Transport operators' peak still to come

Black Rose Transport operations manager Peter Hibbard (in front) and owners, Kerren and Ken Withington

The peak season for local transport operators has only just begun according to Black Rose Limousine.

Business development and projects manager Peter Hibbard said they had a funny cruise ship period before Christmas but expected these next two months to be their busiest.

"I think February and March are our two best months and looking back on the season so far I would say it has been an average season for us. It all depends on factors which are out of our control."

These factors include the timing of the ships' arrival in to Napier Port, their departure time, what the weather is doing, the attitude of the passengers and the cancellation of cruises.

Mr Hibbard said ships in Napier Port, unlike the next door ports, Wellington and Tauranga, only dock for a half a day, which impacted the passengers' ability to go on a tour.

"If the ship is late they still leave at the same time and often ships will arrive at 6am and leave at 1pm so it can all get a bit tight."

With regards to the weather these abnormally persistent westerly winds have played a part in the tours up and down season to date.

"Passengers get off the ship saying they have had a pretty rough night so aren't feeling too flash. Instead of coming with us they'd rather sit down and relax in town."

Despite these factors Mr Hibbard said when the sun is shining, the wind is minimal and the passengers are good, their tours flourish.

"We are getting a lot more private bookings so there is a bit of a change in the way we are seeing things, which is good."

Black Limousine Tours have 10 cruise ship days this month, which are all visits from the big ships who typically spend the money and go on the tours.

"We could look back on this season in two months time and see it as a real belter. These next two months are vital but are looking good so far."

Meanwhile, Hawke's Bay Express has been pretty busy right from ship one.

Owner Will Van Asch said the popularity of the tours and the number of cruise ships docking in Napier has prompted them to build a second train.

The second train will be up and running in time for next season.

"We are rated the number one port in the country so I think that says something. The market is growing, we've been exceptionally busy and the Aussies seem to be really enjoying New Zealand," Mr Van Asch said.

Supertrike Tours and Hire were also relishing the number of cruise ships coming to Napier and noticed the high number of Aussies.

Owner Vic Jennings said the Australians had been the busiest customers so far and as long as the weather stayed fine most people wanted to jump on board.

"Since Thursday was the first bit of rain you can say it is pretty good going so far."

The most popular tour for Mr Jennings and his passengers this season was the trip up Te Mata Peak.