If you need to know anything about the ports of call on your cruise, where the ship berths, how you find your guide and tour vehicle, what transport options there are, then this page is where you need to look.

If you have any information that you think would be useful for fellow passengers please let us know and we will try and incorporate it.  If you notice any errors or omissions please advise us.

General Information

Although ships are shown as calling at the Bay of Islands, this usually means the ship is anchored ofshore.  Passengers are then taken to shore at Pahia by the ships tenders.  Some ships also tender the passengers to Russull, the historic settlement on the other side of the harbour.

Find your guide/tour

Owing to the very tight security in place at the Port of Otago and personal safety measures of passengers, it is very important that you follow all instructions on your arrival. It is not always possible for the independent tour companies to meet you at the gangway.  In such case you will need to walk towards the rear of the ship on disembarking, or ask Port Otago Security staff where the private tour / pre booked vehicle area is located.
If a train is in position beside the ship, walk along the pier between the train and the ship towards the rear of the ship. Do not attempt to go between the carriages to get to the other side of the train.
Your driver/guide will be holding a name board with your name on it. You will then be taken to the vehicle that you will be traveling in for the day.
If there are any changes to the meet and greet, due to Port Otago altered policy you will be advised by e-mail as soon is possible before the tour.

Bus transport

Ship Shuttle Service

Taxis

Taxis in New Zealand are strictly regulated, like all passenger transport, and can usually be found close to the ship in their designated ranks. Taxis can not refuse a fare if asked and can not charge more than the fee shown on the taxi meter which must be switched on once the journey begins. Some taxis also accept payment by credit card, but not all, so its best to check before starting the journey. 

Information office

Telephone Info

The emergency number in New Zealand is 111 [though 911 also works].  The dialing code for international calls is 00, followed by the country code.  The local area code is 03 which need not be dialed for local calls.  Low cost phone cards can be purchased from the I-Site offices and at many other retail outlets.

Shopping

Walks