NZ attracts more cruise ships – good for helicopter tourist operators
Source: World of Aviation Nov 2019.
The weakening Australian and New Zealand dollars has resulted in a booming cruise ship industry as residents of both countries are travelling more on cruise ships which sail from Australia to the South Pacific Islands via New Zealand. The currency problem has also attracted an enormous number of Europeans and North Americans whose stronger currency makes travelling and shopping in Oceania value for money. At peak times, about a dozen cruise ships are visiting New Zealand ports; either doing the “around New Zealand cruise” or stopping for a night or two and then heading out to the South Pacific Island nations.
Each year cruise ships get larger and passenger numbers have increased to 2,000 - 3500 per ship. This has been a bonus for the aviation tourist industry, especially for the helicopter operators who do their best to provide scenic flights for passengers going ashore for the day. Aircraft ownership in New Zealand reflects changes caused by the tourist industry. The NZ Register has 4,300 aircraft of which 900 are helicopters. The number of single-engine helicopters suitable for tourist work dominates the fleet. Lead type appears to be the AS350 series with 200 registered, followed by the R44 Robinson with 160 and Bell 206 in third place with 100. Overall this group represents 50% of the Register.