A new economic impact assessment, commissioned by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the New Zealand Cruise Association (NZCA), has revealed the full economic impact of cruise tourism in New Zealand for the first time.
The report shows cruise tourism generated NZ$1.37 billion across New Zealand in the 2023-24 financial year, benefitting communities nationwide.
The analysis breaks down this contribution into NZ$637.8 million in direct spending by passengers, crew, and cruise lines, and NZ$729.2 million in indirect and induced spending. Additionally, cruise tourism supported 9,729 jobs across New Zealand, with NZ$425.9 million in wages.
CLIA Managing Director Joel Katz highlighted that this is the first comprehensive look at the cruise industry’s total economic value in New Zealand, expanding on previous data to include indirect economic benefits and employment. “Cruise tourism provides significant economic benefits throughout New Zealand, not only in major cities but also in regional ports and destinations,” he said.
NZCA CEO Jacqui Lloyd added that cruise tourism delivered NZ$439.5 million in passenger spending to nearly every region in the country. “A cruise passenger spends an average of NZ$283 per day onshore, complemented by crew and cruise line expenditures that support local operations,” she said. Lloyd emphasized the positive impact on a range of local businesses, from tour operators and hotels to food producers and maritime service providers.
However, both Katz and Lloyd warned of challenges facing the industry in New Zealand. Rising costs and regulatory complexities have led to a 20% expected drop in cruise visitors, as New Zealand becomes one of the world’s more costly cruise destinations. “This is already costing Kiwi businesses millions as ships head elsewhere,” said Lloyd.
This report underscores the vital economic role of cruise tourism across New Zealand’s cities and regional areas, while highlighting the need for a supportive environment to maintain this growth.