11 June 2009

Auckland expects cruise centre deal soon

AUCKLAND Ã¢â¬' Auckland must wait a little longer for a new cruise terminal after the government and the local council failed to agree terms and conditions this week for the purchase of waterfront land earmarked for the facility.

The government hopes to reach an agreement soon that will allow it to develop AucklandÃ¢â¬â¢s QueenÃ¢â¬â¢s Wharf into cruise centre capable of meeting growing numbers of ships visiting the city.

Throughout the 2007/2008 season approximately 89,600 passenger days were spent in Auckland, or around 21 percent of all passenger days in New Zealand.

Prime Minister and tourism minister John Key said it made sense for the government to purchase the land and for the Auckland city council to develop it. It is hoped that the terminal will be completed in 2011.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœWe want to create a legacy for Auckland with this development,Ã¢â¬~ said the PM.

Said Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, Ã¢â¬ÅâœThe cruise industry in New Zealand is growing every year and Auckland is reaping significant benefits.

"ItÃ¢â¬â¢s crucial we have the infrastructure to fully capitalise on this, and of course to enhance the visitorÃ¢â¬â¢s experience.Ã¢â¬~