Day 1
New Zealand
New Zealand
From incredible geographical diversity and cultural attractions to stunning landscapes, the two islands of New Zealand provide enchanting cruising opportunities.
The dual islands of New Zealand offer an unparalleled multi-center cruising destination for luxury yachts. From their sporting and cultural attractions to the mountains, deep fjords, rainforests, glaciers, and geothermal pools, no other cruising ground offers such a vast and varied landscape. Whether your itinerary takes in the marine reserves and islands lying off North Island or heads to South Island to glide across Marlborough Sounds, the best of New Zealand is all about taking to the water.
Boasting extensive coastlines, diverse natural landscapes, and untouched native forests, the two islands of New Zealand are perfect adventure cruising grounds. North Island is home to Auckland, aka “City of Sails,” where fine restaurants and shops abound. The capital of Wellington hosts numerous galleries and museums, while the Bay of Islands is a subtropical maritime park with an abundance of marine life. Alternatively, South Island guarantees flawless sailing conditions, restful retreats ashore and great sporting opportunities for the adventurous charterer. Home to Queenstown — the country’s adventure capital — and Marlborough Sounds, it promises idyllic cruising with a backdrop of glorious mountain landscapes.
The majority of New Zealand’s landmass is south of Auckland, but the northern parts should not be missed. The landscape is dotted with subtropical forests, beaches, and historic settlements that will leave you in awe. The Bay of Islands is an idyllic spot for watersports and big-game fishing. Further south, you’ll enjoy the clear waters, fjords, and coves along Marlborough Sounds, which offer stunning anchorages. While the scenery alone of South Island is worth traveling to see – some of the most spectacular cruising grounds in the world can be found around the fjords of Milford Sound.
If you want to experience the delights of a New Zealand yacht charter, Northrop & Johnson can help. As a leading yacht charter brokerage, we have access to the best luxury yachts for charter, including ultra-luxurious motor yachts, sailing yachts, and catamarans from 30-meters. All our crewed charter yachts boast elegant interiors, superb onboard amenities, garages loaded with water toys, and a highly professional crew ready to cater to your every need. If you want to enjoy a yachting holiday in New Zealand contact us today or browse our luxury yachts for rent.
The cost of a New Zealand yacht charter vacation with Northrop & Johnson starts at around US$50,000 per week, rising to more than a million for the world’s most opulent superyachts. We have access to the best yachts for charter in New Zealand from 30-meters. Contact our New Zealand yacht charter brokers or browse our luxury motor yachts, sailing boats, and catamarans for rent.
Yacht charters in New Zealand will start from different destinations depending on their cruising itinerary.
New Zealand’s weather varies significantly depending on the region and the time of year.
North Island
The North Island generally has a temperate maritime climate, with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year. Summers (December to February) are warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winters (June to August) are cooler, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The North Island can experience occasional tropical cyclones during the summer months.
South Island
The South Island has a more diverse climate, with a mixture of temperate, alpine, and oceanic climates. The northern regions of the South Island, such as Nelson and Marlborough, have warm summers and mild winters, while the southern regions, such as Fiordland and the Southern Alps, have cooler temperatures and higher rainfall, particularly in winter.
East Coast
The east coast of both the North and South Islands tends to be drier and sunnier than the west coast. Cities such as Napier and Blenheim on the east coast often experience long, hot summers with little rainfall.
West Coast
The west coast of both islands is known for its wet and mild climate, with high rainfall throughout the year. Places like Greymouth and Hokitika on the west coast of the South Island receive some of the highest rainfall in New Zealand.
Mountainous Regions
New Zealand’s mountainous regions, including the Southern Alps and the central North Island volcanoes, experience alpine climates with cold temperatures and snowfall during the winter months. These areas are popular for skiing and snowboarding in winter.
Some of the most popular yachting destinations in New Zealand include stretches along the North and South Islands, including:
The Abel Tasman National Park
This stunning national park sits at the northern point of South Island and is part of the breeding grounds of the Little Blue Penguin, or the Fairy Penguin. Boasting stunning scenery, beautiful clear waters, and wonderful wildlife, this is a great destination for enjoying quality time on the water amidst nature. Kayak, snorkel, dive, or soak up the sun on pristine white sandy beaches that pepper the coastline; you won’t be disappointed. Make sure you visit the Pupu Springs, famous for its incredibly clear freshwater.
The Bay of Islands
Encompassing more than 140 sub-tropical islands, the Bay of Islands is known for its Maori cultural artifacts, big-game fishing, and beautiful beaches. Ideal for those in search of an island-hopping adventure, here you can explore uninhabited islands, soak up the sun on a beach all to yourself, or hike one of the many trails. A few of the Bay of Islands are inhabited, with towns including Russell, Paihia, Waitangi, and Opua.
Auckland
Known as the city of sails, Auckland is a must-visit during a yacht charter in New Zealand. Located on North Island in the Hauraki Gulf, here you’ll find designer shops, art galleries and museums, and superb dining destinations. For thrill-seekers, the 192-meter bungee jump from Auckland’s Sky Tower is a must. Finally, make sure you head to the Auckland War Memorial Museum, where you can watch a traditional Maori war dance.
Fiordland
Located on New Zealand’s southwest coast, Fiordland is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, including migratory birds. This area is also great for fishing, including Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound. As you cruise this exquisite location, look out for dolphins, seals, penguins, and whales.
Marlborough Sounds
The region of Marlborough Sounds is famous for its world-class white wines, snow-capped Alps, deep canyons, tumbling waterfalls, majestic marine life, and breathtaking anchorages. This stunning area is a collection of ancient sunken riverways flooded with the waters of the Pacific Ocean. With over 1,500 km of coastline to explore, you’re bound to find your ideal spot.
If you want to explore beautiful New Zealand, Northrop & Johnson can help. We have access to the best New Zealand luxury yachts for charter from 30-meters and can tailor your charter itinerary to precisely meet your needs, whether you want to enjoy all the action of New Zealand’s most vibrant cities or enjoy peace and solitude along remote coastlines. All our crewed yachts boast elegant interiors and cabins with flexible configurations, superb onboard amenities, and tenders loaded with water toys. Contact our New Zealand yacht brokers today.
As a wonderful yacht charter destination, there’s a superb selection of vessels to rent, including:
Whether you want to cruise New Zealand aboard an ultra-luxurious motor yacht, catamaran, power boat, or elegant sailing yacht, Northrop & Johnson can connect you with your ideal crewed boat. We have access to vessels built by the world’s leading shipbuilders, including Lurssen, Feadship, Amels, Sanlorenzo, and Westport, as well as New Zealand’s own Alloy Yachts. Contact our team today if you want to enjoy an incredible vacation on the water, or browse our luxury boats for rent.
Some of the best sailing regattas to enjoy aboard a luxury charter yacht include:
If you want to enjoy the thrill of a sailing regatta in New Zealand, Northrop & Johnson can help. We have access to the best crewed sailing yachts in New Zealand, including pedigree racing vessels. Contact our team today.
While it is certainly possible to enjoy bareboat yacht charters in New Zealand, Northrop & Johnson specializes in crewed yacht charters only.
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