Cruise Quest app screenshots
New
The Cruise Quest app is here.
Bar Bingo & Cruise Cameo · works offline!
// MENU
HomeCruise SearchShipsPortsBlog
Share
South PacificSouth Pacific - Australia

White Island Cruise Port

White Island, New Zealand
White Island, New Zealand is an active volcano located 48 km off the coast of the Bay of Plenty.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#297
of 318 ports in the South Pacific
Today · high / low
64° / 49°
September normals
White Island, New Zealand cruise port
South Pacific - Australia
White Island, New Zealand
// White Island cruise port overview

The cruise port in White Island,
explained

Lat: 37.5°SLong: 177.2°EINTN code: WTINZ

White Island, New Zealand is an active volcano located 48 km off the coast of the Bay of Plenty. It is the only permanently active volcano in New Zealand and is the most active volcano in the country.

The island is uninhabited and is privately owned by the Buttle family. It is a popular tourist destination and is accessible by boat or helicopter.

The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and dolphins. The island is also home to a variety of geothermal features, including steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and hot springs.

The island is also home to a variety of geological features, including lava flows, craters, and ash deposits. White Island is a unique and fascinating destination, offering visitors the chance to experience the power of an active volcano up close.

// White Island Cruise Port location

Where is White Island Cruise Port?

White Island, New Zealand, in the Bay of Plenty, South Pacific, is off North Island, with volcanic waters and coastal bays.

General location
South Pacific
Category
South Pacific - Australia
Coordinates
37.52°S, 177.19°E
Cruise port · 37.52°S, 177.19°E
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// White Island cruise port guide

What to do in White Island

A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.

Ways to spend the day

3 themes
Theme 1

Snorkeling and Diving

White Island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The island's clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Visitors can explore the island's coral reefs and underwater caves, or take part in guided snorkeling and diving tours. The island is also home to a variety of shipwrecks, making it a great spot for wreck diving.

Theme 2

Volcanic Exploration

White Island is an active volcano, and visitors can explore the crater and its surroundings. The island is home to a variety of volcanic features, including steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and hot springs. Visitors can also explore the island's unique geology, including its ash and pumice deposits. Guided tours are available to help visitors learn more about the island's volcanic history.

Theme 3

Wildlife Viewing

White Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and dolphins. Visitors can take part in guided wildlife tours to observe these animals in their natural habitat. The island is also home to a variety of plant species, including native ferns, grasses, and shrubs. Visitors can explore the island's unique flora and fauna on their own or with a guide.

White Island cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
M
Maketu Beach (illustrative photo)

Maketu Beach

Maketu Beach is a beautiful beach located on the western coast of the Bay of Plenty. It is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and fishing, and is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, whales, and seabirds. The beach is also known for its stunning sunsets and is a great spot for a romantic stroll. Visitors can also explore the nearby Maketu Estuary, which is home to a variety of marine life.

O
Ohope Beach (illustrative photo)

Ohope Beach

Ohope Beach is a stunning 11 km long beach located on the eastern coast of the Bay of Plenty. It is the most popular beach in the region and is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters. The beach is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and fishing, and is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, whales, and seabirds. Visitors can also explore the nearby Ohiwa Harbour, which is home to a variety of marine life.

W
Whakaari/White Island (illustrative photo)

Whakaari/White Island

Whakaari/White Island is a volcanic island located 48 km off the coast of Whakatane in the Bay of Plenty. It is the most active volcano in New Zealand and is the only volcano in the country that can be visited by boat. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and dolphins, and is a popular spot for snorkeling, diving, and fishing. Visitors can also explore the island's unique geothermal features, such as steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools.

// White Island fun facts

Active Volcano

White Island is an active volcano located in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. It is the most active volcano in the country and has been erupting for over 150 years. It is the only volcano in New Zealand that can be accessed by boat and is a popular tourist destination for those looking to experience the power of an active volcano.

Maori History

White Island has a long and rich history with the Maori people. The island was a sacred place for the Maori and was used for spiritual ceremonies and rituals. The island was also used as a source of food and resources, and the Maori believed that the island was a gateway to the spirit world. Today, the island is still a popular destination for Maori people, who come to the island to pay their respects to their ancestors.

Unique Ecosystem

White Island is home to a unique ecosystem that is unlike any other in the world. The island is covered in a thick layer of ash and sulfur, which has created an environment that is home to a variety of unique species of plants and animals. The island is also home to a variety of rare birds, including the White Island Shag, which is only found on the island.

White Island cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
W
White Island Art Gallery (illustrative photo)

White Island Art Gallery

The White Island Art Gallery is a great place to find unique souvenirs from your trip. Located just a short walk from the cruise port, this gallery features a wide selection of art and crafts from local artists. You can find everything from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and pottery. Prices are reasonable and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful. Plus, you can even have your purchases shipped home for a small fee.

W
White Island Gift Shop (illustrative photo)

White Island Gift Shop

The White Island Gift Shop is the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir from your trip. Located right near the cruise port, this shop offers a wide selection of items, from t-shirts and hats to postcards and magnets. They also have a great selection of local art and crafts, so you can take home a piece of White Island with you. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful. Plus, they offer free gift wrapping for all purchases.

W
White Island Souvenir Shop (illustrative photo)

White Island Souvenir Shop

White Island Souvenir Shop is the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir from your trip to White Island. Located right near the cruise port, this shop offers a wide selection of items, from t-shirts and hats to postcards and magnets. They also have a great selection of local art and crafts, so you can take home a piece of White Island with you. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and helpful.

// White Island Cruise Port Terminals

Which White Island cruise terminal will your ship use?

Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.

3 piers in White Island
Port address: White Island, New Zealand
Pier 1 of 3

White Island Cruise Terminal

White Island Cruise Terminal is the main cruise ship terminal in White Island, New Zealand. It is located on the waterfront of the island and offers a variety of services for cruise ships, including refueling, waste disposal, and passenger and cargo handling. The terminal also provides a range of amenities for passengers, including a restaurant, a bar, and a gift shop.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for White Island Cruise Terminal)
Pier 2 of 3

White Island Cruise Terminal 2

White Island Cruise Terminal 2 is the second major cruise ship terminal in White Island, New Zealand. It is located on the waterfront of the island and offers a variety of services for cruise ships, including refueling, waste disposal, and passenger and cargo handling. The terminal also provides a range of amenities for passengers, including a restaurant, a bar, and a gift shop.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for White Island Cruise Terminal 2)
Pier 3 of 3

White Island Cruise Terminal 3

White Island Cruise Terminal 3 is the third major cruise ship terminal in White Island, New Zealand. It is located on the waterfront of the island and offers a variety of services for cruise ships, including refueling, waste disposal, and passenger and cargo handling. The terminal also provides a range of amenities for passengers, including a restaurant, a bar, and a gift shop.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for White Island Cruise Terminal 3)
Wi-Fi

Unfortunately, there is no wifi access available at White Island, New Zealand cruise port.

Safety

White Island, New Zealand is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The island is monitored by the White Island Tours team, who provide safety briefings and ensure that all visitors are aware of the risks associated with the active volcano. The island is also regularly monitored by the GeoNet Volcanic Alert Level system, which provides up-to-date information on the volcanic activity of the island.

Port address

Whakatane Wharf, Whakatane 3192, New Zealand

White Island cruise port car rental
White Island ToursAvisBudgetHertz

Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.

// Weather

White Island Cruise Port Weather

South Pacific - Australia·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · White Island
57°
Avg · °F
Cool, frequent showers
High
64°F
Low
49°F
Rain
3.8 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in White Island

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

Avg temp °FRainfall in
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECMONTHLY NORMALS · °F AND IN
// White Island cruise ship schedule

White Island Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in White Island today, Thursday, September 17, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

Schedule updated

// Keep exploring

Popular ports in the South Pacific

Other ports cruisers visit most in the South Pacific.

// Questions

White Island cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in White Island.

Where is White Island cruise port located?

White Island, New Zealand cruise port is located in South Pacific. White Island, New Zealand, in the Bay of Plenty, South Pacific, is off North Island, with volcanic waters and coastal bays.

Is White Island a good cruise port to visit?

White Island, New Zealand is a popular cruise port for those looking for a unique and adventurous experience. The island is an active volcano, and visitors can explore the crater and its steaming vents, as well as the surrounding landscape. There are also guided tours available, which provide an up-close look at the island's unique features.

How safe is White Island cruise port for passengers?

White Island cruise port has a safety score of 5.1 out of 10, ranking #297 of 318 ports in South Pacific. White Island, New Zealand is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The island is monitored by the White Island Tours team, who provide safety briefings and ensure that all visitors are aware of the risks associated with the active volcano. The island is also regularly monitored by the GeoNet Volcanic Alert Level system, which provides up-to-date information on the volcanic activity of the island.

What is the weather like at White Island cruise port in September?

In September, White Island cruise port has average high temperatures of 64°F (18°C) and average lows of 49°F (10°C).

How many excursions are available at White Island cruise port?

There are currently 1,076 excursions and tours available at White Island cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.

What are the top things to do at White Island cruise port?

White Island cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Snorkeling and Diving, Volcanic Exploration, Wildlife Viewing. White Island, New Zealand is known for its unique and exciting activities. Visitors can explore the island's active volcano, take a guided tour of the crater, and observe the bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles. There are also opportunities to go snorkeling and scuba diving in the surrounding waters, as well as take a boat tour to observe the wildlife. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of scenic walking trails to explore, as well as a variety of bird watching opportunities.

Can I rent a car at White Island cruise port?

1. White Island Tours: White Island Tours offers car rental services from their office in Whakatane, located just a short drive from the White Island cruise port. They offer a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans, as well as 4WDs for off-road adventures.2. Avis: Avis is a well-known car rental company with a branch located in Whakatane, just a short drive from the White Island cruise port. They offer a range of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.3. Budget: Budget is another well-known car rental company with a branch located in Whakatane, just a short drive from the White Island cruise port. They offer a range of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.4. Hertz: Hertz is another well-known car rental company with a branch located in Whakatane, just a short drive from the White Island cruise port. They offer a range of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.

What is the WiFi situation at White Island cruise port?

Unfortunately, there is no wifi access available at White Island, New Zealand cruise port.

Where is the cruise terminal at White Island cruise port?

White Island, New Zealand cruise port is located at Whakatane Wharf, Whakatane 3192, New Zealand.

What is the White Island Cruise Port cruise schedule?

There are no cruise ships scheduled at White Island today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check White Island on any past or future date.

Sign up or
Sign in

Save your cruise, track reviews for your cabin, set cruise price drop alerts, & more with an account.

No password needed · Sign-in code sent