PM pushes Auckland cruise terminal, conference centre

Photo / Dean Purcell

The Government is keen for a cruise ship terminal and international conference centre in Auckland, the Prime Minister has told a Tourism Auckland conference.

John Key, who holds the tourism portfolio, said research showed cruise ship numbers were expected to grow 53 per cent by the 2011/2012 season.

"That's why the Government supports, in principle, developing a cruise terminal at Queens Wharf."

The Government was working with the authorities to deliver "as soon as possible".

He said there was also a big market for international conferences and exhibitions, and an announcement would be made "in due course" about progress on developing a national convention centre in Auckland.

Mr Key also touched on progress being made with the national cycle trail and urged everyone to make the most of opportunities presented when New Zealand hosted the Rugby World Cup, but said accommodation must be offered "for all budgets".

- NZPA