New Zealand eTA for Cruise Ship Travelers

Updated on Feb 18, 2023 | Online New Zealand Visa

By: eTA New Zealand Visa

When landing in New Zealand on a cruise ship, cruise passengers of all nations can apply for an NZeTA (or New Zealand eTA) instead of a visa. Tourists who arrive in New Zealand to board a cruise are subject to different laws. More information is provided below.

Is A Visa Required for A Cruise to New Zealand?

Foreign citizens arriving in New Zealand aboard a cruise ship do not require a visa. Visitors should instead apply for an NZeTA. As a result, they can visit New Zealand on a cruise without a visa.

  • When checking in for the trip, passengers must present the NZeTA confirmation letter, either in physical or digital form.
  • This policy facilitates cruise passengers' visits to New Zealand. Applying for the electronic travel authority for New Zealand online is simple and quick.
  • Australian citizens can enter New Zealand on a cruise ship without a visa or NZeTA. Permanent residents of Australia, on the other hand, require an eTA.

New Zealand Visa (NZeTA)

New Zealand eTA Application Form now allows visitors from all nationalities to obtain New Zealand eTA (NZETA) by email without visiting New Zealand Embassy. New Zealand Visa application process is automated, simple, and completely online. New Zealand Immigration now officially recommends Online New Zealand Visa or New Zealand ETA online rather than sending paper documents. You can obtain New Zealand eTA by filling out a form on this website and making the payment using a Debit or Credit Card. You will also require a valid email id as New Zealand eTA information will be sent to your email id. You do not need visit an embassy or consulate or to send your passport for Visa stamping.

What are the NZeTA For Cruise Ship Visitors Requirements?

To travel without a visa, cruise passengers must fulfil the NZeTA requirements. Applicants must have:

  • The passport must be valid for three (3) months beyond the anticipated travel date.
  • Use a credit or debit card to pay the NZeTA fee plus the IVL tourism levy.
  • Email address where the NZeTA confirmation will be sent.
  • Passengers on cruise ships should also meet New Zealand's health and safety standards.

What Are the Passport Requirements For Cruise Ship Travelers To New Zealand?

  • The same passport should be used to file for the NZeTA and go to New Zealand on a cruise ship.
  • The permission is linked to a certain passport and cannot be transferred: when the passport expires, a new eTA is necessary.
  • Dual nationality NZeTA applicants must present the same passport to register for the visa waiver and onboard the cruise ship.

What Is the Method Of Obtaining An NZeTA for Cruise Ship Travelers?

Visitors can apply for a cruise ship eTA New Zealand using their cellphones, laptop, or other electrical gadgets. The application is entirely online.

Filling up the NZeTA application for a cruise takes only a few minutes.

Applicants must submit the following basic information:

  • The first name.
  • Surname.
  • The date of birth.
  • The number on a passport.
  • Date of issuance and expiration of a passport.

Passengers aboard cruise ships must also indicate the purpose of their visit and disclose any previous criminal convictions.

Applicants must ensure that all the information they provide is correct. Mistakes could cause delays in processing and jeopardise travel plans if the cruise leaves shortly.

READ MORE:
Get Online New Zealand visa for US citizens, with new-zealand-visa.org. To find out the requirements of the New Zealand eTA for Americans (USA Citizens) and the eTA NZ visa application learn more at Online New Zealand Visa for US Citizens.

What are the Steps for Obtaining an NZeTA for Cruise Ship Travelers?

Travelers can apply for a cruise ship NZeTA in three (3) steps:

  • Complete the eTA for the New Zealand application form with your personal, contact, and travel details.
  • Before moving on to the next step, carefully review all the data.
  • Pay the NZeTA registration fee and IVL with a debit or credit card.

Applicants are notified of NZeTA clearance through email. When they check-in for the cruise, they must show proof of the approved travel authorisation.

An IVL is not required for all NZeTA applications. It is automatically applied to the application cost at step 3 when appropriate.

What Are the Requirements for Travelers Flying Into New Zealand To Embark On A Cruise?

Different requirements apply to passengers flying into New Zealand to join a cruise.

  • Unless they are from a visa waiver nation, passengers arriving by plane must apply for a visiting visa before leaving.
  • Unless the passport holder comes from a visa waiver country, the NZeTA is only permitted to arrive by cruise ship, not by plane.
  • Passengers who desire to depart the cruise ship and fly home or stay in New Zealand must get a visa and entry clearance if they are not citizens of a visa-exempt country.

When Can a Traveler Register For A New Zealand Visa If They Are Going On A Cruise?

Those who require a New Zealand visa to fly into the nation should apply several months ahead of time. Processing timeframes vary based on demand and the location of the application.

  • Citizens of visa-free nations can travel to New Zealand and enjoy the NZeTA cruise.
  • Visa waiver requests are processed within 1 to 3 business days.
  • Tourists flying to New Zealand to enjoy a cruise can use an eTA if they are from one of the visa-waiver nations.
  • Foreign citizens with permanent residency in Australia are entitled to apply for an NZeTA, irrespective of whether their nation is on the list of qualifying countries. They are, however, not required to pay the IVL.
  • Before flying to New Zealand, citizens with passports from non-eligible countries must apply for a standard New Zealand tourist visa at a New Zealand consulate or embassy.
  • Before departure, cruise line staff must ensure that their employer has obtained the required Crew NZeTA on their behalf.

READ MORE:
Are you looking for Online New Zealand visa from United Kingdom? Find out the requirements of the New Zealand eTA for United Kingdom citizens and the eTA NZ visa application from United Kingdom. Learn more at Online New Zealand Visa for United Kingdom Citizens.

Who can obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)?

  • Passport holders from Visa Waiver Countries or Permanent Residents of Australia coming for less than 3 months — or less than 6 months if you are a British Citizen — or;
  • Cruise ship passengers coming and departing New Zealand, or
  • Individuals joining or departing cruises in New Zealand who are not citizens of a Visa Waiver country will be required to get an Entry Visa. For more information, see the section below if appropriate.
  • Individuals transiting through Auckland International Airport who are citizens of a Visa Waiver Country or a Transit Visa Waiver Country, or
  • Individuals transiting through Auckland International Airport on their way to or from Australia exclusively.

Countries that are eligible for NZeTA for cruise ships

Andorra

Argentina

Austria

Bahrain

Belgium

Brazil

Brunei

Bulgaria

Canada

Chile

Croatia

Cyprus

Czech Republic

Denmark

Estonia

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

Hong Kong — HKSAR or British National–Overseas passports only

Hungary

Iceland

Ireland

Israel

Italy

Japan

Kuwait

Latvia

Liechtenstein

Lithuania    Luxembourg

Macau — SAR passports only

Malaysia

Malta

Mauritius

Mexico

Monaco

Netherlands

Norway Oman

Poland

Portugal

Qatar

Romania

San Marino

Saudi Arabia

Seychelles

Singapore

Slovak Republic

Slovenia

South Korea

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Taiwan

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

United States of America

Uruguay

Vatican City

As previously stated, tourists can visit New Zealand on a cruise without needing a visa by obtaining an NZeTA.

READ MORE:
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Zealand eTA Visa. Get answers to the most common questions about the requirements, important information and documents required to travel to the New Zealand. Learn more at New Zealand eTA (NZeTA) Frequently Asked Questions.

What Are the Advantages Of Applying For A NZeTA For Cruise Ship Travelers?

The Following Are the Advantages of Applying For A NZeTA For Cruise Ship Travelers -

  • Pay safely in your native currency on our website.
  • Simple application form and multilingual support.
  • Order status updates in real-time.

What Is the Best Time for NZeTA For Cruise Ship Holders To Visit New Zealand By Cruise Ship?

Most cruise lines visit New Zealand during the summer trip season, which runs from October to April. 

From April through July, there is also a shorter winter travel season. Most of the world's genuine trip organizations provide travel administrations to New Zealand.

More than 25 unique boats visit New Zealand's shore in a typical year. Traveling between Australia and New Zealand allows you to visit every section of the North and South Islands.

Most people leave Auckland, New Zealand, Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, Australia. Typically, they visit the Bay of Islands, Auckland, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin in New Zealand.

The Marlborough Sounds and Stewart Island are both well-known stops. If you are arriving in New Zealand by cruise ship, make sure you have already applied for a New Zealand eTA (NZeTA). You can apply for NZeTA online if you are a citizen of any country.

What Are the Best Cruise Ships for New Zealand Visitors?

Expedition cruises visit huge city ports and exotic spectacular destinations, as well as less traveled and more rural areas that large cruise liners overlook.

On their way to New Zealand, these expedition cruises visit Stewart Island or Kaikoura. Another frequent route to the sub-Antarctic islands is via the South Island.

If you are traveling to New Zealand on one of the cruise lines listed below, you will need a New Zealand eTA (NZeTA) regardless of your country. If you are not from a Visa Waiver country and are traveling by air, you must apply for a Visa.

Majestic Princess

The Majestic Princess from Princess Cruises is a new twist on the 'Love Boat' series. Movies Under the Stars and a Partnership with the Discovery Channel, which offers a variety of activities for adults and children, are matched with exciting new elements such as six private karaoke suites, a fully-equipped TV studio, and a glass bridge that suspends travelers over the ocean. All outdoor staterooms have balconies, allowing you to take in the breathtaking views of New Zealand.

Itineraries -

  • Sydney is the ship's homeport.
  • Wellington, Akaroa, Fiordland National Park (scenic cruising), Dunedin, Bay of Islands, Auckland, and Tauranga are among the ports visited.

Exclusives in New Zealand -

  • Visit a Maori village that uses geothermal resources to cook, bathe, and heat their dwellings.
  • Learn the haka onboard with a free lesson.
  • Te Papa's behind-the-scenes tour with a Maori guide.
  • The SeaWalk, a stunning over-the-ocean glass walkway that is the first of its type at sea, dazzles the ship.
  • The Watercolour Fantasy Show features fountains that dance. Chic Hollywood Pool Club provides year-round swimming.

Noordam

There are no rock-climbing walls or odd pool games in Holland. America's rebuilt Noordam, takes pride in its meals and offers a calm, conventional cruising experience. The complimentary main dining room provides excellent service and food quality. Still, for-a-fee restaurants such as Pinnacle Grill (which now incorporates a Sel de Mer seafood pop-up location once per week) are ideal for a romantic supper. The ship caters to a more adult audience, while families and multigenerational groups are more common on New Zealand cruises, especially during school holidays.

Itineraries -

  • Ports: Sydney Wellington, Akaroa, Fiordland National Park (for scenic cruise), Dunedin, Bay of Islands, Auckland, Tauranga, Picton.

Exclusives in New Zealand -

  • Enjoy a traditional Maori welcome.
  • Play traditional Maori activities that were previously used to improve hand-eye coordination for hand-to-hand combat.
  • As the ship travels through Milford Sound, expert commentary is provided.
  • At B.B. King's Blues Club, you can tap your feet or dance the night away.
  • Sing along at the popular piano bar.
  • For severe weather, the main pool has a retractable roof.

Norwegian Jewel

Norwegian Jewel provides 10 free and for-a-fee eateries, almost a dozen bars and lounges and a range of accommodation options — from inside cabins to suites in The Haven, the line's unique 'gated community'. If you enjoy singing, this 2,376-passenger ship has a karaoke area with mood lighting and three private karaoke rooms. The Spinnaker Lounge's bustling dance floor provides everything from ballroom and line dancing to pulse-pounding club music.

Itineraries -

  • Homeport: Sydney Ports.
  • Other Ports: Wellington, Akaroa, Fiordland National Park (scenic cruise), Dunedin, Napier, Bay of Islands, Auckland, Tauranga, and Picton Golf driving while taking in the breathtaking surroundings.

Exclusives in New Zealand -

  • A wine-tasting trip that also includes a visit to a local's home.
  • You may see giant albatrosses in the wild at the Royal Albatross Centre.
  • Acrobatic performance that is entertaining. Families enjoy Le Cirque Bijou, a 4,891-square-foot, three-bed, three-bath Garden Villas Circus workshop.

Radiance of the Seas

Radiance of the Seas delivers Royal Caribbean's best on a more modest scale, with a choice of dining venues, terrific kids' programs, and adrenaline-pumping excursions. This 2,112-passenger ship has Giovanni's Table, the line's popular Italian restaurant, as well as Izumi for Japanese cuisine, an outdoor movie screen, a rock-climbing wall, and a nursery for babies and toddlers. Passengers include young couples, individuals, families, and active retirees.

Itineraries -

  • Sydney and Auckland are the homeports.
  • Other Ports: Wellington, Akaroa, Fiordland National Park (scenic cruising), Dunedin, Bay of Islands, Auckland, Tauranga, Picton

Exclusives in New Zealand -

  • In Akaroa, you may swim with wild dolphins.
  • Take a ride on the breathtaking Tranz Alpine Railway.
  • Visit the warm thermal pools at Manupirua Beach.
  • All-weather, indoor, adults-only pool on the ship
  • A rock-climbing wall and mini-golf are among the activities available.
  • Exterior glass elevators provide excellent views.

 Celebrity Solstice

The interior architecture of the Celebrity Solstice is one of the greatest at sea. While the ship's passenger-to-space ratio is the industry norm, it never seems crowded. Celebrity is known for its fantastic dining and bars, but the Lawn Club, with a half-acre of genuine grass on the top deck, offers some of the best views onboard in a friendly, easygoing setting. When the weather permits, the space contains sports such as bocce and mini-golf and is ideal for soaking up the sun. Celebrity usually attracts sophisticated young adults and middle-aged couples, while families are more common during school holidays.

Itineraries -

  • Sydney and Auckland are the homeports.
  • Ports of call include Wellington, Akaroa, Fiordland National Park (for scenic cruise), Dunedin, the Bay of Islands, Auckland, and Tauranga.

Exclusives in New Zealand -

  • Naturalists provide expert commentary while the ship cruises through Milford Sound, and destination lecturers present talks in the main auditorium.
  • Riding a whitewater raft down a Grade 5 waterfall
  • The ship impresses with 'A Taste of Film,' which blends a food-themed film with delectable gastronomic tidbits.
  • On the upper deck, you may watch artisans at work at the Hot Glass Show.
  • The private cabanas at The Alcove are great for taking in the scenery.

Carnival Spirit

The Carnival Spirit is a beautiful deal for families on a budget, with Carnival's Fun Ship features like the Camp Ocean kids' club and the Green Thunder water slide. The 2,124-passenger ship has several complimentary eateries, activities, and entertainment. No extra price for celebrity chef Guy Fieri's famed burgers or a BlueIguana Cantina burrito. Competitive families will also enjoy Hasbro, the Game Show, in which groups compete in a series of games to win prizes.

Itineraries -

  • Sydney and Melbourne are the homeports.
  • Ports of call - Wellington, Akaroa, Fiordland National Park (scenic cruising), Dunedin, Napier, Auckland, Tauranga, Picton.

Exclusives in New Zealand -

  • Waiheke Island wine tasting Active shore excursions for younger visitors.
  • One of the few ships that offer excursions to Matiu Somes Island.
  • Serenity hot tubs for adults are ideal for taking in the scenery.
  • Seuss at Sea is a children's program with a parade and reading time.
  • One of just a few Carnival ships that serve Bonsai Sushi.

READ MORE:
From October 2019 New Zealand Visa requirements have changed. People who do not require a New Zealand Visa i.e. formerly Visa Free nationals, are required to obtain New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization (NZeTA) in order to enter New Zealand. Learn more at Online New Zealand Visa Eligible Countries.

What Are the Main Cruise Ship Ports In New Zealand?

New Zealand boasts one of the world's longest coasts. As a result, the country has some of the busiest seaports in the world. The following are some of the country's major seaports that provide luxury cruise itineraries.

Tauranga Harbour

Tauranga, one of the country's main ports, is a natural waterway encircled by Mount Maunganui and Matakana Island. It has berths large enough to accommodate larger cruise ships. The port's primary revenue drivers are trade and tourism.

Port of Auckland

The Port of Auckland Limited manages the Auckland port (POAL). The firm is in charge of the cruise and commercial ships at the port. There are several smaller harbors in the port.

Port of Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, is one of the most strategically located ports in the country. The port also provides inter-island ferry services.

The Napier Port

Napier port is the country's fourth largest seaport, hosting several cruise and freight ships each year. The Port of Napier Limited operates it and is named after the city of Napier.

The Lyttelton Port

This is the major seaport in the country's south and was built to assist travelers arriving in Christchurch by 


Ensure that you have checked the eligibility for your Online New Zealand Visa. If you are from a Visa Waiver country then you can apply for an Online New Zealand Visa or New Zealand eTA regardless of the mode of travel (Air / Cruise). United States citizens, European citizens, Canadian citizens, United Kingdom citizens, French citizens, Spanish citizens and Italian citizens can apply online for New Zealand eTA. United Kingdom residents can stay on New Zealand eTA for 6 months while others for 90 days.

Please apply for an Online New Zealand Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight.