with views of the sea and Te Mata Peak. Enjoy an informative talk about the history of the winery before a brief guided tour and a wine and food match with delectable local specialties. Clearview wines are bold and forward with plenty of Hawke's Bay fruity character. Best known are its Reserve Chardonnay and Enigma-a blend of Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc, while the Noble Harvest Chardonnay makes a delicious dessert wine.

Return to Napier following the coastline back to the port.

Please note: This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair; however, guests must be able to negotiate few steps to embark and disembark the coach. Little walking is required. Participation is limited; however, a minimum number of guests is required to operate. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. We suggest you reserve this tour in advance to avoid disappointment. The order of sights visited may vary.

Cape Kidnappers, the site of the world's largest mainland gannet colony, lies about 18 miles (29 kilometres) southeast of Napier. Usually these large sea birds breed only on isolated islands; Cape Kidnappers provides a unique opportunity to see them up close.

After meeting your driver-guide, begin your excursion with a drive down Napier's beautiful Marine Parade, famous for its stand of Norfolk pines. Continue along the Hawke's Bay coast to Cape Kidnappers Sheep Station; from there, an unpaved road runs across rolling pastures, riverbeds and gullies.

Your ride stops just a few yards (metres) from the gannet colony itself, affording a close-up look at the birds. The gannet is a member of the booby family, with a distinctive black eye marking and a pale gold crown. The birds arrive in the latter part of July; the chicks hatch in late November and December. Migration begins again in March. You may see gannets swooping and diving into the sea for food, while others preen themselves or perform the dance of the recognition ritual. Whilst viewing enjoy light refreshments.

Following your gannet-watching experience begin your journey back to Napier. An orientation drive takes you through the Art Deco district en route to the ship.

Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking; however, guests must be able to climb in and out of the four-wheel-drive mini-coaches utilised on this tour. It is suitable for guests with limited mobility but is not wheelchair accessible. Driving is mainly on unpaved roads that are steep in some areas. Flat-soled shoes and a jacket or windbreaker are recommended. Space is very limited; we suggest you reserve this tour in advance to avoid disappointment.

Established in 1851 by the French Marist religious order, Mission Estate Winery is New Zealand's oldest winemaker and home to one of Hawke's Bay's finest restaurants. This tour for wine and food connoisseurs offers a true New Zealand gastronomy experience, with samples of some of the finest local wines and produce, in a charming and elegant setting.

Mission Estate

From the Port of Napier, drive with your driver-guide through the historic Art Deco area of downtown Napier to Mission Estate which is beautifully sited on a small hill overlooking the Heretaunga Plain. Housed in an elegantly restored historic seminary building with sweeping views of Napier, Mission Estate is the most visited winery in the country.

Upon arrival, the Estate guide welcomes you and leads you on a historic tour of the elegantly restored seminary building and the adjoining chapel, with its high vaulted ceilings, arched windows and French doors. A visit to the cellar door provides an opportunity to try the extensive range of wines. Enjoy a wine tasting led by one of the wine-makers (subject to availability) where a flight of seven wines are available for you to sample. Listen as they divulge details of the wine making process that commenced back in 1851 by the French Marist religious order.

Your Mission Estate experience is complemented with a four-course set menu luncheon, with a selection of wines matched to each seasonal dish, in their award-winning restaurant. Contemporary cuisine using only the freshest local produce is served. Afterwards, some free time is available for you to peruse the shop or to explore the gardens and soak up the ambience of the estate.

Then, begin the 30-minute drive back to the ship via the port suburb of Ahuriri.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. The order of sights visited may vary.

Napier is blessed with a hinterland that is largely flat so cycle enthusiasts can cycle along the rotary pathway and discover the Napier area on this tour.

Depart the pier to your cycle tour start point in the Sunken Gardens on Napier's Marine Parade. After a short briefing on how to use the gears and brakes, mount your Scott touring bike and join your guide in cycling south on the wonderful water trail, a dedicated walking and cycling path that follows the coast and forms part of the Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail. Several stops will allow for time to enjoy the spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the cliffs of Cape Kidnappers in the distance.

After approximately 6 miles (10 kilometres), turn inland at Awatoto and cycle on a raised limestone trail through market gardening country following the Tutaekuri river to the suburb of Taradale.

From the trail you can view the vineyards, fruit trees and vegetable fields which represent an important part of the region's economy. On reaching Taradale, make a short comfort stop at before ending your cycle on the banks of the Tutaekuri River. From here you can see the remnants of the historic Otatara Maori Pa site high on the hill.

Cool your feet in the water and enjoy a light refreshment before being transported back to the port via minivan.

Please note: This tour is only recommended to those guests who are physically fit and able to cycle approximately 10 miles (16 kilometres) at a steady pace. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Flat-soled shoes and a windbreaker are recommended. Space is very limited; we suggest you reserve this tour in advance to avoid disappointment.

Experience the Art Deco beauty of Napier and its surrounds by road train during this scenic excursion aboard the elegant Hawke's Bay Express.

Napier, Hawke's Bay Express Road Train-Ride

Depart the pier for a ride aboard the Hawke's Bay Express, a modern road-train with the look-and-feel of an old-fashioned steam engine, complete with a romantic atmosphere straight out of the opulent Art Deco era. The Hawke's Bay Express features velvet-covered cushioned seats, spacious carriage benches, tall windows, polished wooden floors, and crimson-tasselled curtains. As the bell rings and whistle blows, you are transported back in time for an Art Deco experience in Napier like no other.

Marine Parade, City Centre, Art Deco Architecture, Bluff Hill, Ahuriri Village

Head out along scenic Marine Parade, with seascape views of Cape Kidnappers. From here, proceed through the elegant city centre of Napier and along the main street, which is mostly a pedestrian zone, and marvel at some of the world's most stunning examples of Art Deco architecture. Along the way, learn about the catastrophic 1931 earthquake and city's subsequent Art Deco-style rebuilding effort. Leaving the town centre, head over Bluff Hill, an older area featuring early settlers' homes, then continue on to Ahuriri, once an old port village and now a haven for summer tourists.

National Tobacco Company Building, Bar and Restaurant Area, Ahuriri Port, Marine Parade

Learn about the life and culture in New Zealand, as well as some famous Kiwis and fascinating Maori legends during the bay's history and changes over the last 600 years. Following a photo stop outside the former National Tobacco Company building, perhaps the region's Art Deco masterpiece, ride through the vibrant bar and restaurant area, then past the sailing port of Ahuriri before turning back towards Napier's Marine Parade. Upon arrival, you may opt to return directly to the pier, or leave the train for shopping and further exploration in Napier, and return to the pier on your own.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for approximately 54 yards (about 50 metres), with a few steps to negotiate to board/de-board the Hawke's Bay Express Train. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and bottled water from the ship. The Hawke's Bay Express Train-Ride is air-cooled via large opening windows. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Experience this exclusive tour in a classic Packard celebrating the Art Deco and Spanish Mission styles of architecture in Napier which in 1931 was almost totally destroyed in a major earthquake. Napier was rebuilt in these eye-catching styles by group of young architects. Few cities in the world have such a collection of rich buildings that display all the styles of the Art Deco form.

From the pier, the classic car takes you with your driver-guide through the suburbs of Ahuriri and Marewa where you pass by some fine examples of domestic art deco architecture. The highlight of the area is wonderfully ornate entrance to the National Tobacco Company building, where a brief stop for photos is made. The car continues to the Art Deco Trust centre.

After, enjoy a video presentation at the Art Deco Trust centre, designed to acquaint you with the devastating earthquake. Stop for morning or afternoon tea at Port O Call. Then, begin a one-hour guided walk of the Napier downtown Art Deco district, with its many wonderful art deco buildings including the ASB Bank, the Daily Telegraph, the Municipal Theatre and the Criterion Hotel. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the many different styles and forms of Art Deco architecture.

Re-board your classic car for the return drive to the pier.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for approximately one hour. Tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes. The order of sights varies and the itinerary may operate in reverse order. Tour participation is very limited and guests should reserve this tour well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Get a bird's eye view down on the Hawkes Bay region on this 30-minute flight.

Your experience begins with a transfer to the heliport, in keeping with the Art Deco Capital, Napier. From there you will rise above the Port of Napier in a Robinson R44 helicopter, to begin your 30 minute flight over the beautiful province. The flight will take you along the coast of Hawkes Bay, giving you time to take in the vista of the coastal area between Mahia Beach and Cape Kidnappers.

Following the coast, you will see the world class golf course perched on the Cape and then be astounded by one of the largest gannet colonies in the world. From here you will fly inland and over Te Mata Peak, Havelock North and Hastings, taking in the expanse of vineyards and orchards.

Finally, heading to Napier, around Bluff Hill, returning you via Westshore beach and Ahuriri Marina.

After landing, return to the pier.

Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of activity and is suitable for guests with limited mobility. Guests utilising a wheelchair must be able to transfer from the chair to the car, and to board the plane. Helicopter type is dependent on aircraft availability but is generally a 3-seater heli. Seating is at the discretion of the pilot and is based on weight and balance requirements. All guests are asked to submit their weights in advance to the Shore Concierge onboard. Due to weight and balance limitations, as well as guest safety and comfort, the maximum weight per passenger must not exceed 120 kilograms. All seats are utilised and seating adjacent to a window cannot be guaranteed. Price is per person. Flight is subject to weather conditions and may be cancelled or altered at pilot's discretion. Space is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

The visually-stunning and diverse topography of New Zealand owes much to the tectonic uplift of land and volcanic eruptions that have shaped it over millions of years. From the shores of its stunning coastline to the sharp mountain peaks of the South Island, New Zealand beckons nature lovers and adventurers alike with its lush flora and fauna, emerald green valleys, active and inactive volcanoes, exquisite waterfalls, Lake Taupo, and miles of stunning coastline. Following a sightseeing drive through the Art Deco city of Napier, visit Cape Kidnappers to observe the world's largest mainland gannet colony, then drive through the heart of the spectacular Tuki River Valley for a tour, tasting and lunch at the Craggy Range Winery. Afterward, proceed for dinner and an overnight stay at the Huka Lodge. The next day is spent at your leisure. You can select from among a wide array of fun-filled, active and relaxing optional activities, including golf, spa treatments, a picturesque cruise with fishing, boating with flight-seeing, fly-fishing, horseback-riding, and scenic hikes. Day Three begins with a walking tour at the Huka Falls, and a drive through the Tahorakuri Forest and past thermal areas en route to the Te Puia Thermal Reserve. Marvel at this natural landscape of gushing waters, steaming vents and boiling earth, then proceed for lunch at a Maori Arts & Crafts Centre. Your Mid-Voyage Land Adventure concludes on Day Three with a panoramic drive through Rotorua's countryside, past mountains and along New Zealand's longest river en route to the pier in Auckland. Upon arrival, embark the ship.

02MIDNPE-B: Luxury Encounter

Departs from: Napier

Re-join ship: Auckland

Reserve: At least 90 days prior to sailing

This Silver Shore Mid-Land Adventure requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than 90 days prior to the sail date. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis, and the programme price is subject to change. Payment-in-full is due within 120 days prior to sailing. Booking made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable and non-refundable for any reason within 90 days of sailing. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. Tickets are available in limited quantities, and participation cannot be guaranteed for those guests not booking well in advance. Cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, 90 - 0 days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the programme fare per person is due.

Visa Information:

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements for New Zealand. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all appropriate visas before cruising.

Experience the visually-stunning and diverse topography of New Zealand in a host of fun-filled, exciting and relaxing new ways during this three-day, two-night getaway to Taupo and Rotorua.

DAY ONE - Napier/Taupo

After disembarking the ship, depart the pier for the scenic drive along the tree-lined waterfront promenade, the Marine Parade. Pass by the Pania of the Reef statue, which depicts a Maori maiden who is a symbol of the city.

Napier City and Countryside, Colourful Vineyards, Orchards and Farmland

In 1931, a 2.5-minute earthquake destroyed the city of Napier. Rebuilding began almost immediately in the architectural style of the time, Art Deco. Napier is now world-renowned for its collection of Art Deco buildings. As you head out of the city, traverse the countryside, which is dotted with colourful vineyards, orchards and extremely fertile farmland. Within the region are more than 20 of New Zealand's finest vineyards, many of which are open to the public.

Cape Kidnappers, Gannet Colony Visit

Next, explore the cape with a visit to Cape Kidnappers, home of the largest and most accessible mainland colony of gannets in the world. The gannets are members of the booby family, with distinctive blue eye markings and a pale gold crown. Gannets are sized midway between a seagull and an albatross. Travel to the colony to see adults and young nesting in rows, and carrying out their daily routine. The birds can be seen from September until early-May, when they leave New Zealand for Australia. In September, they return and build their nests in preparation for the hatching of chicks during the months of December and January.

Tuki River Valley, Craggy Ridge Winery, Tour, Tasting and Lunch

Leaving Cape Kidnappers, drive back through the heart of the spectacular Tuki River Valley. En route, a stop is made at the Craggy Range Winery. The winery looks out towards Te Mata Peak, and is nestled in a beautiful setting. An in-depth winery tour follows the path of the grape from the vineyard to the cellar, and finally onto the finished wine. Take a guided stroll through the vineyard, visit the winemaking cellars and participate in an educational tasting of Craggy Range wines with a wine specialist. Following your tour and tasting, proceed for lunch at the winery's Terrôir restaurant, where gourmet cuisine, and the vineyard's wine and culture, are blended sublimely in a uniquely dramatic setting.

Taupo, Lake Taupo

After lunch, depart for the two-hour drive to Taupo, home of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake and world-renowned for its trout fishing. In 181 A.D., Lake Taupo was created by a violent eruption which was so large; records say the sun went hazy in China. This eruption is still recorded as being the largest eruption to occur in the past 5,000 years.

Waikato River, Huka Lodge, Garden

Huka Lodge lies on the banks of the Waikato River, just upstream from the Huka Falls. It started as a simple fishing lodge in the 1920s, attracting guests from around the world. Now, this exclusive lodge lures the most discerning travellers from around the globe, and ranks among the world's very finest retreats. Huka Lodge spans approximately 17 acres (about 6.9 hectares) of manicured grounds. The garden at Huka Lodge is ranked as a 'Garden of National Significance', and deemed to be of regional importance by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.

Upon entering through the gates of Huka Lodge, every last detail has been considered to ensure discerning guests enjoy superb cuisine, seamless service and every comfort possible. Come evening, candles are lit, lights dimmed and the drinks set out. Guests gather to make each other's acquaintance, share stories of their day and dine on superb cuisine, prepared using the finest of ingredients and complemented by exceptional wines. Service is both solicitous and seamless.

Dinner is at the lodge.

Overnight in a Junior Lodge Suite at Huka Lodge - Taupo

DAY TWO - Taupo

After breakfast at the lodge, the remainder of the day is at your leisure. You may opt to participate in a host of special activities at your own expense, which means you are only paying for what you truly want to do. Any of these activities can be pre-booked.

Golf

Just a short drive from the Huka Lodge is a beautiful course that lies on approximately 4,450 acres (about 1,801 hectares) of lush, rolling countryside, and was developed to meet the rigorous design standards required for world-class championship competition. Natural contours coupled with 7,014 yards (about 6,414 meters) of championship tees and 180 bunkers have led to worldwide acclaim.

Spa Treatments

Lie back, relax and enjoy a wonderful facial with one of our qualified beauty therapists in the comfort and privacy of your suite. There are a range of facial treatments available, which are provided by either a Thalgo therapist or Phoebe, who works with Pola and Chanel products. Huka Lodges also provides an array of deep tissue, remedial, or soft tissue massages to soothe your tired muscles and rejuvenate your body.

Scenic Cruise, Maori Rock Carvings, Fishing

At approximately 238 square miles (about 616-square kilometres), Lake Taupo is the land mass equivalent of Singapore. The lake's attractive pumice sand beaches give it the appearance of an inland ocean, and it offers scenic, year-round lake cruises and fishing experiences. Most fishing on the lake takes the form of trolling using either lures or flies, with the catch averaging around four pounds. The cruise takes you to the Maori rock carvings; on a clear day, the majestic volcanoes of Mts. Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and Tongariro can also be seen at the southern end of the lake. You are invited to fish on board this stylish, 50-foot (about 15.2-metre) twin-diesel launch, which features a cruising speed of between 13.8 m.p.h.-23 m.p.h. (about 12 knots-20 knots).

Mini-Huka Boating and Flight-Seeing Experience

The ultimate, 'must-do' experience whilst staying at Huka Lodge is a combination of a panoramic helicopter flight over the magnificent Kaimanawa Ranges, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tongariro National Park and a picturesque boat cruise on Lake Taupo. New Zealand's largest lake, Lake Taupo was created as a result of a volcanic eruption in 181 A.D.

During this approximately 3.5-hour tour, take a breath-taking, 30-minute helicopter flight over the Huka Falls, Wairakei Geothermal Power Station region, Mt. Tauhara, Maori rock carvings and the northern shores of Lake Taupo. Upon landing at the Taupo Boat Harbour, embark the Waianiwa for a buffet lunch served on board whilst cruising on the lake. Before returning to the Taupo Marina, you are invited to fish the beautiful, clear waters of Lake Taupo.

Please note: The tour includes fishing licenses, lunch, wines and beverages. Clay target shooting is also available (weather-permitting).

Lake Taupo Fly-Fishing

Whether you are an experienced fly fisherman or a complete novice, this fly-fishing tour is both delightful and challenging. Just a short drive from the Huka Lodge, the world-renowned Tongariro River is renowned as one of the best fly-fishing rivers in the world, and New Zealand's most popular fishing attraction. Your fishing guide picks you up in a 4WD vehicle from the lodge. They provide top quality rods, reels, waders and flies. Charges begin from when your guide arrives and end upon your return to Huka Lodge. All prices are based on a maximum of two anglers per guide. Following your fly-fishing excursion, re-board the 4WD vehicle and commence the short drive back to the lodge.

Horseback-Riding

Poronui is nestled in a secluded mountain valley between Lake Taupo and the east coast plains of the Pacific Ocean. This approximately 16,000-acre (about 6,475-hectare) private estate combines pristine wilderness, forestry and innovative farming (featuring an Angus-breeding program, deer-herding and beekeeping) and is an ideal playground for country pursuits. Upon arrival, receive your safety and riding instructions, then begin your guided ride along trails that traverse native and exotic forests, cross gentle streams, wind through manuka-covered hillsides and open grasslands, and offer expansive, awe-inspiring views of diverse landscapes.

The team of horses are New Zealand station-bred; chosen for their temperament, steady gait and sure footedness. They are kept fit and well-schooled, ensuring an enjoyable riding experience for all. Poronui offers horses and trails to suit all levels of experience, from the introductory ride for the beginner to hill rides for the advanced rider. Ride into the hills and view the property from magnificent vantage points. Along the way, you may even come close to deer, feral goats, Arapawa sheep and wild turkeys. Afterward, follow the river during the homeward journey.

Half-Day Hikes

The history of this volcanic region combined with stunning scenery, fresh, clean rivers, a huge lake and strong Maori culture make it one of the most interesting areas for walking and hiking. During this panoramic hiking excursion at Tongariro National Park, an UNESCO World Heritage Site and haven for tree-lovers and birdwatchers, take a unique opportunity to marvel at a secluded, greenstone-coloured lake nestled on the side of Mt. Pihanga to the south of Taupo. This beautiful lake is fed by seven streams, is 29.5 feet (about nine meters) deep and covers 0.39 square miles (about one square kilometre).

The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure.

Dinner is at the lodge.

Overnight in a Junior Lodge Suite at the Huka Lodge - Taupo.

DAY THREE - Taupo/Rotorua/Auckland

After breakfast at the hotel, depart the lodge for the short drive to the nearby Huka Falls. This thundering, 36-foot-high (about 11-metre-high) waterfall is the most visited and photographed natural attraction in New Zealand, and for good reason. The sheer volume of water flowing through the rock face of the mighty Waikato River amounts to approximately 58,118 gallons (about 220,000 litres) per second; enough to fill one Olympic-sized swimming pool in 11 seconds.

Huka Falls Walking Tour

During your guided trek, follow the paths alongside the river and visit the different viewing platforms, each of which offers splendid views of the falls from different angles. 'Huka' is the Maori word for 'foam', and, upon arrival at the Huka Falls, it's easy to understand why.

Tahorakuri Forest, Waimangu, Waiotapu, Te Puia Thermal Reserve

Next, re-board your coach and continue towards Rotorua, through the Tahorakuri Forest, and past the thermal areas of Waimangu (Black Water) and Waiotapu (Sacred Waters). A Maori guide welcomes your arrival at the the Te Puia Thermal Reserve. Maori have called the geothermal valley of Whakarewarewa home for over 25 generations. Marvel at this natural landscape of gushing waters, steaming vents and boiling earth.

Maori Arts and Crafts Centre, Lunch

Further along, at the Maori Arts and Crafts Centre, immerse yourself in Maori culture as you watch the Maori carvers and weavers at work. Experience a Maori cultural performance, which includes the world-famous 'haka', a war dance designed to frighten an enemy, and intricate hand games that are used to train young warriors. Your lunch showcases indigenous flavours and local produce cooked utilising traditional methods over steam vents.

Countryside, Mountain Ranges, River, Marae of Turangawaewae

After lunch, re-board your coach for a drive through the countryside, which becomes increasingly rugged as the road climbs over the densely-forested Mamaku Ranges. Pass Taupiri, the sacred mountain to the Tainui Maori tribe of this region, Ngaruawahia and the Marae of Turangawaewae, official residence of the Maori King. Your drive continues along New Zealand's longest river en route to Auckland.

Upon arrival in Auckland, drive to the pier and embark the ship.

Please note: This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.24 miles (two kilometres), at times over uneven, cobblestone, rocky, grassy, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat, and many steps at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with back and/or neck problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to seasickness, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, insect repellent, raingear, a bathing suit, and camera from the ship; a jacket is required for men during dinners at the Huka Lodge. There may be sulphur-like smell of 'rotten eggs' in Rotorua; however, it quickly diminishes and is not harmful. The tour sequence and itinerary may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

The local currency is New Zealand Dollar; however Australian dollars and US dollars are accepted by some vendors; local ATMs are available in most locations visited.

Programme Includes:

• Two-night stay in a Junior Lodge Suite at the Huka Lodge - Taupo
• Two full country breakfasts
• Two lunches, including a choice of two drinks (house wine, local beers, soft drinks, bottled water)
• Two dinners, including Pre-dinner drinks and canapés, and a choice of two drinks (house wine, local beers, soft drinks, bottled water)
• Maori cultural performance
• Cellar tour
• Wine tasting
• All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary

Not Included:

Any meals and drinks not specified above, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation insurance, and other personal items. All Land Adventures require a minimum number of participants in order to operate as described. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Silversea's published cruise cancellation policy will remain in effect. All Land Adventure fares are subject to change, and are not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. Onboard Spending Credit may not be applied to the purchase of this programme. All Land Adventures are non-transferable and non-refundable within 90 days of sailing. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older. All Land Adventures are owned by independent contractors and Silversea makes no representations and assumes no responsibility for the services provided by these operators. Land Adventures may be modified by the operators at their sole discretion.