Queen Mary 2 arrives in Auckland

Photo / Chris Skelton

The largest ship to visit New Zealand is back in Auckland as part of her third world voyage.

Queen Mary 2 docked soon after daylight today and was due to sail tonight.

The ship first called into Auckland in February 2007, on her maiden voyage.

New Zealand fashion designer Trelise Cooper was to today parade a selection from her 2011 summer collections on the ship's poolside decks.

Cooper said it was an honour to be asked to show her range onboard the ocean liner.

"What a privilege to be the first designer to present such a show in New Zealand waters," she said.

The 345-metre long ship was halfway through a 101-day world voyage and due to leave at 8pm for the Bay of Islands.

It can carry up to 2620 guests.

She was due to return to New Zealand next year. Her sister ship, the Queen Elizabeth, was also due to visit on her maiden world voyage next February.

Fares on Queen Mary 2's 2011 world voyage begin at $5629 for an 18-night cruise, covering only the Auckland to Hong Kong segment.

- NZPA