By
Rebecca Gibson |
New Zealand’s cruise sector has increased tremendously on the back of the phenomenal growth of Australia as a source and deployment market.
In 2011-2012, New Zealand welcomed 174,000 passengers – a growth of around 28 per cent – with Australians making up over half of all cruise traffic, while less than five years ago American passengers dominated the numbers.
With many citing the landscapes, product breadth, high passenger satisfaction rate, overnight sailing and ease of operating as reasons for its popularity, it is little wonder the industry in this country continues its rapid climb.
In 2012-2013, New Zealand is forecasting 700 port calls and double-digit growth of 20 per cent which is set to exceed 200,000 passengers for the first time. Continued dominance by the Australian market is expected, along with more British, German and Japanese passengers as New Zealand welcomes an increasing number of ships from these markets. The new season is set to be an exciting one with a host of first calls, including Celebrity Solstice and Voyager of the Seas – the two largest ships to visit New Zealand – and Oceania Cruises’ Marina, the newest vessel to visit. Carnival Spirit, Holland America’s Oosterdam, Costa Romantica and Noble Caledonia’s Caledonia Sky are also scheduled to visit.
A second cruise-dedicated terminal is being built in Auckland and will be fully operational by May 2013 to accommodate Solstice- and Voyager-class vessels, processing up to 4,000 passengers. Local stakeholders are preparing to ensure this terminal is future-proofed for larger ships that will be visiting on completion of the development of the Panama Canal.