New Zealand Splendours, Mt. Cook & Christchurch - Cruise & Land Journey: 17 days Auckland to Christchurch

Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Home to around a third of the population, Auckland is a stylish, cosmopolitan centre set around two grand harbours. It’s packed with fascinating museums, world-class art galleries and stylish shops featuring local designers.

Your ultra-luxury Scenic Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II, will be waiting for you in Auckland Harbour. As you step on board, you’ll be greeted with a glass of Champagne, setting the tone for your unforgettable Signature Yacht Cruise. Meet the Captain and crew before you set sail into the azure waters of the South Pacific. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Auckland prior to 02:00 PM.

With its pale sandy beaches, vine-draped hills and clear Hauraki Gulf waters, Waiheke has long been regarded as one of the world’s most appealing island retreats. Popular with day trippers arriving by ferry from Auckland, it sees only a select number of smaller cruise vessels anchoring off its gently folded coastline, preserving a relaxed, village-like feel. You might follow a headland path shaded by crimson-flowering pohutukawa, paddle between sheltered bays by kayak, or linger over tastings at boutique estates to understand why Waiheke is often described as New Zealand’s “Island of Wine”.

This evening, perhaps visit Elements for dinner, where Italian specialities and regional wines complement the day's vineyard discoveries. 

Begin your morning at sea with a refreshing dip in the Vitality pool on Deck 10, followed by a leisurely coffee at the Observation Lounge. Alternatively, join an early guided meditation session, embracing the tranquillity of the open sea.     

Every day on board Scenic Eclipse II, a true culinary journey awaits, with up to 10 extraordinary all-inclusive culinary experiences and eight bars and lounges. You may decide to return to the Yacht Club for lunch, or opt for Azure Bar & Café, where you can graze throughout the day.    

As dusk falls, the hardest decision you have to make is in which direction to wander. Elements is the main dining experience, where the menu ranges from Italian to steak and seafood. Channel the spirit of Asia at Koko’s Asian Fusion, which also comes with a sushi bar and private Night Market+ experience. Journey to France at Lumière+, complete with a Champagne bar, or dine in the privacy of your suite, choosing from a comprehensive 24-hour menu.

Arriving in Napier, it can feel as though the clock has paused in the 1930s. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, the city centre was almost entirely rebuilt in the Art Deco style of the era, with clean lines, pastel facades and geometric detailing. Today, its palm-lined streets, sunlit promenades and carefully preserved buildings create one of the world’s finest concentrations of authentic Art Deco architecture, complemented by a relaxed café culture and easy access to Hawke’s Bay’s acclaimed vineyards. 

Later, after sailing, visit the open bridge on Deck 7 to meet the Captain and navigational team, and gain first-hand insight into a Scenic Discovery Yacht’s state-of-the-art technology from one of the most inspiring vantage points on board.

It’s worth waking up early this morning so you can experience the Marlborough Sounds as you sail into Picton. Ask your butler to deliver coffee to your suite so you can soak it in from your private verandah.   

Spend the day in Picton, a picturesque town that looks almost tropical with its towering palm trees and clear turquoise water. Wander the pretty waterfront promenade, lined with shops, cafes and galleries, or visit the museum inside the Edwin Fox convict ship, dry docked offshore. Picton is a short drive from the famous Marlborough wine region, which produces around two-thirds of New Zealand’s wine.

This evening, perhaps enjoy fine French dining at Lumière+, where Champagne and elegant cuisine echo the sophistication of the Marlborough region.

Scenic Eclipse II will call at two ports in the Tasman Bay today. Kaiteriteri is arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful beach, a perfect arc of golden sand fronting startling blue water. It’s also the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, a gorgeous coastal park known for its sea kayaking, walks and wildlife.  
 
It’s just a short cruise to the city of Nelson, one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand. It’s bursting with open-air cafes, bustling markets, breweries, cycling trails and the pretty Botanic Gardens. Enjoy a later departure tonight, giving you a chance to experience a little Kiwi hospitality after dark.

Return on board for a nightcap at the Sky Bar, where the evening extends with cocktails and conversation under the stars.

You’ll arrive in Kaikoura later this morning. This tiny town sits in a spectacular natural environment, flanked by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the snow-capped Seaward Kaikoura Range on the other.   The town began life as a whaling station in the mid 1800s; visit the oldest surviving building, Fyffe House, or the Kaikoura Museum to learn more about its history. It’s also an ideal place for wildlife encounters. Whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in these waters, and an impressive array of seabirds fill the air, including the mighty albatross.  This evening, relax at the Observation Lounge with a book, or gather with fellow guests at the Scenic Lounge Bar to share the day's wildlife encounters.

Arrive this morning in Akaroa, site of New Zealand’s only successful French settlement. Established by French settlers in 1840, it still carries its heritage lightly with French street names, characterful cottages and a Gallic note in some of its cafés and cuisine. Akaroa also looks over a sheltered harbour frequented by rare Hector’s dolphins, and is framed by an historic lighthouse and rolling green hillsides.  Back on board, tonight could be the night you enjoy Night Market @ Koko's+ with new friends. Stay up late at the Scenic Lounge Bar or retire to the Observation Lounge library for a moment of blissful solitude before bed.

Wake to the serene beauty of Dusky Sound as Scenic Eclipse II gently cruises through one of New Zealand’s largest and most dramatic fjords. Towering rainforest-clad cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and mist-covered peaks create a breathtaking backdrop. Accessible only by sea or air, this remote wilderness offers a rare and intimate cruising experience, setting a tranquil tone for the day ahead.

Whilst at sea, spend your afternoon on board your Scenic Discovery Yacht in the indulgent Senses Spa on Deck 6. Inside this luxurious retreat you can be pampered with a range of ESPA treatments# as well as alternative therapies like Tibetan bowl sound healing. After your treatment, cool off in the Vitality Pool or warm up in the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge.  

In the evening, up to 10 extraordinary culinary experiences await. From contemporary French fine dining at Lumière+ to the freshest Japanese at the Sushi & Saké Bar @ Koko's, you'll experience a remarkable culinary journey.   

Step into history as you cruise Doubtful Sound, named by Captain Cook in 1770 when its narrow entrance persuaded him to sail elsewhere. Today, its breathtaking beauty remains wonderfully secluded, offering a serene escape. Glide past towering cliffs, keep an eye out for playful bottlenose dolphins, and perhaps spot the elusive Fiordland crested penguin along the shore.

Later, gather at Azure Bar & Café for a casual lunch with panoramic views, or retreat to your suite where your butler can arrange afternoon tea on your private verandah.

The rugged West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island offers some of the country’s most stunning scenery. You’ll cruise through Fiordland National Park, which covers more than 1.2 million hectares of granite peaks, shimmering lakes, deep black fjords and spectacular waterfalls. 

Rudyard Kipling described Milford Sound as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. The best way to experience the sound is from the water and today Scenic Eclipse II will cruise slowly through this spectacular place, coming close to land so you can admire the waterfalls tumbling from 1,000-metre cliffs and look out for seals sunning themselves on the rocks. You may like to join fellow guests on the Sky Deck to watch the magic unfold over a cocktail. 

Stewart Island sits 30 kilometres off the southern tip of the South Island. It is one of the last inhabited outposts before you reach Antarctica. Its only settlement, the tiny village of Oban, clings bravely to the northern shore.    

This is New Zealand off the grid, a remote place of spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. The island is a haven for many birds, including the cute and curious brown kiwi, who outnumber humans and are active day and night. The Mãori name for Stewart Island is Rakiura, which means the land of glowing skies.

Return on board for dinner at Koko's Asian Fusion for a vibrant contrast to the island's tranquillity, before live music brings your evening to a gentle close.

Wake up in Port Chalmers, the gateway to Dunedin, one of New Zealand’s most historic cities. Founded in 1848, it has a proud Scottish lineage – in fact, Dunedin takes its name from the old Gaelic for Edinburgh, Dùn Èideann. Stroll the well-preserved streets to admire grand Victorian and Edwardian architecture, much of it built on wealth from the Otago gold rush.

Outside town, the surrounding Otago Peninsula is regarded as one of the country’s leading wildlife and eco-tourism destinations, where you can keep a look out for abundant birdlife, penguins, seals and sea lions.

This evening, perhaps indulge in a treatment# at the Senses Spa, or enjoy a leisurely dinner in your suite, where your butler can create an intimate dining experience tailored to your preferences.

This morning, your Signature Yacht Cruise comes to an end in Timaru, a coastal town known for its easy pace and position on the South Island’s eastern shore. After a final breakfast on board, continue inland towards the wide open landscapes of the Mackenzie Country. Along the way, stop at the Church of the Good Shepherd, set on the edge of Lake Tekapo, before travelling on to Aoraki / Mount Cook. Here, a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre offers insight into the region and the legacy of one of New Zealand’s most celebrated explorers, before an overnight stay in this remarkable alpine setting.

This morning, encounter New Zealand’s largest glacier, the Tasman, on a cruise across the terminal lake in custom-built MAC boats with experienced guides. Explore and learn about the ever-changing glacial landscape as you weave among icebergs on this unique alpine experience.

Leave Mt Cook and travel north across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island and known as the “Garden City” for its extensive parks and gardens. This evening meet your local Maori guide for a progressive dinner, visiting the modern New Zealand restaurants for seasonal local produce while you hear stories of how early maori lived. Enjoy a two-night stay in Christchurch.

Scenic Freechoice:
Today, enhance your Christchurch stay with your choice of one of the following Scenic Freechoice activities.   Punting on the Avon: Enjoy one of Christchurch’s iconic tourist attractions as a skilled punter propels you along the Avon River. Travel past trailing willows, woodlands and the leafy banks of the Botanic Gardens or through the city of Christchurch on board a classic punt. 
 
Botanic Gardens Tour: Explore the Botanic Gardens including commentary by your expert guide and driver. Discover the natural beauty, history and culture of this central city oasis while at the same time being taken around the gardens in comfort and style. 
 
Akaroa Day Trip with Nature Cruise: Explore the historic French settlement of Akaroa, set on a long harbour, surrounded by volcanic hills, and experience majestic scenery and stunning wildlife on a two-hour nature harbour cruise. 
 
International Antarctic Centre: Take a ride on the Penguin Express to the Antarctic Centre. The centre provides an exciting experience where you can discover the enchanting penguins, seals and other wildlife and learn about life on this vast continent. 
 
TranzAlpine: Join the TranzAlpine this morning for your rail journey across the Southern Alps. One of the world’s great train journeys, TranzAlpine takes you from coast to coast across the South Island. Along the way, you’ll pass the patchwork countryside and braided rivers of the Canterbury Plains and the gorges and valleys of the Waimakariri River. Return to Christchurch early evening. 

It’s time to bid a fond farewell to your new friends head home with stories for life.

#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates. 
+All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.  
^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.

Submersible not in operation in New Zealand. 

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.