catmincer

Thanks, Bob. I had heard that Taeiri Gorge is a must-see for that area, which is why I would imagine the cruise lines are looking to monopolize access. Have you heard anything about the coastline trip and whether it's worth it, beyond being the next best tour?

I am from Dunedin originally and last time I was down I did the coast line train. It's not super long (Maybe ~1 hour return) but the views are stunning, especially in summer and the price is fairly cheap.

I checked on their website for the 22nd Feb too, they don't have the full trip to Middlemarch for the Taieri Gorge but they have the shortened one available.

http://www.dunedinrailways.co.nz/our-journeys/taieri-gorge-to-pukerangi you could just do this one?

"

The train runs daily to Pukerangi, a peaceful outcrop out the other side of the Taieri Gorge. If you are worried that you will not see all the scenery on this trip then don’t; this tour allows you see all the best bits the trip has to offer. This trip will take four hours and is our most popular tour!"

no you dont have to pay for any gratuities on the aussie based ships, only the US ships you are required to pay

Thanks. That's what I assumed.

Dawn Princess is an Australian-based ship and, like the Sun & Sea Princesses, should have the gratuities built into the fare. It certainly does for bookings made in Australia and I would expect an NZ booking to be the same, unless the OP booked through a US travel agent - in that case the fare may not include gratuities.

Nah, I booked with princess directly and they definitely know I am in NZ.

I was confused as I see this when I login to the personaliser.

Hi there

I just logged into my cruise personaliser, and it wants me to pre-pay for these?

I was under the impression that they don't charge you these on the Australia based ships.

The cruise I am on leaves Auckland on 28/02 on Dawn Princess.

Is this a mistake, or do they expect you to pay it?