Whangarei

New Zealand

Dive into the pristine Tutukaka Coast to snorkel with dolphins and explore dramatic underwater canyons teeming with tropical fish.

Currency New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Language English, Te Reo Māori

Time Zone NZDT (UTC+13)

Best Time to Visit Jan–Feb

Typical Duration 62-74 nights

Price Range $4,011–$65,074 per person

Port Type Port of Call

Tender Port No

Gateway to New Zealand's North Island and a departure point for luxury cruises exploring the South Pacific, including French Polynesia and Easter Island.

Cruises that visit Whangarei

Build Your Day in Whangarei

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 6:00 PM

Usually about 10 hours ashore

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Whangarei Falls Very nice little hike/walking area within Whangarei. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 6k

Kmart Whangarei Great prices and some products are very good quality aswell Department store · ★ 4.2 · 3k Closed · Opens 8 AM

The Quay Both dishes were cooked to perfection and beautifully presented. New Zealand restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 2k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Waipu Caves Scenic Reserve Glow worms, enormous spiders, eels, and amazing cave formations await you! Park · ★ 4.7 · 2k Open 24 hours

Jimmy Jack's Rib Shack & Craft Bar Great vibe friendly people and excellent food. Barbecue restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 2k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM

Parua Bay Tavern What an amazing place to stop in and have a drink with a view like it has. Gastropub · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM Wed

Whangarei Quarry Gardens The walk up to the waterfall and Lake was exceptional and was kids friendly. Park · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Lone Star Whangarei And the service by our waitress Corina at KT, Whangarei site was superb. New Zealand restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM

Fat Camel Cafe Welcoming staff, unassuming vibes, delicious food. Cafe · ★ 4.5 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM

The Warehouse Whangarei Lots of products available, deals were great Clothing store · ★ 4 · 1k Closed · Opens 8 AM

Arthurs Emporium Prices are good, range of products is incredible. Surplus store · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 8:30 AM

Dickens Inn Great service and good selection of drinks on tap. Bar · ★ 4.1 · 1k Closed · Opens 11 AM

1905 Very nice staff a few selections of craft beer and an great menu. Bar · ★ 4.3 · 1k Closed · Opens 11 AM

Ocean Beach You can swim and surf 🏄‍♀️ The water is fresh, clean, and clear. Beach · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Onerahi Tavern As pool table pokies bar food no lemon for your drink only downside, Bar · ★ 4.1 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM

Manganese Point Beach Beautiful secluded spot for fishing and swimming for a couple of days. Park · ★ 4.5 · 0k

Flames Restaurant, Bar & Cafe Meals were beautifully presented and tasted fantastic. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k Opens soon · 7 AM

Onerahi - Beach Road Reserve There are toilets and water to drink. Playground · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Smuggler's Bay Beautiful beach and the rock fishing is just 10 minutes walk. Scenic spot · ★ 4.8 · 0k Open 24 hours

Kaiwaka Point Good swimming spot Swimming pool · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open 24 hours

Bream Head Coast Walks The Bream Head/Te Whara Track was challenging but well worth it. Holiday apartment rental · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Peach Cove Beach Scenic spot · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Jetty 5577 Beach Road. (High tide swimming and fishing) It’s beautiful in sunset and the tides high Swimming pool · ★ 4.2 · 0k Open 24 hours

McGregor's Bay Beach · ★ 5 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Whangarei

About Whangarei

Whangarei serves as a port of call for cruise travelers exploring the Pacific region, with Seabourn offering voyages that touch this charming New Zealand destination. While the port welcomes a more intimate cruise experience rather than serving as a major embarkation hub, it provides access to some of the Pacific's most sought-after itineraries, including extended journeys to Tahiti, Sydney, and Easter Island. The peak season runs through the Southern Hemisphere summer months of January and February, when the weather is at its finest.

During your time ashore, you'll discover why Whangarei captivates visitors with its natural beauty and relaxed Kiwi hospitality. The waterfront area offers easy access to local shops and cafes, while the surrounding region showcases New Zealand's stunning landscapes and outdoor charm. Whether you're looking to stretch your legs after days at sea or dive deeper into regional exploration, Whangarei provides a refreshing pause on your Pacific adventure.

Explore Historic Whangarei Town Centre

Stroll through Whangarei's charming downtown district, where colonial-era architecture meets modern galleries and museums. The Whangarei Museum showcases Maori heritage and local history, while the vibrant Town Basin waterfront area features boutique shops, cafes, and scenic walking paths perfect for a leisurely morning exploration.

Fresh Seafood at Town Basin

Indulge in New Zealand's finest seafood at waterfront restaurants surrounding the picturesque Town Basin. Sample succulent snapper, crayfish, and green-lipped mussels while enjoying views of moored yachts and the Whangarei River. Local eateries showcase contemporary Pacific cuisine with Kiwi flair.

Whangarei Falls Natural Beauty

Discover the stunning 26-meter Whangarei Falls, located just minutes from the port in a lush native bush setting. The scenic walking track offers photo opportunities and peaceful nature immersion, with the falls cascading into a pristine pool surrounded by native ferns and towering trees.

Artisan Markets & Local Crafts

Browse the Town Basin Markets for authentic New Zealand crafts, Maori art, and local artisan goods. Independent boutiques showcase everything from handmade jewelry to native wood carvings, offering unique souvenirs that reflect the region's creative spirit and cultural heritage.

Maori Cultural Experiences

Connect with indigenous Maori culture through guided experiences and cultural centers in Whangarei. Learn about traditional customs, view authentic taonga (treasures), and understand the deep spiritual significance of the region to Maori people, enriching your understanding of New Zealand's heritage.