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The Government and cruise industry will meet later this month to discuss how to strengthen New Zealand’s position as a cruise destination, as the sector continues to navigate changing global conditions.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says the second joint Cruise Forum, to be held in Wellington on May 26, will bring together ministers and industry representatives to address key challenges and opportunities.
Sector under pressure but economically significant
“Cruise plays an important role in New Zealand’s visitor economy and in many regional communities, injecting $1.37 billion into the New Zealand economy in the previous financial year,” Upston says.
However, she notes the sector has faced volatility in recent years, driven by global market trends, deployment changes and commercial pressures.
Focus on competitiveness and visitor experience
The forum will examine ways to improve regulatory coordination, biofouling management and port infrastructure, alongside enhancing the overall visitor experience.
“Holding a regular forum with industry means we can address shared challenges and ensure New Zealand remains an attractive and reliable destination for cruise lines,” Upston says.
The initiative builds on the first forum held in 2025, which focused on improving collaboration and supporting cruise connectivity.
International promotion
Ahead of the forum, Upston will attend Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami this April, meeting with cruise operators and promoting New Zealand as a destination.
“Seatrade is a valuable platform to promote New Zealand… and demonstrate the Government’s commitment to supporting the cruise sector,” she says.
Tourism outlook
The upcoming forum comes as New Zealand looks to maintain its share of the global cruise market, with a focus on resilience, infrastructure and coordinated industry development.
