Cruising Through Australia & New Zealand

To celebrate our 5 year anniversary, my husband and I decided to go big with a dream trip to Australia and New Zealand. From the moment we boarded our flight to Sydney, we knew this would be an unforgettable journey. Yes, the flight was long, but the moment we landed, every hour in the air felt worth it.

Day 1: Exploring Sydney, Australia

Jet-lagged but fueled by excitement, we hit the ground running in Sydney. Our first stop was the iconic Sydney Opera House. Seeing it in person, set against the sparkling harbor, was a pinch-me moment. We wandered through the lush Royal Botanic Garden, took in the sights along Circular Quay, and explored George Street’s lively energy before turning in for the night.

Boarding Ovation of the Seas

The next day, we boarded Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas, a ship that felt like a destination in itself. From the North Star capsule that lifts you high above the ocean, to the iFly skydiving simulator, bumper cars, and live entertainment, every part of the ship offered something exciting. The dining was top-notch with a mix of global cuisine, and the service was excellent throughout. Our stateroom was spacious and comfortable, with a balcony that made for the perfect morning coffee spot. It was the ideal home base for the next 11 nights.

First Stop: Wellington

Our first port was Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital. As big fans of The Lord of the Rings, we took a tour of several filming locations nestled in the surrounding hills, followed by a fascinating visit to the WETA Workshop, where we got a behind-the-scenes look at movie magic. We also spent time exploring the city’s creative energy, boutique shops, and harbor views.

Picton and the Marlborough Wine Region

Next was Picton, a picturesque coastal town and the gateway to the Marlborough wine region. We joined a scenic tour through rolling vineyards, where we sampled some of the area’s best-known Sauvignon Blancs. A surprise highlight was a stop at a small, local Thai restaurant that served up some of the best Thai food we’ve ever had—fresh, flavorful, and unexpected in the best way.

Napier: Art Deco Charm

In Napier, the Art Deco capital of the world, we arrived just in time for their annual Art Deco Festival. The whole city came alive with vintage outfits, classic cars, and big band music. We visited the unique black stone beach, explored the National Aquarium, and took a regional tour that led us to a Manuka honey farm. We tasted a variety of honey, each distinct and delicious, and learned how this natural treasure is produced in the region. For lunch, we tried some local sushi and were pleasantly surprised how much we enjoyed it.

Dunedin and Untouched Nature

Dunedin was absolutely stunning. After strolling through the charming downtown and admiring the historic Dunedin Railway Station, we headed into the surrounding hills to Nature’s Wonders, where we boarded a 6-wheeled Argo vehicle for an off-road adventure. The ride took us across breathtaking, untouched landscapes where we had the rare chance to see Blue Penguins and other wildlife in their natural habitat. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Fjordland National Park: A Natural Wonder

One of the highlights of the cruise was sailing through Fjordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic, untouched beauty. As we passed through Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound, and the magnificent Milford Sound, we were completely in awe. Towering cliffs, misty waterfalls, and serene stillness made for an unforgettable scenic cruise. It was one of the most peaceful and awe-inspiring parts of the entire trip.

Back in Sydney

We returned to Sydney for one last full day before flying home and packed in as much as we could. We visited the Australian Museum, where we explored fascinating exhibits on natural history and Indigenous cultures. Then we headed over to Darling Harbour to enjoy the waterfront views, shops, and atmosphere. We ended the day at Bondi Beach, where we watched locals learning to surf and soaked in the vibrant, laid-back beach culture. 

Final Thoughts

This trip was more than just a vacation. It was a celebration of our marriage, a shared love of travel, and the chance to explore two incredible countries by sea and land. From iconic landmarks and natural wonders to off-the-beaten-path finds and memorable meals, this journey had it all. But one of the best parts was the people. The warm, welcoming Aussies and Kiwis we met along the way made everything even more special.

We’ll be talking about this anniversary trip for years to come and already dreaming of where the next adventure will take us.