Mount Maunganui teeming with visitors

Mount Maunganui was pumping yesterday as the usual influx of post-Christmas holidaymakers was boosted by two cruise ships in port.

The Radiance of The Seas arrived at 5am before sailing out about 6.30pm, while the Diamond Princess arrived at 5.15am and departed at 6pm.

By lunchtime the main street of Mount Maunganui was teeming with people.

Glenn Sheaff, owner of Hula, said the day had been very busy.



Summer tourists had arrived on Boxing Day, Mr Sheaff said, but having two cruise ships in town had increased foot traffic in the area.

But the increase in people had not necessarily translated into a lot of money spent, he said.

"They have not spent a lot in my store but they spend a little bit all through town, so the whole community gets a spin-off - it's fantastic. We are so lucky to get the boats here."

With rain forecast for Tauranga from tomorrow until next week, Mr Sheaff said the effect on Mount Maunganui retailers could be mixed.

"I like a sunny morning and a rainy afternoon. People see the nice weather and want to come to the Mount. If it rains all the time people might cancel their travel plans."

Fay Richardson, owner of Uluwatu Bali Shop, said the double cruise visit had been great for business.

Cruise passengers liked beach wear and were price-conscious, she said.

"It's the $10 bargain bin and the $20 rack.

"We find the Radiance of the Sea [passengers] are people who have more money. It's lovely, they fill town up. People love it.

"We are not always guaranteed a lot of money. We do get sales but we don't get thousands."

Redge Spiers of Ripcurl said the double cruise ship visit had been great for the store.

Both crew members and passengers visited the shop and liked to buy watches, T-shirts and hats.

"With two in today, there's probably 3000 people on board - 2000 passengers and 1000 staff.

If the weather turned to rain as forecast for the next week, Mr Spiers said it could be a mixed bag for retailers.

Holidaymakers in tents or baches might go shopping to escape their accommodation, but daytrippers might not come to town, he said.

Kevin Smith, owner of I Love Merino, said with Tauranga being almost the last port for the cruise ships, passengers might spend "if they have got any money left". Cruise ship Passengers were interested in buying possum merino he said.