Wellington has been recognised as the best cruise ship destination in Australia and New Zealand by readers of US-based Porthole magazine.
WellingtonNZ destination general manager David Perks says while the award comes at a difficult time for the industry, it’s testament to the hard work done to make Wellington excel as a cruise destination.
“A lot of credit goes to the welcome delivered by our team of volunteer Wellington City Ambassadors.
"They brave all weathers to advise and direct cruise ship passengers to ensure they have a memorable time in the capital.
“And despite the cruise ship calendar being in limbo due to the impact of COVID-19, our ambassadors are still on the streets focused on enriching the domestic and local visitor experience. They continue to do a fantastic job.”
David says a multi-agency approach is also behind Wellington’s success as a cruise ship destination in Porthole’s Readers' Choice Awards 2020.
“WellingtonNZ works closely with Wellington City Council, New Zealand Cruise Association and CentrePort to develop what is an excellent product for cruise ship passengers. There has also been concerted effort from retailers, hospitality and tourism operators and attractions which has borne fruit for the capital.
“The icing on the cake is that Wellington knocked Auckland off top spot which it held last year. It’s always nice to get one over our big city friends in the City of Sails.”
CentrePort chief executive Derek Nind thanked his team for managing a record cruise season and playing their part in making Wellington a special destination.
“Our people did a great job and we continue to look at options of enhancing the onshore experience for cruise passengers in the future,” he says.
NZ Cruise Association chief executive Kevin O'Sullivan was pleased the capital with its many attractions had been recognised internationally as a great cruise destination.
“Eventually cruise ships will once again come into our ports bringing the considerable economic benefits we have seen in past seasons.”
Porthole Cruise Magazine editor in chief Bill Panoff says it’s no secret his readers are astute cruisers that appreciate a warm welcome and recognise genuine hospitality in a port of call.
“Wellington has certainly demonstrated a willingness to do what’s necessary to meet that criteria.”
