Auckland, New Zealand Cruise Port Guide
Cruises from Auckland are the perfect way to discover New Zealand’s coastline on a voyage that takes you to majestic fjords, the sparkling Bay of Islands, and exciting ports like Wellington and Christchurch. Or embark on a journey to the South Pacific, visiting exotic islands such as Samoa or the Fijian archipelago. On a cruise to glamorous Sydney, Australia, golden surf beaches and the iconic sights of the famous harbor await.
Auckland is known as the City of Sails and lies between two natural harbors on the North Island. As well as being the ideal start or end point for cruises around New Zealand, the city has an enviable lifestyle. You’ll find a rich cultural scene with excellent museums and galleries. Locals pride themselves on their many artisan coffee shops, craft breweries, and fine wines produced on nearby Waiheke Island. The city’s natural setting is breathtaking, with green hills dotting the urban landscape and the Pacific Ocean sparkling in every direction.
Itineraries
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Top Destinations on Cruises from Auckland
Wellington
Perched on the end of a curved peninsula at the bottom of the North Island and surrounded by forested mountains, New Zealand’s capital is a joy to explore. Sample the wares of artisan coffee shops and craft beer pubs. Take the vintage funicular to the colorful Botanic Gardens or hike to the summit of Mount Victoria for sweeping views over the city and harbor. Check out the impressive Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, housing thousands of artifacts and cutting-edge interactive displays.
Fiordland
New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park is a breathtaking landscape of sheer-sided mountains, silvery waterfalls, and dense forest. Take it in from the narrow, mirror-calm sounds that wind between the mountains. Milford Sound is hemmed in by mile-high cliffs, while Dusky Sound is where you could spot seals basking on the rocks and the splash of dolphins breaking the stillness of the ocean. In Doubtful Sound, there’s even a chance to spot the two types of penguin that thrive here.
Fiji
Take in the dreamy beaches and vibrant underwater world of Fiji, an archipelago of 330 islands scattered across the Pacific. From Suva, explore the lush Colo-I-Suva forest, teeming with birdlife. Here, waterfalls cascade over rocks into cooling pools where you can bathe. Learn about local traditions and handicrafts at Sawani Village. In Lautoka, admire the Krishna Kaliya Hindu Temple, adorned with elaborate sculptures. Or simply relax in the shade of a palm tree and gaze at the deep blue ocean.
Our Ships Sailing Out of Auckland
Why Sail from Auckland with Celebrity Cruises
Sail from Auckland on either Celebrity Edge or Celebrity Solstice, two state-of-the-art ships featuring unforgettable spaces and world-class amenities. Enjoy distinctive dining experiences, sizzling entertainment, and friendly, intuitive service. Bask on the fragrant grass of the Lawn Club, the top deck living lawn on Celebrity Solstice, or take in the beauty of New Zealand’s Fiords from the Magic Carpet on Celebrity Edge, cantilevered over the side of the ship.
Unwind by the outdoor pool or enjoy the tropical warmth of the indoor solarium. Indulge yourself in a relaxing massage in the Spa. Elevate your vacation with The Retreat, staying in a beautiful suite and dining at the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat.
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Top Sights & Attractions to See Before Cruises from Auckland
Sky Tower
This striking telecommunications tower is an ever-visible landmark and one of the best places to get a bird’s-eye view of the city. It stands at over 1,000 feet tall, so whizzing up to the top in the glass-fronted lift is a real thrill. If you have a head for heights, brave the Sky Walk around the outside, or tackle the bungee jump. Otherwise, simply take in the view from the only revolving restaurant in New Zealand.
Auckland War Memorial Museum
The Auckland War Memorial Museum, housed in a gleaming neoclassical temple, tells the story of the native Māori people who were here for nearly 1,000 years before European colonization. You’ll learn about Auckland’s role in the development of New Zealand and see priceless Maori and South Pacific artifacts, including a massive war canoe. Don’t miss the display explaining Auckland’s many volcanoes, which includes a simulated eruption.
Waiheke Island
Leave the city behind on a short ferry ride from the CBD to lush Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf. The island has its own microclimate and produces an array of fine wines. Join a tour and tasting at famous vineyards including Man O’ War, Goldie Estate, and Stonyridge. Explore white sand beaches, wander scenic clifftop trails, and take in the food scene with tastings of extra virgin olive oil and fresh oysters on the perfect day trip from Auckland.
Auckland Shore Excursions
Top Things To Do in Auckland
Visit One Tree Hill
One Tree Hill, or Maungakiekie, is one of 50 or so volcanic cones scattered across Auckland. It was a thriving Māori fortified village before the British arrived and has spectacular, 360-degree views of the city from the top, which is considered sacred ground by the Māori today. The “one tree” is no longer here, but the hill is at the heart of Cornwall Park, a serene urban oasis with walking trails, colorful gardens, and even a farm.
Admire Masterpieces in the Auckland Art Gallery
The Auckland Art Gallery houses the largest collection of art in New Zealand, from historic to contemporary works. A visit here is a walk through New Zealand’s history through the eyes of artists, from the first European contact with the Māori to the era of European settlement and the present day. As well as many striking works by Māori artists, there are pieces by Cezanne, Picasso, Matisse, and Gauguin.
Climb Mount Eden
Mount Eden, or Maungawhau, is another of Auckland’s 50 dormant volcanoes, looming over the city in the urban area. It last erupted 15,000 years ago, and when you reach the summit, you can gaze into the grassy crater 164 feet deep. The trail is steep, but the views over the city and ocean are magnificent. Mount Eden is considered sacred by the Māori, and you can gain an insight into its significance on a Māori-guided walk.
