This event was considerably more upbeat than in 2024 and 25, with delegates seeing progress and recognising increased government support. There was also agreement that more work needs to be done to reach the country’s full potential.
Deb Corbett, CEO Asia Pacific at PONANT Explorations Group, notes that New Zealand has ‘come so far’ in the past 12 months but needs to ensure predictable decision making in a number of areas, including access.
‘We’re not asking for unlimited access, but it does need to be predictable.’
Mike Mihajlov, senior director destination management with Carnival Group says there has been strong momentum here. ‘Don’t let it slip.’
He says our destination marketers can benefit by looking across the Tasman. ‘Tourism Australia has embraced cruise and factored it into all international marketing. I think that is a challenge for Tourism New Zealand to consider.’
A constant theme was increased collaboration. Matthew Rutherford, vice-president Asia Pacific with Princess Cruises reminds the industry that while New Zealand is critical to the line, deployment decisions are always made with Australia and New Zealand together.
‘I think it is time to move beyond Team New Zealand and move to Team Oceania.’
Minister of Tourism Louise Upston notes that having the New Zealand and Australian stands close to together at Seatrade in Miami this year was a boon. ‘I see real opportunities through stronger alignment with Australia. We can’t work in isolation.’
Joel Katz, executive director Australia with Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) notes that the industry needs to focus on three things.
‘Cruise lines need to have the confidence that New Zealand values cruise and its wider contribution. They also needs certainty provided through clear, coordinated and durable settings. Competitiveness is another issue – cruise lines realise there are costs involved but they need transparent, proportionate and internationally competitive costs.’
He says global demand for cruising is still growing and the desire to cruise to and around New Zealand is as strong as ever (if not stronger).
‘New Zealand has something really special and it leads to genuine global appeal. Cruise guests rate New Zealand exceptionally highly and that gives strong advocacy for the destination.’
