vanman

Another option is flying to Hawaii. Spend a few days in Hawaii and then fly nonstop to Auckland. The flight to Auckland is a daytime flight of 8 1/2 hrs. The time change is only one hour (in Auckland's summer) so you're much less jet lagged.

Our last AZ TA was two years ago. There were bridge lessons(beginners/intermediate) and duplicate bridge each sea day. I also joined the sea choir for the first(and only) time. It was fun. We practiced each sea day for about an hour and then performed toward the end of the cruise. You don't need a good voice to join. (I can attest to that)

Taxis will be readily available or you could order Uber. There is a lot of road work going on now in Montreal so travel times aren't predictable. I would allow 45-60 minutes and you'll be fine.