After pickup from your cruise ship in Wellington port, relax in air-conditioned comfort as your coach takes you around Wellington Harbour to Pauatahanui Inlet and through the coastal countryside of the Lower Hutt Valley.

Travel through the gently rolling farming country of Pauatahanui and stop at historic Battle Hill Park, where the Maori and British fought in the 1840s.Today a peaceful farm blending traditional hill country farming, forestry and environmental restoration. You will then travel onto the nearby Paekakariki Hill Summit for some truly spectacular panoramic views. From this spectacular vantage point, you can see for miles over to Kapiti Island and the South Island, and along the coast of New Zealand’s North Island.

There’s more history when you visit Camp Russell, where US marines were stationed during World War Two. Stop for light refreshments at Ruth Pretty’s, one of New Zealand’s best-known chefs, then visit the town of Otaki to visit the old Rangiatea Historic Church. The historic Maori church was founded in 1847 and has recently been rebuilt after being damaged by fire.

The tour also takes you to Nga Manu Wildlife Sanctuary to see New Zealand’s protected flightless bird, the kiwi. Stop for a light lunch at a beach cafe, then visit the Southward Vintage Car Museum in the town of Paraparaumu. The collection of more than 400 rare automobiles includes such rarities as Marlene Dietrich's Cadillac and Chicago gangster Mickey Cohen's armor-plated limousine.

Before returning to your cruise ship in Wellington, you'll stop to enjoy locally made ice creams and chocolates.

Worry-free Shore Excursion: We will ensure your timely return to the Wellington port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.