hi, we're visiting Australia for 2 weeks before boarding a cruise.... there seems to be several options for a visitor visa, so I'm a little confused.... and how far in advance should we get them ? also, will we need visitor visa when the ship ports in NZ ? cheers

For Australia, apply early & before you book anything you can’t cancel with 100% refund.
They are good for a year from the date of issue for the period specified.

You don’t say which nationality you have, so can’t advise on which Visa you should apply for. Only use the official Australian Government website.

New Zealand has its own requirements & you should ask on that Forum/ Government website.

Impossible to advise unless you tell us which passport you are travelling on

Canadian

For NZ you are a "visa waiver" country here's the link Information about : Visa Waiver Visitor Visa | Immigration New Zealand - apply for an ESTA before arrival - there is nothing special for cruise ships (well there wasn't in before times )

You're right, it is a bit confusing. I found the following links for Australian tourist visas that might help -

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visa...a-finder/visit

https://www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-...avel-documents

As far as how early to get them - I'd do them now, so you know you have them and don't forget.

what covid restrictions?