Port 128
Cruise Port Guide
Upcoming Sailings for Port 128
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Port 128 Port Overview
Arrival & Drop-off
Getting Around Port 128
Walkability
Food & Dining in Port 128
Shore Excursions & Tours
Rotorua Rafting: Kaituna River White Water Rafting & Free Sauna
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Meeting point at the Kaituna River rafting base near Rotorua. If arriving by cruise ship to Tauranga, allow approximately 1 hour transfer to Rotorua. Book early morning departures to fit within a port day.
What's included
1 hour of guided white water rafting on the Kaituna River, safety equipment and instruction, opportunity to swim through rapids, free sauna session post-rafting
Not included
Transport to/from Rotorua, gratuities, personal purchases, wetsuit hire if not specified
Children & accessibility
Suitable for novice and experienced rafters; minimum age restrictions may apply — check operator guidelines before booking
Weather contingency
Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. River conditions may affect operations; check operator's weather policy for same-day changes.
Reviewer summary
The Kaituna River is one of New Zealand's most thrilling white water experiences, featuring cascading waterfalls including the famous Tutea Falls. Suitable for all skill levels, it's a fantastic adrenaline hit for cruise passengers docking at Tauranga. The included sauna is a perfect wind-down after the rapids, and at 2.5 hours total the tour fits comfortably within a port day.
Award Winning Premium Wine Tour Queenstown Tasting at 4 Wineries
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Pick-up from your Queenstown accommodation or a central meeting point near the Queenstown waterfront. Confirm exact pick-up location at booking. Queenstown cruise passengers typically tender ashore to the town wharf.
What's included
Wine-certified guide, four winery tastings including Gibbston Valley, Ayrburn, Kinross and Mt Rosa, visit to New Zealand's largest wine cave, small-group experience
Not included
Wine purchases, meals, gratuities, personal transport to meeting point
Children & accessibility
Not suitable for children due to the wine tasting focus and adult-oriented nature of the tour
Weather contingency
Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cellar door visits are largely indoors, making this a good wet-weather option.
Reviewer summary
Voted the World's Best Wine Tour, this Queenstown experience takes small groups through the celebrated Gibbston Valley wine region, known for exceptional Pinot Noir. Four distinct cellar door tastings — including a dramatic underground wine cave — make it a truly immersive afternoon. At exactly 6 hours, it fits a full port day in Queenstown perfectly, and the small-group format keeps it personal and unhurried.
Milford Sound Flight & Cruise Day Trip from Queenstown
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Queenstown Airport or central Queenstown departure point. Confirm exact location at booking. Allow time to travel from the Queenstown cruise terminal or town wharf to the departure point.
What's included
Return scenic fixed-wing flight over the Southern Alps, guaranteed window seat, pilot commentary, cruise on Milford Sound fiord
Not included
Meals, gratuities, personal purchases, transport to/from Queenstown departure point
Children & accessibility
Suitable for older children comfortable with small aircraft and boat travel; minimum age or weight restrictions may apply — confirm with operator
Weather contingency
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Flight-based tours are subject to weather; operator will advise on rescheduling or refund policies for weather cancellations.
Reviewer summary
This fly-cruise-fly experience combines the drama of a scenic flight over the Southern Alps with a serene cruise through one of the world's most spectacular fiords. Every passenger is guaranteed a window seat with unobstructed views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks and cascading waterfalls. At 4.5 hours from Queenstown, it's one of the most iconic ways to spend a port day in New Zealand's South Island.
Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruise
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Akaroa Harbour main wharf, Akaroa. Cruise passengers visiting Akaroa on a tender port day will find the departure wharf a short walk from the tender landing in the village centre.
What's included
Guided nature cruise on Akaroa Harbour, dolphin watching (Hector's dolphins commonly spotted), small-group experience with a low-profile boat for close wildlife encounters, live commentary from local guides
Not included
Transport to Akaroa, meals, gratuities, personal purchases
Children & accessibility
Excellent for families and children of all ages; small boat and calm harbour waters make it very accessible
Weather contingency
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Operator limits passenger numbers for a premium experience; check weather-related policies directly with the operator for same-day disruptions.
Reviewer summary
Run by a 6th and 7th generation Banks Peninsula family, this intimate harbour cruise is ideal for cruise passengers tendering into Akaroa. Small passenger numbers mean everyone gets superb views of the rare Hector's dolphins and the stunning volcanic harbour. At just 2 hours, it leaves plenty of time to explore Akaroa's charming French-influenced village — a perfect port day combination.
Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown (incl Lunch)
by Air Milford
Meeting point
Queenstown Airport or Air Milford's Queenstown terminal. Confirm exact pick-up at booking. Allow adequate time to travel from the Queenstown town wharf or cruise terminal.
What's included
Return scenic flight between Queenstown and Milford Sound, cruise on Milford Sound fiord, lunch included on board or at Milford Sound
Not included
Gratuities, personal purchases, transport to the departure terminal
Children & accessibility
Suitable for children comfortable with light aircraft and boat travel; confirm minimum age requirements with operator at booking
Weather contingency
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Flight operations are weather-dependent; operator will provide guidance on rebooking or refunds for weather-related cancellations.
Reviewer summary
Air Milford's flight-and-cruise package offers the complete Milford Sound experience — a breathtaking aerial crossing of the Southern Alps followed by a tranquil fiord cruise with lunch included. The combination of two perspectives (sky and sea) across one of the world's most dramatic natural landscapes makes it a standout port day excursion. Booking well in advance is essential as this popular tour fills quickly.
Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Central Queenstown pick-up, typically near the Queenstown town centre or waterfront. Confirm exact meeting location at booking. Short walk or taxi from the cruise tender wharf.
What's included
Small-group guided tour, transport in comfortable vehicle, exclusive access to filming locations on Arcadia Station (Hobbit & Wolverine scenes), commentary from a knowledgeable guide, scenic drive to Glenorchy and Mt Aspiring World Heritage National Park
Not included
Meals, gratuities, personal purchases, transport to the central meeting point
Children & accessibility
Suitable for children and families, particularly those with an interest in the Lord of the Rings films; manageable walking distances throughout
Weather contingency
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Tour operates in most weather conditions; the dramatic landscape is beautiful in all seasons including overcast days.
Reviewer summary
This half-day journey from Queenstown to Glenorchy immerses you in the breathtaking landscapes of Middle Earth, with exclusive access to real Lord of the Rings and Hobbit filming locations. The small-group format and passionate local guides bring the trilogy vividly to life against a backdrop of lakes, mountains and ancient forests. At 4.5 hours, it's a perfect port day adventure that returns to Queenstown with time to spare.
Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour - with two island stopovers
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Paihia Wharf, Bay of Islands. Cruise passengers arriving at the Bay of Islands (typically at Opua or Paihia) will find the wharf a short transfer from the cruise terminal.
What's included
4.5-hour guided island cruise, two remote island stopovers, native bush walks, 360-degree island lookout views, visit to the Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett Lighthouse, snorkelling, swimming, paddleboarding opportunities
Not included
Meals, gratuities, personal purchases, wetsuit hire if applicable, transport to Paihia Wharf
Children & accessibility
Highly suitable for families and children of all ages; the tour is designed for all travellers including families, solo travellers and couples
Weather contingency
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Marine tours can be subject to sea conditions; check operator's weather and sea-state policy for same-day adjustments.
Reviewer summary
This locally owned Bay of Islands cruise takes you through 144 sub-tropical islands to the iconic Hole in the Rock, with two genuine island stopovers for bush walks, swimming and snorkelling. The personalised, small-group feel sets it apart from larger commercial operators, making it feel like a genuine local adventure. At 4.5 hours, it's an ideal way to experience the beauty of the Bay of Islands during a port day without feeling rushed.
Waiheke island Wine Tours - PREMIUM wine tasting MAX 11 clients !
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Auckland Ferry Terminal, Downtown Auckland — look for your name on the black welcome board or wait at the i-SITE information booth. Line up by 8:30am for the 9:00am Fullers ferry to Waiheke Island. A short taxi or walk from Auckland's cruise ship terminals at Queens Wharf.
What's included
Ferry travel to Waiheke Island, guided scenic island tour with commentary, premium wine tastings at 3 boutique vineyards, small-group format with maximum 11 guests
Not included
Return ferry ticket (confirm at booking), meals, wine purchases, gratuities, personal purchases
Children & accessibility
Not suitable for children due to the wine tasting focus and adult-oriented itinerary
Weather contingency
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Vineyard tastings are largely sheltered; however, confirm operator's policy for weather affecting ferry services.
Reviewer summary
Waiheke Island, a 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland, is world-renowned for its boutique wineries and stunning coastal scenery. With a strict maximum of 11 guests, this premium tour delivers an intimate tasting experience at three of the island's finest vineyards. It's a superb choice for cruise passengers docking in Auckland who want a relaxed yet exceptional day combining island beauty with outstanding New Zealand wine.
Cruise Milford NZ Small Boutique Cruise Experience
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Milford Sound Wharf, Fiordland. Most passengers travel to Milford Sound by coach or flight from Te Anau or Queenstown — this cruise is typically the highlight of a longer day excursion. Confirm transfer arrangements at booking.
What's included
Boutique small-boat cruise on Milford Sound (capacity limited to half the boat's maximum), skipper's live commentary, complimentary coffee, tea and biscuits
Not included
Transport to/from Milford Sound, meals, gratuities, personal purchases
Children & accessibility
Suitable for all ages; the stable boutique boat and limited passenger numbers make it a comfortable experience for families
Weather contingency
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Milford Sound is famous for its moody, rainy weather — even overcast days are stunning. Operator limits numbers to ensure a personal experience in all conditions.
Reviewer summary
Rated one of New Zealand's Top 10 Experiences, this boutique Milford Sound cruise deliberately limits passenger numbers to create an uncrowded, intimate encounter with one of the world's most dramatic fiords. Sipping complimentary coffee while waterfalls tumble around you and the skipper shares local knowledge is a genuinely special moment. At under 2 hours, it pairs perfectly with a fly-in or coach transfer for a full day from Queenstown or Te Anau.
Afternoon Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Central Auckland hotel or agreed pick-up point in the city. Confirm exact location at booking. A short taxi ride from Auckland's Queens Wharf cruise terminal to central Auckland hotels.
What's included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off, guided eco-tour of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, guided rainforest walk, visit to Piha Beach (black sand), afternoon refreshments
Not included
Meals, gratuities, personal purchases, transport from the cruise terminal to the central Auckland pick-up point
Children & accessibility
Suitable for children and families who enjoy nature walks and beach exploration; walking distances are moderate
Weather contingency
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The Waitakere Ranges are beautiful in all weathers; light rain enhances the rainforest atmosphere. Confirm operator's policy for extreme weather.
Reviewer summary
Just 30 minutes west of Auckland, the Waitakere Ranges offer lush native rainforest, dramatic sea cliffs and the iconic black-sand Piha Beach — all easily reached on this guided afternoon eco-tour. It's a perfect antidote to city sightseeing, offering a genuine taste of New Zealand's wild west coast landscape. The 5-hour duration works well for afternoon departures from Auckland's cruise terminal, and afternoon refreshments are a welcome touch.
Auckland: Waiheke Wine Tour: 4 Vineyards, Local Guide, Great Day
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Auckland Ferry Terminal, Downtown Auckland. Board the Fullers ferry to Waiheke Island — confirm departure time at booking. The terminal is a short walk from Auckland's Queens Wharf cruise ship terminal.
What's included
Ferry travel to Waiheke Island, guided tour visiting 4 vineyards with sit-down tastings, lunch stop at Batch Winery with panoramic island views, local guide with insider knowledge of island winemakers
Not included
Ferry ticket cost (confirm at booking), wine purchases beyond tastings, gratuities, personal purchases
Children & accessibility
Not suitable for children due to the wine tasting and vineyard focus of the tour
Weather contingency
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Tastings are conducted indoors and on sheltered terraces; confirm operator's policy regarding ferry cancellations in adverse weather.
Reviewer summary
Waiheke Island's most booked wine tour takes small groups to four vineyards with full sit-down tastings and a lunch break at Batch Winery — the island's highest point — with sweeping views over the Hauraki Gulf. The local guide's personal relationships with Waiheke's winemakers turn this into something far more than just a tasting experience. At 5 hours from Auckland's ferry terminal, it's the perfect full-morning or afternoon option for cruise passengers docked at Queens Wharf.
Franz Josef Glacier 25-Minute Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Franz Josef Glacier helicopter terminal, Franz Josef township. Most visitors access Franz Josef by road on the West Coast; confirm local transport options at booking if arriving independently.
What's included
25-minute scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier, snow landing on the glacier, opportunity to walk on the glacier surface and take photos, pilot commentary
Not included
Transport to Franz Josef township, meals, gratuities, personal purchases
Children & accessibility
Suitable for older children comfortable with helicopter flights; minimum weight or age restrictions may apply — confirm with operator
Weather contingency
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Helicopter flights are highly weather-dependent; the operator will advise on rescheduling or refund options for weather-related cancellations.
Reviewer summary
Rising from sea level into the heart of the Southern Alps, this 25-minute helicopter flight delivers jaw-dropping views of Franz Josef Glacier's icefall before landing on the snow for a truly once-in-a-lifetime alpine moment. Breathing glacier air surrounded by pristine white peaks is an experience unlike any other in New Zealand. While Franz Josef is primarily a road-trip destination, it's a bucket-list highlight for cruise passengers on extended South Island itineraries.
Shopping in Port 128
Practical Information
General Information
Medical & Safety
Returning to Your Ship
Back to Ship — Critical Timing Info
Missing ship departure means being stranded at port. Review the warnings below and plan your return time carefully.