Australia & New Zealand
New Zealand
Escape to this unhurried corner of the world, where Māori legends, steaming volcanic lakes, penguins and hobbits add to the magical landscape. From the historic North Island, known as "the birthplace of the nation," to the stirring drama of Fiordland National Park, a cruise to New Zealand with Princess will defy expectations.
Wellington’s number-one attraction, the Te Papa National Museum, showcases Māori and Pacific cultural treasures, New Zealand’s extraordinary natural life and its most important works of art. While in Akaroa, hop aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine Train for a serene journey through New Zealand’s dramatic Southern Alps.
Sail into a world of surreal beauty in Fiordland National Park, where the verdant flanks of snowcapped peaks plunge into the crystalline waters of ice-carved fiords. Or visit the Tongariro National Park outside of Napier, which holds the title of first park in the world to receive UNESCO World Heritage status for both its natural and Māori spiritual and cultural value.
New Zealand’s vast, dramatic and diverse landscape is the unrivaled home of Tolkien’s mythical Middle Earth. Journey to the city of Edoras and walk in the footsteps of The Lord of the Rings in Wellington, and visit Peter Jackson’s Weta Studios.Marvel at the sight of twinkling glowworms in Auckland’s Glowworm Grotto, and explore Wellington’s Zealandia, nicknamed "Jurassic Park," in search of the giant weta – one of the world’s largest insects!
At Princess® we want you to enjoy an unforgettable New Zealand adventure. That’s why we’ve infused our sailings with special regional experiences, including:See traditional folkloric performances, such as the Haka Māori War Dance.Enjoy kiwi favorites served on board, including Pavlova, or Lemon Myrtle Prawns, or even a Hangi Dinner – a Māori tradition.Participate in “Festivals of the World” celebrations, such as Matariki, a Māori festival that marks the start of the Māori New Year, with ceremonial offerings and homage to whakapapa (ancestors).
Don’t miss the famed Christchurch Botanic Gardens, which boasts the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants in New Zealand, Port Chalmers’ Larnach Castle (the country’s only castle) or Auckland’s Sky Tower, the tallest man-made structure in the southern hemisphere.
Delight at the sight of glittering glowworms inside Auckland’s Waitomo Grotto, and enjoy an exclusive kiij at Māori and Polynesian exhibits in Auckland. Travel along Akaroa’s Southern Alps, and see white-flippered blue penguins and New Zealand fur seals on a cruise through Akaroa Harbour. On itineraries with More Ashore Late Night calls, we stay until at least 9 p.m. in port so you can experience some of the fabulous nightlif
Savor the unique tastes of an authentic Māori hangi or sample award-winning wines from Picton. See how the Māori’s rich heritage comes alive in the Bay of Islands, and discover how Napier’s beautifully preserved 1930s architecture pays homage to the Māori by merging the linear symmetry of Art Deco with tribal motifs.
Witness the unparalleled beauty of what locals call “Godzone” (God’s own country) on a hike into Tauranga’s Wai-O-Tapu thermal valley and be rewarded with spectacular mud pools, geysers and rainbow-colored lakes. And just outside Wellington, you’ll experience a world teeming with Māori myths, rugged coasts and adorable seals.Be awestruck by the beauty of Fiordland National Park, named one of the 7 Cruise Wonders of the World by Condé Nast Traveler. And sail through the glassy waters and towering cliffs of Milford Sound, which was formed a millennia ago by massive glacial flows.
Travel to remote and unspoiled locations while visiting local villages and witnessing fascinating cultural traditions. Guests stay in comfortable lodges in the Wewak and Sepik River regions of Papua New Guinea. Complete this extensive and highly active land tour with the Great Barrier Reef prior to the start of your voyage.
From the ancient underground labyrinth known as the Waitomo Glowworm Caves to the helicopter rides over the city, Auckland is a city of breathtaking extremes.
MoreStraddling a narrow isthmus created by 60 different volcanoes, New Zealand’s former capital boasts scenic beauty, historical interest and a cosmopolitan collection of shops, restaurants, museums, galleries and gardens. Rangitoto, Auckland’s largest and youngest volcano, sits in majestic splendor just offshore. Mt. Eden and One Tree Hill, once home to Maori earthworks, overlook the city. One of New Zealand’s fine wine districts lies to the north of Auckland.
Auckland served as New Zealand’s capital from 1841 until 1865, when the seat of government moved to Wellington.
A trio of exceptional museums displays the unique natural culture of the area. The Maritime Museum focuses on nautical treasures, the War Memorial on native origins and the Art Gallery on visual mediums.
An Auckland icon, the Harbor Bridge stretches over the sparkling Waitemata Harbor, dotted with colorful yachts. Unparalleled city views of the city, Rangitoto Island, Devonport and the Waitakere Ranges can be seen from its heights.
A charming blend of farmland, beaches, forest and vineyards, Waiheke Island, a short ferry ride from downtown Auckland, is a picturesque area for sightseeing, winery tours, and a host of outdoor activities.
A world-class aquarium created by renowned New Zealand oceanographer Kelly Tarlton, this underwater adventure land includes thrilling interactive displays and viewing stations offering a unique perspective on New Zealand Pacific oceanic history.
A charming seaside village just minutes from Auckland, Devonport is nestled on the North Shore. Pristine beaches, colonial architecture and a wonderful array of specialty shops make this historic maritime village a delightful destination.
The tallest man-made structure in New Zealand and the Southern hemisphere, take a transparent elevator to a glass-floored observation deck, towering 1,072 feet in the air. Panoramic views and a 360-degree revolving restaurant greet you at the top.
Sail quietly through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto an underground cave of historical and geological significance. Tiny phosphorescent glowworms light the way through the ornate limestone caverns.
Travel through the picturesque countryside on an excursion to New Zealand’s premier wineries, acclaimed for their Rieslings, Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noir. Guided vineyard tours and tastings are available.