This week marks the launch of the next phase of the Cruise Aotearoa New Zealand 2040 strategy, as the New Zealand Cruise Association (NZCA) gets the sector working on a shared goal of getting more ships sailing locally.
The new Horizon 2 strategy transitions from the original plan which focused on alignment, onto a new impact strategy focused on rebuilding deployment confidence through better coordination, competitiveness and operational consistency.
NZCA ceo Jacqui Lloyd (pictured above) says it addresses the urgency facing the sector and the significant progress already made through the original strategy launched in 2024.
“New Zealand cannot afford to assume cruise will simply return on its own,” says Lloyd.
“Cruise lines are making deployment decisions now in an incredibly competitive global market, and Horizon 2 is about ensuring New Zealand earns its place as a destination of choice again.”
. . . Work Ahead
NZCA Chair Tansy Tompkins says Horizon 1 created stronger alignment across tourism and cruise, and Horizon 2 builds on that foundation.
“It recognises there is still significant work ahead, but it also reflects a growing confidence that New Zealand can become a more competitive and better-connected cruise destination over the long term.”
. . . C’mon Agents
The success of this next phase will impact the Kiwi trade. House of Travel gm Cruise Australasia Jeff Leckey says Kiwi travel agents also recognise the need for a strong home port or turnaround season in New Zealand, ‘as this is where the new to cruise market often get their first taste of cruising’.
“The success of the Carnival 2027 season from Auckland has shown that there is pent up demand from Kiwis to cruise locally from or around our country.” Leckey is calling for agents to get involved as well.
“As an industry we can also do our part by passing on the message to our cruise line partners that we will strongly support any New Zealand deployments or turnaround cruises.” See more on the new NZCA strategy HERE.
