Thousands of cruise ship passengers stranded in Auckland

The Aurora will be stuck in port for two days while mechanical problems are seen to and Auckland retailers are expecting to reap the rewards. Photo / Martin Sykes

Thousands of cruise ship passengers had their trip delayed today due to mechanical problems - but retailers in Auckland are reaping the benefits.

The cruise ship Aurora has been forced to berth for an extra two days in downtown Auckland, with dozens of busloads of passengers dropped off around the city today to go shopping.

The influx of stranded passengers has delighted local retailers, who are expecting a huge boost in takings.

"The Aurora passengers are highly visible through Newmarket today and we're told they'll also be back tomorrow.

"Ports of Auckland advised us this morning that we'd have visitors en mass which is great given the economic climate," said Cameron Brewer of the Newmarket Business Association.

"It's been a bumper season for cruise ships into Auckland this summer. It's great for retailers. What's more with the low kiwi dollar, the likes of Americans are buying almost two New Zealand dollars for their one."

Mr Brewer said up to 2000 Aurora passengers were likely to hit the shops over the next two days.

- NZPA