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Cruise ship tourists are leaving New Zealand extremely happy with their stay, a survey has revealed.
Tourism New Zealand said its first study of cruise ship tourists had shown 93 per cent of the visitors were either extremely happy or very satisfied with their New Zealand cruise experience.
Nearly 70 per cent said they were likely to return but not necessarily on a cruise.
Tourism New Zealand said the research covered the 2006/07 season and found cruise visitors had 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 NZ chief executive George Hickton said understanding experiences that satisfied cruise visitors would 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," Mr Hickton said.
Almost all visitors (96 per cent) said they were likely to recommend New Zealand as a cruise destination.
This season about 101,950 cruise ship passengers were expected to visit New Zealand ports which was an increase of 56 per cent compared with 2006/07.
They spent less time in New Zealand than other visitors but each spent an average of $2209.
The research showed they took an average four organised shore excursions in New Zealand, with nearly half taking at least one independently arranged tour or excursion.
- NZPA
