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New Zealand Coastal Odyssey

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New Zealand Coastal Odyssey

11-Day Expedition Cruise - Auckland to Bluff

New Zealand Coastal Odyssey Aboard Heritage Adventurer

Enjoy an 11-day New Zealand Coastal Odyssey expedition cruise exploring all three main islands aboard the Heritage Adventurer, a vessel specifically designed for navigating New Zealand's intricate 15,000-kilometer coastline.

The voyage visits iconic destinations including Milford Sound's dramatic fiords, Rotorua's geothermal wonders, Wellington, Dunedin, Queenstown, and the wildlife-rich Stewart Island, plus charming seaside towns like French-influenced Akaroa.

Guests enjoy exceptional wildlife encounters including whale watching, dolphin sightings, rare endemic birds, and albatross colonies, alongside gourmet experiences featuring award-winning New Zealand wines and cuisine.

This comprehensive expedition combines natural wonders, cultural history, and adventure activities while accessing remote bays and secluded areas through Zodiac cruising.

Book now and save up to 50% OFF this New Zealand Coastal Odyssey!

*Pricing correct as at 19 August 2025 and subject to change.

For more information or to book please contact Vanessa by phone 0800 785 386 or email vanessa@pukekohetravel.nz

Your travel itinerary

Tuesday 04 November

Auckland

Make your way to Auckland’s cruise terminal located in the ‘City of Sails’ picturesque Waterfront this afternoon and board Heritage Adventurer. Settle into your accommodation and familiarise yourself with the ship before joining the expedition team in the Observation Lounge and up on the Observation Deck as we set our course to Tauranga and our adventure begins.

Wednesday 05 November

Tauranga/Rotorua

From our berth in Tauranga we drive inland, passing the rich horticultural region of the Bay of Plenty as we travel to the geothermal heartland of Rotorua. Marvel at the abundance of steam vents, geysers and bubbling mud pools as we explore one of the most geologically active regions on the planet and experience Māori arts, crafts and culture

Thursday 06 November

At Sea

Sailing down the scenic North Island, enjoy a day at sea attending lectures, relaxing on board or looking for whales and dolphins from the Observation Deck, Lounge and Bridge as we sail to Wellington.

Friday 07 November

Wellington

New Zealand’s ‘coolest little capital’, Wellington is an exceptional natural harbour, where Heritage Adventurer will be docked in the centre of the action. From here you can easily explore this vibrant city. Visit the cable car, explore the world-renowned Zealandia nature reserve, discover the Botanic Gardens and visit Te Papa New Zealand’s national museum.

Saturday 08 November

Kaikoura

World famous for its abundant wildlife, seafood and, recently, dark sky status this picturesque small coastal town boasts a plethora of things to do. Take a walk along the Hinau Track, Point Kean Viewpoint and observe the colony of New Zealand Fur seals and seabirds or continue on to Whalers Bay Lookout. If you’re a keen hiker the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway combines stunning wildlife and views while the quirky town includes fascinating shops, museum and galleries to explore.

Sunday 09 November

Akaroa

Heritage Adventurer will make her way through the Akaroa heads and anchor in the sheltered waters off Canterbury’s largest harbour. It was here, beneath the eroded volcanic hills of Banks Peninsula, that the French attempted to settle in 1840. The French connection remains to this day with a certain je ne sais quoi imbibing the township of Akaroa. Explore Akaroa, greater Banks Peninsula or one of the local nature walks.

Monday 10 November

Dunedin

This morning sail into the beautiful Otago Harbour, watch closely for Northern Royal Albatross at the Tairoa Head Albatross Colony. Explore the famed fashion-forward city of Dunedin, the Edinburgh of the south, and its rich history as the gateway to Otago. Explore the scenic Otago Peninsula where New Zealand Sea Lions rest and former Bird of the Year Yellow-eyed Penguins/Hoiho can be spotted in one of their last mainland strongholds, and where the beautiful, farmed hills roll down towards white sand beaches.

Tuesday 11 November

Stewart Island

New Zealand’s third island is well off the usual beaten tourist track. It is a wonderfully tranquil place; the scenery of untouched bushland is stunning. We will enjoy a morning exploring Ulva Island which is rich in history and wildlife, being a predator-free island since 1997 the bird song and wildlife is some of the best. In Paterson Inlet you will have time to explore the sandy beaches of Boulder Bay and West End Beach or just enjoy some time around Post Office Bay and Sydney Cove. Some of the wildlife you may get to see while walking the tracks on Ulva Island include Stewart Island Robin, Stewart Island Weka, South Island Kaka, Kereru (Wood Pigeon), Mohua (Yellowhead), Redcrowned Parakeet, Fantail, Bellbird and Tui. There are many more species that may also be seen, our knowledgeable expedition guides will be listening for bird calls and keeping a close watch in overhead canopies and the surrounding shrubs to identify further species. During our time in Paterson Inlet there will also be the opportunity to explore the quirky town centre Oban in Halfmoon Bay where a drink with a view can be enjoyed at the iconic South Sea Hotel. There are also some beautiful walks in the surrounding forests.

Wednesday 12 November

Fiordland

We have two days to explore the incredible wilderness of Fiordland in the south-west corner of the South Island. This is an area rich in history, majestic scenery and abundant in wildlife. Fiordland was well known to local Māori, with the demi-god Tu-terakiwhanoa being said to have used his adze, Te Hamo, to carve out the region’s fiords. Captain Cook and his crew landed here on HMS Resolution in 1773, they were the first Europeans to visit Fiordland, subsequently spending five weeks in Dusky Sound. Cook’s records of his discovery and maps attracted sealers and whalers. Historically this region is very important and shaped the future of the country. Fiordland’s coast is only accessible by sea, making it the most remote region of New Zealand’s mainland. Waterfalls, streams, rivers, and fiords are enveloped with misty veils that come and go, revealing steep gradients of mountain peaks and sheltered valleys. A rugged terrain, the thickly forested floors are covered with ferns, lichens, and mosses. Bottlenose Dolphins, Fiordland Crested Penguins and Little Blue Penguins are all residents of the fiords; during our time here we will look for them. Our schedule gives us the flexibility to visit as much as possible, areas we plan to explore include Doubtful, Dusky and Milford Sound, Acheron Passage, Astronomer’s Point and Pickersgill Harbour. Enjoy a stunning sunset cruise in one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations, Milford Sound. During our time in Dusky Sound there will be the optional opportunity to experience an unforgettable helicopter flight through the Sound swooping down alongside Cooper Island and Cook Channel with a landing on Mt Pender where spectacular vistas across constellations of islands stretching into the horizon and dotting the winding fiords can be enjoyed. Our final plan will be determined by the weather. The Captain and Expedition Leader will work hard to make the best use of our time in this incredible region of New Zealand, including areas that a few New Zealanders have visited.

Thursday 13 November

Fiordland

We have two days to explore the incredible wilderness of Fiordland in the south-west corner of the South Island. This is an area rich in history, majestic scenery and abundant in wildlife. Fiordland was well known to local Māori, with the demi-god Tu-terakiwhanoa being said to have used his adze, Te Hamo, to carve out the region’s fiords. Captain Cook and his crew landed here on HMS Resolution in 1773, they were the first Europeans to visit Fiordland, subsequently spending five weeks in Dusky Sound. Cook’s records of his discovery and maps attracted sealers and whalers. Historically this region is very important and shaped the future of the country. Fiordland’s coast is only accessible by sea, making it the most remote region of New Zealand’s mainland. Waterfalls, streams, rivers, and fiords are enveloped with misty veils that come and go, revealing steep gradients of mountain peaks and sheltered valleys. A rugged terrain, the thickly forested floors are covered with ferns, lichens, and mosses. Bottlenose Dolphins, Fiordland Crested Penguins and Little Blue Penguins are all residents of the fiords; during our time here we will look for them. Our schedule gives us the flexibility to visit as much as possible, areas we plan to explore include Doubtful, Dusky and Milford Sound, Acheron Passage, Astronomer’s Point and Pickersgill Harbour. Enjoy a stunning sunset cruise in one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations, Milford Sound. During our time in Dusky Sound there will be the optional opportunity to experience an unforgettable helicopter flight through the Sound swooping down alongside Cooper Island and Cook Channel with a landing on Mt Pender where spectacular vistas across constellations of islands stretching into the horizon and dotting the winding fiords can be enjoyed. Our final plan will be determined by the weather. The Captain and Expedition Leader will work hard to make the best use of our time in this incredible region of New Zealand, including areas that a few New Zealanders have visited.

Friday 14 November

Invercargill/Queenstown

Early this morning we will arrive in the Port of Bluff. After a final breakfast we bid farewell to our fellow voyagers and take a complimentary coach transfer to either Invercargill or Queenstown Airports. In case of unexpected delays due to weather and/or port operations we ask you not to book any onward travel until after midday from Invercargill and after 3pm from Queenstown.

Inclusions

  • Post cruise transfers
  • Unlimited drinks package and gratuities
  • All on board ship accommodation with meals, house beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and idnner and all inclused expedition shore excursions
  • Programme of lectures by noted naturalists.

Cost

Cost Per Person *
Auckland - Queenstown		Twin ShareSingle Supplement
Superior (Deck 4) From $8,905  
Main Deck Single (Deck 3)   From $9,220

*This is a cash price. Credit cards will incur a 1.5% fee. Itinerary and costs subject to change, airline and fuel charges and currency fluctuations prior to final payment. Price correct as at 19 August 2025 and subject to change.

Exclusions

All items of a personal nature & laundry. Helicopter excursion. International/domestic flights, visas and travel insurance.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is recommended. Please feel free to contact us for a quote.

Ship Information

Heritage Adventurer

Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Often referred to as the ‘Grande Dame of Polar Exploration’ due to her celebrated history and refined design, she was purpose-built for adventure in 1991 at Finland’s Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration.

  • Year Built: 1991 
  • Guest Capacity: 140
  • Length: 124 m

 

Superior Deck 4 (Twin or Double)
Superior Cabins on Deck 4 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private ensuite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Main Deck Single
Main Deck Single Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m2 and feature two porthole windows, king bed, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.


Note: Pukekohe Travel reserves the right to correct errors and omissions on our website without recourse.
* Itinerary subject to change

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