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.