Some of the most dramatic and memorable natural phenomena on the planet can be seen at close quarters on a sensational cruise to New Zealand.

Take a trip through the spectacular landscape to see the breathtaking spouting geysers and bubbling mud-pools at remarkable Rotorua, a sight you’ll never forget!

You can join a land excursion to the other-worldly landscape of Tauranga to be entertained by a traditional Maori folklore concert before moving on to witness the eruption of geysers, the bubbling mud pools and multi-coloured thermal pools that will have your cameras clicking.

You’ll also be able to spend time soaking up the easy-going atmosphere of the attractive city of Auckland and wander down to the vibrant Viaduct Harbour for a bite to eat while watching the beautiful boats go by.

Colourful botanical gardens and peaceful parks are a highlight of a shore excursion in Christchurch, on New Zealand’s South Island, a city you can get to know pretty well in just a few hours thanks to the excellent modern tram system which flits about the cultural district.

Stopping off at Dunedin you could be excused for imagining you’d somehow been transported to Scotland!

Known as the Edinburgh of the South, this charming little city is full of Scottish influences including its beautifully preserved, architecturally stunning buildings, Robert Burns statue and impressive Larnach Castle.

The Bay of Islands, with its Maori culture still very much intact, is a charming and pristine natural maritime park where you may spot whales, penguins, dolphins, gannets and a host of other indigenous or migrating species.

Napier, Wellington and Waitangi are other interesting ports of call featured on many New Zealand cruise itineraries.

P&O Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Fred Olsen Line and Princess Cruises are among the leading cruise lines sailing to New Zealand.