Crown Princess - October 18, 2024

New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.

Tauranga is located in the Bay of Plenty and is the region's largest residential and commercial area, boasting profuse sunshine and a fertile landscape. The township is the center of a large kiwifruit and citrus growing area and houses a population of approximately 91,000 people, including those residing in Mount Maunganui.

In 1931 a disastrous earthquake destroyed the city. The earthquake heaved 40 square kilometres of water covered land above sea level. Rebuilding began, resulting in Napier becoming the art deco capital. With Napier being a coastal town there are a wide variety of water sports, fishing trips, pleasure cruises and also night cruises which are very popular. Other activities include windsurfing, jet skiing, kayaking, canoeing and parasailing - all available on the waterfront.

Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand / Aotearoa. It is also the cultural, administrative and political center of the country. Two aspects of the city that will immediately strike any visitor are the sprawling harbour and the dramatic, hilly terrain. Everywhere you go, the sounds and smell of the ocean hang in the air, and green hills and valleys wrap you in a bear-hug embrace.

Picton is in one of the sunniest parts of New Zealand, the upper South Island. One of Picton's attractions (besides the port) is the fact that it sports what may be the only remaining miniature golf course in NZ.

Say 'G'day' to one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Stroll along the world-famous Bondi and Watsons Beaches. Tour the Sydney Opera House on Bennelong Point, shop for Aboriginal art, or go on a photographic safari. This diverse land is home to crocodiles, koalas, emus, and, of course, kangaroos.