10-DAY VANUATU & NEW CALEDONIA

Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, is a popular starting and ending point for Australia-New Zealand cruise itineraries. Perched near the upper end of the North Island, it has an ideal location for cruise lines looking to schedule calls in other North Island ports (Wellington, Napier and Picton) and South Island towns (Dunedin and Christchurch) in between New Zealand and Australia. Auckland is the most bustling and cosmopolitan city in New Zealand. Referred to by its original inhabitants as Tamaki Makaurau, which means "Tamaki, desired by many", the harbour town has become more of a desirable place to visit in the past decade or so. The city's most iconic landmark is the Sky Tower, a massive needle-type attraction built in 1996, which is the tallest manmade structure in the country. But as the latest construction boom shows, there are significant changes to come as the city skyline continues to evolve. Work is now underway to extend the waterfront boundary and build a NZ$35 million (AUD$33 million) tree-lined public space in the ferry basin between Princes Wharf and Queens Wharf. The Cloud is one of the new contemporary structures that hovers in its cumulus-like form on Queens Wharf. Although initially built as a temporary structure to house fans during Rugby World Cup 2011, The Cloud is still being used as an events venue. The Cloud nods to the Maori name for New Zealand, Aoetearoa, Land of the Long White Cloud. It's also rather fitting that the building is referred to as a caterpillar as it appears Auckland itself has emerged from its own shiny chrysalis in recent years. What makes Auckland such a desirable destination is its fabulous proximity to the water. Lining the Waitemata Harbour -- which leads to the Gulf of Hauraki and the Bay of Islands -- the city's waterfront bustles with ferry traffic. From the Auckland Ferry Terminal it's an easy hop to **Waiheke Island**, a one-time hippie hangout that's now earning recognition for its beautiful vistas and thriving winemaking culture. There's also **Devonport**, on the north shore, a coastal town full of charm and character that has a great view of Auckland across the harbour. The seaside suburb is replete with cafes, parks and shops and lined with wooden colonial villas built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. You can travel to other scenic spots beyond the more urban waterway, from the gentle Seabird Coast to the south to the rugged Pacific-fringed Northland in the opposite direction. Both are easy day-tripping options. The revival of Auckland began with the revitalised **Ferry Building** on the waterfront, which has helped transform the character of the city for the better and made the water's edge more welcoming. The ferry building now houses a couple of swanky restaurants and a gelato bar and nods to the city's past as a major gateway to New Zealand. Geographic highlights of Auckland, which sits on an isthmus, include the 46 volcanic hills scattered around the city. They're easily identifiable, rising suddenly and steeply and featuring flat tops. On some, such as **Mt Eden**, the craters are carpeted in moss and feathered with grass. You can drive or walk to the top. The views, stretching past the harbours of Waitemata and Manukau and bordered by mountain ranges, are almost as good as those from Auckland's famous Sky Tower. What will also impress is the friendliness of Aucklanders. They really do revel in the city's popularity among tourists, whether from the South Island, Australia (a three-hour flight away and the closest major land mass) or from Asia, Europe or the United States. The locals are quick to display a strong sense of pride in their city and take it upon themselves to make sure you've enjoyed your visit. Nearly everyone working in the hospitality arena -- hotels, shops, restaurants, taxis -- is superbly gracious and efficient (and it's not the anticipation of a gratuity that spurs them on as tipping, outside of restaurants, is not really encouraged). The friendliness is intrinsic, starting with **NZ Bus**; those not carrying passengers offer signs saying Sorry before they move into Out of Service. The Viaduct Basin is another structure that has been faithfully restored and it's chock-a-block with cafes, pubs and bistros that continue to open in the wake of the wharf's revitalisation. While the city is very much still under construction -- it is readying itself to host the America's Cup in 2021 -- the vision for downtown Auckland to develop as a vibrant destination is clear. In addition to the planned public space on Quay Street, the Emerging Auckland program includes ongoing investment in the streetscape. And for those cruise passengers who visit Auckland as a day-stop on a South Pacific itinerary or embark or disembark there, that means there's a lot more to explore.

Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.

Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.

As you approach the New Caledonian island of Lifou, the impossibly turquoise waters almost seem too surreal to believe. But they're certainly real and, in fact, the crystal-clear waters are teeming with marine life, including green sea turtles. There are three main attractions to visit on Lifou: Notre Dame de Lourdes Church at the top of the hill, Jinek Bay and the Grotto Caves. Tickets need to be purchased from the ship before disembarking to snorkel in Jinek Bay. While you can bring your snorkel gear, reef shoes are not permitted (to protect the coral). Foam (pool) noodles are available to use for free while in the bay. There is an abundance of colourful coral and marine life, and the bay is ideal for families to explore. There is a lovely little church at the top of a hill. The walk is not overly strenuous, but comfortable, closed-toed footwear is recommended, as well as a hat and a bottle of water. There are rugged concrete steps and some parts of the climb are a little steep. There are numerous vantage points to take photos on your way to the top, so make sure you stop to take in the breathtaking scenery. Your efforts will be rewarded as the views are magnificent. The small Catholic church provides a quiet spot for reflection and a cool spot to catch your breath. You'll find the Grotto Caves in the opposite direction. You can purchase tickets for AUD$10 at the mouth of the bush walk. The walk is challenging as there are knotted tree roots and vines along the path. It is also a steep climb down once you reach the entrance to the caves. Ensure you wear sturdy shoes, as the ground is covered with leaves and other debris. After a steep descent, you'll find a deep, cool pool -- but be careful as it's dark and slippery.

The sun is beating down, the water is a thousand shades of clear, crystal blue, and the market stalls are gearing up for a big day. It's another day in paradise in Port Vila -- fairly sleepy for much of the time, but transformed into a hive of tourist activity when a cruise ship arrives. There is not much evidence, to the casual observer, of Severe Tropical Cyclone Pam's handiwork back in March 2015, when it caused one of the worst natural disasters ever experienced in Vanuatu's history. It's true that some resorts remain closed, such as Iririki Island Resort across the harbour from Port Vila Township, which is still under considerable construction. Some trees still sit at odd angles, or even remain where they ended up, on top of cars or boats, while other sea vessels remain upside down, strangely high up the embankment. Enough time has now passed, however, that you now have to really look for the items out of place; Port Vila has largely recovered and its tourism industry is humming along nicely. The beaches are clear and startlingly white, and the water visibility is prodigiously clear. Cyclone Pam destroyed a reported 96 per cent of crops on the islands of Efate (home of Port Vila) and Tanna, further south, and the price of food, such as bananas, is possibly higher than it was before. Yet other reports say that pawpaw seeds flew so extensively in the winds that pawpaw plants are now growing like weeds. So, eat pawpaw rather than banana! Port Vila is clean, friendly and easy in so many ways. Public buses take you anywhere you want to go in town, without the need for schedules or timetables. Quoted prices are generally firm -- and fair -- without the need for chicanery or negotiation. Families with children are not only tolerated, but rather welcomed with open arms; many resorts offer nannies at a very low rate, while anyone in the street is keen for a cuddle with a bub. Even the local language, Bislama, is based mostly on English and can be quite simply deciphered. The main part of town is simple to navigate, centred on the Lini Highway that runs alongside the water. South of the town, the roads curve into the large finger of land that includes the Main Wharf on the town side and the further-flung resorts and beaches of the Pango area. Although less sheltered here and badly struck by 2015's cyclone, the recovery effort has been strong. North of town, the road heads off to the tourism hotspot of Mele Bay, home of waterfalls, adventure parks and Hideaway Island. Those seeking adventure in Port Vila will find natural wonders, exciting sports and activities and never a dull moment in the water or even in the air (or both, if you want to try flyboarding). Culture vultures can soak up the local colour in the main markets or on a village tour, and shoppers will be gobsmacked by some of the tax-free prices. However, Port Vila is the kind of place where one can have a truly lovely time doing nothing at all -- hang out with locals over taro pancakes, putter along in a water taxi or ferry, catch a ride on a bus and slip the driver a bit extra to stay and natter as you circle the town. Do as much or as little as you like, and fall into the rhythm of 'island time'.

It might only be a drop in the South Pacific ocean but Mystery Island has captivated the hearts and imaginations of Australian cruisers. Inyeug (as it's known by the locals) is an uninhabited paradise on the southernmost tip of Vanuatu. From a distance, the coconut trees and sandy beaches look inviting, but it's not until you're nearly at the dock that the true magnificence of this unspoilt tropical island becomes apparent. Island life moves at a different pace and one of the first things visitors are enveloped by is the serenity. There are three sounds that will tickle your ears here: the sublime harmonies of the locals that fill the humid air; the lapping of gentle waves; and the hacking of machetes against young coconuts. There is a fourth sound -- a twin-engine Air Vanuatu plane, however only a handful of people witness this rare occurrence (twice a week on Tuesdays and Saturdays). The beauty of Mystery Island is that you can do as little or as much as you want. If snorkelling and swimming are what you desire, then this sublime spot provides some of the clearest, pristine waters in the Pacific. If you'd like to explore the island on foot, it's an easy half-an-hour walk -- just don't stumble onto the grass airstrip. Local tours are available, and the operators are organised and friendly. Cruise passengers can also peruse the market stalls for souvenirs or get your hair braided.

With a string of bays and beaches stretching along a peninsula protected by coral reefs, Noumea is a slice of the French Riviera in the South Pacific. The capital of New Caledonia and a territory of France, it's the perfect destination for gastronomes and cultural connoisseurs. Everyone from water sports enthusiasts to nature devotees can find plenty of diversion in and around this "Provencal" city. The islands of New Caledonia, east of Australia and north of New Zealand, are becoming ever more popular stops for cruises originating in Sydney, Auckland and Brisbane, in addition to transPacific and world itineraries. Stops at Noumea might precede those at more isolated beaches on New Caledonia's islands, including the Isle of Pines, Lifou in the Loyalty Islands, and Poum to the north. Noumea is the centre of New Caledonia's epicurean and cultural scene, with restaurants serving French, Asian and brousse (bush) cuisine, and museums exhibiting art and Melanesian artefacts. Shoppers will find top wines and other goods imported from France. Its expansive waterfront is a sports playground for windsurfers and kiteboarders, joggers and sun-worshippers, too. The city is also a jumping-off point for land tours to spots such as Forest Park and Blue River Park, where you might see a rare cagou bird or flying fox. You can hunt in the bushland or hike the hills that rise above the city and beaches. Other excursions include a host of boating possibilities, from sightseeing to snorkelling and diving to fishing. Noumea also offers a range of sailing options around its archipelago. There are numerous excellent mooring choices for sailors, and many sites still look untouched. Along with South Pacific's Marshall Islands and Solomon Islands, the islands of New Caledonia all claim to be surrounded by the world's largest lagoon. It doesn't really matter. There are huge, fish-filled bodies of water between the mainland and outer reef. Noumea's unmatched waters and beaches, spans of hills and bush, as well as its vibrant cityscape, make it an enjoyable port of call.

Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.

Home to the famous Norfolk Island Pine trees, Norfolk is located 1,412 kilometres east of the Australian mainland in the Pacific Ocean. Originally inhabited by Polynesians, the tiny 8-by-5-kilometre island was colonised by the British in 1788 -- the same year as Australia itself -- and used as a convict penal settlement. Norfolk Island's brutal early history was turned on its head in 1856 when the descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian "wives" -- including those of Fletcher Christian -- were resettled from Pitcairn Island.

Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.

Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, is a popular starting and ending point for Australia-New Zealand cruise itineraries. Perched near the upper end of the North Island, it has an ideal location for cruise lines looking to schedule calls in other North Island ports (Wellington, Napier and Picton) and South Island towns (Dunedin and Christchurch) in between New Zealand and Australia. Auckland is the most bustling and cosmopolitan city in New Zealand. Referred to by its original inhabitants as Tamaki Makaurau, which means "Tamaki, desired by many", the harbour town has become more of a desirable place to visit in the past decade or so. The city's most iconic landmark is the Sky Tower, a massive needle-type attraction built in 1996, which is the tallest manmade structure in the country. But as the latest construction boom shows, there are significant changes to come as the city skyline continues to evolve. Work is now underway to extend the waterfront boundary and build a NZ$35 million (AUD$33 million) tree-lined public space in the ferry basin between Princes Wharf and Queens Wharf. The Cloud is one of the new contemporary structures that hovers in its cumulus-like form on Queens Wharf. Although initially built as a temporary structure to house fans during Rugby World Cup 2011, The Cloud is still being used as an events venue. The Cloud nods to the Maori name for New Zealand, Aoetearoa, Land of the Long White Cloud. It's also rather fitting that the building is referred to as a caterpillar as it appears Auckland itself has emerged from its own shiny chrysalis in recent years. What makes Auckland such a desirable destination is its fabulous proximity to the water. Lining the Waitemata Harbour -- which leads to the Gulf of Hauraki and the Bay of Islands -- the city's waterfront bustles with ferry traffic. From the Auckland Ferry Terminal it's an easy hop to **Waiheke Island**, a one-time hippie hangout that's now earning recognition for its beautiful vistas and thriving winemaking culture. There's also **Devonport**, on the north shore, a coastal town full of charm and character that has a great view of Auckland across the harbour. The seaside suburb is replete with cafes, parks and shops and lined with wooden colonial villas built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. You can travel to other scenic spots beyond the more urban waterway, from the gentle Seabird Coast to the south to the rugged Pacific-fringed Northland in the opposite direction. Both are easy day-tripping options. The revival of Auckland began with the revitalised **Ferry Building** on the waterfront, which has helped transform the character of the city for the better and made the water's edge more welcoming. The ferry building now houses a couple of swanky restaurants and a gelato bar and nods to the city's past as a major gateway to New Zealand. Geographic highlights of Auckland, which sits on an isthmus, include the 46 volcanic hills scattered around the city. They're easily identifiable, rising suddenly and steeply and featuring flat tops. On some, such as **Mt Eden**, the craters are carpeted in moss and feathered with grass. You can drive or walk to the top. The views, stretching past the harbours of Waitemata and Manukau and bordered by mountain ranges, are almost as good as those from Auckland's famous Sky Tower. What will also impress is the friendliness of Aucklanders. They really do revel in the city's popularity among tourists, whether from the South Island, Australia (a three-hour flight away and the closest major land mass) or from Asia, Europe or the United States. The locals are quick to display a strong sense of pride in their city and take it upon themselves to make sure you've enjoyed your visit. Nearly everyone working in the hospitality arena -- hotels, shops, restaurants, taxis -- is superbly gracious and efficient (and it's not the anticipation of a gratuity that spurs them on as tipping, outside of restaurants, is not really encouraged). The friendliness is intrinsic, starting with **NZ Bus**; those not carrying passengers offer signs saying Sorry before they move into Out of Service. The Viaduct Basin is another structure that has been faithfully restored and it's chock-a-block with cafes, pubs and bistros that continue to open in the wake of the wharf's revitalisation. While the city is very much still under construction -- it is readying itself to host the America's Cup in 2021 -- the vision for downtown Auckland to develop as a vibrant destination is clear. In addition to the planned public space on Quay Street, the Emerging Auckland program includes ongoing investment in the streetscape. And for those cruise passengers who visit Auckland as a day-stop on a South Pacific itinerary or embark or disembark there, that means there's a lot more to explore.