New Zealand Satisfies Cruise Visitors

MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 26, 2008

New Zealand Satisfies Cruise Visitors

Cruise ships have been a familiar sight at ports around the country this summer and new research shows these tourists are enjoying what New Zealand has to offer.

Tourism New Zealand’s first-ever study into cruise visitor satisfaction found that 93 per cent of visitors surveyed were either extremely satisfied or very satisfied with their New Zealand cruise experience. Nearly 70 per cent say they are likely to return and not necessarily on a cruise.

The research, which covered the 2006/07 season, found that cruise visitors have similar holiday preferences and expectations to other visitors. Attributes such as friendly local people, clean unpolluted environment, safety and natural scenery were found to be particularly satisfying.

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive George Hickton says that understanding the experiences that satisfy cruise visitors will help the industry meet the demands of this growing market.

“New Zealand is attracting an increasing number of cruise passengers every year and this growth is set to benefit regions right across the country,” says George Hickton.

“These results will help the tourism industry ensure we are providing quality products and services that encourage these visitors to come back and send others.”

Almost all visitors surveyed (96 per cent) said they were likely to recommend New Zealand as a cruise destination.

The current season expects to see around 101,950 cruise passengers visit New Zealand ports, an increase of 56 per cent compared to 2006/07.

Although cruise visitors spend less time in New Zealand than other visitors, their average spend per person of NZ$2,209 is still significant.

The research found that cruise visitors took an average of four organised shore excursions while in New Zealand, with nearly half taking at least one independently arranged tour or excursion.

ENDS

To view the February edition of Tourism News, visit: http://www.tourismnewzealand.com/tourism_info/publications/tourism-news/tourism-news_home.cfm

To view the research reports visit:
http://www.tourismnewzealand.com/tourism_info/latest-news/new-zealand-satisfies-cruise-visitors.cfm

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