Islands voyage a trip of a lifetime for residents

Six Tauranga residents are going on a trip of a lifetime today.

Daphnie McCleod and Jordan Duke are among six passengers leaving the Bay of Plenty for the Bay of Islands on board the Pacific Pearl.

Travelling on a cruise ship has been a goal of Ms McCleod and her excitement was palpable when the Bay of Plenty Times caught up with her on the eve of her trip.

The most exciting aspect for her would be having a meal on the boat and seeing dolphins, whales and marlins, she said.

The group of six people with disabilities, all who receive support from Lifestyle Choices, had the trip organised independently.

Four support workers would be accompanying them on their venture.

Director of Lifestyle Choices Russell Smith said many of the group had never left New Zealand.

"It's more like a bit of a taster for the people we're taking, see how they like it," he said.

"It's an adventure for them, a new experience going on a cruise ship, something they've never done before.

"They get to experience all the advantages of going on a ship, the social life and all the experiences you have with other people on a ship," Mr Smith said.

The group will be going on the Pacific Pearl, which is due to leave Auckland tomorrow.