Ships ahoy! The Travel Guides tested out their sea legs to cruise New Zealand, stopping in at Milford Sound, Dunedin, and Wellington! 

There were breathtaking views, onboard shenanigans, and plenty of fun activities along the way. And guess what?  Travel Money Oz Currency Pass is the official currency card of Travel Guides, so we’re recapping the highlights of their New Zealand getaway.

Let’s dive in…

Why a Sydney to New Zealand Cruise? 

To set the scene of this recap, it’s important to note that the Travel Guides set sail via a Royal Caribbean 10-night New Zealand cruise aboard the spectacular Ovation of the Seas, departing from Sydney. 

The Travel Guides agreed that the cruise experience has something for everyone – families, couples, and friend groups. There’s a seemingly endless variety of activities and experiences on board to pass the time while cruising to your New Zealand pitstops, including fine dining, retail shopping, silent discos, indoor rock climbing, and even bumper cars! 

If you’re not a cruisegoer, that’s totally fine! You can still pluck inspiration from their New Zealand itinerary as we’ll be highlighting what they got up to on their stops – Milford Sound, Dunedin, and Wellington – including how much it would cost. 

COST: 

• Royal Caribbean 10-night New Zealand cruise starts from $2599 AUD. 

Travel Guides’ New Zealand Highlights 

After setting sail from Sydney and cruising the Tasman Seas for 2-3 days, the Travel Guides landed in New Zealand, also known as Aotearoa, meaning ‘land of the long white cloud’ in Māori. 

From spotting dolphins at Milford Sound to visiting New Zealand’s only castle in Dunedin, the Travel Guides were blown away by its culture and beauty. 

Chase Waterfalls in Milford Sound 

The Travel Guides’ first stop on the cruise was through Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) – and they got a truly special welcoming – dolphins swimming alongside the ship…is this a Disney movie?!

Making their way down the misty channel, the Guides passed Bowen Falls and absorbed the ethereal vibe of the natural wonder of the surrounding alpines. All the Travel Guides agreed it’s an unmissable stop on any New Zealand itinerary! 

Cruising the waters of Milford Sound is arguably the best way to witness the natural beauty and wonder of Fiordland National Park. Even if you’re just visiting for the day, there’s a variety of cruise and tour options available. 

COST: 

• Milford Sound Day Cruises start from $99 NZD per person (approx. $95 AUD). 

Step Back in Time at Larnach Castle in Dunedin 

The next stop on the Travel Guide’s New Zealand cruise was Dunedin (Ōtepoti).

Dunedin is the South Island’s second most populated city behind Christchurch and is known as the wildlife capital of New Zealand. It’s also nicknamed the ‘Edinburgh of the South’ as many Scots settled there in the 1800s and the culture is still embraced today – from bagpipes to tartan. 

Adding to the Scottish feel, Larnach Castle is New Zealand’s only castle and a main attraction for tourists in Dunedin. The Travel Guides went on a tour of the castle and gardens, learning about the history and family scandal that has taken place since its establishment in 1871. 

COST: 

• Entry to Larnach Castle costs from $45 NZD per adult (approx. $43 AUD). 

Tackle the World’s Steepest Street in Dunedin 

While in Dunedin, the Guides fastened their sneakers and attempted to walk (or climb?) the world’s steepest street – Baldwin Street! This unassuming residential street, located in the suburb of North East Valley, has become a popular tourist attraction and photo opportunity. 

Walking up the steep incline isn’t for everyone though, and you can drive to the top of the street…just like the Fren Family who hilariously hailed a taxi to get them up to the summit! 

COST: 

• It’s free to walk up and down Baldwin Street. 

Get a Shake and Cycle Along Wellington’s Waterfront 

Last on the Travel Guides’ NZ cruise was stopping in at the capital city of Wellington!

Located on the south end of the Northern Island, Wellington is known for its rich culinary experiences, scenic hilly streets, and sparkling harbour – just to name a few things! 

With only a short time in the city, the Guides focussed their time on the picturesque waterfront. To cover more ground, they peddled on Crocbikes along the esplanade followed by decadent Crocshakes as a treat after all that cardio. 

COSTS: 

• Crocbike hire starts from about $29 NZD for 30 minutes (approx. $28 AUD).
• Crocshakes start from about $20 NZD (approx. $19 AUD).  

Jump Into Wellington Harbour

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, why not plunge into Wellington Harbour? 

We’re not joking! The Taranaki Wharf Jump Platform is a 7.5m deck resembling a spiral staircase to nowhere that locals and tourists use to jump into harbour. 

The only Travel Guide to attempt the jump was Dorian, who faced his fear of heights and got a refreshing dunk in the water. 

COST: 

• The Taranaki Wharf Jump Platform is free. 

Top New Zealand Travel Tips 

Whether you’re cruising or flying to New Zealand, we’ve collated some key travel tips to ensure you’re well-prepared for your Kiwi adventure: 

• The official currency of New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). You can grab all the NZD you need from Travel Money Oz – just pop in-store or online!
• As always, take both cash and a Travel Money Oz Currency Pass on your travels. Some national parks and smaller vendors only accept cash, so be sure to keep some New Zealand Dollars in your wallet.
• This one may sound like a no-brainer but be sure to respect all biosecurity rules. New Zealand has strict customs rules so you must declare all food, plants, and outdoor gear to avoid fines.
• New Zealand’s weather can be very unpredictable, so pack for all seasons!
• Popular tourist hotspots such as Milford Sound and Hobbiton can book out in peak seasons, so book early so you don’t miss out.
• New Zealand is home to an array of adventure sports such as skiing, hiking, skiing, rafting, and hiking, so travel insurance is a must if you’re taking part!
• Internet access can be a bit spotty, especially in remote areas, so remember to download maps and take screenshots in advance. 

Want more Travel Guides in New Zealand? 

Want to know what else the Travel Guides got up to on their New Zealand cruise? Watch the latest episode on 9Now to get their full itinerary.

Check out our Travel Guides recap blogs: 

• The Travel Guides Tour New York City
• Travel Guides Recap: Best Places to Visit in Switzerland
• Travel Guides Recap: Best Things to do in Tahiti and Moorea Island
• The Travel Guides get a Taste of Spain and Portugal 

Tune in next Sunday night at 7:00 pm AEST on Channel Nine or 9Now to watch as the Travel Guides embark on a budget-busting Thailand adventure! 

^Disclaimer:

^{This blog is provided for information only and does not take into consideration your objectives, financial situation or needs. Travel Money Oz has sought to ensure that the information is true and correct at the time of publication (First Published May 27, 2025). Prices, details and services are subject to change without notice, and Travel Money Oz accepts no responsibility or liability for any such changes, including any loss resulting from any action taken or reliance made by you on any information provided. You should consider whether the information and suggestions contained in any blog entry are appropriate for you, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs. While we take reasonable care in providing the blog, we give no warranties or representations that it is complete or accurate or is appropriate for you. We are not liable for any loss caused, whether due to negligence or otherwise, arising from use of, or reliance on, the information and/or suggestions contained in this blog. Daily Cost: All prices are approximations. Your costs may differ depending on where you go, where you shop, and their individual factors. Daily Budget: Costs are estimated per person and do not include accommodation.}