Dunedin is buzzing with excitement as it welcomed its the first cruise ship of the season yesterday. The arrival marks a significant moment for the local tourism industry, which has been eagerly anticipating the return of international visitors.
The majestic vessel, carried 3500 visitors and 1300 crew made its grand entrance into Port Chalmers at 1 pm, to the delight of onlookers and the relief of tourism operators.
Not just a grand spectacle, but a sign of an economic boost for the city’s businesses and attractions.
Dunedin i-SITE manager for Dunedin City Council, Louise van de Vlierd says the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. “It’s a huge boost.”
Louise says the cruise ship’s arrival underscores a crucial aspect of the tourism industry’s recovery: preparedness and the ability to adapt to the influx of tourists. She says it’s like the ideal scenario, where “Every visitor has their itinerary sorted and local operators are fully booked”
It may not be there just yet, but it’s a goal that the city is striving towards and the season ahead looks promising.
