Azamara: 15 nights from Papeete with Azamara Onward (Jan 24, 2025)

Bora Bora

Pago Pago

Apia

Nuku Alofa

Lautoka

With a population of around 52,500 people, Lautoka is the second largest city in Fiji and it is located on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, the largest island in the Fijian archipelago.

Lautoka is a dynamic city where industrial activity, cultural richness, and natural beauty are perfectly mixed together. The city is named after a battle cry that means ‘spear-hit’. According to legend, when an argument erupted between two local chiefs, one shouted the words Lau -Toka meaning “spear –hit” or “hit to win” as he killed the other by spearing him through the chest. The city is also known as the "Sugar City" due to its famous sugar industry.

The Lautoka Sugar Mill was founded in 1903, its importance has grown over the years becoming one of the largest in the country and a major employer in the region. Besides sugar, economy includes tourism, manufacturing, and services. The city serves as an important port for both commercial and cruise ships, contributing to its economic vitality. The importance of the port is linked to both trade and tourism. The port sees a bunch of cruise liners, giving passengers a chance to explore the city’s historic sites, hit the beaches and shop around.

Cruises from or stopping in Lautoka often include itineraries through Oceania and Polynesia. These cruises are a great way to see the beauty and culture of the this area, with Lautoka being a highlight for many travelers. Lautoka is a vibrant city with a mix of different cultures and ethnicities, reflecting Fiji's diverse demographic makeup. Lautoka has a vibrant cultural scene with various festivals, markets, and events that celebrate the rich heritage and traditions of its people. If you want to taste local cuisine the Lautoka Market is for you. It is a bustling hub where locals sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and other goods. Rugby and soccer plays an important role in Lautoka sporting culture. If you are a sport lover, Churchill Park is for you. It is a notable sports venue in Lautoka that hosts various local and international sporting events.

Suva

Waitangi (Bay Of Islands)

Auckland

Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand, which is located on the North Island. It got its start in 1840 and was named after George Eden, he was the first Earl of Auckland. Before Europeans showed up, the area was home to the Māori, New Zealand’s indigenous people. Key historical spots like Mount Eden and Maungakiekie are still super important to the Māori. The Māori have a bunch of myths and legends about Auckland. One such myth tells of a giant lizard, Taniwha, who supposedly lives in the Hauraki Gulf waters.

These tales are passed down through the generations and are a vital part of the local culture. Back in the 19th century, Auckland was a major port and trading center, which helped it grow fast. In 1865, the capital of New Zealand was moved to Wellington, but Auckland kept booming thanks to its strategic location and industrial potential. It’s called the "City of Sails'' because there are so many yachts in the Hauraki Gulf. Auckland has a bunch of museums and art galleries, like the Auckland Museum and the Auckland Art Gallery.

The city’s surrounded by gorgeous beaches, volcanic hills and dense forests. There are also several nature reserves and national parks nearby. Auckland’s cuisine is super diverse, reflecting its multicultural vibe. You’ll find restaurants serving Asian, European, Polynesian and Māori dishes. One of New Zealand’s national dishes is hangi, it’s a traditional Māori meal cooked in an earth oven. Meat and veggies are cooked in underground pits with hot stones, giving them a unique smoky flavor. Auckland is a major cruise hub for cruise tourism in the Pacific. The Port of Auckland sees a bunch of cruise ships heading out to the Pacific Islands, New Zealand’s coast and Australia. Popular cruise destinations include Vanuatu, Fiji and New Caledonia.

Cruises from Auckland offer not only luxury and relaxation on board but also a chance to see awesome landscapes and get a taste of New Zealand’s culture. Auckland is a city with a rich history, cultural diversity and stunning natural beauty, attracting tourists from all over the world with its cuisine, attractions and cruise opportunities.