Economic spin-offs: Letters, 14 September

The Bay of Plenty Times welcomes letters and comments from readers. Here you can read the letters we have published in your newspaper today.

Economic spin-offs from cruise investment

As the cruise industry continues to experience double-digit annual growth figures, we often refer to the positive contribution that cruising makes to the New Zealand economy.

But it is not so common for people to see direct evidence of how this contribution translates into real-life business opportunities and jobs supported by the "multiplier effect" of cruising.

It was therefore wonderful to read that coach operator Tony Lugg of Bayline Coaches (Bay of Plenty Times Weekend, August 27) had invested in three new luxury coaches to cater for passengers arriving on an increasing number of cruise ships visiting the Port of Tauranga.

As the operator of a combined fleet of seven P&O; Cruises and Princess Cruises ships, Carnival Australia wishes Tony all the best as he expands his local tourism enterprise.

Cruising has been a stand-out success in the New Zealand tourism sector in recent years, growing 14 per cent a year on average since the 1996-97 cruise season.

According to a study released last year, the nearly 200,000 passengers who will visit New Zealand during the coming 2011-12 cruise season will contribute an estimated $470.7 million to the economy and sustain more than 500 jobs.

The statistics are impressive but it is even more exciting when they come alive in the form of opportunities that benefit local businesses and communities.

Ann Sherry, Carnival Australia

Spot on, Act

The leader of the Act Party is spot on when he complains that Maori are getting more than their fair share in this country.

As Maori represent only about 20 per cent of the population, that should be their deal. Equality under the law is a great idea.

So how come the prison population is 60 per cent Maori? How come thousands more Maori get free board and lodging, colour TV, gyms, etc? We all look forward to the Act Party opening up the gates and letting at least two-thirds of Maori out - that is, unless Don has a better idea.

A. G. Stewart, Pyes Pa

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