Guest of Honour 
Gastronomy & Wine 
Tropical Expedition 
Deluxe Stateroom
25% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
- New
New Zealand's South Island & Chatham Islands
Wellington - Dunedin
Dates:
25/11/2023
to
03/12/2023
days
nights on board
In partnership with Relais & Châteaux and with featured guest the chef Norka Mella Munoz.
Board Le Lapérouse for a brand-new 9-day expedition cruise to explore the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, which offers wildlife and magical landscapes in one of the world’s most unspoiled environments.
Your ship will depart from Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, and set sail for the impressive Marlborough Sounds. This vast network of submerged valleys, where 1,200 km (745 miles) of coastline form a maze of peninsulas and hilly islands, will offer you an experience suspended in time, between enchanting small bays and inlets flooded by the sea.
Your ship will then proceed to the east coast of the South Island. You will sail to the rocky peninsula of Kaikoura to admire the country’s rich biodiversity.
Heading east, the Chatham Islands will appear to you, adding new breath-taking landscapes to your expedition, from isolated beaches to sheer ochre-coloured cliffs covered in verdant nature. The 80-million-years-old archipelago is comprised of 10 islands that boast various endemic species of birds and plant that you will be able to see, guided by your team of passionate expedition experts.
Then the Banks Peninsula will reveal wonderful landscapes of lush hills and rugged coasts during your calls in the bay of Akaroa, an ancient, flooded volcano crater. There you will experience a unique mix of Māori, French and European cultural heritage.
Disembarkation will be in Dunedin, along the stunning Otago Peninsula, which is rich with wildlife and picturesque hinterland.
The wildlife encounters described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ref : ER251123
Your itinerary
In partnership with Relais & Châteaux and with featured guest the chef Norka Mella Munoz. A brand-new expedition cruise to discover the treasures of New Zealand’s South Island, from stunning panoramas to...
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Your trip in detail
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Butler service and priority boarding : Owner’s suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
- Inclusive Internet access Wifi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Norka Mella Munoz
Norka Mella Munoz grew up in Santiago, Chile and has fond memories of her mum’s delicious cooking. She says they rarely dined out at restaurants as a family as her mum was such a fabulous cook always creating delicious fresh food for the family. Before Norka finished school, she read a local newspaper article proclaiming cooking to be a great career with a bright future. With a desire to also travel she realised that being a chef would be a great way to see the world. Her parents, especially her Dad, didn’t quite agree as it was such a male dominated industry, however Norka enrolled in chef school and studied for three years while also working at various catering jobs and events in Santiago.
She then undertook a six-month apprenticeship in a five-star hotel where she had the opportunity to work with several renowned chefs from France and Italy. During this time, she was able to fine tune her skills and cooking techniques before moving on to work in Patagonia for three years. During this time Norka won various gold culinary awards working for hotels such as the Intercontinental, Las Torres del Paine and the Explora Patagonia and San Pedro de Atacama.
In 2002 Norka was enticed to move to New Zealand after reading a newspaper article promoting New Zealand as a great destination for a working holiday. With the intention of working here for only one year, she set off without being able to speak English but with the knowledge that food being a universal language would be enough to get herself a job.
Norka started her New Zealand journey in the urban centre of Auckland, however, was quickly drawn to the Hawkes Bay where delicious fresh produce was abundant – a true ‘food-basket’ region. In 2016 the opportunity arose to join the team at Mangapapa boutique lodge. A few years later Norka took the reins as the Executive Chef for Kinloch Manor and Treetops Luxury Lodge, again two properties well respected for their localised culinary programmes, before joining the Wharekauhau family midway through 2022
Norka’s deep-set passion for championing local, and letting the produce speak for itself has seen recognised as an Ora King Salmon Ambassador, as well as a New Zealand Beef & Lamb Ambassador. Wharekauhau Country Estate General Manager, Richard Rooney, will often recall the interview process with Norka and her excitement to join them was centred around the fact she has a dedicated gardener and forager in her team here, and the ability to work in a Relais & Chateaux environment.
Language spoken : English
Photo credit : Wharekauhau Country Estate - Relais & Châteaux
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Norka Mella Munoz
Norka Mella Munoz grew up in Santiago, Chile and has fond memories of her mum’s delicious cooking. She says they rarely dined out at restaurants as a family as her mum was such a fabulous cook always creating delicious fresh food for the family. Before Norka finished school, she read a local newspaper article proclaiming cooking to be a great career with a bright future. With a desire to also travel she realised that being a chef would be a great way to see the world. Her parents, especially her Dad, didn’t quite agree as it was such a male dominated industry, however Norka enrolled in chef school and studied for three years while also working at various catering jobs and events in Santiago.
She then undertook a six-month apprenticeship in a five-star hotel where she had the opportunity to work with several renowned chefs from France and Italy. During this time, she was able to fine tune her skills and cooking techniques before moving on to work in Patagonia for three years. During this time Norka won various gold culinary awards working for hotels such as the Intercontinental, Las Torres del Paine and the Explora Patagonia and San Pedro de Atacama.
In 2002 Norka was enticed to move to New Zealand after reading a newspaper article promoting New Zealand as a great destination for a working holiday. With the intention of working here for only one year, she set off without being able to speak English but with the knowledge that food being a universal language would be enough to get herself a job.
Norka started her New Zealand journey in the urban centre of Auckland, however, was quickly drawn to the Hawkes Bay where delicious fresh produce was abundant – a true ‘food-basket’ region. In 2016 the opportunity arose to join the team at Mangapapa boutique lodge. A few years later Norka took the reins as the Executive Chef for Kinloch Manor and Treetops Luxury Lodge, again two properties well respected for their localised culinary programmes, before joining the Wharekauhau family midway through 2022
Norka’s deep-set passion for championing local, and letting the produce speak for itself has seen recognised as an Ora King Salmon Ambassador, as well as a New Zealand Beef & Lamb Ambassador. Wharekauhau Country Estate General Manager, Richard Rooney, will often recall the interview process with Norka and her excitement to join them was centred around the fact she has a dedicated gardener and forager in her team here, and the ability to work in a Relais & Chateaux environment.
Language spoken : English
Photo credit : Wharekauhau Country Estate - Relais & Châteaux
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Relais & Châteaux
Founded in 1954, Relais & Châteaux is an association of 580 landmark hotels and restaurants, operated by independent owners and often family-run, who share a passion for their metier and desire for authenticity in their relationships with customers.
Established around the globe from the Napa Valley vineyards to Provence and Indian Ocean beaches, Relais & Châteaux introduces guests to lifestyles inspired by local cultures and cuisine to offer a unique experience.
Relais & Châteaux members are driven by a desire to protect and promote the rich diversity of the world’s cuisines and traditions of hospitality. They are committed to preserving local heritage and the environment, embodied in a Manifesto presented to UNESCO in November 2014.
Wharekauhau Country Estate
In Maori, Wharekauhau means "place of knowledge", as this is where the elders learned their craft. Just over two hundred years ago, a large sheep farm was established here and is still in operation. Today, on this bucolic site overlooking Palliser Bay, the house cultivates a refined art of living. The cottages are elegantly decorated with a combination of antiques and natural materials. The estate is home to extensive gardens with native plants, a croquet lawn, flower beds, and an orchard and vegetable garden that provide the restaurant with delicious "Kiwi" cuisine.
PONANT and Relais & Châteaux have joined forces with a common passion and invite you to sail along the New Zealand coast. From Wellington to Dunedin, come aboard the Lapérouse for a unique experience in one of the most unspoilt environments on the planet.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- In partnership with Relais & Châteaux and with featured guest the chef Norka Mella Munoz.
- A brand-new expedition cruise to discover the treasures of New Zealand’s South Island, from stunning panoramas to unspoiled biodiversity.
- Zodiac outings and shore visits with your expedition team.
- The isolated Chatham Islands, 80 million years old, and home to several endemic bird species.
- Explore the Marlborough Sounds, a natural wonder formed by lush peninsulas and hilly islands.
- Discover the historic centre of Akaroa, a former French colony, and its picturesque bays, formed by thousand-year-old volcanoes.
- Gain an insight into the history, culture and the diversity of flora and fauna from your expert expedition team.
Ports of Call & Excursions
25 November 2023 - Wellington
Embarkation 25/11/2023 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 25/11/2023 at 19:00
Crowned with gentle green hills, Wellington Harbour is located in the far south of the North Island. This city offers a charming mix of traditional and modern cultures, bestowing on the New Zealand capital, a unique atmosphere, both friendly and avant-guard. Where some sites, like the large National Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, reflect the city’s Maori past, others, like the many cafés and restaurants, affirm the inhabitants’ incredible lust for life.
26 November 2023 - Marlborough Sounds
Arrival 26/11/2023
Departure 26/11/2023
At the northern end of New Zealand’s South Island, the Marlborough Sounds are a vast network of submerged valleys. These 1,200 km (745 miles) of coastline form a maze of peninsulas and hilly islands, in the curves of which nestle small bays and inlets drowned by the sea at the end of the most recent ice age. This great wine-growing region of New Zealand, highly renowned for its sauvignon blanc, boasts a temperate climate and very sunny weather. You will discover the untouched and wild beauty of the landscapes in this maritime park. They display an infinite palette of greens and blues set off by the glints of silver that appear as the sun’s rays dance along the surface of the water.
27 November 2023 - Kaikoura
Arrival 27/11/2023
Departure 27/11/2023
Located on the South Island of New Zealand, the small town of Kaikōura stretches between the South Pacific and the snow-capped Kaikōura mountain chain, in the heart of a natural and preserved environment that is home to rich and varied wildlife. The peninsular has spectacular limestone formations, and many marine mammals, such as whales, dolphins, seals and sea lions, as well as sea birds can be found near its shores. Initially populated by the original Maori inhabitants for almost a thousand years, the rocky coastlines of Kaikōura then served as an observation post for whalers between the 18th century and the beginning of the 20th century.
28 November 2023 - At sea
Arrival 28/11/2023
Departure 28/11/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
29 November 2023 30 November 2023 - Chatham Islands
Arrival 29/11/2023
Departure 30/11/2023
The remote Chatham Islands are renowned for their stunning scenery, intriguing history, flora, fauna and friendly hospitality. Located 800 kilometres to the east of the South Island, the archipelago consists of about ten islands within an approximate 60-kilometre radius, the largest of which are Chatham Island and Pitt Island. The islands were first inhabited by Moriori, who named the islands 'Rekohu' – translated as 'misty skies' or 'misty sun'. European sealers and whalers were next to arrive, followed by Māori from New Zealand who named the islands 'Wharekauri'. Much of the natural character of the Chatham Islands is protected in a network of areas set aside for conservation including Mangere and Rangatira (South East Island). Rangatira has been described as one of the world's premier bird islands and is best known for the endemic black robin and the millions of storm petrels, sooty shearwaters and broad-billed prions that nest on the Island. Your ship will arrive at the Chatham Islands in the morning and will spend the day here. You will discover the unique Chathams with zodiac cruises (subject to weather conditions). In the evening the ship will set sail for the Bounty Islands.
1 December 2023 - At sea
Arrival 01/12/2023
Departure 01/12/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
2 December 2023 - Akaroa
Arrival 02/12/2023
Departure 02/12/2023
Set on the east coast of South Island, Christchurch is New Zealand's second-biggest city. You can soak up its easy-going atmosphere in one of the many parks and gardens that give Christchurch its nickname "the garden city", or dally a while in Cathedral Square to see how the city is transforming itself after the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. Attractions such as the International Antarctic Centre and Christchurch Gondola ride are as popular as ever, while pop-up cafes, the Cardboard Cathedral and community art projects showcase the citizens' resilience. The beautiful port of Akaroa, where ships dock, is about 90-minute drive from Christchurch on the Banks Peninsula.
3 December 2023 - Dunedin
Arrival 03/12/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 03/12/2023 at 07:00
Dunedin is New Zealand's oldest city and is often referred to as the Edinburgh of New Zealand. This city of the south, wears its Scottish heritage with pride. The city contains some of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. The Silverpeaks hinterland to the North West provides a picturesque backdrop and The Otago Peninsula, which lies within the city boundaries, has internationally renowned wildlife reserves, including the only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross.
Le Lapérouse
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance and with five-star service.
The Blue Eye, a multisensorial underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Gastronomy & Wine
Succumb to the pleasures of fine dining as you enjoy the delights dreamed up or selected by the most talented sommeliers and Michelin-starred chefs of their generation. They will share with you their passion for the art of eating through gala dinners, tastings, workshops and fascinating talks. Special attention will be paid to the wines offered to you during these Gastronomy and Wine cruises: an exclusive wine list, expert wine and food pairings... As you visit the carefully selected ports of call in cities with a rich cultural heritage, the exceptional culinary and wine-tasting experiences are sure to surprise you.
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
EXCLUSIVE STAY AT WHAREKAUHAU COUNTRY ESTATE (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme at the Wharekauhau Country Estate, memeber Relais & Châteaux.
Day 1 – Wellington/Wharekauhau Country Estate
Meet at Wellington Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off your flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the Wharekauhau Country Estate 5*.
Pre-dinner drinks, canapes and dinner included at the hotel.
Day 2 – Wharekauhau Country Estate
After breakfast, discover our working sheep station tour, in a comfortable 4-wheel drive vehicle, which is an absolute must for all Wharekauhau Visitors.
Bordered by the Remutaka Ranges and Pacific Ocean, this classic Kiwi Romney sheep station features all the activities that have created New Zealand’s legendary farming heritage, including sheep shearing demonstrations, sheep dogs in action and daily farm events.
You will then get back to the hotel, where lunch will be served.
The afternoon is at leisure.
Pre-dinner drinks, canapes and dinner included at the hotel.
Day 3 – Wharekauhau Country Estate
Your personal guide will drive you around the best vineyards and introduce you to the winemakers for a behind the scenes tour. Enjoy a sampling from some of our favourite boutique wineries situated in close proximity to Wharekauhau. Discover the pleasures of the local wineries, tasting some of the world's best Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.
International wine experts rate Martinborough as one of the finest wine growing regions in New Zealand and its Pinot Noir on par with anything that Burgundy has on offer.
Lunch will be served at one of the vineyard cafes or at one of the excellent cafes in the village where you will also have the opportunity to visit the boutique shops in town.
You will be transferred back to the hotel in the afternoon.
Pre-dinner drinks, canapes and dinner included at the hotel.
Day 4 – Wharekauhau Country Estate/Wellington
After breakfast and check-out in late morning, you will then be transferred to the pier of Wellington to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
In Maori, Wharekauhau means “place of knowledge”, as it was here where the wise men would come to learn their craft. The name has remained as a testament to the past. Nearly two centuries later, a large sheep station took its place here and finds itself still in activity today. In this farm setting, overlooking the Palliser Bay, the lodge cultivates a refined art de vivre, with a welcoming decor that mixes antiques with natural materials. It is surrounded by vast native gardens where the croquet lawn, flowers, orchard and vegetable garden stand alongside one another, with the latter two supplying the restaurant where a delicious revisited “Kiwi” cuisine is served.
Your programme includes:
- 3-night accommodation in Cottage suite at Wharekauhau Country Estate 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Pre-dinner drinks.
- NZD 100 voucher to use towards activities and beverages.
- Transfers and visit as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Beverages during meals.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotel:
Wharekauhau Country Estate
4132 Wharekauhau Road RD3
Palliser Bay 5773
New Zealand
Telephone number: +64 (0) 6 307 7581
Duration and order of the visits may vary.
Total : 4.750 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.