We have just discovered the world’s most dazzling skies
Active volcanoes, island sanctuaries and breathtaking views sound like a dream to many, but can quickly become a reality when visiting New Zealand’s vast North Island. A location rich in Māori culture, the sprawling farmlands and geothermal wonders will give you plenty to talk about and even more to remember as you journey through a trip of a lifetime.
The awe-inspiring enclave is one that must be seen to be believed, and there is no better way to truly immerse yourself in the experience of a lifetime than with Princess Cruises. As you make your way around the highly coveted regions of New Zealand, you will feel at ease knowing that you’re touring with a company that prides itself on delivering quality service and an unforgettable experience.
Here are three reasons as to why you should visit North Island in New Zealand:
1. The picturesque sights
The Great Barrier Island is ideal for those who enjoy stargazing. It’s one of only four Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the world, which allows people to witness the Milky Way. A Dark Sky Sanctuary is a location that is known for its distinguished quality of starry skies and is an area that has been protected.
Dark Sky Sanctuaries are usually in remote locations and there are few if any, nearby threats to the quality of the dark night sky. This means that stargazing at these locations is ideal, as you’re bound to see everything and anything that the sky has to offer.
What the Dark Sky Sanctuary looks like at night
As the Great Barrier Island is the sixth-largest island in New Zealand, it’s not the easiest place in the world to get to. Princess Cruises recognise this and have expanded their Across the Ditch program to include access to the Great Barrier Island. Now, It’s no longer a challenge to get out there.
Princess Cruises’ Senior Vice President, Asia Pacific, Stuart Allison has explained the reason behind the expansion:
“With New Zealand attracting more repeat cruisers than any other itinerary, we’ve broadened our Across the Ditch Program this year by partnering exclusively with a number of regional experts to offer our guests a number of truly immersive and authentic tourism experiences.”
2. The serene sounds
With specific regional adventures at each New Zealand port, a variety of different sounds will be heard. As Princess Cruises takes you through a number of ports across North Island, you will be able to hear traditional Māori chants that come with the Haka War Dance or Poi Dancing. You’re also able to perform these dances yourself!
A Princess Cruise ship on the sea
But if you prefer activities that aren’t so high strung, you can choose to experience the complete silence that comes with exploring the glow worms in Auckland, as the Glowworm Grotto will leave you in awe.
Princess Cruises has partnered exclusively with a number of regional experts to offer their guests a variety of truly immersive and authentic tourism experiences, like the one mentioned above.
Mr Allison explains:
“Princess Cruises has a long association with New Zealand and the many regional communities we visit, which share in the success of cruising. We look forward to growing in partnership with communities in ways that support sustainable tourism across culture and landscape.”
3. The immersive experiences
One of the many highlights of the trip takes you off the beaten track as you take a ride through North Island’s gorgeous countryside towards Rotorua.
Your driver – who also doubles as your guide – will take you to the first stop of the day, which is Agrodome, a sheep and beef farm complete with scenic views wherever you turn.
The tour involves activities appropriate for the entire family, such as sheep shearing demonstrations and the opportunity to watch sheep dogs in action.
Also included in the itinerary is Te Puia, home of the internationally renowned spouting Pohutu geyser. And to give you the most authentic experience possible, your guide will be of Māori heritage, and will tell you stories and legends of the beautiful country.
The last 45 years, visitors have had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Māori culture with the help of the Te Puia’s Māori Arts & Crafts Institute. During your visit, you will enjoy a delicious lunch and the world-famous haka – a war dance used to frighten enemies.
To finish it off, your drive back takes you through the stunning Rotorua and kiwifruit country, giving you the perfect opportunity to take photos and relax.
The North Island of New Zealand has a lot on offer, and luckily there’s a way to see it all. Princess Cruises offer a range of packages to suit all budget and time allowances. For more information on Princess Cruises, see a licensed travel agent or visit www.princess.com.
Scroll through the gallery above to witness the beautiful starry sky of North Island.
This is sponsored content brought to you by Princess Cruises.