New Zealand is home to more than just beautiful landscapes and hobbits. A melting pot of different cultures, its blend of European, Pacific Islander, and indigenous Māori heritage give the island its unique charm. To get a real sense of the colonial, geographic, and indigenous forces that have shaped this city, be sure to check out the Auckland Museum, located in the heart of the city. Nature lovers might find themselves more drawn to the volcanoes, beaches, and caves nearby.

The capital of New Zealand, Wellington is a charming, coastal city with a number of cultural centers and landmarks disproportionate to its size. Its picturesque crescent-shaped harbor is the perfect place for a pleasant walk on a calm day, or you can explore the surrounding countryside on a guided tour – a landscape you just might recognize from New Zealand’s most famous fantasy film trilogy, The Lord of the Rings.

Kaikoura is characterized by sustained tourism. Before the European immigrants arrived here, the land was inhabited by the Maori. The town is an absolute treat for nature lovers as one can spot animals such as seals, elefants, leopards as well as whales and dolphins.

The village of Lyttelton is located on the South Island of New Zealand. The indigenous people New Zealand, the Maori settled in the surrounding area around 1000 years ago. The port facilities and the Holy Trinity Church there are worth seeing.

Timaru is situated on the South Island of New Zealand in the South Canterbury region. Visit the most important museum in the entire region, the South Canterbury Museum. For art lovers Aigantighe Art Gallery is highly recommended. The Bay Area park has a miniature golf course, an ice skating rink, a maze and a stage for events.

Oban is the main town of New Zealand's most southern island, Steward island. The sparsely populated town allows for an abundance of unspoiled nature, which makes the last inhabited island before the Antarctic so beautiful. The Island is known for many great hiking trails as well as a rich variety of bird life making it quite popular with birdwatcher and hikers a like. The shallow waters, populated with many species of sea life make for fantastic diving. The fishing town of Oban is situated on Halfmoon bay and is sometime known as such.

Established in 1952, Fiordland National Park is an area of unmatched natural beauty. More than 1.2 million hectares in size, it is New Zealand’s largest national park and wildlife reserve. The park encompasses mountains and valleys, forests and fjords, and it is home to several unique New Zealand bird species that are not found anywhere else. The park enthralls backpackers and cruise passengers alike with its pristine wilderness and lush rainforests, and cruise passengers can enjoy close-up views of its breathtaking waterfalls and granite fjords without ever leaving the ship.

Located deep in the heart of Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is home to some of New Zealand’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Sail right up to its spectacular waterfalls tumbling from jagged, tree-covered cliffs on your ship. Take in the pristine waters which, on a calm day, reflect the sky. And see the flora and fauna of New Zealand in their natural habitat. This remote natural reserve is a must-see for anyone on a New Zealand cruise.