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P&O Australia cancels 2022 cruise season in New Zealand

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Debbie Summers warned New Zealand is in danger of losing a 2022/23 cruise season
Debbie Summers, chairman of the New Zealand Cruise Association, described P&O Cruises Australia’s decision to cancel its 2022 cruise season as ‘a huge loss.’

The cancellation affects 21 cruises that were scheduled to depart from Auckland July 5 until November 27.

Uncertainty remains

‘While P&O Cruises has had useful discussions with New Zealand officials and expects to have further contact, uncertainty remains as to when cruising is likely to resume there, which has made it difficult to sustain the 2022 Auckland cruise season,’ a company statement said.

Third season in jeopardy

‘Our maritime border must have confirmation soon that we are open for business '22/23 or we will be in the dire situation of losing a third season,’ Summers said.

She said this would spell the death knell for many New Zealand businesses and communities that rely on the crucial support of the cruise industry.

‘We must have long lead-in times, not just for ships to be New Zealand-ready, but for our own service sector shoreside,’ she said. 

‘We also need this for consumers booking a cruise to New Zealand and for the cruise lines to keep their commitment.

‘We’re now already seeing this dangerously wavering.’

Return in 2023

The P&O Cruises Australia statement said the company looks forward to returning to New Zealand next year for an Auckland season beginning in June.

‘P&O Cruises and sister brands also remain hopeful of being able to cruise to New Zealand from Australia later this year,’ the statement said.