New Zealand 2023 - Wild Earth Travel by Heritage Expeditions / Wild Earth Travel

2022/23 wild earth travel

new zealand

D EA RT

ABOARD HERITAGE ADVENTURER

$A PRICINU G C LU SIVE

Welcome to Wild Earth Travel! Our journeys, whether land or cruise, are all about the most important element - where you are going. We believe in finding our travellers incredible experiences throughout the world and in the far reaches of our great backyard. Aboard a Wild Earth voyage you are always in great hands, with expert staff on board who share their enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge. Step aboard for an adventure like no other, and be assured that Wild Earth has the voyage for you.

Small ships, big experiences Wild Earth Travel offers the most comprehensive collection of small ship and expedition cruising worldwide. We’ve been intimately involved with this style of cruising for nearly three decades, and the range of itineraries, options and ships continues to evolve rapidly. We’ve spent years aboard many of these ships leading voyages, operating and designing itineraries and have developed an intimate knowledge of the ships, their capabilities and the destinations to which they travel. Our extensive experience and passion for this style of travel ensures you the opportunity to speak directly with an expert. Our team is always available to discuss itinerary and ship selections, cabin options and other details you require to ensure your ultimate satisfaction. The voyages we have hand picked for inclusion in this brochure are a selection of New Zealand voyages onboard the expedition ship Heritage Adventurer. We believe these voyages are some of the best ways to see New Zealand, with the freedom of the seas and visiting small harbours in out the way coves and fiords. We are pleased to be able to sell these voyages exclusively in Australian dollars. If New Zealand is not your dream destination, contact us about other coastal adventures. If there is a coast, we have a small ship or expedition cruise for you. Please check out our website for a full list of ships, departures and destinations: wildearth-travel.com We encourage you to contact us or speak to your travel agent about the options that Wild Earth has available. We are always pleased to share our knowledge and experience to ensure you have the experience of a lifetime. With over 1,000 small ships to choose from, we are confident we can find you your dream getaway.

Introducing Heritage Adventurer Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree often referred to as the ‘Grande Dame of Polar Exploration’.

naturalists, botanists, historians and experts as they interpret the natural and human history discovered during each voyage, as well as hosting regular lectures.

Purpose built for adventure in 1991 at Finland’s Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration, Heritage Adventurer (formerly known as MS Hanseatic) is 124-metres long, boasts the highest passenger-ship iceclass rating (1A Super) and an impressive history of Polar and remote region exploration making her perfect for Heritage Expeditions signature experiential expedition travel.

And should you require a little R&R, unwind in the library, pool, gym, hot tub, sauna and steam room, indulge in some retail therapy or find a quiet place to enjoy a coffee or cocktail from the café and bar.

Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, Heritage Expeditions welcomes just 140 expeditioners to create a spacious, comfortable on board experience and continuation of the exceptional, personalised expedition experience synonymous with the company. While a fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition experience. On board, enjoy stylish, sophisticated accommodations spanning 4 decks, visit the captain and crew in the Bridge with an Open Bridge Policy and dine on gourmet fare from leading Australasian chefs. Watch your adventure unfold from numerous spectacular indoor and outdoor viewing locations including Heritage Adventurer’s famed Observation Lounge resplendent with 270-degree views and join our world-renowned team of

WELCOME ON BOARD True to her origins as an iconic, purpose-built expedition ship, Heritage Adventurer wraps stylish, contemporary surrounds in a striking, ice-reinforced vessel to create an unrivalled platform for exploration. On board discover spacious, wellappointed accommodations, visit the captain and crew in the Bridge with our Open Bridge Policy, dine on international gourmet fare from leading chefs across two restaurants and celebrate the day’s activities in the Bar and Lounge. Watch your adventure unfold from numerous spectacular viewing locations including Heritage Adventurer’s famed Observation Lounge resplendent with 270-degree views. Discover the relaxed atmosphere of the Bar and Lounge, or head outside on the stylish teak decks of the open-topped Observation Deck and numerous weather protected locations including the expansive space aft of Deck 6. Join our world-renowned team of naturalists, botanists, historians and experts as they interpret the natural and human history uncovered during your voyage, as well as hosting regular lectures in the Presentation Theatre. Should you require a little R&R, unwind in the library, heated salt water pool, well-equipped gym, enclosed hot tub, sauna and steam room, indulge in some retail therapy or find a quiet place to enjoy a coffee or wine.

EXCEPTIONAL VIEWS

Observation Lounge – One of the most celebrated and best-known features of Heritage Adventurer is the aweinducing Observation Lounge, Library and Bar. Located on Deck 7 and perched directly above the Bridge, enjoy sweeping 270-degree views through floor to ceiling windows, perfect for wildlife spotting and quick access to the outer deck. Bring your binoculars to spot wildlife, observe the ever-changing landscape, write in your journal or relax with a book. Observation Deck – Enjoy 360-degree views from the highest point on the ship. The Observation Deck sits above the Observation Lounge and provides exceptional outside viewing options. Stretching the full width of the vessel, this is the perfect spot to take in the surrounding land and seascapes. Perfect on a sunny day, recline in the comfortable sun loungers protected from the wind and elements and watch your voyage unfold. The Bridge – No expedition is complete without visiting Heritage Adventurer’s busy nerve centre. Located on Deck 6, Heritage Expeditions’ Open Bridge Policy means you are welcome to observe the Captain and crew at work while enjoying some of the ship’s best views. It’s a fascinating place to learn about navigation and vessel operations, however please note the Bridge will be closed when departing or arriving at port.

WINING AND DINING Dining Room – Indulge in fine international cuisine from our talented chefs in the lavish surrounds of our Dining Room on Deck 4. Sensational 270-degree views provide a stunning backdrop to meals here along with an international wine list featuring many outstanding regional wines. With relaxed seating arrangements, all guests can enjoy dining in a single sitting from hearty breakfasts setting you up for the day’s adventure to sumptuous lunches and multi-course evening dining. Bistro – Simple fast and delicious meals and snacks are on offer in our relaxed Bistro on Deck 6. Perfect for early risers to enjoy tea, coffee and light breakfast options the Bistro provides great views and opens directly onto a covered and heated teak-deck outdoor dining area. The Bar and Lounge – The social hub of Heritage Adventurer, the Bar and Lounge on Deck 5 features seating for all guests. Enjoy a beverage at the bar, sink into an armchair, relax on one of the many spacious loungers and watch the world go by through the panoramic windows or make new friends at the communal seating. This multitasking space also doubles as the location of daily briefings and evening recaps with the expedition team.

RELAXATION & LECTURES

The Gym – Featuring spectacular ocean views, the wellequipped gym is adjacent to the pool, hot tub and sauna in Deck 7’s wellbeing zone. Maintain your routine with an elliptical cross trainer, treadmill, rowing machine, stationary bikes, TRX as well as free weights, yoga mats and fitness balls. Towels are provided with change room and shower amenities nearby. Sauna and Steam Room – True to her Nordic origins, Heritage Adventurer features a dry-heat Finnish sauna and European steam room on Deck 7. Perfect for warming up post Polar plunge or unwinding after a day’s adventures, the sauna and steam room include change room facilities, showers and towels. Swimming Pool and Hot Tub – Surrounded by relaxed teak seating including sun loungers, the open-air saltwater pool can be heated or chilled. Encased in glass the hot tub ensures all-weather use, perfect for those who like to relax with a view following a day of exploring. Lectures and Presentations – Enjoy informative and entertaining lectures on history, biology, wildlife, and ecology in the comfort of the Presentation Theatre. With state-of-theart audio-visual equipment, our world-renowned expedition team will bring your adventure to life through interactive presentations and discussions.

ACCOMMODATION

Suites

DECK 6 | HERITAGE SUITES SIZE: 44m2 (475.SqFt)

DECK 6 | WORSLEY SUITES SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt)

Located on Deck 6, Heritage Suites are an expansive 44m2 and feature large double panoramic windows, king bed, large living area with a sofa, coffee table and chairs, large writing desk and grand marble bathroom with a double basin, bathtub and shower, floor to ceiling storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Located on Deck 6, Worsley Suites are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable chaisestyle lounge suite, writing desk, private en-suite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Superior

DECK 5 | SUPERIOR CABINS SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt)

DECK 4 | SUPERIOR CABINS SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt)

Superior Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, lounge area, writing desk, private ensuite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

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

DECK 5 | SUPERIOR SINGLE CABINS SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt)

DECK 3 | MAIN DECK SINGLE CABINS SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt)

Superior Single Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king bed, lounge area, writing desk, private en-suite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Main Deck Single Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m2 in size and feature two porthole windows, king bed, lounge area, writing desk, private ensuite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

DECK 5 | SUPERIOR TRIPLE CABINS SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt)

DECK 3 | MAIN DECK TRIPLE CABINS SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt)

Superior Triple Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, lounge area, writing desk, private en-suite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Main Deck Triple Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m2 and feature two porthole windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, lounge area, writing desk, private en-suite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Single

Triple

BEGIN YOUR ADVENTURE

NEW ZEALAND COASTAL ODYSSEY

iscover the hidden gems of Aotearoa/New Zealand and its three main islands (the North Island, South Island, and Stewart Island) on this unforgettable 11-day expedition. From the bright lights of New Zealand’s largest city to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, Dunedin’s avant garde fashion labels and the adventure playground of Queenstown this is the ultimate Kiwi adventure to experience it all.

Auckland

Gisborne Marlborough Sounds

With the 9th longest coastline in the world measuring some 15,000 kilometres you will wind through narrow fiords, circumnavigate small islands, explore secluded bays, and visit quaint seaside towns. Bordering the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and once part of Gondwanaland, New Zealand has a fascinating natural and cultural history from its first Polynesian arrivals through European settlement, early sealing and whaling and world leading conservation efforts. Places of interest include the sunken valleys and towering mountains of Fiordland (Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound); the crystalline waters, golden beaches and coves of the Bay of Islands; the diverse marine life of Hauraki Gulf; the volcanoes, hot springs and geysers of Rotorua and Tauranga; the scenic playground of Marlborough Sounds; the iconic wildlife havens of Stewart Island and nearby predator free Ulva Island; and many Kiwi towns along the way including New Zealand’s Art Deco capital the city of Napier, and the Frenchinfused village of Akaroa. Those looking for a thrilling expedition filled with wildlife encounters will enjoy observations of dolphins and whale watching, exceptional birdwatching including a number of rare endemic species and an albatross colony on the Otago Peninsula. Those with a taste for gourmet delights will enjoy experiencing some of New Zealand’s award winning cuisine including wine in Canterbury, Marlborough, and the Hawke’s Bay, and cheese in Akaroa. Heritage Adventurer is built for exploring regions like New Zealand’s intricate coastline, navigating through fiords, cruising up harbours, and allowing for Zodiac cruising to remote and isolated bays.

Rotorua / Tauranga

Fiordland

Queenstown

Napier

Akaroa Dunedin

Stewart Island

Bluff

DATES 14 – 24 November 2022

PRICES ($AU) Heritage Suite

$17,975 pp*

Worsley Suite

$13,275 pp*

Superior Single

$13,495 pp*

Superior Triple

$7,995 pp*

Superior Deck 5

$10,225 pp*

Superior Deck 4

$9,595 pp*

Main Deck Single

$12,495 pp*

Main Deck Triple

$6,995 pp*

* The price listed includes the additional landing fees and port taxes of NZ$500 (All prices above are per person in $AU).

PRICE INCLUDES Landing fees, pre/post cruise transfers, one night hotel accommodation in a twin share room (incl. dinner/breakfast), all on board ship accommodation with meals, all expedition shore excursions and beer and wine with lunch and dinner.

PRICE EXCLUDES All items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks (except those included with lunch and dinner), gratuities. International/domestic flights, visas and travel insurance.

where sea lions rest and Yellow-eyed Penguins can be spotted. Alternatively, venture towards the interior of Otago through the scenic Taieri Gorge.

Day 8: Stewart Island

ITINERARY Day 1: Auckland Make your way to Auckland and the hotel for a group dinner and get-together.

Day 2: Rotorua & Tauranga This morning, we depart Auckland and travel south through Waikato 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. Later arrive in Tauranga where the Heritage Adventurer awaits.

Day 3: Gisborne Despite being named “Poverty Bay” by Captain Cook, the region is endowed with an exceptional climate and rich soils. A visit to Eastwoodhill Arboretum in the hills is not to be missed; the result of one man’s passion and dedication this is now the National Arboretum. As we are in Ngati Porou country you will be traditionally welcomed by the iwi.

Day 4: Napier The Art Deco capital of New Zealand, the post-quake city of Napier lies at the heart of the thriving Hawkes Bay. Immerse yourself in the Art Deco world of central Napier with its quaint shops and unrivalled architecture before venturing to the world-

renowned wineries of the Hawkes Bay. Alternatively, visit the Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony.

Day 5: Marlborough Sounds This morning Heritage Adventurer sails into the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds, a beautiful labyrinth of waterways intersecting the northern shores of the South Island. Take the opportunity to explore a coastal trail through the lush regenerating forest and watch for native birds.

Day 6: Akaroa Heritage Adventurer will make her way through the Akaroa heads and anchor in the sheltered waters. It was here, beneath the eroded volcanic hills of Banks Peninsula, that the French attempted to settle in 1840. This afternoon visit the Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory and French Farm Vineyard at the head of the harbour as well as enjoy the opportunity to explore Akaroa or take one of the local nature walks.

Day 7: Dunedin This morning sail into the beautiful Otago Harbour, watch closely for Northern Royal Albatross at the Tairoa Head Albatross Colony. From our berth at Port Chalmers explore the fashionforward city of Dunedin, and its rich history as the gateway to Otago. Explore the scenic Otago Peninsula

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 from 1997. 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. There will also be the opportunity to explore the quirky town centre Oban in Halfmoon Bay.

Days 9 - 10: Fiordland We have two days to explore the incredible wilderness of Fiordland in the south-west corner of the South Island. Fiordland’s coast is only accessible by sea, making it the most remote region of New Zealand’s mainland. Our schedule gives us the flexibility to visit as much as possible, areas we plan to explore during our time in Fiordland include Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound and Acheron Passage, Astronomer’s Point and Pickersgill Harbour. 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 even few New Zealanders have visited.

Day 11: Bluff / Queenstown Arrive this morning to the port of Bluff and travel overland to Queenstown surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The voyage concludes with a drop off at Queenstown Airport or at our central hotel.

BEST OF NEW ZEALAND

iscover the best of New Zealand exploring its three main islands on this unforgettable 15-day voyage. From the ‘World’s Coolest Little Capital’ (Wellington) to Dunedin’s avant-garde fashion, the unrestrained beauty of Fiordland and Stewart Island, Art Deco glamour of Napier and the golden beaches and island conservation sancturies of the upper North Island this voyage showcases the best of New Zealand. Known as the land of the long white cloud, New Zealand features the 9th longest coastline in the world measuring 15,000 kilometres. Bordering the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and once part of Gondwanaland, New Zealand has a fascinating natural and cultural history from its first Polynesian arrivals through European settlement, early sealing and whaling and world leading conservation efforts. On this expedition, places of interest include the sunken valleys and towering mountains of Fiordland (Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound); the crystalline waters, golden beaches, and coves of the Bay of Islands; the diverse marine life of Hauraki Gulf; the scenic playground of Marlborough Sounds; the iconic wildlife havens of Stewart Island and nearby predator free Ulva Island; and the many iconic Kiwi towns along the way including the Scottish city of Dunedin, the Garden City of Christchurch, and the rich fertile soils of Gisborne. Those looking for thrilling expedition travel and wildlife encounters can enjoy observations of dolphins and whales, exceptional birdwatching including a number of rare endemic species, and an albatross colony on the Otago Peninsula. Those with an interest in plants will enjoy New Zealand’s national arboretum in Gisborne, the changing subtropical forests north to south, and the botanical gardens in Christchurch and Wellington. And if you have an interest in New Zealand agricultural, you can enjoy a farm visit in North Canterbury alongside scenic drives through New Zealand’s countryside. Heritage Adventurer is built for exploring the intricate coast of New Zealand, navigating through the fiords, cruising isolated bays and hidden gems.

Bay of Islands Great Barrier Island Auckland Gisborne Napier Nelson Wellington Marlborough Sounds Lyttelton Queenstown Fiordland Dunedin Stewart Island

Bluff

DATES 6 – 20 March 2023

PRICES ($AU) $24,475 pp*

$10,975 pp* Superior Deck 5

$13,975 pp*

Superior Deck 4

$13,275 pp*

Main Deck Single

$16,795 pp*

Main Deck Triple

$9,495 pp*

* The price listed includes the additional landing fees and port taxes of NZ$500 (All prices above are per person in $AU).

PRICE EXCLUDES All items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks (except those included with lunch and dinner), gratuities. International/domestic flights, visas and travel insurance.

Day 11: Napier The Art Deco capital of New Zealand, Napier lies at the heart of the thriving Hawkes Bay. Immerse yourself in the Art Deco world of central Napier with its shops and unrivalled architecture before venturing to the worldrenowned wineries. Alternatively visit the Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony.

Day 12: Gisborne

ITINERARY Day 1: Queenstown Make your way to Queenstown for an informal get-together at the hotel for dinner.

Day 2: Queenstown / Invercargill We have the morning free to explore Queenstown before departing for the Port of Bluff to embark Heritage Adventurer. We will sail past Ruapuke Island.

Days 3 – 4: Fiordland We have two days to explore the incredible wilderness of fiords in the south-west corner of the South Island. This is an area rich in history, majestic scenery, and abundant in wildlife. Our schedule gives us the flexibility to visit as much as possible, areas we plan to visit during our time in Fiordland include Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound and Acheron Passage, Astronomer’s Point, and Pickersgill Harbour. The isolation of Fiordland has been beneficial because its beauty remains unspoiled and its historic sites undisturbed.

Day 5: Stewart Island New Zealand’s third island is well off the usual tourist track. It is a wonderfully tranquil place. We will enjoy a morning exploring Ulva Island which is rich in wildlife, being a predator-free island. In Paterson Inlet explore the sandy beaches of Boulder Bay and West End Beach or enjoy time around Post Office Bay and Sydney Cove.

Day 6: Dunedin This morning we sail into the Otago Harbour, watch closely for Northern Royal Albatross at the Tairoa Head Albatross Colony. From our berth at Port Chalmers explore the city of Dunedin,

and the scenic Otago Peninsula where sea lions rest and Yellow-eyed penguins can be spotted. Or venture towards the interior of Otago through the scenic Taieri Gorge.

Day 7: Lyttelton Travel to the acclaimed gardens of Sir Miles Warren at Ohinetahi. Cross the Port Hills with its views across the city to explore the Botanic Gardens and the bustling post-quake city, as well as visiting some of the region’s most acclaimed private gardens of the ‘Garden City’. Alternatively, venture north to the wine region of Waipara. During our time in North Canterbury we will also visit one of the many long established sheep farming families.

Day 8: Marlborough Sounds This morning we sail into the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds, a beautiful labyrinth of waterways. Take the opportunity to explore a coastal trail through the lush regenerating forest and watch for native birds.

Day 9: Nelson The spiritual home of Heritage Expeditions and one of the best, yet seldom-visited ports of New Zealand, join your naturalists to discover the incredibly beautiful coastal scenery of the Abel Tasman National Park.

Day 10: Wellington The capital of New Zealand and an exceptional natural harbour, Heritage Adventurer will be docked in the centre of the action from where you can easily explore the vibrant city on foot. Visit the cable car, explore the world renowned Zealandia nature reserve, and visit Te Papa New Zealand’s national museum.

A visit to Eastwoodhill Arboretum in the hills behind the town is not to be missed; the result of one man’s passion and dedication this is now the National Arboretum. As we are in Ngati Porou country you will be traditionally welcomed by the iwi.

Day 13: Great Barrier Island This morning we will be discovering the hidden gem that is Great Barrier Island and Port Fitzroy. Enjoy the subtropical forests that predominate here with stands of majestic Kauri tree and a verdant understory of ferns. Take a walk along one of the trails around the harbour, or join your naturalists for a Zodiac exploration of one of the finest harbours in the north.

Day 14: Bay of Islands We spend the last day of our New Zealand discovery amongst some of the most beautiful coastal scenery to be found anywhere, as the name suggests Islands dot the bay where clear blue waters lap against golden sand beaches. It was here that much of New Zealand’s early history both Maori and European unfolded. Visit the Treaty Grounds at Waitangi and discover the regions significance.

Day 15: Auckland This morning arrive in Auckland, we will berth in the central city. You may choose to head to the airport or continue your exploration of Auckland.

UNSEEN FIORDLAND, STEWART ISLAND & THE SNARES

xplore New Zealand’s remote southern backyard on this special voyage. Discover the time-forgot rawness of wildlife rich Stewart and Ulva Islands before exploring the primordial majesty of Fiordland where clouds scud ragged peaks of glacier-cleaved mountains only accessible by expedition ship. Rich in history and wildlife, Stewart and Ulva Islands are home to a unique range of birdlife including Bellbird, Tui, Kaka, Tomtit, Rifleman, Stewart Island Robin, Saddleback, Mohua and of course, the Stewart Island Brown Kiwi. There will be opportunities to listen to the native bird song and enjoy the golden sandy beaches, before taking the time to take a closer look at the history of Paterson Inlet. As we expedition cruise up the lower west side of New Zealand’s South Island, we prepare for the grand scale scenery of Fiordland. In the calm waters of Fiordland, and away from the crowds, we can expect to encounter playful New Zealand Fur Seals, curious Dusky Dolphins, elusive birds and enjoy endless stunning vistas. During our time here we plan to Zodiac cruise glittering waterways amid the podocarp forest-cloaked spines of Anchor and Resolution Islands and the tiny islands of Dusky Sound where orchids, flame-tipped Rata and clusters of alpine tree daisies put on an impressive floral display. On predator-free Anchor Island, home to half the world’s population of Kakapo as well as Little Spotted Kiwi, we’ll walk around Lake Kirirua, its surface reflecting the surrounding forest, before arriving at historic Luncheon Cove – a location of New Zealand firsts including first sealing gang, first European settlement and the first ship built. Discover hidden inlets, coves and beaches as we Zodiac cruise Sportsman Cove and explore Cooper Island. Our passion for helping protect and share New Zealand’s special wilderness remains as strong as it was back in 1985. Join us as we discover the real Fiordland and Stewart Island.

Doubtful Sound Dusky Sound

Queenstown Invercargill Stewart Island

The Snares

DATES 28 February – 7 March 2023

PRICES ($AU) Heritage Suite

$16,775 pp*

Worsley Suite

$11,250 pp*

Superior Single

$11,250 pp*

Superior Triple

$7,785 pp*

Superior Deck 5

$9,175 pp*

Superior Deck 4

$8,750 pp*

Main Deck Single

$10,595 pp*

Main Deck Triple

$6,995 pp*

* The price listed includes the local payment of NZ$200 (All prices above are per person in $AU).

PRICE EXCLUDES All items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks (except those included with lunch and dinner), gratuities. International/domestic flights, visas and travel insurance.

ITINERARY Day 1: Queenstown Guests should make their way to the designated Queenstown hotel, this evening there will be an informal gettogether at the hotel for dinner.

Day 2: Port of Bluff Today we enjoy breakfast in the hotel restaurant and have the morning free to explore Queenstown before departing for the Port of Bluff. You will have time to settle into your cabin and familarise yourself with the ship.

Day 3: Stewart Island – Paterson Inlet/Ulva 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 from 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), Red Crowned Parakeet, Fantail, Bellbird and Tui. In the afternoon we turn our attention to other parts of Paterson Inlet and visit the historic Norwegian whaling station in Prices Inlet and Kaipipi Bay, where from 1923 and 1933 the Ross Sea Whaling Company of Sandefjord, Norway ran a repair base in Prices Inlet where chaser boats were serviced in preparation for the Antarctic summer. There may be an opportunity to explore quirky town centre Oban in Halfmoon Bay.

Day 4: The Snares – North East Island The closest Subantarctic Islands to New Zealand, they were appropriately called The Snares as they were once considered a hazard for sailing ships. Comprising of two main islands and a group of five islands called the Western Chain; they are uninhabited and enjoy the highest protection as Nature Reserves. It is claimed by some that these islands are home to more nesting seabirds than all of the British Isles together. We plan to arrive in the morning, and as landings are not permitted, we will Zodiac cruise along the sheltered eastern side of the main island if the weather and sea conditions are suitable. In the sheltered bays, we should see the endemic Snares Crested Penguin, Snares Island Tomtit and Fernbirds. There are hundreds of thousands of Sooty Shearwaters nesting on The Snares; the actual number is much debated. Buller’s Albatross breed here from early January onwards. There will be opportunities to view the forests of large tree daisy Olearia lyallii which forms a canopy over much of the island group.

Days 5 to 7: Fiordland We have three days to explore the incredible wilderness of fiords 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 Maori people, with the demigod Tu-te-raki-whanoa 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 not long after who then

formed the first European settlements of New Zealand, historically this region is very important and shaped the future of the country. From the middle of the 19th Century this unexplored interior Fiordland coastline attracted the attention of those in search of hidden greenstone or New Zealand jade, and surveyors seeking to understand this region further. Fiordland’s West 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 Penguins are all residents of the fiords; during our time here we will look out for them. Our schedule gives us the flexibility to visit as much as possible, areas we plan to visit during our time in Fiordland include Doubtful and Dusky Sounds, Acheron Passage, Astronomer’s Point and Pickersgill Harbour. The Captain and Expedition Leader will work hard to make the best use of our time in this incredible region of New Zealand. Tonight we enjoy a farewell and celebratory dinner with newfound friends.

Day 8: 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.

To start your journey contact Wild Earth Travel NZ: 0800 945 3327 AU: 1800 107 715 Email: info@wildearth-travel.com www.wildearth-travel.com