Monday, October 7, 2024 A study by the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER) on the economic and social effects of cruise tourism reveals that the 2023/2024 season generated $5.3 million for the local economy, with cruise tourists spending an estimated $23 to $35 million. Commissioned by ChristchurchNZ, the report highlights the cruise industry’s positive impact, with 69 percent of local businesses acknowledging its significance to their operations.
Additionally, 68 percent of these businesses described cruise tourism’s influence on their revenue as either ‘positive’ or ‘very positive.’ The industry’s contribution to the local economy is estimated at $5.3 million, with each visitor spending approximately $146 in Christchurch’s central areas.
Overall spending by cruise tourists is estimated to range from $23 to $35 million. The community, including both businesses and residents, generally perceives cruise tourism as beneficial. In the NZIER survey, 79 percent of business respondents noted a positive or extremely positive influence from the cruise sector.
Many businesses also cited additional benefits beyond revenue, such as generating excitement around products and services (47.4 percent) and bringing in a more diverse customer base (42.1 percent).
Local businesses voiced their gratitude for the positive impact of the cruise season. Juliet Mountfort, owner of the jewelry shop Silver Central at the Cathedral Square market, shared that cruise ships a.
