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Senior New Zealand Government Ministers joined cruise industry representatives in Wellington last week as part of ongoing efforts to create the conditions for a stronger cruise economy in New Zealand.
Representatives from Cruise Lines International Association, New Zealand Cruise Association, Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean Group and Heritage Expeditions attended a forum convened by Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston aimed at attracting more ships and increasing the economic benefits of cruise tourism.
The discussions also included ministers with portfolio responsibilities linked to cruise operations, including Simon Watts, Casey Costello, Andrew Hoggard and James Meager.
The meeting continues engagement that began in July last year to support the development of cruise tourism across New Zealand.
Industry collaboration
Cruise Lines International Association executive director Australasia Joel Katz says the discussions established ongoing collaboration between industry and Government agencies overseeing cruise operations.
“Cruise tourism is worth NZ$1.23 billion a year to the New Zealand economy and supports more than 8000 jobs around the country, but action is needed to create an environment in which cruising can thrive.
“By working together across all areas of government and industry, we can focus on lifting New Zealand’s competitiveness as a cruise destination and encourage more ships to visit.”
Economic contribution
New Zealand Cruise Association chief executive Jacqui Lloyd says close engagement between industry and Government is important to building a strong cruise economy.
“The Ministers have provided important recognition of the huge economic importance that cruise tourism has in communities around the country, and together we will work on building the right conditions for cruising to thrive.
“Cruising not only brings enormous visitor spending, but it also supports a complex supply chain of New Zealand businesses that benefit from cruise operations – both in the major cities as well as smaller towns and regional destinations.”
