On a cruise to New Zealand from Sydney, explore the natural wonders, thrilling adventures, and unique culture that the North and South islands have to offer. Sail through mirror-calm sounds surrounded by awe-inspiring waterfalls and jagged peaks. Indulge in extraordinary wine from some of the world’s leading wine regions, and learn about the proud Maori culture.

New Zealand is a unique haven waiting to be explored on cruises of 11 to 13 nights, sailing either round-trip from Sydney or one-way between Sydney and Auckland. The contemporary Celebrity Edge is the perfect ship from which to admire the scenery, taking in the beauty of Milford Sound and the Bay of Islands from the spectacular Magic Carpet. Enjoy an unforgettable vacation on a New Zealand cruise that will open your world.

View All Cruises to New Zealand from Sydney

Featured Ports of Call

Christchurch

Laid-back Christchurch is the gateway to some of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery, from the snowcapped, jagged Southern Alps to the lush plains and valleys immortalized in film as “Middle Earth”. In the city, admire contemporary works at the Christchurch Art Gallery or learn about Antarctic exploration at the multisensory International Antarctic Centre. Stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens along the banks of the Avon River, dazzling at any time of year.

Dunedin

The university town of Dunedin, named after Edinburgh and reveling in a rich Scottish heritage, has much to offer. Walk up Baldwin Street, one of the steepest in the world, and admire the magnificent bluestone rail station, said to be the most photographed building in New Zealand. Explore 19th-century Larnach Castle and enjoy a beer tasting at Speight’s Brewery. On the nearby Otago Peninsula, join a wildlife cruise for the chance to spot albatrosses, seals, and cormorants.

Bay of Islands

In the Bay of Islands, you’ll get to explore secluded beaches surrounded by craggy cliffs, paddleboard along peaceful coastlines, and explore mysterious glowworm caves. If leisure is on your mind, head to a local winery for lunch and a tasting of some of New Zealand’s award-winning wines. Or hop on a cruise around the gorgeous bay to spot wild dolphins and admire the Hole in the Rock, a craggy natural rock arch.

Auckland

No cruises to New Zealand from Sydney would be complete without visiting the country’s metropolitan heart. Urbanites will enjoy browsing art galleries and boutiques along the North Shore or simply walking through the city, stopping in artisanal cafés to refuel. Auckland is surrounded by extraordinary natural beauty, from dormant volcanoes to islands and endless beaches. Head up the Sky Tower to take it all in.

Top Shore Excursions on Cruises from Sydney to New Zealand

Wildlife Wonders

New Zealand offers many unique experiences to spot wildlife. Meet yellow-eyed penguins near Dunedin, see seals basking on rocky crags in Fiordland, and admire the glowworms of Kawiti Cavern in the Bay of Islands. Visit a working sheep farm from Christchurch to watch a sheepdog demonstration, or learn about the distinctive kiwi bird at the Willowbank Wildlife Preserve. You can spot wild dolphins in the Bay of Islands or take a trip to Cape Kidnappers to see the world’s largest colony of gannets.

Wine Tasting

New Zealand is famed for its award-winning wines, and a visit provides plenty of chances to visit picturesque vineyards and sample some of the world’s finest vintages. Sip Bordeaux-style blends and sauvignon blanc in Hawkes Bay, near Napier, and taste some of the intense chardonnays of the Marlborough region. From Christchurch, head into the rolling Waipara region to taste pinot noir and chardonnay.

Journey into Nature

New Zealand is blessed with breathtaking landscapes, from jagged mountains to lush countryside, volcanoes, and hot springs. Ride a vintage train through the dramatic Taieri River Gorge and marvel at the bubbling mud pits and geysers of Rotorua, near Tauranga. Climb Maungawhau, or Mount Eden, one of Auckland’s 48 volcanoes, for sweeping views. Take in the subtropical beauty of the Bay of Islands on the North Island and the plunging cliffs of the South Island’s glacier-carved Fiordland.

View All Cruises to New Zealand from Sydney

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns