Bugalugsnz

I’ve just checked with Guest Services on Majestic and I don’t qualify as I booked after December 2022 but before the changes were made and notified. Doesn’t seem fair but hey ho!

Hmmm I see what you mean - "to those on Standard cruise fare or Plus/Premier bundles purchased prior to 14 December 2022." Depends on how the "or" is applied. I'm cruising solo (Standard) so not sure about per person or per cabin. It doesn't say. I guess we'll find out when we sail!

I note that the letter (mine at least) provides an onboard AU$25 "AU/NZ regional spending credit" to those who booked prior to 14 December 2022. I booked booked in April this year, well before the announcement of the new charges and after the cut-off for the credit! 😫

It depends on your budget really. Anywhere on lower Queen Street or thereabouts would be handy to Viaduct and Commercial Bay area restaurants and ferries. Movenpick is very nice, the rooms are quite small but modern and clean, and some rooms and the restaurant have great views of the harbour. If on more of a budget, the Quest on Queen serviced apartments are very good value in a great location. I’ve stayed at both and recommend. I’ve also stayed at Fable Queen Street (luxury!) and City Life Queen Street which is further up the hill (mid-range).

Just here to send best wishes to all of the travel agents rocking up to work on Monday… thoughts and prayers.

For those of us who’ve paid Standard for upcoming cruises the point is we won’t get what we paid for. We’ll get less.

I also stayed at Rydges when it was a Holiday Inn and am booked there again in December, pre cruise. The rooms are average but the best part is the rooftop pool with brilliant views of the bridge and opera house.

I head to the library to see if there’s anything good. I bring a bunch of books with me but always run out and I hate reading screens (I cruise to get away from them). I usually bring a bunch of books to donate too. Frees up space in my suitcase for shopping too.

https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/experiences/cruises/128608978/relief-for-cruise-industry-as-maritime-border-opening-date-confirmed