Cruises to New Zealand will often take in both North and South Islands. The North Island is home to Auckland, whose Harbour Bridge and huge marina illustrate the importance of water to the Kiwis.

Other areas worth visiting include the beautiful Bay of Islands, which boasts lovely beaches, idyllic bays and inlets and impressively rolling hills, making it perfect for those wishing to relax and unwind. Rotorua is the place to experience Maori culture, along with fascinating geothermal parks full of hot springs and geysers.

The South Island is more rugged. Mount Cook and Franz Josef Glacier are accessible from the west side of the island, while further south is Queenstown, situated on Lake Wakatipu. Not only is this wonderful town a restful retreat, but it is also the adventure capital of New Zealand, with bungee jumping, jetboating and parachuting to name but a few of the high adrenaline options.

The highlight of the South Island is a trip to Milford Sound, a remarkable fjordland. Dunedin and Christchurch are charming cities on the west side of the island, and at the north of the South Island is the Marlborough Region, home to New Zealand's world famous wineries.

Either combined with Australia or the South Pacific, or as a standalone destination, New Zealand is at its best during their warm winters.