The port of Wellington, on North Island’s southernmost point, is New Zealand’s vibrant capital city. This MSC World Cruise destination boasts a cosmopolitan centre with a spirited atmosphere and a unique cultural history. Overlooking glorious Cook Strait, Wellington is known for its beautiful beaches, colourful wooden houses, and scenic waterfront promenade. It also acts as the perfect launch pad for an adventurous day out thanks to nearby attractions and landmarks.

MSC Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including:

• Zealandia Sanctuary
• Wonderful Wellington Garden and Museum
• In the Footsteps of the Lord of the Rings

Zealandia Sanctuary is the world’s first fully-fenced urban eco-sanctuary, dedicated to the conservation and protection of New Zealand’s diverse flora and fauna. On an MSC Cruises excursion, you’ll discover this vast natural reserve where vulnerable native species are protected and reintroduced into the wild. Enjoy a guided tour to learn more about the region’s unique plants and wildlife, including frogs, ferns, birds, invertebrates, and reptiles.

Fall in love with the beautiful 150-year-old Wellington Botanic Garden, which boasts 25 hectares of plant species from all over the world. A relaxing MSC Cruises excursion will see you strolling along the park’s attractive path network, surrounded by conifers, seasonal displays, and protected native forests. Next, sample New Zealand’s colourful culture at the fascinating Wellington Museum. Here, you’ll learn about the capital’s maritime past and its Māori and European history.

So incredible are the landscapes of New Zealand that renowned film directors have chosen them as locations for their movies. On an MSC Cruises excursion, you’ll visit sets featured in the Oscar-winning Lord of the Rings film trilogy, helmed by cinematic master Peter Jackson. Next, stop by Wellington’s Weta Workshop, a special effects and props company that has worked on the Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. Afterwards, enjoy a guide’s fascinating stories about filmmaking as you travel to ‘Wellywood’ located in Miramar, New Zealand.
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