From Sydney to Auckland: A Journey’s End Across Australia and New Zealand
Part three of our journey Down Under—tales from the sea, the streets of Auckland, and everything in between.
In early 2025, my husband and I spent an unforgettable month exploring Australia and New Zealand, starting with ten days in the Sydney, New South Wales area, followed by a cruise to Melbourne, Tasmania, and then around New Zealand’s South and North Islands, before spending a final seven days exploring Auckland.
I’ve already shared our adventures in and around Sydney; you can read about those here and here. In this article, I’ll tell you all about our cruise port stops and the last days of our journey in New Zealand.
Cruising Beyond Sydney: First Stop—A Day in Melbourne
Leaving Sydney was a little bittersweet, but my husband and I were excited to explore Melbourne. With only one day there, we had a plan.
Our first stop was Lune, a bakery famous on YouTube for its Almond Croissant. Almost every vlog we watched about Melbourne mentioned this bakery and its iconic pastry. If so many couldn’t be wrong, we figured it was worth a visit; after all, they’d also led us to The Berry Donut Van in Australia on a previous trip.
We walked there eagerly, only to find a small crowd lingering by a sign on the door: “Closed for the day.” Bummer.
Undeterred, we found another nearby bakery and stopped for coffee and a sweet roll for my dear husband. Then we headed straight to Hosier Lane.
Hosier Lane is essentially an alleyway covered with ever-changing murals, graffiti, and street art. The alley was crowded but still easy to navigate. We took our time, soaking in the creative energy. The artistic talent on display was truly inspiring.
After that, we visited the National Gallery of Victoria. The collection was impressive, and we enjoyed wandering through the galleries before strolling through the Royal Botanic Gardens. Getting around Melbourne was easy on foot and with the free tram zone covering the inner city.
Art in the National Gallery of Victoria / Photo by Whaldo Digital Content
Wild Tasmania: Mt. Wellington and Bonorong Wildlife Reserve
With Melbourne behind us, we sailed on to our final stop in Australia, Hobart, Tasmania. With only nine hours there, we booked a small-group excursion through Viator to maximize our time.
This excursion included a trip up Mt. Wellington and the rest of the day spent in the Bonorong Wildlife Reserve. The views from Mt. Wellington were well worth the drive up, but the highlight of the day was Bonorong.
At Bonorong Wildlife Reserve, meeting wombats, Tasmanian devils, an echidna, and kangaroos up close was a highlight of the experience. The reserve also featured some fascinating birds, including the kookaburra, often referred to as a “laughing bird” due to its distinctive call, as well as a few snakes.
Before heading back to the ship, we left the bus early to explore Hobart on foot. One stop we couldn’t miss was Irish Murphy’s Pub. We had to try the famous ginger beer. The staff was terrific, despite a busy day, they served us promptly and even took time to tell us about the beer. It was one of the best I’ve tasted. Given our timeline, it was probably good we couldn’t linger longer; the pub was hopping and looked like a fun spot to hang out.
Into New Zealand: Fog, Fiords, and the South Island’s Raw Beauty
Over the next couple of days, we sailed to New Zealand’s South Island, spending a day cruising in Fiordland National Park. Unfortunately, the morning was shrouded in fog and clouds, obscuring much of the landscape’s beauty. But by afternoon, the skies cleared enough for us to catch a condensed glimpse of South New Zealand’s spectacular scenery before arriving at our next port, Pt. Chalmers (Dunedin).
We were very excited about this day. We’d booked another Viator excursion, a wildlife cruise aimed at spotting the Northern Royal Albatross, the only breeding colony in the world. Highly protected and treasured (taonga) in Maori culture, seeing these birds was a special privilege.
We boarded a boat and slowly made our way to Taiaroa Head on the Otago Peninsula. Along the way, we spotted Little Blue Penguins, New Zealand sea lions and fur seals, various shags, and oystercatchers. At the breeding colony, we observed the Albatross on the cliffside from the boat. Park rangers, the only people allowed during breeding season, carefully checked the nests, prompting the birds to stand and reveal their impressive size: wingspans of up to 10 feet, heights of about 3.5 feet, and weights of up to 18 pounds.
After the wildlife cruise, we wandered the charming town of Pt. Chalmers, where a local handicraft fair was underway for cruise visitors. We browsed the handmade goods and picked up some ornaments to remember the day.
Christchurch Charm and the Onset of Illness
The next port was Lyttelton, the gateway to Christchurch. We took a free shuttle to Christchurch and enjoyed walking the Botanic Gardens, which were vibrant from recent rain. As lovely as Christchurch was, it marked a turning point in our trip, not because of the scenery, but because I began to feel the first signs of illness.
You can get anywhere from Lyttleton / Photo by Whaldo Digital Content
We returned to Lyttelton and wandered its streets until I couldn’t go further. Back on the ship by dinner, I went straight to bed. In the middle of the night, tightness in my chest and wheezing woke me. I immediately thought of my husband’s lung disease; whatever this was, I had to keep it from him.
I got up and went to my handy traveling drug store, which we carry with us while traveling, and got some medicine so that I could get some rest. I was confident that this was something small and would pass quickly.
I was wrong.
South Island’s Final Stop: Resting in Picton While the Journey Rolls On
The next day, we docked in Picton, New Zealand, our final stop on the South Island. I stayed in the cabin to rest while my husband explored the city as planned.
When he returned, I was worse, unable to eat and coughing nonstop. After testing negative for Covid-19 and the flu, I knew I had to isolate to avoid spreading whatever it was. Following the ship doctor’s advice, I stayed hydrated, slept propped up, and never left our cabin.
My husband went out daily to explore Wellington and Napier solo. I was rewarded daily by my sweet husband’s photos, along with a cute Kiwi t-shirt.
Sadly, on our last sea day, he also began coughing. We both missed our planned spa day in Tauranga (Rotorua), deciding it was safer to stay in our cabin together.
Arrival in Auckland: A Week of Healing and Exploring
By the time we reached Auckland, I was starting to feel better, though my husband was still under the weather. We headed straight to the Hilton Auckland, our home base for the next week. He rested while we ordered in dinner, taking it easy to start fresh the next day.
Thankfully, that plan worked.
The next day, we began exploring Auckland. From the Hilton, we wandered around the Ferry terminal and Quay Street, familiarizing ourselves with downtown areas like Albert Street and Queen Street, which are packed with hotels, restaurants, and shopping. It was a good way to get our bearings for the local transportation we’d use throughout the week.
From Sky Tower Thrills to Quiet City Wanderings
The following day, we took the bus to the Sky Tower and rode the elevator to the top, where we could enjoy the scenery and watch the bungee jumpers. Bungee jumping is alive and well in New Zealand; you can jump from the Sky Tower or the Auckland Bridge. Personally, I’m not jumping off of anything, but voyeurism is an option. At least once. I felt like my heart was going to burst out of my chest just watching one person do it.
View from the Sky Tower looking out over Auckland to the ocean and islands beyond. / Photo by Whaldo Digital Content
The Sky Tower is a perfect landmark, visible from almost anywhere in the city. We also enjoyed wandering through parks and admiring local art. Auckland felt much quieter than Sydney.
Hobbiton and Glowworms: A Day in the Waikato Region
One early morning, still dark outside, we waited for our tour guide to take us on a day trip outside Auckland. As the sun rose, our guide pointed out city highlights and suggested places for us to visit later.
We spent the day exploring the beautiful Waikato Region, escaping the city to soak in the countryside’s charm.
Our first stop was Hobbiton, where we spent half the day exploring the famous movie set for The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings movies. After lunch at the Fat Kiwi, we continued to the Waitomo Caves to see the glowworms. The 13-hour tour was exhausting but absolutely worth every moment. Back at the hotel, we had dinner and then went straight to bed, still nursing lingering coughs.
Mr. and Mrs. Whaldo at Hobbiton / Photo by Whaldo Digital Content
Pub Chats and Kiwi Kindness in the Heart of Auckland
Over the next days, we explored Auckland museums and parks on foot and by bus. One evening, after a long day of walking, we landed at The Fox, A London Pub, for a proper Guinness and some rest.
The pub was full of locals watching a cricket match. I’d experienced cricket earlier in Australia with our friend Ms. Rhonda, but here, the atmosphere felt different.
As we sat there watching the game, I peppered my husband with questions and got only grunts of “I don’t know” as answers. I noticed a couple of men watching us from the table next to ours.
I made eye contact, and they both smiled at me, and one of them answered my last question. Soon, we were chatting with them, and they happily explained the game to us. In true Kiwi style, strangers were friendly and inviting, making us feel welcome and included in their culture, even through the simple ritual of watching sports.
A Toast to Waiheke Island: Vineyard Views and Coastal Friendships
One day, we took a ferry over to Waiheke Island. We walked around the island, enjoying the beach vibe before hopping on an Uber to the Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant. This lovely vineyard featured multiple levels of buildings, complete with restaurant seating and al fresco wine tasting areas.
The staff was very friendly and offered us a few tasters before we landed on the wine of our choice. We settled on the upper patio, enjoying the breezy, sunny day, taking in the beautiful view of the ocean and other islands in the distance. Families, couples, and groups of friends mingled around us, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. It was a casual afternoon filled with new Kiwi friends all enjoying the wine, the vineyard, and the island.
As the day was waning, we walked back downstairs to pay, and the gentleman at the counter seemed surprised I was there to settle the bill. I smiled and told him it wouldn’t be very Kiwi of me to leave without paying for such quality wine. He smiled back and wished us a great evening, kindness working both ways on our travels.
Oysters, Fishing Tales, and Laughter by the Wharf
That evening, after the ferry back to Bledisoe Wharf, we stopped at The Shucker Brothers oyster bar. Despite being by the water, we hadn’t tried New Zealand oysters yet.
The restaurant, with outdoor communal tables right on the water, was lively. We ordered beers and inquired about oysters, but our server informed us that they were unavailable due to a sickness affecting the oyster beds—no oysters for us.
The server seemed ready for complaints, but we simply ordered another appetizer and enjoyed our beers.
At our table sat six men—fathers and their adult sons—cheerfully recounting their day’s fishing trip. When my husband stepped away to get more beers, one of the men leaned in quietly and asked, “Are you two here on holiday or trying to escape?”
I laughed out loud. He smiled playfully, shrugged, and said, “Well, judging by your accents, it could go either way, and I don’t want to offend. You might have a gun!”
My husband came back to the table just as my Kiwi neighbor and I were laughing it up. I shared his question and answer with my husband, who immediately started laughing too. From then on, we were friends. The men shared stories of their annual fishing ritual, with The Shucker Brothers as a must-stop before heading home, and staying connected until the following year.
We were learning how open, friendly, and fun the Kiwi people are.
Manu Madness: Stumbling Into a Splashy Kiwi Festival
Every day in Auckland held surprises, and chance encounters with locals or unexpected events. One day, we stumbled into a massive festival: the world championship for Manu.
Manu is a popular sport where competitors jump into the water and attempt to create the largest splash, employing various techniques to achieve this. We watched this spectacular sport where Kiwis of all ages, shapes, and sizes compete amid a huge, joyful crowd. The festival was free and family-friendly, with food, drinks, kids’ play areas, and skill exhibitions. It was a slice of Kiwi life.
Dolphins, Biologists, and the Depths of Tikapa Moana
On our final Auckland day, we joined a half-day whale and dolphin excursion with Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari. Despite rough seas, we were thrilled to be on a marine research vessel.
We saw many birds and learned a great deal about Auckland’s Hauraki Coast (also known as Tikapa Moana). The New Zealand government and its people are deeply committed to conserving the country's wildlife and preserving its natural environment, including its biodiversity, ecosystems, and ecological balance. My husband and I found that we had a deep kindred spirit with the Kiwis.
Active biologists led the tour, taking photos, recording observations, sampling water, and sharing insights on each island we passed in the Hauraki Coast (Tikapa Moana).
During our excursion, we didn't see any whales, but we did encounter a large nursery pod of common dolphins. The scientists on board were excited to get photos of the babies (neonates), and the boat went very slowly, allowing the young dolphins to play in the low wake. We watched the babies try their first jumps, some flailing mid-air and belly-flopping back into the sea. We watched juveniles race each other and show off their jumping skills, and also observed the adults supervising the young ones and escorting the babies back to their mothers for nursing, which had to happen up to four times an hour.
The day offered a rare glimpse into a world vital to the planet’s ecology. The biologists’ passion was inspiring, and I wished the trip had lasted longer.
One Last Night: Trivia, TuTus, and a Stag Party Sendoff
That final evening, we visited the Provedor, a local pub by the water, to watch a soccer match. Representatives from both teams were there, and the atmosphere was lively, marked with cheering, laughter, and high-fives all around.
At one point, a large rowdy crew of young men showed up on a party bike, also known as a multi-pedaled beer bike. It was a stag party, with the groom-to-be dressed in a tutu, and everyone wore funny hats. For just a short time, while this crew had their pub crawl stop at the Provedor, we were all a part of the stag party. Jokes flew, and laughter was contagious.
Before we left, the bartender handed us a couple of decks of cards called Speight’s. She felt that we fit right in with the locals and would enjoy a good round of “Mate vs Mate” Trivia. Although we were clueless about most questions, we enjoyed calling them out and cheering with the locals. “Good on ya, mate!” echoed around us, laughter filling the room.
Saying Goodbye—for Now—to the Lands Down Under
The next day, we flew home on Qantas, rested and filled with memories from an incredible 31-day journey (34 counting travel days). Sickness cost us a few days, but didn’t dampen the trip’s magic. Ultimately, this was a trip of a lifetime for my husband and me. Australia and New Zealand added a whole lot of enrichment to our lives.
Would we go back? We hope so. After all, since we didn’t see any whales, we’ve got a complimentary excursion waiting with Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari. That alone is reason enough to go back.
Until then, we’ll keep chasing moments of wonder, one destination at a time.
-J.S. Whaldo
Practical Travel Notes
It may have been summer when we visited, but the South Island was chilly and windy in parts. Auckland, on the other hand, was balmy and carried a tropical temperament.
Where to Stay in Auckland
Hilton Auckland – We stayed here for our final week, and the location couldn’t have been better. Right on the water near the Ferry Terminal, it was easy to explore the city and catch ferries to Waiheke Island. It is located right off Quay, which is a main thoroughfare for the bus routes as well.
Hotel Britomart – If you want a boutique option in a similar area, this eco-conscious hotel is just steps from great restaurants and shops on Quay and Queen Streets.
Local Eats and Kiwi Vibes
Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant – A must on Waiheke Island. Casual yet refined, this spot offers sweeping views, delicious wines, and a chance to meet fellow travelers and locals alike.
The Fox, A London Pub – Great spot to take a load off in the heart of Auckland. Friendly locals, a Guinness in hand, and maybe even a cricket lesson.
The Shucker Brothers – Right on Bledisloe Wharf. Even without oysters (when we went), the beers and banter made it memorable.
Provedor – Great for people-watching and pub fare. We lucked into trivia night and a stag party—all part of the fun.
Things to Do (and Love)
Sky Tower – Take in views from the top and—if you dare—watch the bungee jumpers. For me, watching was thrilling enough.
Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Tour – Book a full-day trip from Auckland. Hobbiton’s magic and the glowworms' quiet wonder make this a highlight.
Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari – A half-day cruise with real marine biologists. The dolphin pod with babies? Unforgettable.
Waiheke Island – Just a ferry ride away, this beachy, wine-loving island is perfect for a day of relaxing and tasting.
Getting Around Auckland
Public Transit is Easy – Buses and ferries are reliable and well-marked. We used them all week. The Sky Tower helps you orient yourself anywhere downtown. Also, just because you are standing there does not mean the bus will stop. Wave at the bus as it approaches, or you might get passed by.
Walk Whenever You Can – Auckland is compact and surprisingly calm. Walking lets you stumble into unexpected moments—like Manu!
