The New Zealand Government has greenlit continued cruise ship access at one of NZ’s most iconic destinations, Milford Sound Piopiotahi, and the retention of Milford Aerodrome.
In making the announcement, the government confirmed that it would invest NZ$15.2 million to upgrade infrastructure and enhance conservation to sustainably grow tourism at the South Island destination in a move called the ‘Milford Opportunities Project’.
The decision will be a relief to cruise operators, who according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), are already limited to short visits, usually in the early morning or late afternoon, with a maximum of two ships on any given day.
“This iconic UNESCO World Heritage site in Fiordland attracts more than a million visitors a year and pumps about $200 million into the regional economy, creating jobs and boosting incomes,” New Zealand Conservation Minister Tama Potaka said.
“We are supporting the local economy and providing certainty for operators by enabling cruise ships and aircraft to continue to access the fjord, rejecting a previous proposal to ban this.
“We know Milford Sound Piopiotahi, Mitre Peak Rahotū, the bush, the sea and the wildlife play an integral part in capturing the hearts and minds of millions of tourists dreaming of a visit to this wilderness area.”
Potaka also elaborated on the improvements to come.
“For Ngāi Tahu, Piopiotahi holds special significance as the final masterpiece of atua and land-shaper Tū Te Rakiwhānoa,” he said.
“Visitors accessing the fjord via Milford Road will soon enjoy new and enhanced short stops, including an alpine nature walk in Gertrude Valley. Little Tahiti landfill will also be cleaned up and flood protection at Cleddau River will be improved.
“There will be improved amenities, including much-needed new facilities at Deepwater Basin where we are replacing the recreational boat ramp.”
Rebecca Ingram, CEO of Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), said the announcement provides much-needed certainty for operators and the destination.
“Today’s announcement addresses long-standing uncertainty for the industry, especially for the aviation community and cruise industry and provides direction for those wishing to invest in the region,” Ingram stated.
“There are a lot of things that the industry can agree on when it comes to Milford and improving the experience and safety are two of them.
“We have been strong advocates for a well-managed experience that is great for visitors, community, business and for the environment.”
In a statement, CLIA said, “the international cruise industry is strongly committed to protecting its unique environment and cultural significance”.
“CLIA welcomes today’s announcement by the New Zealand Government that cruise ships will continue to access Milford Sound Piopiotahi, and the cruise industry will continue to work closely with New Zealand authorities to ensure the appropriate management of cruise tourism in the region,” it stated.
“The government’s decision follows extensive industry advocacy and strikes a sensible balance, acknowledging the natural and cultural importance of Milford Sound Piopiotahi while also providing clarity for cruise lines and the many thousands of New Zealand workers who rely on cruise tourism.”
