Auckland, New Zealand

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Auckland, New Zealand.

Auckland, New Zealand.

Blending beachy recreation with all the delights of a modern, diverse, and thoroughly multicultural city, Auckland sits on the lucid blue-green waters of New Zealand’s North Island.

Known as the “City of Sails”, its two harbors will tempt you with waterfront walks and the chance to breathe fresh sea air deep into your lungs while absorbing spectacular views of Auckland’s grand harbor bridge span.

Take in the true scale of Auckland’s magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 meters to the Sky Tower, and looking out over the city’s gleaming silver towers, which reflect on the abundant waters below. Views over the bay and adjacent islands await, and you can share elegant cocktails at this dizzying height, above the mingling yachts of Viaduct Harbour.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area at Auckland Art Gallery, Toi o Tāmaki. Set beside tranquil fountains and handsomely landscaped flowerbeds in Albert Park, the French Renaissance building houses New Zealand’s most extensive art collection and exhibits works by Māori and Pacific artists.

New Zealand is world-renowned for its captivating natural scenery, and day trips across the sparkling bays to nearby islands like Waiheke, Tiritiri Matangi, and Rangitoto are always tempting. Discover lava caves, grape-laden vineyards, and flourishing wildlife in the Hauraki Gulf’s islands. You’ll also find an exceptional 360-degree panorama of the city and the horizon beyond from the heights of ancient Mount Eden. The spectacular dormant volcano rises improbably from a city suburb and also lends its name to Eden Park – the unusual, translucent stadium of New Zealand’s mighty All Blacks.

Today’s Excursion – Devonport & North Shore

Devonport & North Shore

We discovered historic Devonport and the lovely north shore of central Auckland during this panoramic sightseeing excursion.

Auckland, Iconic City Landmarks, North Head, Volcanic Formation, Yachts & Sailboats

We depart the pier for a scenic drive from central Auckland to the beautiful suburb of Devonport. We took in unsurpassed views of Auckland City and its iconic landmarks, then headed towards Takapuna. A photo stop is made at North Head, part of the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park, for sweeping views of Auckland and its harbour. Yachts and colourful sailboats dot the seascape below as you look down from atop an old volcanic formation. This area was the site of 19th-century harbour fortifications, with a number of military tunnels and bunkers still in place today.

Mount Victoria, MK VII Gun, Spectacular Views

Next, our drive continued on to Mount Victoria, the tallest volcano on Auckland’s North Shore and once the site of a Māori settlement. See the MK VII, eight-inch disappearing gun, and take in spectacular, 360-degree vistas over the north Peninsula, Devonport, and Auckland. Leaving Mount Victoria, proceed to Devonport, a charming village that feels like a step back in time.

Devonport, Guided Tour, Free Time, Shopping and Exploration, Ferry-Ride

One of the oldest settlements in New Zealand, this quaint suburb on the north Peninsula is noted for its wooden colonial architecture. Upon arrival, we took a guided orientation tour of Devonport. Afterward, some free time was available to stroll the village streets, browse galleries and boutiques, or simply relax with a refreshment at a café. At the conclusion of the tour, our driver-guide provided us with ferry tickets for our return to the ship.

Tonight’s Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.