Double Destination Presentations: Wellington and Picton, New Zealand

Aloha Everyone,

In the morning, we attended the destination presentation on Wellington. After lunch and a quick nap, we returned to hear about Picton, our final port of call in New Zealand.

Both places seem to be easily accessible by walking. Hutch gave us a warning about the changeable weather conditions including rain and gusts of wind. I will pack my baseball cap in addition to a windbreaker.

Aloha -- Cathi

Napier, NZ, Destination Presentation & Showtime: Italian Opera starring Paul Tabone

Aloha Everyone,

Ambitious plan for us to attend at least 4 different programs all held in the Princess Theater. Destinations are beginning to look the same. It would be more helpful if Hutch can rewrite his script and point out a couple of notable things about the places.

With his drowning voice, I had to catch myself from falling asleep.  

Program 2 on shore excursions was all about doing sales pitch. J.J. and I walked out.  

The third program, Variety Showtime: Rhythm of the Seven Seas was entertaining. The show featured one or two Princess dancers paired with volunteer performers. It was obvious that some of these people had been dancing and were not shy at all about being on the stage.

Paul Tabone, Italian Tenor was the best singer we heard on this cruise. If we are to nitpick, he talked too much about his own life and how he had become an Italian tenor.  

Aloha -- Cathi

Destination Presentation Tauranga

Aloha Everyone,

Of a particular personal interest for J.J. & me on Tauranga is this is where one can find Hobbit Town. The true story of an enterprising farmer and how he is making an unbelievable income from rental of hobbit homes to Tolkien fans. This is a contemporary tale of a farmer becoming a wealthy man using his brain rather than physical strength.

Communicated with our family and friends using our 24 hours WiFi connection.

Aloha -- Cathi

Destination Program Auckland, NZ & Environmental Officer, Davor Pelicaric

Aloha Everyone,

Lots of useful information on Auckland, the biggest city in New Zealand. 

Davor Pelicaric is the Environmental Officer on Crown Princess. This job seems to be relatively new on cruise ships. Job requires Deck Officer license, Engine Officer license and Environmental Science based bachelor degree. Must be familiar with environmental quality standards, maritime regulations.

Environmental Officer salary ranges between US$5,500 to $8,300 per month depending on the cruise line and the time served with the company. 

Below is our dining selection for the past week on board the Crown Princess.

Aloha -- Cathi