Cruise Returns To NZ Waters

Today is a momentous occasion for the New Zealand cruise industry as the first cruise ship since March 2020, the Pacific Explorer, arrives in Auckland.

“We can expect once again to see an increased vibrancy in downtown as passengers come ashore ready to savour the delights of our biggest city,” New Zealand Cruise Association Chief Executive Officer Kevin O’Sullivan says.

The return of cruise will be welcomed by many communities around the country, especially those regions where cruise makes up a large part of their tourism like Northland, Gisborne, New Plymouth, Picton, Timaru and Rakiura Stewart Island, Mr O’Sullivan says.

“The main cruise season begins in mid-October, but today’s arrival signals that cruise is back in Aotearoa New Zealand. It is the first of many visits that will demonstrate the value that cruise injects into our regional economies as port calls return to numbers last seen in 2019-20.”

NZCA’s annual Conference returns next week too - this year in Auckland at the Aotea Centre on 18 August, bringing international cruise line executives and local players to town to talk cruise.

About New Zealand Cruise Association

The New Zealand Cruise Association is the industry association of New Zealand’s cruise sector. NZCA represents more than 90 members and is the industry voice of cruise in the region. NZCA has been the driving force in attracting cruise lines to New Zealand since 1994, and has played a major part in building New Zealand’s world-renowned reputation as a cruise-friendly destination.

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