CLIA Applauds Auckland Wharf Decision

The controversial extension of Auckland’s Queen’s Wharf has officially been given the green light. 

An independent panel have come to the agreement that the development of the wharf would have “positive economic and social benefits” for the cruise industry. The project has been under fire since November 2017 when the first proposals were put forward. The developments will see the addition of a 90m fixed gangway and two 15m concrete mooring structures fixed to the seabed allowing for berthing of larger cruise ships.

Auckland developer, Panuku, has released an official report which laid out a range of conditions including a list of environmental best practices, with the stipulation it be removed “after no more than 15 years”.

Joel Katz, Australasia Managing Director of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has said the decision was not only a step foreard for Auckland, but for destinations around NZ.  “As the International gateway to New Zealand, Auckland’s current berthing restrictions are hampering cruise operations and threatening to limit ecomonic growth both locally and in other regions. The decision to increase the capacity of Queens Wharf will mean larger ships can safely berth in Auckland and make onward visits to ports all over the country, bringing enormous economic benefits.” Kats also commented that Auckland had been “at ricks of losing it’s place in international cruise itineraries” following the introduction of larger ships. “The solution ensures New Zealand’s cruise tourism sector continues to thrive,”

SOURCE: Cruise Weekly