Our country has long been the destination of seafaring travellers. From ancient Polynesian explorers to European explorers like Captain Cook, the tradition of visiting via sea is long and hollowed. In these modern times, the opportunities to sail in their wake and explore Aotearoa New Zealand by cruise ship are more available than ever. 

Get the most out of a Kiwi cruise ship adventure

With spectacular coastlines, abundant wildlife, cosmopolitan ports of call and friendly locals, seeing our backyard via cruise ship is an unmissable experience. Prospective travellers, especially those new to cruising, often find themself curious about what to expect, what to bring and what to get excited about. We’re here to help.

Why do a NZ Cruise?

We’re an island nation, and we know that the North Island and the South Island get the bulk of the press, but don’t forget the smaller southern sibling Stewart Island or the multitude of miniature land masses that dot around the coastlines. Visiting islands via sea go together like fish and chips. 

Several well-regarded cruise brands offer their spin on the New Zealand experience. What you can expect from all of them is well-appointed ships that cater to guests keen to experience both NZ and the onboard amenities. They will differ in route, duration and ports they dock in, but will share one major commonality: the beautiful scenery and wildlife that make New Zealand so special.

What to expect

A New Zealand cruise is all about experiencing the best of New Zealand. Even at its widest, the opposite coasts of New Zealand are rarely more than a few hours’ drive away. As a cruise ship traveller, you’ll experience the best of the best – not just the best of what’s close.  

Ports of call are close enough to one another that you’ll get your land legs back on numerous occasions. And while the ship travels around the country the spectacular coastlines and abundant wildlife will make time on board feel more like a nature cruise than a ship just getting from point A to B.  

Many cruises leave from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane in Australia, while others depart directly from Auckland, New Zealand. 

Itineraries vary from just a few days to well over a week. Some offer itineraries that concentrate on city stops, while others focus on natural beauty. There are family-friendly adventures and those aimed at a more mature audience. This can make for a fun adventure for Kiwi cruisers who want to experience Aotearoa in a whole new way.

How to pack for a New Zealand cruise

Don’t forget: here in New Zealand, we get all four seasons – sometimes on the same day! It’s a good idea to pack for all eventualities and think about what sort of activities you’d like to do while on your cruise. 

Essentials include:

• Mobile phone/camera
• Rain jacket
• Comfortable shoes for walking the trails
• Sunhat and sunscreen
• Kiwi travellers: don’t forget your passport if your ship is starting or finishing its journey in Australia – but don’t worry, you won’t need a visa.
• Domestic travel insurance can help cover unexpected events like lost or damaged baggage and travel cancellations.  

For more tips, check out our ultimate travel packing checklist. 

Activities and shore excursions 

New Zealand has become known for its adventurous activities, and rightfully so! If you are feeling brave, you can bungy jump off the Auckland Harbour Bridge. If you’re keen on the air, scenic flights abound both in planes and helicopters. And if you really enjoy flying, you could try skydiving. 

If you’d like to keep your feet a bit firmer on the ground, there are countless hikes to tackle and just as many gentle strolls.

Cruises also offer an opportunity to explore New Zealand’s culture. You can learn more about Māori culture and history, indulge in world-class dining experiences, sample New Zealand’s wine industry and explore art galleries.

Most ships will help organise your in-port activities and those can vary from cultural tours to fishing, glow worm caves, city tours, gondola rides, jet boat rides, wine tasting and a whole lot more – all tailored to your location.

Where do cruise ships dock?

Each cruise line varies, but popular ports of call in New Zealand include:

Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, is nicknamed ‘The City of Sails’ – so it’s no wonder that it’s a popular stop for cruisers. There was a time when Auckland had the most boats per capita of any city in the world, and that is reflected in the stunning port right in the heart of the city. This cosmopolitan and modern city is flowing with points of interest for travellers. Shopping, dining, sightseeing, or just a walk – Auckland is a world-class city.

The Bay of Islands

Heading north from Auckland, this short sail brings you to the white sand, tropical temperatures and cultural mecca of the Bay of Islands. While Auckland has a decidedly rapid pulse, the feel up north is much more relaxed. Sprawling beaches give way to swaths or native forests brimming with towering kauri trees and ferns that nearly block the warm summer sun. The sea also has its share of treasures – the abundant dolphin population can often be found surfing the bow wave of the ship or frolicking in the gentle waves.

Ships will often dock near the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the very place where, in 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, the founding document of New Zealand. Here you’ll find the Waitangi Marae, a Māori meeting house of immense historic value and a wonderful spot to immerse yourself in local culture.

Wellington

The southern tip of the North Island is where you’ll find the capital of New Zealand, Wellington. This hilly city with a compact and unquestionably cool downtown is a visitor favourite. Some say it’s the best coffee in New Zealand, others claim the world, but whoever is correct, we all sip the benefits.

A Wellington top tip is to visit Te Papa, the National Museum of New Zealand. This sprawling complex is home to a formidable permanent collection as well as touring exhibitions, all in a well-laid-out and climate-controlled environment. 

Akaroa

Heading south, this small port near the city of Christchurch is truly unique. Perched on the end of Banks Peninsula, Akaroa is New Zealand's only French community. Embracing its Francophone roots you’ll find French colonial architecture and some of the best French restaurants – and pastries – this side of Paris.    

Inland from Akaroa, a drive over the hills reveals Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island. While the 2011 earthquakes changed the landscape, the rebuild is well worth a look. Leaning into creative temporary solutions like container malls and the ephemeral beauty of street art, Christchurch is alive and on the grow. Drinks and dinner along the Avon River form an idyllic way to wrap up a visit to New Zealand’s, ‘Garden City.’

Milford Sound

Head south, way south, and you will find the best saved for last. This deep fjord on the southwest corner of the South Island is a well-deserved World Heritage Site. Glacial ice has carved a path through granite peaks, and over millennia, the sea crept in, creating a truly jaw-dropping location. The water in the fjord is deep enough to allow the cruise ship to weave under the stone walls that dwarf even the most opulent vessels. Waterfalls sprout seemingly from the heavens, and after rainfall, they turn extra-extra-large, filling the air with mist and mystery. The abundant wildlife, including fur seals, native birds and dolphins complete the picture of a destination that should be on every traveller’s bucket list.



Your cruise might also stop at Tauranga’s stunning coastline, the Art Deco-inspired Napier, Dunedin – a UNESCO City of Literature; or stunning Stewart Island, where kiwi birds outnumber people. 

For Kiwis looking to explore more of their own backyard, a cruise is a way to see Aotearoa in a whole new way. Explore the country while indulging in fine food and good scenery floating past your cabin – all while never getting out of your comfort zone. Or, take part in wild shore excursions and enjoy an active holiday that scratches that true adventurous spirit – on the sea, in the air and on the land. It can be the best of both worlds. Regardless of who you are, a New Zealand cruise can be the trip of a lifetime.