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Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Oscar Nathan says the KPMG study shows a resounding 86 per cent of residents who live near the Port of Tauranga and in Mount Maunganui agree or strongly agree that the cruise sector has a positive impact in the region.
This perception is largely based on the way that cruise ship visits boost the local economy, add a sense of vibrancy to the community, and enable the region to be positively showcased to the world.
“The study also shows that Tauranga continues to rate as a popular stop on cruise ship itineraries due to the ease of passenger disembarkation at the port, our relaxed coastal lifestyle, the warm welcome passengers experience while they’re here, and the unique foodie flavours they can savour and local shopping options they can explore,” Oscar says.
Tourism Bay of Plenty, with support from Priority One, commissioned KPMG Tauranga earlier this year to conduct the study to ascertain local perceptions and the cruise sector’s value proposition. The results are being shared with key partners to guide strategic planning to ensure sustainable, long-term value for all stakeholders.
“We’re very much aligned with the strategic document that the New Zealand Cruise Association [NZCA] recently released – Cruise Aotearoa New Zealand 2040. We were keen to support that mahi [work] by focusing on what’s happening in our region to inform the development of our own bespoke cruise strategy,” says Oscar.
New Zealand Cruise Association chief executive officer Jacqui Lloyd says the study is a valuable piece of work that reinforces the positive economic and social impact of cruise tourism in the region.
“It not only aligns with the national cruise strategy but also fits into the broader international framework, highlighting the opportunities for New Zealand and the Bay of Plenty in the growing global cruise industry.
“We wish the Bay a successful and prosperous season ahead,” Jacqui says.
*Inside Tourism has edited this release for length. Read the full release here
