Being a New Zealander we were unsure on how we would feel about doing a cruise around New Zealand and cruising in November the weather could also be a bit changeable. We are very familiar with the North Island cities and towns that we visited and had been to all of the South Island destinations many years ago. We have done 6 cruises and would have to say this would be the best in terms of the scenic beauty of the country, the Celebrity Solstice ship and the itinerary.
The weather couldn't have been better, starting in Auckland and disembarking in Sydney we were blessed with beautiful blue skies, glistening seas and fairly warm temperatures. Crossing the Tasman sea was a little rough with a fog or mist appearing in the morning and lasting until the afternoon.
On cruise ships its easy to get lost or it can be difficult sometimes to find your way around between the various decks but not so on the Solstice. It was very easy to navigate and I don't think there was one occasion where we got lost. The ship inside is incredibly clean and all the decks were spotless. Very rarely did we see maintenance crew in public. Our balcony stateroom mid ship was perfect, with an excellent roomy ensuite and serviced twice a day by our attentive steward. We dined in the Espernay on 4 occasions and were happy to eat in the buffet for most other meals. We were pleased with the range, quality of food and service in all the dining places including the Crepe Restaurant. We visited Café Baccio for coffee on several occasions and often had a pre dinner drink overlooking the atrium and listing to good music played by one of the two resident bands.