• The main cruise season in Tauranga ended with the departure of the Royal Princess on April 15.
• Tourism Bay of Plenty reported 91 ship arrivals, bringing over 206,000 passengers and crew.
• The season boosted the local economy, supporting hospitality, retail, tourism, and transport sectors.
• The main cruise season has ended for Tauranga, with only one late ship due to dock between now and October.

The departure of the Royal Princess on April 15, marked the end of the main cruise ship season for Tauranga this year.

Prior to leaving, Tauranga’s cruise ambassadors, who volunteer their time to welcome visitors, wrapped up their season with a special farewell event that included a visit on the Royal Princess.

One more cruise ship - the Insignia - is visiting the port this season, on May 27, until the Celebrity Edge begins the next season on October 16.

Tourism Bay of Plenty said Tauranga has had a strong 2024/25 cruise season, with 91 ship arrivals bringing thousands of passengers and crew into the region, Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Oscar Nathan said.

“These visits provide a significant boost to our local economy, supporting hospitality, retail, tourism operators, and transport providers.”

Amadea leaving Tauranga harbour on February 12, 2025. Photo / Rosalie Liddle Crawford

Nathan said Tauranga was consistently rated the best port experience in Tauranga by visiting cruise lines.

“The vibrancy that cruise visitors bring is felt right across the city, from our waterfront to our town centres, and we’re proud to be a key gateway for cruise travel in New Zealand.”

Final tallies for ship visits and the full economic impact were still being confirmed, but Nathan said as of March 18, the 2024/25 season brought an estimated 143,279 passengers and 62,804 crew to our shores - more than 206,000 people.

“These provisional figures are in line with recent seasons and represent a significant contribution to our local visitor economy,” Nathan said.

“There were a few itinerary changes due to weather, such as a cancelled berth from the Westerdam and adjusted schedules for the Crown Princess and MSC Magnifica, but the season remained strong overall.

“Throughout the season, ambassadors and staff were proud to showcase the best of the coastal Bay of Plenty to guests from around the world.”

Raked sand drawings farewell passengers aboard the Royal Princess as it departs Tauranga Harbour on Tuesday, April 15. Photo / Nikki Moloney

The Insignia will make a late-season call on May 27 ahead of winter.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming back the Celebrity Edge in October and kicking off another exciting season this coming spring.”