po cruise to new zealand

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• Destinations

New Zealand

• Fiordland National Park (Scenic Cruising)

Cruises to Fiordland National Park

On a P&O Cruise to New Zealand you’ll enjoy scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park. Fiordland is New Zealand’s largest national park and is comprised of 1.2 million hectares of breathtaking natural beauty. With soaring snow-capped mountains, glassy lakes, ice-carved fiords and lush rainforests, this stunning landscape is largely inaccessible - so the best way to appreciate it is by cruise.

On this unforgettable scenic cruise, sit back and admire some of the world’s most spectacular vistas and make sure you have your camera ready - these are once in a lifetime, breath-taking views, especially when seen by sea. A Fiordland adventure with P&O is definitely not to be missed.

The National Park is one of New Zealand’s most cherished wonders and a major part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site. It was formed millions of years ago by massive glacial flows that carved deep fiords into the coast of New Zealand's South Island. The Fiordland crested penguin and southern brown kiwi are almost exclusively found within the park.

At the heart of Fiordland National Park lies Milford Sound which is lined by cliffs that soar nearly a mile above its surface. Milford Sound cuts into the heart of the Southern Alps. Rainforest clings to the cliffs, while waterfalls plummet into the void. Mile-high Mitre Peak is located on the shore of Milford Sound.

Cruising through Fiordland

P&O cruises to New Zealand from either Sydney or Melbourne. All departures offer scenic cruising through Fiordland National Park. You can choose from the Kiwi Adventure, departing from Sydney and Melbourne, or Kiwi Explorer cruise departing from Melbourne. As well as scenic cruising in Fiordland, this cruise calls at Dunedin, Akaroa and Wellington.

Next Cruises To Fiordland National Park

Average temperature & rainfall.

• Bay Of Islands
• Christchurch
• Dunedin (Port Chalmers)
• Stewart Island

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• 2025 Cruises

P&O Cruises in 2025

Holidays are easy when everyone’s onboard. So why not start planning your dream getaway with P&O Cruises in 2025? Whether you’re looking for a short break with your someone special or a long holiday with the whole family, P&O has the perfect range of 2025 holidays to bring everyone together. Booking your cruise in advance is the best way to secure your spot and get access to the best  cruise deals . Start planning your 2025 cruise now!

There's a cruise for everyone, find yours

Travel to the best cruise destinations in 2025.

Travel to the best cruise destinations in 2025 with P&O Cruises. Choose from one of our Pacific Island cruises to get a chance to visit some of the world’s most picturesque beaches, or explore Australia’s backyard on a cruise to the Whitsundays or Kangaroo Island . Book in for a good time not a long time with our range of short break cruises and visit some of the best Australian cruise destinations .

Choose between a variety of themed cruises in 2025. Laugh until your stomach hurts aboard a P&O Comedy Cruise , or show us your best Elvis impression on our Tribute to the King Cruise . Our 2025 cruises have something for everyone!

Choose an all-inclusive cruise in 2025

On a P&O cruise you’ll discover 12 sprawling decks of world-class entertainment, food and fun – the ultimate all-inclusive holiday for 2025. Our cruise fares include accommodation, dining in designated restaurants, most activities and entertainment, and travel to spectacular destinations. Plus, you can tailor your holiday to suit your preference. Whether you want to recline by the pool every day, sample a dish from one of our delicious dining venues , or get your heart racing on a waterslide or P&O Edge Adventure Park , we’ve got you covered.

Make the most of our onboard cruise activities or discover exotic locations with a P&O Shore Tour - whichever you choose, you’ll return home feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready for your next trip.

By booking a P&O cruise in 2025, you’ll enjoy:

Range of activities and onboard entertainment

Easy booking & stress-free travel for every guest

All-inclusive cruise deals; no expensive surprises

Accommodation options for anyone and everyone

Plan your 2025 holiday now

A bit of forward-thinking and preparation goes a long way when it comes to booking your dream holiday. Avoid disappointment with our lineup of 2025 cruise deals from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and more. Find the latest 2025 cruise deals, and get a jump start on planning your 2025 holiday.

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• Cruise Destinations

New Zealand

• Carnival Splendor

* Coming Soon

• Ports of Call

Explore the natural and cultural wonders of the North and South Island of New Zealand. New Zealand cruises include cruises to Fiordland Park, Mildford Sound, the Bay of Islands and close-up views of their natural beauty. Take a 10, 11, or 12 night New Zealand cruise and enjoy the adventure the land of the long white cloud is known for. Immerse yourself in Māori culture, experience the Art Deco decadence in Napier, and cruise around some of the most picturesque places in the world. There’s a lot of things to do in New Zealand from a cruise ship.

• Be in awe of the natural beauty
• Soak in the culture
• Enjoy world-class food and wine
• Bungee jump in Auckland Harbour
• Create memories that last forever

YOU WANT WHERE? WE GO THERE.

No results found, bay of islands.

Lyttelton (Christchurch)

Port Chalmers (Dunedin)

Cruise Fiordland National Park

Cruises to New Zealand

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are included.

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UNLEASH YOUR ADVENTURER'S SPIRIT

New zealand cruises.

Lace up your hiking boots and explore New Zealand's natural beauty.

The Land of the Long White Cloud, New Zealand is known for Maori culture, lush-valley-and-gentle-hill-filled landscapes made famous by the "Lord of the Rings" films and dramatic glacial mountain peaks. Cruise to New Zealand and head to the World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park, home to the mighty fjords of Milford Sound. Ever imagined setting foot on tundra? Check out Franz Josef and Foz Glaciers on the South Island, two of the world's most accessible glaciers. Get your fix of urban culture in windy Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch. Adrenaline junkies will want to make a beeline for Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu's shores, where you have access to ski resorts, bungee jumping and jet boating.

All Natural Adventure

Lace up your hiking boots and explore the natural beauty

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FROM HARBORS TO HOBBIT-HOLES

Sightsee your way through New Zealand's best-known sites and cities. "Lord of the Rings" lovers, appreciators of the arts and culinary enthusiasts won't be disappointed. 

WELLINGTON WOWS

Hilly and windy Welly is New Zealand's capital city. It's home to a scenic hillside tram, a collection of indigenous art and artifacts at the Te Papa Museum and an up-and-coming food scene, exclusive cocktail bars tucked next to modernist, high-end spots serving inspired takes on local ingredients.

AUCKLAND EXPERIENCE

New Zealand's largest city, Auckland is home to two harbors, black and white sand beaches, hiking trails and the iconic Sky Tower. Head to the top for the best views during your vacation.

JUST LIKE THE MOVIES

Follow in Frodo's footsteps and check out Hobbiton in Matamata — check out the recreation of the hobbit's houses nestled in the rolling green hills (watch your head!). Cruise to New Zealand to kayak past unique cliff structures at popular Cathedral Cove, where the Chronicles of Narnia were filmed.

NEW ZEALAND RUGGED, ROBUST AND READY FOR YOU

The best part about a New Zealand cruise is that it departs from Australia , so you see two countries and two different landscapes in one visit.

SAMPLE AUSTRALIA

While you're "in the area," start in Australia and experience a sampler cruise from Sydney , or a cruise up the coast from Tasmania to Queensland .

ALL OVER NZ

From North to South, see city sights in Auckland, check out the art deco delights of Napier , and cruise through Milford Sound's majestic fjords .

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Hiking Know-How

Although summer is the best time to visit New Zealand in terms of warm weather, it's also the busiest season for domestic and international visitors. This means less accommodation options and higher prices. The shoulder season of autumn is a better option, as you have the bonus of falling leaves, while spring is known for its unstable and windy conditions. If hiking is on the agenda, remember to pack quality hiking boots and layers, as some of the Great Walks have notoriously temperamental weather. A waterproof and windproof jacket will save you while cruising around New Zealand, particularly in the cooler months.

Australia and New Zealand: 10 Bucket List Stops on Your Cruise

Kia Ora is a local greeting, which translates to "Hello!". It is derived from the Maori language, where it's literal meaning is "alive" or "healthy".

As in Australia, tipping is not a New Zealand custom.

If driving in New Zealand, bear in mind the roads can by windy, narrow and hilly, so give yourself extra time to get from point A to B.

CUISINE Meats and Sweets

Like its neighbor Australia, New Zealand's national cuisine has British, Mediterranean and South Pacific influences. But it has developed its own sweet tooth, with a long list of cookies, candy and cakes that locals love.

EMBRACE YOUR SWEET TOOTH

New Zealander's sweet selection includes pavlova (a meringue cake with fruit toppings), Afghan and Anzac biscuits, hokey pokey ice cream (vanilla with honeycomb pieces), chocolate fish, Pineapple Lumps and lolly cake.

KIWIS LOVE THEIR LAMB

One of New Zealand's biggest meat exports, roast lamb — seasoned with rosemary and served with seasonal vegetables — is served in many local restaurants. When you visit New Zealand, look for options that are locally raised and grass-fed for the best flavor.

SEAFOOD ESSENTIALS

Satiate yourself on Bluff oysters, thought by many connoisseurs to be the world's best. Or try the country's British-inspired favorite, crisp-fried fish and chips with plenty of malt vinegar to cut through the richness. Top that off with savory whitebait fritters and green-lipped mussels in curry sauce with crusty bread.

Related Ports

New Zealand ports are a combination of cities and countryside stops. This includes Auckland and Wellington, as well as Tauranga's beaches, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds' fjords and the Bay of Islands. Don't forget Napier, with its distinctive art deco architecture like Miami Beach.

Akaroa, New Zealand

Bay Of Islands, New Zealand

Doubtful Sound (Cruising), New Zealand

Dunedin, New Zealand

Dusky Sound (Cruising), New Zealand

Tauranga, New Zealand

Wellington, New Zealand

Milford Sound (Cruising), New Zealand

Napier, New Zealand

Auckland, New Zealand

Picton, New Zealand

Lyttelton (Christchurch), New Zealand

Related Destinations

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New Zealand / Aotearoa Cruises

Authentic experiences and extraordinary landscapes await onboard new zealand cruises.

Escape to this unhurried corner of the world, where Māori legends, steaming volcanic lakes, penguins and hobbits add to the magical landscape. From the historic North Island, known as "the birthplace of the nation," to the stirring drama of  Fiordland National Park / Piopiotahi  , a cruise to New Zealand / Aotearoa with Princess will defy expectations.

Across the Ditch cruise activities

Enjoy enriching experiences onboard and ashore

Princess Cruises proudly presents Across the Ditch, an immersive program designed to bring guests the very best of New Zealand / Aotearoa. Our program brings authentic Maori experiences, culture and local flavors onboard and ashore to showcase what makes New Zealand so unique. With more New Zealand wines, beers, entertainment, enrichment (including the Matariki Festival) and more Shore Excursions than ever before, you’ll have the chance to enjoy even more of this fascinating country as you journey Across the Ditch on a New Zealand cruise.

"Across the Ditch" is an affectionate term for crossing the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand and vice versa - known colloquially as "the Ditch".

Excursions — your gateway to New Zealand's best attractions

On a cruise to and from Auckland, delight at the sight of glittering glowworms inside Auckland’s / Tāmaki Makaurau Waitomo Grotto, and enjoy an exclusive kiij at Māori and Polynesian exhibits in  Auckland . Travel along Akaroa’s Southern Alps, and see white-flippered blue penguins and New Zealand / Aotearoa fur seals on a cruise through Akaroa Harbour. On itineraries with More Ashore Late Night calls, we stay until at least 9 p.m. in port so you can experience some of the fabulous nightlife.

And with a range of  Discovery Recommended and Exclusive excursions  available only with Princess Cruises, you’ll see New Zealand in a whole new way.

Photo: Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Let Your New Zealand / Aotearoa Cruise Journey Begin

Lifestyle & culture.

Savor the unique tastes of an authentic Māori hangi or sample award-winning wines from  Picton . See how the Māori’s rich heritage comes alive in the Bay of Islands / Pēwhairangi, and discover how Napier’s / Ahuriri beautifully preserved 1930s architecture pays homage to the Māori by merging the linear symmetry of Art Deco with tribal motifs.

Photo: Traditional Māori welcome

Natural wonders & landscapes

Witness the unparalleled beauty of what locals call “Godzone” (God’s own country) on a hike into Tauranga’s / Tauranga Moana Wai-O-Tapu thermal valley and be rewarded with spectacular mud pools, geysers and rainbow-colored lakes. And just outside  Wellington , you’ll experience a world teeming with Māori myths, rugged coasts and adorable seals.

Be awestruck by the beauty of  Fiordland National Park / Piopiotahi , named one of the 7 Cruise Wonders of the World by  Condé Nast Traveler . And sail through the glassy waters and towering cliffs of Milford Sound, which was formed a millennia ago by massive glacial flows.

Photo: The volcanoes in the Wai-o-Tapu Valley

Unique experiences on New Zealand / Aotearoa cruises

New Zealand’s vast, dramatic and diverse landscape is the unrivaled home of Tolkien’s mythical Middle Earth. Journey to the city of Edoras and walk in the footsteps of  The Lord of the Rings  in Wellington, and visit Peter Jackson’s Weta Studios.

Marvel at the sight of twinkling glowworms in Auckland’s Glowworm Grotto, and explore Wellington’s Zealandia, nicknamed "Jurassic Park," in search of the giant weta – one of the world’s largest insects!

Photo:  The Lord of the Rings  movie sets in Hobbittown

Onboard enrichment on New Zealand / Aotearoa cruises

At Princess® we want you to enjoy an unforgettable New Zealand adventure. That’s why we’ve created a unique onboard program ‘Across the Ditch’ - with special regional experiences, including:

• See traditional folkloric performances, and learn the art yourself such as the Haka Māori War Dance or Poi Dancing.
• Enjoy kiwi favorites served on board New Zealand cruises, including Pavlova, or Lamb, or even a Hangi Dinner – a Māori tradition. Pair this with a glass of world famous wine from the Marlborough Region.
• Learn more about New Zealand’s rich history with a pop-up display from Auckland War Museum in the Atrium.
• Participate in “Festivals of the World” celebrations, such as Matariki, a Māori festival that marks the start of the Māori New Year, with ceremonial offerings and homage to whakapapa (ancestors). Celebrate with kiwi music, dance, crafts & even traditional face painting.

Photo: A traditional Māori Matariki Festival on board

Landmarks & Cultural Masterpieces

Don’t miss the famed Christchurch Botanic Gardens, which boasts the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants in New Zealand, Port Chalmers’ Larnach Castle (the country’s only castle) or cruise to Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau and see the Sky Tower, the tallest man-made structure in the southern hemisphere.

Photo: Larnach Castle in Dunedin

Art, museums & historic treasures

Wellington ’s number-one attraction, the Te Papa National Museum, showcases Māori and Pacific cultural treasures, New Zealand’s extraordinary natural life and its most important works of art.

Photo: The famous TranzAlpine Express in the Southern Alps

UNESCO world heritage sites

Sail into a world of surreal beauty in  Fiordland National Park / Piopiotahi , where the verdant flanks of snowcapped peaks plunge into the crystalline waters of ice-carved fiords. Or visit the Tongariro National Park outside of Napier / Ahuriri, which holds the title of first park in the world to receive UNESCO World Heritage status for both its natural and Māori spiritual and cultural value.

Photo: Fiordland National Park

Discover More

Australia cruisetours.

Before or after you set sail for the wonders of New Zealand, why not also discover some of Australia’s greatest attractions. Sailing from Sydney or Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau, you can pair your cruise with a land tour to the Australian Outback to famed Uluru (Ayers Rock) and visit the Great Barrier Reef.

Photo: Australia’s magical Great Barrier Reef

Australia & New Zealand Cruise Articles

Read about exotic isles, legendary destinations, and prepare to explore a region unlike any other on your Australia and New Zealand cruise.

Australia & New Zealand Cruises

Visit iconic landmarks in Australia, strikingly diverse landscapes in New Zealand, and the palm-fringed islands of the South Pacific.

Things to Do in Brisbane Cruise Port for Couples, Singles & Families

Find things to do in Brisbane, Australia, while you're in port.

5 Things to Bring Back from Your Australia Cruise

Wondering what to bring back from your Australia cruise?

Tauranga Shore Excursions: Maori Culture and History Comes Alive

Explore foreign lands when you embark on a Tauranga shore excursions.

10 Melbourne Travel Tips to Help Cruisers Fit in with Locals

These 10 Melbourne travel tips from Princess Cruises will help you experience the best of this iconic Australian city as only a local would.

Fiordland National Park Excursions: Experience the Majesty of New Zealand

Witness the majestic beauty of New Zealand on Fiordland National Park cruise excursions.

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‘Cruise to nowhere’: passengers on NZ P&O cruise plagued by bad weather and biosecurity issues

‘Outcry’ about New Zealand holiday plans being scuttled by rough seas and invasive species prompts P&O to offer onboard credits and refunds

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Passengers on a cruise ship prevented from docking in New Zealand due to a dirty hull have been struck by sea sickness after an extended time on large ocean swells.

The P&O Pacific Adventure cruise, which departed Sydney and was due to visit New Zealand, was turned away last week because it could not meet the country’s strict biohazard entry requirements.

Passengers have had to cope with unexpected time at sea amid choppy waters.

“The sick bags are quickly disappearing from the stairwells,” 21-year-old Jake Welch said.

“I feel for all the people who get sea sick, we have had five to 10m swells almost every day.”

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The cruise, which was sold as a round trip to New Zealand between 20 November and 3 December, was scheduled to stop at multiple ports in New Zealand on the north and south islands, including Auckland, Wellington and Fiordland national park.

New Zealand has strict biosecurity laws that prevent a ship from docking if it has invasive species attached to its hull. The cruise had scheduled cleaning in the Bay of Plenty to remove three juvenile mussels and a single hydroid, or Lace Coral.

But the required cleaning could not be completed because conditions for diving were worse than forecast.

The cruise will now stop at Hobart and Port Arthur in Tasmania and Eden on the NSW south coast.

Welch said many of the passengers were disappointed.

“It is very disappointing we never even got to see NZ but overall a holiday is still a holiday. It does seem like lots of people have had their plans ruined,” he said.

Passengers on the cruise who hoped to celebrate birthdays, wedding anniversaries or to get married at particular locations in New Zealand have had to shift their plans.

Some expressed their disappointment on a Facebook page created for the cruise.

“My wife and I are on this crummy cruise to nowhere, very disappointing, never travelling on P&O again,” wrote one passenger.

“I’m furious P&O think this is acceptable,” said another.

The cruise company initially offered a 50% “future cruise credit” scheme for passengers, but there was an “outcry” from passengers, according to Welch.

P&O is now offering a refund on top of a $300 per person onboard credit.

“P&O Cruises Australia can advise a change to the compensation for guests on board Pacific Adventure, after the ship was unable to visit New Zealand,” a spokesperson said.

“We have listened to the feedback from our guests and understand not all of them wish to cruise with us again.

“Again, we apologise for the change in itinerary, and thank our guests for their patience and understanding.”

Welch said he was pleased with the final outcome.

“There isn’t much else they can offer monetarily as our 14-day cruise ends up being $68pp per night, which is far cheaper than a cruise [going] directly to Tasmania,” he said.

“I’m happy with the outcome and would cruise again with them knowing that they are willing to give onboard credit and a refund – although it did take some outcry from the passengers.”

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Passengers in an 'uproar' after P&O cruise ship turned away from New Zealand, ruining couple's wedding

A couple's wedding planned for Saturday had to be cancelled after a P&O cruise around New Zealand was completely changed during the actual voyage.

Key points:

• Passengers say they are frustrated and disappointed about missing out on planned events
• They say little compensation was offered after being alerted to only two changes
• P&O said weather did not allow hull cleaning, meaning the ship failed New Zealand's biosecurity requirements

P&O's cruise ship Pacific Adventure left Sydney last Monday for a 13-night "Kiwi Adventure" cruise.

The ship was denied entry to New Zealand waters under the country's biohazard rules as its hull had not been cleaned and is now on its way to Tasmania instead.

Sydneysiders Janine Sherriff and Kyle Risk had planned their dream wedding at Hobbiton — The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings movie set — near Wellington after receiving some cruise tickets for a trip to New Zealand.

"Initially, the cruise started out as an early Christmas present from my parents. Along the way, we found out one of our stops was Hobbiton," Ms Sherriff said.

She said the idea to get married came about as they looked at the itinerary.

"Kyle is a massive Lord of the Rings fan and when we found we were going there, we jokingly mentioned they do a wedding package." She said.

"His face just absolutely lit up like it was the greatest thing ever discovered.

"So we seriously started planning the wedding, we took the time off from work, we had our nearest and dearest friends and family all co-ordinate to be in New Zealand at this exact time.

"The plan was to get off the boat, go straight to Hobbiton, have our wedding, then head straight back to the boat for the rest of the honeymoon."

Mr Risk said it has been a rollercoaster of emotions.

"First off, I was furious. I saw Janine's face when we got the news. I was ready to explode," he said.

"I got a selfie from our family and friends at the site in Hobbiton we should have been on about 20 minutes before we had to turn around."

Mr Risk said the whole thing has been woeful.

"It would have meant a lot as it was a beautiful setting. As long as we have each other," Mr Risk said.

"I adore this man, I was so excited, so ready to be able to officially call him my husband, I am heartbroken this day has been taken away from me." Ms Sherriff said.

Ms Sheriff says they've now accepted flights from P&O back to Sydney and will get married there instead.

"They offered us a flight to New Zealand but all of our guests are already going to be home by then," she said.

"We accepted a flight back to Sydney. It's not the best outcome, but it at least gets us off the boat and on our way back to the comfort of home.

"They have also turned the 50 per-cent credit for all of the patrons to a 50 per-cent refund which is nice as well.

"Definitely will help us fund the next attempt."

Passengers say they have 'been basically kidnapped by P&O'

In a statement, P&O Cruises Australia said guests were notified before embarking on their 13-day Kiwi Adventure voyage that there could be significant changes to the itinerary.

"Due to New Zealand's strict biosecurity requirements, the ship left Sydney on Monday for hull cleaning off the Bay of Plenty, however the weather did not allow this to happen, so we apologise that the itinerary had to be amended."

Speaking to ABC News from sea, Sydneysider David Curtis, 60, said the ship was on its way to Tasmania.

He said it was very disappointing to miss all of the planned New Zealand ports advertised on the cruise — Bay of Islands, Auckland, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Fiordland National Park.

Mr Curtis said passengers onboard were frustrated — with no options given and some wanting to get back to Sydney.

"The whole ship is in an uproar at the moment. We are forced to go to Tasmania," Mr Curtis said.

"We have been basically kidnapped by P&O."

Mr Curtis said he had planned to meet with several friends in New Zealand following his 60th birthday celebrations.

"This is horrendous, I have missed out on seeing friends based in New Zealand. They were not able to come to Australia for my birthday celebrations and I said that is OK – I am coming to see you." Mr Curtis said.

He said it could have been worse, however, referencing the young couple who missed out on their wedding.

"All of the guests had already got there and were waiting for them and they missed their wedding. So I got off fairly lucky. But again, still, everyone on the ship is devastated." Mr Curtis said.

Biosecurity New Zealand's northern regional commissioner Mike Inglis says biofouling was a "major biosecurity threat" and rules were in place to "protect us against pests such as exotic caulpera".

"We know that almost 90 per cent of the exotic marine species already in New Zealand likely arrived here as marine growth on the submerged surfaces of international vessels," he said.

"The operator did attempt to clean the hull and specifically the areas of concern in recent days, however, abandoned cleaning due to bad weather and chose to cancel the New Zealand leg of the journey.

"We have been talking with the cruise ship's operator P&O over the past few weeks around their planned voyage from Australia to New Zealand and concerning levels of biofouling on the vessel the Pacific Adventure.

"The photos they sent us showed the vessel had high risk organisms including mussel and oyster growth and could pose a risk to New Zealand if the ship cruised in our waters."

Mr Inglis said Biosecurity New Zealand had been working closely with cruise lines to ensure vessels arrive with clean hulls. 

"To help manage the risk we've been asking cruise lines to submit all their documentation and risk management plans as early as possible so we can provide early notification of any cleaning requirements, helping avoid voyage delays," he said.

"We appreciate that cleaning the hull of a cruise ship is a difficult and complex task often dictated by the weather.

"We need to do all we can to protect New Zealand from biosecurity threats."

TasPorts CEO Anthony Donald says the Pacific Adventure is due to arrive in Hobart on November 28, noting "species that are deemed invasive by the New Zealand authorities that have prevented the ship from entering New Zealand are common in Australian waters". 

Passengers not informed

Mr Curtis said passengers were only alerted to two ports being missed.

"We got an email last Thursday [from P&O] that said the itinerary was being changed and that only two of the destinations would be missed – Auckland and Bay of Islands." Mr Curtis said.

In a statement, P&O Cruises Australia said it hoped guests would enjoy their time in Hobart, Port Arthur and Eden on the NSW South Coast.

"Guests have been offered additional compensation in light of this change to their itinerary."

After initially offering a credit on future bookings, P&O has now offered passengers a 50 per cent refund on the price of their ticket as compensation.

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