8 Days in New Zealand on the 2028 Grand World Voyage

Traveling across the world means you may wish for extended time in some of the world’s most incredible countries. With Holland America’s Grand World Voyage, experience eight full days in New Zealand! Dive into the culture, sights, and wonders of this breathtaking nation.

Stop at six different ports in New Zealand, including one Mariners’ Collection port. A simple drive or domestic flight unlocks a whole new world of cultures and experiences. Unpack once and see the world from your doorstep — spectacular views and breathtaking cities await you on your Grand World Voyage sailing, all from the comfort of our uncrowded, perfectly-sized ships.

Port 1: Auckland (overnight)

Situated in New Zealand’s North Island, you’ll spend nearly 35 hours in this vibrant waterfront city where you can enjoy world-class dining, shopping, and even outdoor adventures. Visit local art galleries, see Auckland’s wine country alongside vistas of the Kumeu River Valley, or discover volcanic trails within view of the iconic Sky Tower.

Port 2: Tauranga (Rotorua)

This city is home to white-sand beaches and New Zealand’s only active marine volcano. With approximately 130,000 residents, it’s the fifth largest city in New Zealand and offers visitors a plethora of water-focused activities.

Day at Sea

Port 3: Wellington

Located on the southern tip of the North Island, Wellington is New Zealand’s capital — featuring beautiful waterfronts and fresh seafood. Take in the city by walking, hiking, or cycling — or learn about all the movies made here such as the Lord of the Rings.

Port 4: Lyttelton (Christchurch)

While experiencing devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, the South Island’s biggest city has maintained its classic English feel amid rebuilding. Experience lush botanical gardens and Edwardian boats with luxurious, handcrafted wooden designs that cruise along the Avon River. Outside the city, you have opportunities for adventure sports, wildlife viewing, and winetasting.

Port 5: Picton

This tiny town on the northeaster end of the South Island is the starting point to explore the Marlborough region. It’s rich in quaint cafes and shops and is home to aquatic-themed museums like the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum. There’s something for everyone here, from wine sipping to bicycle riding.

Port 6: New Plymouth (Mariners’ Collection Port)

What began in the 19th century as a trading post on Mãori land is now New Plymouth, a city known for its beautiful parks, botanical gardens and coastal walkway, and the snowcapped Mount Taranaki. This city is ideal for exploring on foot or bike.

No Grand World Voyage with Holland America is complete without at least one of our shore excursions. Let us handle the planning so you can immerse yourself in once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

• Waitomo Caves & Countryside in Auckland: Take a three-hour motorcoach ride to Waitomo Caves where you’ll walk under soaring ceilings and low passages to view striking limestone formations. Board a boat along an underground river in darkness to see millions of bioluminescent glowworms that stick to the roof of the cave. After the tour, you’ll stop at Crosshills Farm to enjoy a home-cooked lunch with local wine.
• Town & Country: A Canterbury Sheep Farm Experience in Christchurch: Explore Canterbury during this half-day tour of the city and countryside. Starting at Lyttelton Harbour, you’ll pass through idyllic Governors Bay and Gebbies Pass to Manderley Farm. The owners will share a sheep dog demonstration and take you on a tour of their sheep farm. Enjoy a light snack before driving along the shores of Lake Ellesmere and Tai Tapu as you make your way back.
• The Wines of Marlborough in Picton: Marlborough is the nation’s leading producer of fine wines, garlic, olives, olive oil, cherries, salmon, and mussels. Visit three wine estates in the countryside to learn about flavor profiles, terroir, and more. Then enjoy a tasting at each winery.
• Taranaki Art & Gallery Tour in New Plymouth: Visit central New Plymouth to explore the heart of the city and its vibrant galleries, fashion boutiques, bespoke jewelers, and one of New Zealand’s leading contemporary art museums and galleries. Meet artists from Koru Galleries who will guide you to all points of interest.

A Grand Voyage with Holland America offers award-winning itineraries spanning 60+ days for experienced or adventurous travelers. Settle into life at sea aboard your perfectly sized ship, connect with fellow travelers who share your thirst for new experiences, and enjoy genuine hospitality. With roundtrips from Ft. Lauderdale or San Diego, you can unlock a world of destinations and cultures without international air travel if you live in the U.S.

• A planet full of nature: Traverse Amazon rainforest waterways and the vibrant coral ecosystems of the Great Barrier Reef.
• Access to shores less traveled: Reach destination most travelers only dream about.
• Iconic views: Get picture-perfect sights from your spacious deck.
• Mariners’ Collection Ports: Experience New Plymouth, New Zealand — a city known for its lush parks, botanical gardens, and coastal walkway. Only available on our Grand World Voyage cruise!
• Destination Dining: Dine on classic favorites as well as fresh-caught fish and other fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Four-Time “Best Service” Award Winner: Experience a 2:1 guest-to-crew ratio and exceptional hospitality with the cruise line that’s been voted “Best Service” by Cruise Critic for four years in a row.

With our Grand World Voyage, you unpack once and discover less-traveled destinations for the journey of a lifetime. Plan your cruise today!

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