Excursion Southland panorama tour at bluff
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Explore the local region on this easy panoramic experience.
Depart the pier and travel through Bluff - Pearl of the South - home of the world famous Bluff Oyster, and the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in New Zealand. Visit Stirling Point, with its famous signpost and walking tracks, is the beginning of State Highway 1 which traverses the length of the country to Cape Reinga in the far north - the journey really does begin here in Bluff. Enjoy the panoramic views over Bluff port and town from the viewing platform on top of Bluff Hill (Motupohue).
Invercargill is the regional capital and commercial hub of Southland. Founded in the 1850's, it is New Zealand's southernmost city - and one of the southernmost cities in the world. Fondly dubbed the "City of Water and Light", referring to the long summer daylight hours, frequent appearances of the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights), and the city's position beside the Waihopai River estuary, Invercargill has plenty of character and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
The pride of Invercargill is Queens Park, a magnificent public park in the heart of the city. The park sprawls across 80 hectares of beautifully kept gardens, wildlife habitats, and sports areas. Highlights of this New Zealand Garden of National Significance include a stunning rose garden, a rhododendron dell, an azalea garden, a Japanese garden, bush paths through a selection of native plants, rock and herb gardens, and a stumpery. An indoor Winter Garden features tropical and flowering plants, and a range of cacti are displayed in an adjoining structure. The park also houses an impressive bird aviary, farmyard area, and animal enclosures.
Lastly, stop at E Hayes hardware store, home to The World's Fastest Indian Scout motorbike, owned and finely tuned by New Zealand born, Burt Munro, now proudly on display in the store. A must see for any motorbike enthusiasts.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Bluff, Stirling Point, Bluff Hill, Queens Park
Note
Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking and is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those guests who utilize a wheelchair. Guests however must be able to embark and disembark 3-5 steps onto the coach without assistance. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof jacket and local currency for purchases from the ship. The tour sequence may vary. The coach supply in Bluff is very limited, coaches used are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of larger New Zealand ports.