Best of Both Worlds

Explore everything Auckland has to offer, from the urbane vitality of city life to the untouched tranquility of the countryside. For those cruise guests staying in Auckland after your cruise, you can take advantage of this tour from your hotel. You'll spend the morning enjoying the hustle and bustle of New Zealand's largest city, seeing the City of Sails in action, and visiting a volcanic cone in the northern suburbs with 360-degree views of the ocean and city. You'll also drive up busy Queen Street and learn about history of Auckland from your experienced driver guide. A half-hour bus ride will whisk you to the lush wilderness, where the sights of skyscrapers will be replaced with towering kauri trees and a dramatic black sand beach. Enjoy breathtaking bird's eye views of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean from the lookout at the Arataki Centre, and learn about flora and fauna from a knowledgeable tour guide as he leads you through the easy nature trails in the lush, untouched wilderness of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. During this next part of your New Zealand tour, keep your eyes open for surfers at Piha Beach; this beach is the birthplace of New Zealand board riding. By the time you arrive, the black sands of Piha Beach should be warm in the afternoon sun, which, as it hangs lower over the water, will make for a beautiful photo opportunity. This Auckland city tour includes afternoon tea before returning you to the city in time for dinner, at 5:30 p.m. If what you want is the best of the area's urban and rural highlights, then this is the tour for you. PLEASE NOTE: This tour is best suited for guests if your ship is departing the port at 7:00 PM or later.