Known as the land of the long white cloud (Aoteraroa), New Zealand features the 9th longest coastline in the world measuring 15,000 kilometres and offers immensely enjoyable and undulating scenery. On a Kiwi adventure, see the likes of the sunken valleys and towering mountains of Fiordland; the crystalline waters, golden beaches, and coves of the Bay of Islands; the diverse marine life of Hauraki Gulf; the scenic playground of Marlborough Sounds; the iconic wildlife havens of Stewart Island and many iconic Kiwi towns along the way including the Scottish city of Dunedin, the Garden City of Christchurch, and the rich fertile soils of Gisborne.

Essential experiences in New Zealand include:

Akaroa. On the southern side of Banks Peninsula lays a harbour, created when the crater wall of an extinct volcano collapsed into the sea. In that harbour nestles the fishing village of Akaroa (Māori for "long harbour"). This little port is a favourite day trip for Christchurch residents on a Sunday drive or the weekends.

Napier. Sip the fine wines of legendary producers, visit crowds of birdlife at Cape Kidnappers or wander the stylish streets of the world's art deco capital - Napier. Located on the huge arc of Hawke's Bay, Napier offers a beautiful Mediterranean style climate and a breezy cafe culture. This green, outdoor town borders the rich blue Pacific and invites you to stroll along a tree-lined two-mile seafront.

Fiordland National Park. New Zealand's fiords along with Fiordland National Park are some of New Zealand's premier attractions. Wild and remote, the region is a combination of rugged mountain ranges, dense rain forest, solitary alpine lakes, sparkling rivers and splashing waterfalls. Fiordland's unexplored wilderness is also the habitat of rare birds. Fiordland has achieved World Heritage Status and of the fourteen fiords in the National Park, Milford Sound is the most famous and accessible. 

Milford Sound. Milford Sound is by far the best known of all of the fiords and the only one that can be accessed by road. Visitors to Milford Sound will not be disappointed - it is truly spectacular. The scenery of the fiord has remained unchanged throughout the ages. 

Doubtful Sound. Doubtful Sound is a masterpiece of nature. It fills its visitors with an atmosphere of powerful solitude and serenity which contrast with Milford Sound. The only way to reach it is by boat, crossing Lake Manapouri. 'The Sound of Silence' is rich in flora and fauna, New Zealand Fur Seals and Fiordland Crested Penguins can be seen on many of the small islets at the entrance of the fiord. 

Auckland. Mixing sleepy nature relaxation with all the delights of a modern and multicultural city, Auckland sits on the clear blue-green waters of New Zealand's north island. There is so much to see and do in the largest city o the country! See the world's largest collection of Māori taonga. Rediscover a lost island of Rotoroa. Walk across the country in 5 hours. Visit Waiheke Island 'the island of wine'. SkyWalk and SkyJump at the Auckland Sky Tower.

Stewart Island. Within touching distance of the South Island's southern tip lays the third-largest island of New Zealand. Taking its name from the Māori word 'Rakiura' which means ‘land of the glowing skies' this is an island sanctuary of radiant beauty. Stewart Island offers a special experience - a glimpse into a simpler, slower lifestyle, in rhythm with the sea and the tides, attuned to the natural world of bush and beach. Come and enjoy the land, sea and night-scapes, view the wildlife, walk, boat, fish, dive, kayak, hunt or just relax. Stewart Island offers an experience that will draw you back again and again.

Wellington. Sprawling around a hook-shaped peninsula, Wellington is a vibrant and energetic seaside capital. A compact, well-stocked city of buzzing bars and chatting cafes, New Zealand's capital is a bright and breezy place with an infectious, easy-going atmosphere. Known as the creative hub of the South Pacific, there are shows to see, art installations to enjoy, and rich flavours to savour here. 

The Chatham Islands. The Chatham Islands are New Zealand's easternmost outpost and the first place in the world to welcome the new day. Experience stunning scenery, cultural treasures, intriguing history and relaxed lifestyles. Enjoy seafood bounties, a wide range of outdoors activities and of course, that well-known warm and friendly welcome that the locals extend to the visitors. These magical islands sit astride the legendary Roaring Forties and are surrounded by the pristine and unspoiled waters of the Southern Pacific Ocean. The natural beauty and the unique energy of these islands are the perfect settings for an adventure full of laughter, discovery and relaxation.

Wild Earth Travel is owned and operated by expedition leaders with over 30 years' experience voyaging, leading and creating expeditions all over the globe.

• We Are Travellers. Our team of small ship cruise specialists is very well travelled. We have led small ship cruises all over the world and experienced the most unique and fascinating corners of the planet, and we love sharing our experiences with you!

• Unbiased Advice. Our team are all passionate expedition and small cruise ship travellers, and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences, which we then use to match you with the best small ship options for you.

• Largest Choice Providers. Our collection of small ship cruises is constantly growing, we now feature over 1200 cruises aboard more than 80 small ships. Our insider knowledge of the industry means there is barely a ship or a destination worldwide that we haven't experienced.

• Convenience Matters. We offer you the ability to pay in the original currency of the ship operator, meaning that you won't pay more in currency buffers. You can be assured that you are in safe hands as our team of specialists guide you through the entire booking process.

• Personalised Service. As you prepare for your cruise, we will be in touch to ensure you have everything you need, from packing lists and suggested reading lists to pre- and post- transfers and accommodation. For some cruises, there may be the option to add on extra activities.

• New Zealand is our backyard! We are proud to call this beautiful country home, and can’t wait to share it with you.

If you're interested in learning about some of our additional New Zealand itineraries, please contact us. You may also be interested in specific New Zealand regions such as The Chatham Islands or Subantarctic Islands.

Alaska • Antarctica • Antarctica Express • Asia • Asia River Cruises • Australia • British Isles • Canadian Arctic & Northwest Passage • Central America • Chatham Islands (New Zealand) • Classic Antarctica • Europe • Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Circle • Fiordland & Stewart Island (New Zealand) • French Polynesia • Galapagos Islands • Great America Waterways • Greenland & Iceland • India • Indian Ocean • Indonesia • Japan • Kimberley Coast (Australia) • New Zealand • North Pole • Norway • Patagonia • Ross Sea • Sailing Adventures • Scandinavia • South East Asia • South Pacific • Spitsbergen • Subantarctic Islands • Tasmania & South Australia • The Adriatic • The Arctic • The Mediterranean • USA • West Coast USA