Celebrity Cruises – New Zealand
A First Family Cruise Adventure: Auckland to Christchurch
Late last year, we embarked on a new kind of adventure — our very first cruise as a family! Brett, Florence (our energetic two-year-old), and I set sail on Celebrity Cruises’ inaugural journey to New Zealand, traveling from Auckland to Christchurch over three unforgettable days.
We’re used to road trips and camping, so stepping onto the luxury of a cruise ship was like entering a whole new world. Picture this: towering decks, sparkling pools, endless dining options, and incredible entertainment — all afloat!
Setting Sail from Auckland
Our adventure began at the Auckland port, where excitement buzzed as we boarded the impressive vessel. Florence was wide-eyed at the sheer size of the ship, and to be honest, so were we! Once settled in, we couldn’t resist exploring every nook and cranny. From the grand dining halls to the pool decks, it was clear this was going to be an experience unlike any other.
Ports of Call: Tauranga and Napier
Our first stop was Tauranga, where we took a leisurely walk around the port area. With a toddler in tow, we opted for a simple stroll instead of excursions, soaking up the laid-back coastal vibes.
Napier was our next destination, and the Art Deco charm was captivating. We managed to squeeze in a quick visit to the waterfront before heading back onboard, just in time for Florence’s nap. Traveling with a two-year-old definitely means balancing activities with downtime!
Life Onboard
What truly made this trip special was the life aboard the ship. While Florence kept us on our toes, we made the most of the incredible facilities:
Evening Entertainment: After Florence went to bed, we enjoyed a couple of the ship’s shows, which were a great way to unwind. The performances were top-notch and made for a perfect end to busy days.
Wine and Dine: We savored as many dining experiences as we could. The meals were delicious, from fresh seafood to decadent desserts, and the staff were fantastic at accommodating little ones. Mealtimes with Florence were a mix of indulgence and toddler entertainment, but we wouldn’t have it any other way!
Pools and Spa: The pool was a massive hit for Florence, while Brett and I took turns relaxing in the hot tub. I also managed to sneak away for a massage — pure bliss!
Final Stop: Lyttelton Port and Christchurch
Arriving at Lyttelton Port felt bittersweet as it marked the end of our journey. We walked around the quaint town and caught up with our Christchurch friends before heading to thr airport to catch our flight home to Auckland.
Reflection
This was our first cruise experience, and while it’s not our usual travel style, it was such a fun and unique way to explore parts of New Zealand. The convenience of traveling, dining, and being entertained all in one place is ideal for families. Florence loved the new surroundings and the freedom to explore (within reason, of course!).
If you’ve never been on a cruise, we highly recommend giving it a go. It’s a fantastic option for families, offering a mix of relaxation, entertainment, and adventure.
Have you been on a cruise before? We’d love to hear about your experiences! Drop a comment below or connect with us on Instagram @kiwisoffcourse.
Here’s to more firsts and family adventures!
— Bianca
Kiwis Off Course 
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