New Zealand is paradise on earth as well as being our home. If you are cruising here, you are in for a treat. Each of the New Zealand cruise ports is filled with amazing options. The good news is that we believe there are no bad choices.
However, we also think there are better choices, which are different for everyone. Our goal is to simplify the process for you.
We wrote this guide in two main sections. The first lists some of the unique things to see in NZ and in which ports you can find each.
Then, for each port city, we start with a description, followed by the location of the cruise port, city highlights, our recommended tours, and additional articles on the city. If you want, we have written a detailed article on the best way to spend your port days in each of the cities.
We’ve personally experienced the beauty of both islands. We’re intimately familiar with each of the major port cities and the incredible things to do in each and we have even cruised home to Auckland from LA via cruise ship.
As American expats, we have lived and travelled around NZ for over 21 years, giving us the unique perspective of both a local and a visitor.
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Map of the key New Zealand cruise ports
The map stars each of the port cities we highlight below, along with the key destinations we recommend if they are outside the city.
Tour or DIY: What is the best way to explore New Zealand cruise ports?
The four ways to see a cruise port are excursions sponsored by the cruise company, independent shore tours, private guides, or walking off and doing your own thing.
After spending 160 days at sea, we have successfully done all four many times. We go into detail on how we choose the best way to see a cruise port here.
What are the New Zealand must-sees?
Before examining the individual cruise ports in New Zealand, let’s determine what are your must-sees among some of the unique things to do in NZ. This is our recommended list for people with limited time (i.e. cruise passengers):
- Geothermal activity and bubbling mud
Unique, fascinating, and often a bit smelly, geothermal regions are found in a few spots around the world, making them and the array of colours they produce a must-see for many visitors. - Maori culture
Māori cultural shows are a great introduction to the country’s indigenous people. Before booking, check your cruise itinerary to see if they are bringing one on board. - Kiwi bird
There are plenty of places to see the elusive nocturnal kiwi bird in NZ. To increase your chances, visit a dedicated enclosure. - Lord of the Rings
Movie fans will want to visit the Hobbiton movie set and/or take a tour of the Weta Workshop special effects studio. All other LOTR film locations have been returned to their natural state. - See or swim with dolphins
Dolphins live in most of our waters, but only some places allow people to swim with them. - Adrenaline pumping activities
If you are an adrenaline junkie, ideally, you will be staying on after your cruise in Queenstown, the self-proclaimed adventure capital of the world. - Wine tasting
There are several world-class vineyards and wine-growing regions in the country.
At which cruise ports in New Zealand can I find each of the must-sees?
Geothermal activity and bubbling mud
Tour Lord of the Rings Sights
Watch a Maori Cultural Performance
Do extreme activities
Spot Kiwi Birds
See or swim with dolphins
Wine growing regions
What to do at each of the New Zealand cruise ports
Below we share what we think are the highlights of each port.
Bay of Islands port (Waitangi)
About the Bay of Islands
Known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and water activities, the Bay of Islands is a haven for sailing, fishing, and exploring New Zealand’s early history. Unless you are on a small ship, Bay of Islands probably won’t be on your New Zealand cruise ports itinerary.
Port location
Here, your ship will anchor offshore and tender passengers to Waitangi Wharf. It is a short walk to the treaty grounds or a 5-minute shuttle to the main town of Paihia.
Bay of Islands highlights
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds – The historic site of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi
- Russell – New Zealand’s first colonial capital
- Hole in the Rock cruise – A scenic or adventurous boat trip to a natural rock formation
- Dolphin watching – Cruising to see playful dolphins in the wild
Our top recommended Bay of Islands tours and activities
- Spend a half day at Waitangi Treaty Grounds. International visitors – reserve your Waitangi Treaty Grounds entry here.
- Spend the other half day either on a fast boat or a scenic boat out to the Hole in the Rock or wildlife spotting. Our top picks are this fast boat ocean adventure or this relaxed cruise.
More on the Bay of Islands
- 22 Exciting or Relaxing Things to Do in Bay of Islands NZ
- Kerikeri Mission Station: Discover 2 of NZ’s Oldest Buildings
Auckland port
About Auckland
Often the starting or ending point for cruises, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city. It is known for its vibrant waterfront, Sky Tower, and beautiful islands like Waiheke, and it is our home.
Port location
Ships dock at Princess Wharf (Auckland Cruise Ship Terminal) or nearby Queens Wharf (Auckland Main Cruise Dock), making it simple to walk off and enjoy my city.
Auckland highlights
- Sky Tower – Tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere
- Mt Eden or one of the 48 volcanoes – Panoramic harbour and city views
- Auckland Domain – War Memorial Museum and Wintergardens
- Viaduct Harbour – A lively area with restaurants, boating excursions, and the Maritime Museum
- Head out west – Black sand beaches and vineyards
Our top recommended Auckland city tour
We recommend any of the three tours in our Auckland cruise port guide: the first is a 4-hour tour that hits the city highlights and spending the remainder of the day on your own.
Our top recommended other tour
This six-hour tour hits the city highlights and gets you to the West Coast.
More on Auckland
- 75 Free and Nearly Free Things to Do in Auckland New Zealand
- 15 Beautiful Places in Auckland New Zealand – We Love Our City!
Tauranga port
About Tauranga
Located in the Bay of Plenty, this port is one of the choices. It’s the gateway to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal activity and Maori culture, and also for the Hobbiton Movie Set. Therefore, this is one port where you will want to choose one of the many shore excursions in New Zealand.
Port location
Cruise ships dock at Salisbury Wharf in Mount Maunganui, which is within walking distance of the beach and the scenic hike up Mount Maunganui. Transport is required for excursions to Rotorua’s geothermal attractions, Maori cultural experiences, or the Hobbiton Movie Set.
Tauranga highlights
While there is plenty to do in the city itself, we recommend getting to one of these three options:
- Rotorua – Known for its geothermal activity and Maori cultural experiences
- Mount Maunganui – Famous for its beautiful beach and scenic hike
- Hobbiton Movie Set – A must-visit for fans of The Lord of the Rings
Our top recommended tours
Without hesitation, our top recommendation is Rotorua, and this highlight tour is a stand-out. You visit a kiwi orchard on the way, then a stop in the Redwood forest and Government Gardens, followed by two hours at Whakarewarewa – The Living Maori Village. There is even time to see a waterfall before returning to the ship. Reserve your Rotorua highlights tour here.
More on the region
- 25 Fun Things to Do in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui
- 20 Fun Things to Do in Rotorua: A First Timer’s Guide
Napier port
About Napier
Known for its Art Deco architecture and nearby vineyards, Napier offers a unique blend of history and wine tourism and is a fun stop for anyone cruising NZ.
Port location
Although only 1 km north of the city centre, the Port of Napier does not have pedestrian access; however, there is a free port shuttle to town.
Napier highlights
- Art Deco City Tour – Exploring the unique architecture of Napier
- Wine tasting in Hawke’s Bay – Visiting renowned wineries and vineyards
- National Aquarium of New Zealand – Featuring a diverse range of marine life
- Te Mata Peak – Offering stunning views and scenic trails
Our top recommended city tour
Art Deco tour with the Art Deco Trust. Use this link to check for discounts on the Art Deco Trust tour.
Our top recommended vineyard tour
This half-day tour starts at 11 am. Reserve your Hawkes Bay wine tour here. A fun bicycle wine tour is also available on our port page.
More on Napier and the surrounding Hawkes Bay
- 16 Unique Things to Do in Napier, New Zealand’s Art Deco Capital
- Things to Do in Hawkes Bay NZ: Wine Trails, Culture, Art Deco, and More
Wellington port
About Wellington
NZ’s capital city of Wellington (world’s southern most capital), is renowned for its museums, vibrant arts scene, parliament buildings, and cable car ride to the Botanic Garden. To Lord of the Rings fans, it is Middle Earth.
Port location
Most cruise ships sailing into Wellington berth at Aotea Quay, which is about 1.5 km (just less than a mile) north of the city centre. With the port close to town, it’s one city that is easy to walk off the ship and explore without needing one of the many shore excursions in New Zealand.
Wellington highlights
- Te Papa Tongarewa – The National Museum of New Zealand
- Wellington Cable Car – A scenic ride to the Botanic Garden
- Weta Workshop – The studio behind The Lord of the Rings (and other movies) special effects
- Parliament Buildings – Home to New Zealand’s government. Tours are free but must be booked in advance.
- Wellington Botanic Garden – Beautiful gardens accessible via the cable car
Our top recommended Wellington city tour
We think this is an easy port to do yourself and have a recommended walking tour on our Wellington cruise port guide. However, if you are looking for a tour, we recommend either this full-day tour or this half-day tour.
Our top recommended other tours
For Lord of the Rings fans recommend either this full-day tour or this half-day tour.
More on Wellington
- Wellington Activities: 37 Fun Things to Do in Wellington NZ
- Wellington Indoor Activities – Fun on a Rainy Day in Wellington, NZ
Picton port
About Picton
Nestled in the northern tip of New Zealand’s stunning South Island, Picton is the entry point to the stunning Marlborough Sounds, a paradise for water activities and hiking, and near to the famous Marlborough wine region.
Port location
Larger cruise ships sailing into Picton dock at Waimahara Wharf in Shakespeare Bay while smaller ships can dock at Waitohi Wharf. Regardless of which one is your port, there should be a free shuttle bus to the Picton iSite Visitor Information Centre.
Picton highlights
- Marlborough Sounds cruise – Explore the stunning waterways differently than when you are on the ship cruising New Zealand
- Wine tasting in Marlborough region – Famous for Sauvignon Blanc
- .Queen Charlotte Track – A popular hiking and biking trail
- Edwin Fox Maritime Museum – Showcasing one of the world’s oldest ships
Our top recommended Marlborough (wine) tour
This six-hour tour visits five wineries and one chocolate factory. Reserve your cruise excursion – wines of Marlborough tour here.
Our top recommended scenic cruise
A four-hour tour focused on the thriving wildlife of the outer Marlborough Sounds. In addition, you have a stop getting off on Motuara Island, a bird sanctuary Island. Reserve your Marlborough Sounds ultimate cruise here
Christchurch port (Lyttelton or Akaroa)
About Christchurch
Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island and on most New Zealand cruise ports itineraries.
The English influence is everywhere. It’s a city of resilience and charm that has been revitalised since its devastating earthquake in 2011. On the other side of the stunning Banks Peninsula is the charming French-influenced village of Akaroa.
Port location
Cruise ships dock either at the Lyttelton cruise port (18-minute drive to Christchurch), or moor at Akaroa (90-minute drive to Christchurch). We recommend you know which one applies to your ship before booking any tours.
Christchurch highlights
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens – Beautiful gardens in the heart of the city
- Punting on the Avon River – A quintessential Christchurch experience
- Akaroa dolphin cruise – Spotting Hector’s dolphins and other wildlife
- International Antarctic Centre – Learn about the continent and see little penuigns
- Willowbank Wildlife Reserve tour – See the iconic kiwi bird up close and learn about New Zealand’s native wildlife
Our top recommended Christchurch city tour
Our top pick is one of the Christchurch City and International Antarctic Centre tours. The two ports offer different options, but both have a city highlights plus Antarctic Centre tour. Reserve the tour from Lyttelton here OR reserve the tour from Akaroa here.
Our top recommended other tour
If you are like me and have always wanted to swim with wild dolphins, this would be my pick: Reserve your swimming with wild dolphins experience here.
More on Christchurch
- Things to Do in Christchurch – New Zealand’s Oldest City Vibrantly Rebuilt
- 28 Best Indoor Activities in Christchurch to Brighten a Rainy Day
Dunedin port
About Dunedin
With its Scottish heritage, Victorian architecture, NZ’s only castle, and nearby wildlife on the Otago Peninsula, Dunedin is a unique port of call.
Port location
Ships dock at Port Chalmers, a short shuttle ride from Dunedin.
Dunedin highlights
- Dunedin Railway Station – Often referred to as the most photographed building in NZ
- Otago Peninsula – Home to albatross, penguins, and seals
- Baldwin Street – The world’s steepest street
- Larnach Castle – Known for its fabulous garden, it was New Zealand’s only castle until about 10 years ago
Our top recommended Dunedin city tour
If you have the time, our top recommendation is to take a tour that spends some time in Dunedin and the majority on the Otago Peninsula. We recommend three here, but our top pick is this Dunedin City, wildlife and Larnach Castle tour.
More on Dunedin
Fiordland cruise port
About Fiordland
Fiordland is renowned for its breathtaking fiords, offering some of the most dramatic and scenic cruising experiences in the world. Ships typically cruise through these majestic landscapes rather than dock, providing stunning views of waterfalls, towering cliffs, and abundant wildlife. Highlights include the iconic Milford Sound, the tranquil Doubtful Sound, and opportunities for kayaking and wildlife spotting.
Port location
Typically, when cruising NZ, Fiordland is on the itinerary as a scenic cruise route rather than a port of call. However, a few cruises do stop here, so you might have some of these options.
Fiordland highlights
- Milford Sound cruise – View stunning waterfalls and towering cliffs
- Doubtful Sound cruise – A more remote and tranquil fiord experience
- Kayaking – Explore the serene waters up close
- Wildlife spotting – See seals, penguins, and dolphins
- Scenic flights – Aerial views of the dramatic landscape
Our top recommended Milford Sound tour
Start with what’s on offer with the ship, as chances are high that if you do stop here, it will be for a short amount of time. If not, our top choice is this 1 hour 45 minute highly rated boutique cruise experience. Reserve your Cruise Milford NZ small boutique cruise experience
More on Fiordland
- 5 Ways from Queenstown to Milford Sound: Your Ultimate Guide
- An Epic Overnight Milford Sound Cruise – Spectacular Photo Opportunities
- Dinner Harvested from the Mysterious Doubtful Sound, New Zealand
Where to next: What to do at each of the New Zealand cruise ports
If you haven’t read it yet, don’t miss our general tips for first-time visitors to New Zealand or our overview of cruising in New Zealand. We have written more on each cruise port here:
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What to bring when cruising New Zealand
Good news. We offer several free packing lists, including one for travel in New Zealand and one for cruising. Either will get you what you need, and both can be found among our free packing lists.
Don’t miss our best cruise tips
More tips and resources for your cruise
Below are our go-to companies when we cruise. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.
- Cruise: We find great deals at Cruise Direct.
- Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
- Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), VRBO (self-contained), or Hostelworld (budget).
- Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
- Set up private guides at the ports: Looking to maximize our limited time at a port, we often use private guides from Viator.
- Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.
Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.
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How many of these New Zealand cruise ports are on your itinerary (or bucket list)?
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For more on New Zealand, start here: New Zealand Road Trips: Itineraries for North or South Island Adventures, or you might like …
Photo Credits:
All photos on this page are either shot by our team and watermarked as such or stock images from Depositphotos.
Tess
I’m adding so many spots in New Zealand to my bucket list, thanks to this post! Thanks for this helpful guide 🙂
Alex+J.+Cavanaugh
I don’t need to swim with them but seeing dolphins is always a treat. And several different places to do that is a bonus.
Stephanie
Great details! I’ve never been to New Zealand, but this will help planning a future trip there!
Anja
Some great places to visit! I have been shying away from New Zealand as it’s such a long flight, but my mum has visited twice and loved it. Thank you for sharing! You make New Zealand look really attractive for a holiday.
Lindsay
I’ve always wanted to do a cruise from Sydney. Great way to see the country. I’d love to see the Sounds too and the Hobbiton Village 🙂
Kelly
Fabulous post. So much helpful information. I will be sharing this!
Allison
How did I not know there are penguins in New Zealand?! It wasn’t on my list before, but I might have to go now…
Sonia
The activities at New Zealand’s cruise ports look amazing! I’d really enjoy touring Fiordland.