New Zealand is a stunning place to visit at any time of year – and if you are treating yourself to a cruising adventure in the Land of the Long White Cloud, you will find there are plenty of sights you won't want to miss! From culture to cuisine, and from rugged mountains to breathtaking beaches, New Zealand has something to appeal to everyone and is the perfect place to explore by sea.

You can find great deals to NZ with Celebrity Cruises on Cruise.co.uk – cruising is an excellent way to explore this island nation, as you can experience the contrasts between the north and south islands, the cities and the beaches all in a single holiday!

Read on to learn more about the sights you won't want to miss on your trip to New Zealand.

Cosmopolitan cities

Many Australia-New Zealand cruise itineraries include a stop in Auckland – and with good reason. This cosmopolitan centre is a great springboard for exploring the country's north island and you will find plenty of things to like about New Zealand's largest city.

From its diverse selection of restaurants featuring the best cuisines from around the world to its vibrant theatres, bars and museums, Auckland has something to offer everyone – and best of all, many of its major attractions are located within walking distance or a short taxi ride of the main cruise terminal.

Auckland isn't the only great city to explore on a NZ cruise though – Wellington is another popular stop and is packed with great things to see and do. As New Zealand's self-described 'capital of cool', Wellington is particularly popular with food lovers and wine connoisseurs – thanks in no small part to its the 112 wineries located in and around the capital city.

Wellington is also home to Te Papa – the National Museum of New Zealand – which is well worth a look if you are keen to learn more about the fascinating history of this island nation.

Stunning natural beauty

New Zealand's rugged landscape and vibrant green hills made it the starring attraction in the acclaimed Lord of the Rings films and you will find no shortage of stunning natural beauty during your visit.

One of the most intriguing things about New Zealand is its contrasting landscapes – from wild and rugged black sand beaches to gentle rolling green hills and towering mountains, there are a multitude of terrains to discover.

A destination you won't want to miss on your cruise is the famous Bay of Islands, which is located on the northern tip of New Zealand's north island. This breathtaking area of natural beauty is home to some of NZ's finest beaches and is the ideal place to spend some time in the great outdoors.

The Bay of Islands has a well-deserved reputation as an adventure sports paradise. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush on your holiday, you won't be disappointed in the various options on offer – from hot air balloon rides to kayaking and even jet skiing, there is something to appeal to everyone.

Whether you plan to sample the local food and wine, soak up the culture in some of Aotearoa's most vibrant cities or even indulge your inner adrenaline junkie, a New Zealand cruise offers the best of the best.