We started the cruise with after a day at sea stop in Melbourne then 3 sea days to get to Australia. The third sea day we entered The Sounds, which kind of reminded me of Tracy’s Arm in Alaska. Unfortunately the day we sailed through the Sounds it was foggy and rainy, yet that added its own mystical ambiance. No two days are ever alike anyway, so it was dramatic seeing the low hanging clouds on the towering mountains, with the rain increasing the intensity of the waterfalls.
After three lovely days on the boat we finally arrived and set foot on New Zealand Land. As the tourism site says:
“Our stunning landscapes and friendly locals are closer than you think. Wake up in a place where something new awaits you every day.”
This couldn’t be truer! Our first stop was Dunedin a very Scottish Village. We took the Heritage Tour Dunedin City, which is regarded as one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the southern hemisphere and has the steepest street in the world. The highlight was Jacobean-styled, Olveston House. Built-in 1907 by famed architect, Sir Ernest George on behalf of the wealthy merchant, David Theomin. After a spectacular tour of 23 rooms in the house, all with the original furnishings, artwork, and amenities we explored Port Chalmers where we enjoyed a fantastic lunch with an amazing zero proof beer. ( We were not allowed to take pictures inside the house)
Our next stop was the ultimately charming port of Akaroa where we spent the day browsing ( and buying ) in the shops and dined at a wonderful seaside restaurant. We had to tender in to this port so was able to get a beautiful shot of the boat
Will write more soon …but just to let everyone know we are having a great time and the country is spectacular!
Camp Brusha 