Set sail on the ultimate South Pacific cruise holiday and experience the magic of a New Zealand coastal cruise. Sailing from Australia, this luxury balcony cruise experience delivers a curated New Zealand cruise itinerary that showcases the best of Aotearoa’s captivating coastline.
Sailing the Edge: Discover New Zealand’s Stunning Coastline by Cruise
I boarded Princess Cruises in Auckland and cruised through a dreamscape of deepwater ports perfect for large ships, offering seamless access to unforgettable destinations. From the sun-drenched shores of Tauranga and the buzzing creative vibe of Wellington, to Picton’s tranquil gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and Christchurch’s enchanting mix of heritage and innovation, every stop was a highlight.
In Dunedin, we wandered streets steeped in Scottish charm before continuing our journey along some of the best cruise ports in New Zealand. Each day offered a fresh perspective, viewed from the comfort of our private balcony as majestic landscapes glided past. This wasn’t just travel—it was an ocean odyssey.
The vistas were so mesmerising, I found myself waking in the night to photograph the moon rising over the open sea. If you’re dreaming of a South Pacific cruise holiday that blends relaxation with adventure, this voyage from Australia to New Zealand is truly unforgettable.
Luxury Balcony Cruise Experience Aboard Majestic Princess
Step aboard the Majestic Princess for a truly unforgettable luxury balcony cruise experience on your South Pacific cruise holiday. Launched in 2017, this elegant ship accommodates up to 3,560 guests across 1,830 beautifully appointed staterooms. With gleaming marble interiors and refined design, Majestic Princess brings an elevated sense of style to your New Zealand coastal cruise.
Guests can unwind with two expansive swimming pools and eight inviting jacuzzis—ideal for sea days between scenic ports. Onboard connectivity is enhanced with MedallionNet™ Wi-Fi, available for free or through optional packages. I tested the premium package and found it reliable enough to upload short videos and even livestream, depending on our location along the Australia to New Zealand cruise itinerary.
Majestic Princess cruising New Zealand with Princess Cruises
Walking the Sky Walk – Australia to New Zealand with Princess Cruises
Australia to New Zealand with Princess Cruises – The Stateroom
As part of my seven-night Australia to New Zealand cruise itinerary with Princess Cruises, I was accommodated in a mini-suite—a haven of understated elegance designed to elevate the luxury balcony cruise experience. These are the only rooms on board offering a full-sized bath, a notable upgrade not found in balcony or deluxe balcony staterooms.
Located mid-forward on Deck 15, stateroom M233 proved to be a hidden gem. Positioned portside, it offered uninterrupted views of New Zealand’s spectacular coastline—one of the many highlights of this New Zealand coastal cruise. Just one level below the World Fresh Marketplace, the location was ideal for spontaneous snacks or meals via the nearby stairs or lift. Even better, it was far enough from the ship’s access points to ensure peaceful nights without disruption from foot traffic or elevator noise.
The room’s décor evokes a regal charm, with rich wood finishes, gold brocade accents, and plush furnishings. Luxurious curtains drape around the bed, creating a cocoon-like sanctuary beneath a soft, recessed glow. A bedside motion-sensitive light quietly guides midnight wanderings to the bathroom—an elegant, practical touch.
Modern conveniences are seamlessly integrated: two large flat-screen televisions (ideal for catching up on onboard activities or ordering room service), USB ports by the bed and desk, and an intuitive system for managing in-room requests. I particularly appreciated the ease of ordering my morning tea via the screen—although there’s a $3 charge and no kettle in the room, the warm delivery smile was well worth it.
The wardrobe area, generously proportioned and cleverly positioned just outside the bathroom, acts almost like a private dressing room. It made preparing for days ashore—whether wandering Wellington’s vibrant laneways or heading to explore the best cruise ports in New Zealand—effortless.
For travellers seeking both comfort and style on a South Pacific cruise holiday, the mini-suite on Majestic Princess adds an indulgent layer to an already extraordinary voyage.
Mini suite on Princess Cruises Majestic Princess
A Majestic Princess Mini Suite comes with a bath.
Dining on Majestic Princess: A Culinary Highlight of My South Pacific Cruise Holiday
Dining aboard cruise ships often comes with high hopes and, more often than not, a tinge of scepticism—particularly for those of us who take food seriously. As a seasoned food writer with countless tastings under my belt, I’ve encountered more than a few culinary disappointments at sea. But the Majestic Princess turned those expectations on their head. This voyage, part of my Australia to New Zealand cruise itinerary, delivered a dining experience that was not just good—it was exceptional.
Across the ship’s many eateries, I discovered cuisine that was artfully presented and genuinely delightful on the palate—a rarity on the high seas. The challenge of feeding thousands of passengers with varied palates, while maintaining authenticity and finesse, is no small feat. Yet the Majestic Princess kitchen consistently struck that balance, offering dishes that were full of character and cooked with care.
Dining choices are impressively diverse. The elegant Harmony Chinese Restaurant brings refined Cantonese flavours to the fore, while Bistro Sur La Mer quickly became my go-to for its French-inspired finesse. At the International Café, lighter bites are paired with expertly brewed barista coffee—a crucial stop for early mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups as we cruised past the rugged beauty of the New Zealand coastal cruise route.
When the landscapes outside my balcony were too spellbinding to leave—a recurring theme on this luxury balcony cruise experience—24-hour room service came to the rescue. One standout moment? Devouring an Alfredo’s pizza while watching the sun dip below the horizon. The pizza was unexpectedly top-tier, and that golden glow over the water made it even more memorable.
If there was one dish that didn’t quite hit the mark, it was the bug roll. But with Rick Shores on the Gold Coast setting the gold standard for this delicacy, I admit my expectations are unusually high.
Overall, the Majestic Princess serves up a culinary voyage that mirrors the excellence of its route—one of the most scenic in the world, linking some of the best cruise ports in New Zealand. For food lovers embarking on a South Pacific cruise holiday, this ship is sure to impress, one plate at a time.
A love heart chocolate mousse desert on the Love Boat
Seafood dining at Bistro La Sur on Majestic Princess
Majestic Princess New Zealand Ports: A Coastal Cruise with a Twist
My Australia to New Zealand cruise with Princess Cruises played out like an “Express Edition” of a classic sea journey—shorter, snappier, but packed with unforgettable highlights. Our New Zealand cruise itinerary took us to some of the country’s most scenic and culturally rich ports: Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington, Picton, Christchurch, and Dunedin. Originally, the full 13-day voyage would have included time in the Bay of Islands, but a weather detour took us along the southern route instead. The upside? An extra day in Tauranga and even more coastal splendour to enjoy during this South Pacific cruise adventure.
That extra sea day became the ideal excuse to dive into everything the Majestic Princess has to offer. I made a beeline for the spa and treated myself to a hot stone massage that was so blissful, I nearly nodded off. Afterward, I slipped into The Enclave—a serene space with a thermal suite, spa pool, and steam chambers. It was the perfect way to unwind before soaking up more of New Zealand’s stunning coastline from my balcony.
On land, the excitement didn’t stop. From Tauranga’s pristine beaches and geothermal wonders to Dunedin’s grand architecture and wildlife experiences, each stop along this New Zealand coastal cruise revealed a different side of the country. The ship’s shore tours were a brilliant way to dig deeper into each destination, and I’d highly recommend booking them in advance to lock in the best adventures.
Whether you’re after indulgent spa days or immersive local experiences, this voyage offers the perfect mix. Every port visit along the way proves why these are among the best cruise ports in New Zealand—each one packed with its own charm, stories, and photo-worthy moments.
Book your New Zealand with Princess Cruises excursions early!
Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty: A Coastal Gem on Your New Zealand Cruise Itinerary
Tauranga, perched on New Zealand’s North Island, is more than just a stop—it’s a star of the New Zealand coastal cruise scene. As the fifth-largest city in the country and the biggest port in the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga blends beachy charm with big-city energy. With its mild climate, golden sands, and laid-back lifestyle, it’s no surprise that this vibrant hub is a favourite on many South Pacific cruise holidays.
When the Majestic Princess docks in Tauranga, it does so in style—pulling right up to the wharf with postcard-perfect views of Mount Maunganui. From here, it’s just a short stroll into town, where boutique shops and bustling cafés await. Few Australia to New Zealand cruise itineraries offer such effortless on-foot access to one of the best cruise ports in New Zealand.
Mount Maunganui Beach is the place to be. Swimmers, surfers, and sunseekers flock to this stunning stretch of sand, while those chasing a more active experience can hike to the summit of the extinct volcanic cone for panoramic views of the coastline and city below. It’s a short but steep climb—and absolutely worth it.
If you’re in town on a Saturday, don’t miss the Tauranga Farmers Market. Brimming with fresh produce, artisan breads, and local delights, it’s a delicious snapshot of the Bay of Plenty’s fertile bounty.
But Tauranga’s claim to fame doesn’t end at the beach. This region is a powerhouse for agriculture, horticulture, and forestry—and it’s particularly proud of its role as a global kiwifruit capital. Take a kiwifruit orchard tour and you’ll learn everything from growing techniques to the fascinating journey of this fuzzy fruit from farm to fork. Yes, you’ll get to taste them too!
Whether you’re scaling a summit, sampling sun-ripened produce, or sipping flat whites by the sea, Tauranga offers a perfect slice of Kiwi life. It’s a port that delivers on every front—and one you’ll remember long after your New Zealand coastal cruise sails on.
Te Puke shore excursion in New Zealand with Princess Cruises
Maureen, Colin, Jed and Sam in the Te Puke truffle orchard on a New Zealand with Princess Cruises tour
Rotorua’s Polynesian Spa: A Serene Soak on a South Pacific Cruise Holiday
When rough seas threw a curveball into our Australia to New Zealand cruise itinerary, the result was a welcome surprise—an extra day in Tauranga. Rather than lament the change, we embraced the detour and took the opportunity to venture inland to Rotorua, home to one of New Zealand’s most iconic wellness experiences: the Polynesian Spa.
Set on the edge of Lake Rotorua, this world-renowned geothermal retreat is famed for its naturally heated mineral waters, long celebrated for their healing properties. The alkaline pools are said to ease muscle tension and joint pain, while the acidic waters help to revitalise the skin. After days of exploring the best cruise ports in New Zealand, it felt like the perfect tonic.
Our visit to the Deluxe Lake Spa was a particular indulgence. With its serene lakeside views and a series of beautifully designed thermal pools, it offered a deeply restorative interlude on our New Zealand coastal cruise. Soaking in the warm mineral waters, surrounded by steam rising from the earth, was nothing short of magical.
Sometimes, the best moments of a South Pacific cruise holiday come from the unexpected—and this spontaneous detour to Rotorua certainly proved that true.
A private pool at Polynesian Spa on a New Zealand with Princess Cruises tour
Exploring Wellington: Culture and Coastal Charm on a New Zealand Cruise Itinerary
Nestled at the southern tip of New Zealand’s North Island, Wellington is a must-visit on any Australia to New Zealand cruise itinerary. Often hailed as the country’s cultural capital, this vibrant city delivers a compelling mix of natural beauty, creative energy, and historic depth—making it a highlight of any New Zealand coastal cruise.
Arriving by sea, the harbour itself is a showstopper. Framed by forested hills and a dramatic coastline, it sets the stage for a day ashore brimming with discovery. As one of the best cruise ports in New Zealand, Wellington invites travellers to step off the ship and straight into a city that’s as accessible as it is intriguing.
No visit is complete without a stop at Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum. With its dynamic blend of interactive exhibits, Māori heritage, contemporary art, and natural history, Te Papa offers an immersive introduction to the heart and soul of Aotearoa.
For a different perspective—quite literally—the iconic Wellington Cable Car is a favourite. This short, scenic ride climbs from the city centre to the hilltop suburb of Kelburn, offering sweeping views across the city and harbour. It’s the perfect vantage point to appreciate the geography that defines Wellington: a compact city cradled between hills and sea.
Wellington may be compact, but it leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re indulging in its café culture, museum-hopping, or simply soaking up the sea breeze on the waterfront, this stop adds a sophisticated splash of culture and scenery to your South Pacific cruise holiday.
Walking through Wellington.
Princess Cruises Fresh Taste Walking Tour in wellington
On my shore day in Wellington, I hopped on the Princess Cruises Fresh Taste Walking Tour – the ultimate foodie adventure! This tour wasn’t just a stroll; it was a journey through the heart of the city, hitting up Wellington’s finest hospitality spots with tasty pit stops along the way. It was like a flavour-packed marathon, and I was there for every delicious step!
Wellington is also known for its coffee culture, and it has many cafes, roasters, and bars where visitors can sample the local coffee and craft beers. Our stops included tasting chocolate at Wellington Chocolate Factory, a beer-tasting paddle at Whistling Sisters Beer Co, Wellington Fresh Market where they have a serve-yourself mussel tank, Wellington Seamarket to taste local delicacies such as paua fritter (abalone fritters) and Duck Island Ice Cream where I couldn’t resist Ambrosia ice cream!
After a day of exploring, there’s something serene about opting for room service and unwinding with dinner on your private balcony. As the ship gracefully sailed out of Wellington, tracing the coastline, the captain’s farewell took a nostalgic turn with the opening notes of The Love Boat theme – a charming Princess Cruises tradition.
Inspired by the tune, I couldn’t resist indulging in an episode of The Love Boat on TV, reminiscing about Julie, Captain Stubbing, Doc, and Gopher. Julie, naturally, held the title of my favourite character. Just like that, the ship smoothly crossed the strait between the North and South Islands. As I woke up the next morning, a majestic mountain greeted me from outside my balcony, signalling our entrance into Queen Charlotte Sound for a day in Picton.
Tasting paddle at Whistling Sisters in Wellington.
Picton and Queen Charlotte Sound
So, the Majestic Princess rolls into Picton, and the first thing you see is a sea of logs, all decked out with barcodes. It’s like a log party, and they’re being super picky about which logs they want. I mean, who knew logging could be so high-tech?
Now, watching this giant ship do a dance in the narrow sound, reversing into the dock like a boss – major kudos to the captain! The mist hanging around, and those towering mountains, add a touch of mystery to the whole scene. It’s like we’ve stumbled into a misty mountain magic show.
But wait, the gangplank surprise is next level. These awesome ladies at the end of it hand out cute little corsages to everyone. It’s like a floral welcome committee, and you can’t help but feel special strolling off the ship with a flower on your lapel.
Now, onto the transfer bus adventure to Picton. Passing by where the Cook Islands ferry takes off – imagine a three-and-a-half-hour journey with seas going wild enough to splash right over the massive ferry’s bow. Insane!
Finally, Picton’s main street is calling, and they’ve got this genius blue line on the footpath to guide you through some serious shopping. And oh, the public toilets – they’re like a Japanese comedy routine. Door locks, automatic tunes (cue The Girl from Ipanema), and a strict 10-minute timer. Hilarious bathroom breaks, anyone?
Glorious floral corsages were given to welcome passengers in Picton.
Marlborough Flyer Historic Steam Train
So, right across from the bus station, there’s this whole spectacle at the railway station. Picture this: black smoke billowing, steam shooting into the air – it’s the Marlborough Flyer Historic Steam Train Marlborough Flyer Historic Steam Train gearing up for action. And guess what? I did some top-secret sneaking and hopped on board for a sneaky stroll through the carriages before it chugged off on its 50-minute adventure to Seddon.
And here’s the best part – you can snag a ride straight from the cruise ship. It’s like a five-hour round trip of pure locomotive joy. All aboard for a choo-choo escapade!
Hop aboard this New Zealand with Princess Cruises tour!
Beautiful blue pearl jewellery at Arapawa Blue Pearls
Cruise the Queen Charlotte Sounds and Arapawa Blue Pearls
Embarking on a 50-minute cruise to Arapawa Blue Pearls in the Queens Charlotte Sound offered a serene experience. The homestead, surrounded by a garden showcasing beautiful hydrangeas, served as the backdrop for our visit.
Our exploration commenced at the homestead, where morning tea was enjoyed, accompanied by insights into the 20-year process developed by the Radon family for cultivating deep blue pearls through paua farming. A tour of the growing shed provided a detailed understanding of the intricate procedures involved. The subsequent segment included observing the pearls being transformed into jewelry, available for purchase. Additionally, we had the opportunity to sample freshly harvested and lightly fried abalone, a pleasant culinary experience.
So much to see on this New Zealand with Princess Cruises tour.
Christchurch and a Double Decker Bus Tour
So, we docked at Lyttleton, the port for Christchurch, and let me tell you, the harbour view from my balcony was next-level stunning. It was like a parade of watercraft doing a little dance on the waves – balcony chill level 1000.
Now, buckle up for the double-decker bus adventure! We kicked off by cruising through a tunnel straight out of the swinging 60s, connecting Littleton to Christchurch. Get this – the city survived a wild 6.3 earthquake in 2011. The tour let us see the city from a local’s perspective..
As the bus rolled through, we checked out city landmarks, from the Earthquake Memorial Wall to Cathedral Square, the Margaret Mahy playground, the serene Avon River, and the out-of-this-world Transitional Cardboard Cathedral. Oh, and they even let us stretch our sea legs at the stunning Mona Vale gardens, soaking in heritage-listed goodness with the homestead, gatehouse, and the legendary Sign of the Takahe. Talk about a bus tour with all the city vibes!
Lyttleton Harbour.
The Good and the Bad
Things I like about Majestic Princess
Every cruise ship is different, and the things I like about Majestic Princess may or may not be important to you, but it’s good to have all the facts so you can pick the best cruise ship for your next holiday.
- When homeporting in Australia, the ship runs on Aussie dollars This ship uses Australian dollars, not American dollars. It much easier to work out the cost of something when you buy in the gift shop and when you’re purchasing a coffee or a treat at one of the venues where there’s an extra cost.
- Sit in the jacuzzi and watch a movie with an open sky On the top deck, you can watch a movie while you’re sitting in the spa or swimming in the pool.
- Order anything and it will be delivered wherever you are! I can sit on my cabin balcony and order from an extensive menu, which includes excellent pizzas, and it will all be delivered to my room.
- The Piazza I can come down to the Piazza and order a lovely coffee and have a very light snack for breakfast if I want something for lunch or afternoon tea. It’s a lovely space, and there’s often beautiful music here. Even though there are 4000 people on this ship, it never feels crowded. There are so many spaces for people to congregate. It’s very well designed.
- The spa treatments are gorgeous! There’s a spa where you can have fabulous treatments, and the therapist sorted out my skin issues which was wonderful. There’s also a place called The Enclave that’s a steam room and a huge spa with heated beds.
- Night-friendly lighting I like that I can get up in the middle of the night, and underlighting comes on in my stateroom and guides me to the bathroom, and then it turns off automatically when I get back in bed.
Things I didn’t like about Majestic Princess
Only two things here, and they are not deal breakers.
- Tea fail One thing that I particularly didn’t like about Majestic Princess, and that was the tea! I don’t like getting a cup of hot water and a teabag and having that as my only tea option, even in the coffee shop. Bring back the pot of tea, please.
- No outside walking circuit There’s nothing better than getting up in the morning and filling your lungs with fresh air while you walk around the top deck of a cruise boat, but on Majestic Princess, you’ll have to go to the gym for a workout or be satisfied with the partial running/walking track on Deck 18. There are lots of walking machines with a great sea view, but it’s not outside. Another way to keep your steps up is to take the stairs. I found I was spending a lot of time on deck five, and with my stateroom on deck 15, that’s ten flights of stairs, actually, 20 flights, as there are two flights on each level, to keep your daily step count up.
Want to know more?
There is a wide selection of options when it comes to cruising Australia to New Zealand with Princess Cruises. Find out more here.
Would I recommend this New Zealand with Majestic Princess cruise?
Would I recommend this Australia to New Zealand with Princess Cruises trip? Absolutely! Majestic Princess introduced me to a new level of cruising that fits me like a glove. It’s not the most expensive cruise, nor the cheapest, but it offers great value for money and an incredible experience as part of a well-planned New Zealand cruise itinerary. I’ve seen some fantastic early bird and last-minute specials for this route, making it an excellent option for those seeking a South Pacific cruise adventure. I suggest using those extra savings to upgrade your cabin and book memorable shore excursions, enhancing your New Zealand coastal cruise experience even further!
More things to do in New Zealand
Cruising from Brisbane?
Princess Cruises stops at Brisbane, so if you plan to join a cruise here, this is what you need to know about Brisbane International Cruise Terminal.
Disclaimer: Kerry Heaney travelled as a guest of Princess Cruises.