Cruise Ships Set To Boost Auckland Economy

Cruise Ships Set To Boost Auckland Economy By $121 Million This Year

The economic benefit to Auckland from visiting cruise ships is expected to double to $121 million this summer, Tourism Auckland and Cruise New Zealand announced today.

More than 1900 full-time jobs in the Auckland region will be supported by the projected income from the cruise industry.

According to a report on the economic impact of the industry nationwide by McDermott Fairgray for Cruise NZ, Auckland will receive 64 per cent of direct expenditure by cruise ship passengers and crew, or $109.4 million. The flow-on effects will add an expected $121 million to the Auckland economy, up from $61 million last summer.

Tourism Auckland Chief Executive Graeme Osborne says the strong growth in the cruise industry was great news for the Auckland region. The number of days with ships in port is expected to grow from 48 to 58.

"This has enormous impact on the Auckland economy as a whole, with accommodation, transport, attractions, retail and restaurants all reaping the benefit," he says. Economic benefit forecasts also take into account providoring (food, alcohol and other supplies), dry dock charges, flight and other income.

Cruise New Zealand Chairman Craig Harris says the report's forecasts reflect the fact that Auckland has become as important as Sydney as a hub port for the South Pacific.

For the 2001/02 season, 39 visits to Auckland by 18 cruise ships have been pre-booked, with longer stays than previously. Mr Harris says that should the current rate of growth continue, the Auckland region will have to address capacity issues at both the Princes Wharf passenger terminal and Auckland Airport.

ENDS

About Tourism Auckland Tourism Auckland's mission is to develop sustainable economic growth in tourism for the Auckland region through integrated marketing and industry development. It is funded by grants from all seven local authorities in the Auckland region. Tourism Auckland's areas of expertise include international trade, conventions and incentives, events marketing, communications and visitor information. About Cruise New Zealand Cruise New Zealand is a national marketing network involving regional tourism organizations, ports companies, shipping services and inbound tour operators.

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