New Zealand Welcomes Back First Cruise Ship Since Covid Hit
New Zealand has welcomed back its first cruise ship since the Covid-19 pandemic hit, signaling a step towards normalcy for the tourism industry. The ship, the Celebrity Solstice, docked in Wellington on Saturday, October 2nd, with around 2000 passengers on board.
Strict Protocols in Place
New Zealand has implemented strict protocols for the return of cruise ships to ensure safety for both passengers and locals. Passengers on the Celebrity Solstice were required to be fully vaccinated, and the ship had to undergo a thorough cleaning and disinfection process before docking in Wellington. The ship was also required to have a Covid-19 management plan which included regular testing of passengers and crew.
Benefits to the Tourism Industry
The return of cruise ships to New Zealand is a huge boost to the tourism industry, which has been hit hard by the pandemic. According to the Tourism Industry Association, New Zealand lost around NZ$16 billion in tourism revenue in 2020, and the cruise industry alone contributed around NZ$570 million in 2019.
With the reopening of its borders, New Zealand is hoping to attract more tourists to its shores. The country has a lot to offer, from its stunning natural landscapes to its vibrant cities, and the return of cruises is expected to bring in much-needed revenue for local businesses and communities.
Challenges Ahead
While the return of cruise ships is a positive step for New Zealand's tourism industry, there are still challenges ahead. The country's border is still closed to most international tourists, and the government has yet to announce a timeline for reopening to the rest of the world.
There are also concerns about the risk of Covid-19 outbreaks on cruise ships, which have been a problem in other parts of the world. To prevent this, New Zealand has implemented strict protocols for the return of cruise ships, as mentioned earlier.
Conclusion
The return of cruise ships to New Zealand is a positive sign for the country's tourism industry, which has been struggling since the pandemic hit. While there are still challenges ahead, such as the country's closed border and the risk of Covid-19 outbreaks, the return of cruises is a step towards normalcy for the industry.
With its breathtaking natural beauty, friendly locals, and vibrant culture, New Zealand has a lot to offer tourists. The return of cruises is expected to bring in much-needed revenue for local businesses and communities, and hopefully, pave the way for the country's full recovery from the pandemic.