Cruising in New Zealand

An introduction and overview to Cruising in New Zealand

Cruising to New Zealand is a time-honoured tradition. It's how most of our early settlers came to New Zealand, and is a perfect way to explore our spectacular landscapes.

Made up of two main islands, New Zealand has over 15,000 kilometres of coastline, and offers much to those wanting to explore this young country by sea.

Blessed with a compact land mass, this means that each distinct New Zealand region is within overnight sailing of each other. Whether you are after scenic beauty, interacting with endangered wildlife, learning about Maori culture, or indulging in the gourmet goodness of New Zealand, cruising to New Zealand offers varied experiences and life-changing moments.

Cruise ships tend to arrive into New Zealand from Australia or the Pacific Islands, and expedition ships may also visit New Zealand's sub-Antarctic islands. There are many options for you to cruise to New Zealand, whether it's coastal New Zealand, via Australia or the Pacific Islands or a round-the-world cruise.

Find out which ships come to New Zealand and make this your trip of a lifetime!

There are nine main port regions in New Zealand:

• Bay of Islands: Birthplace of the Nation, with a stunning subtropical coastline and thick dense native forests.

• Auckland: New Zealand's biggest city with breathtaking scenery, beautiful beaches, outstanding food and wine, great shopping and exciting nightlife.

• Tauranga and Rotorua: For beaches, a thriving kiwifruit industry and Maori culture in Tauranga; and geothermal earth forces, spa rejuvenation, thrills and adventure, and Maori culture in Rotorua.

• Napier: For beautiful scenery, award-winning wines, gourmet experiences, unique wildlife, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage.

• Wellington: New Zealand's capital, a boutique city offering arts and cultural experiences with nature right on its doorstep.

• Picton (Marlborough): A retreat from urban pressures with its idyllic Sounds, gourmet offerings and world famous herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc.

• Christchurch (Lyttelton or Akaroa): The 'Garden City', lined with beautiful parks and tree- lined avenues, with the picturesque Avon River running tranquilly through the city.

• Dunedin (Port Chalmers): A city rich in heritage and architecture, and home to many endangered New Zealand wildlife.

• Fiordland: A World Heritage site, home to Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, New Zealand's picturesque icons.

If you have the opportunity to start and end your cruise in New Zealand, be sure to make the most of it! Spend an extra few more days exploring New Zealand's other regions, each with their own distinct offerings.