Bay of Plenty businesses may have much to celebrate when the boats come in, but an anticipated drop in the number of cruise ship visitors and lack of economic data could weigh down expectations.
“The New Zealand cruise sector is facing some challenges right now,” Tourism Bay of Plenty’s Oscar Nathan explains. “Cruise ship numbers rebounded nicely when our border reopened post-Covid, but rising operating and regulatory costs, Northern Hemisphere route disruptions and tough global competition means we’re expecting a 23 per cent drop in the number of cruise ship visits this coming season.”
Nathan’s comments follow the recent release of the Coastal Bay of Plenty Cruise Study, intended to investigate the cruise sector’s value locally.
Despite room for improvement, the study found that 86% of residents near the Port of Tauranga and in Mount Maunganui believe the cruise sector has a positive impact in the region.
“Tauranga continues to rate as a popular stop on cruise ship itineraries due to the ease of passenger disembarkation, relaxed coastal lifestyle, the warm welcome passengers experience while they’re here, the unique foodie flavours they can savour and local shopping options they can explore.”
However, the study highlighted a lack of data regarding passenger and crew spending, vessel expenditure and GST contributions. Tourism Bay of Plenty is working with the New Zealand Cruise Association (NZCA), councils, MBIE and other key stakeholders to address this and other aspects revealed by the study, Nathan confirmed.
“[It’s] difficult to quantify the value of cruise in our region. NZCA is working hard to obtain and release this data within the next few months, and we’ll then conduct a cost-benefit analysis to help inform further investment decisions in our region.”
In the meantime, the study is a valuable resource that reinforces the positive economic and social impact of cruise tourism in the region, NZCA’s Jacqui Lloyd adds.
“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,” Lloyd said. “We wish the Bay a successful and prosperous season ahead.”
Visit www.bayofplentynz.com to view the Coastal Bay of Plenty Cruise Study in its entirety.
