Explore Aotearoa’s Natural Beauty, Culture & Adventure from Every Port
Make the most of your cruise stop in Aotearoa with our expertly guided New Zealand shore excursions, designed specifically for cruise passengers. Whether you’re arriving on the North Island or South Island, we offer a diverse range of day tours that balance comfort, scenery, and cultural depth. With local guides and guaranteed return transfers to your ship, these excursions ensure a seamless experience packed with unforgettable sights and stories.
From the subtropical coasts of Northland to the dramatic fiords of the south, each cruise port offers something unique. In the Bay of Islands, visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds or explore Kerikeri’s waterfalls and glowworm caves. Auckland excursions showcase the Sky Tower and Viaduct Harbour, while Tauranga provides access to the bubbling geothermal wonders of Rotorua or the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set. These tours combine natural beauty with Māori heritage and modern city life.
Discover the South Island’s Wildlife, Wine & Wild Landscapes
The South Island offers equally captivating options. In Picton, explore the tranquil Marlborough Sounds or taste world-renowned wines at nearby cellar doors. From Lyttelton, cruise guests can explore Christchurch’s gardens or journey to Arthur’s Pass or Akaroa. In Dunedin, experience the grandeur of Larnach Castle and the wildlife-rich Otago Peninsula. Adventurous travellers can enjoy jaw-dropping scenery in Milford Sound, where cruises reveal the raw beauty of Fiordland.
Our New Zealand cruise shore excursions are designed to suit all kinds of travellers—whether you're after history, food, wildlife, or full-blown adventure. Choose from small-group or private tours, all led by knowledgeable local guides who bring New Zealand’s stories to life. With return transfers, curated itineraries, and flexible options, you’ll experience more than just a port—you’ll discover the real Aotearoa.
Planning and timing are crucial to get the most out of your shore excursions in New Zealand. Here are some considerations:
Seasonality: New Zealand's peak cruise season runs from October to April, aligning with the country's spring, summer, and autumn. This is when you'll find the widest array of excursions available. Remember, New Zealand's seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere.
Port Time: Check your ship's arrival and departure times at each port. Excursions can range from a couple of hours to a full day, so ensure the timing works with your cruise schedule.
Advance Booking: Popular excursions can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It's advisable to book your excursions in advance, either through your cruise line or directly with local tour operators, to secure your spot.
Local Operator: Booking a cruise shore excursion with a local operator often allows for a more personalized and authentic experience, and often host smaller group tours, which leads to a more intimate experiences and less crowding than if booking through the cruise ship. Local operators usually offer much better prices as they don't have the overhead costs that cruise lines have. Tours with local operators are scheduled to fit in with the cruise ships arrivals and departures.
Travel Time: Consider the travel time to and from the excursion site from your port of call. Some sites may be located some distance from the port, which could eat into your exploration time.
Activity Level and Duration: When selecting your excursions, consider the physical demand and duration of each activity. Make sure it aligns with your fitness level and preferences. Excursions can range from leisurely city tours to strenuous hikes or adventure sports.
Multiple Excursions: If your ship is docked for a full day or more, you might be able to fit in multiple excursions. Plan accordingly and allow for some downtime between activities if possible.
Weather: Weather can vary greatly across different regions of New Zealand. Check the forecast ahead of time and plan for contingencies in case of inclement weather.
Safety and Guidelines: Ensure you understand all safety guidelines and requirements for each excursion, particularly for adventure activities. Make sure your travel insurance covers these activities.
Remember, well-planned and timed excursions not only ensure that you don't miss your ship's departure but also help you maximize your experiences in New Zealand's stunning ports of call.
