More than 7000 people, the equivalent of about 20 Boeing 747-400 passenger manifests, arrived in Dunedin on three cruise ships yesterday morning.
The big day began when the port was given a full security check before a Port Otago pilot launch and tugs met Diamond Princess, Radiance of the Seas and Oceanic Discovery.
Port Otago commercial manager Peter Brown said staff also put security fencing in place, before linesmen secured the vessels to the wharf.
The aim of the port company was to secure each ship and set up gangways so passengers could disembark within a 15-minute timeframe.
As well as Diamond Princess, with its 2670 passengers and 1115 crew, and Radiance of the Seas (with another 2500 passengers and 860 crew), two large container ships arrived at Port Chalmers.
The smallest of the cruise ships, Oceanic Discoverer, with 72 passengers and 20 crew, berthed in the upper harbour at Dunedin's T/U sheds.
Mr Brown said all ships arriving in New Zealand for the first time were also greeted by officials including customs and public health.
Cruise companies and passengers appreciated that Port Chalmers was a working port and facilities had "not reached the levels that cruise terminals provide overseas".
Although the port could accommodate three large vessels, it was foremost a container port and needed a berth available for that business, he said.
Dozens of Port Otago staff and security staff are involved when a cruise ship arrives and transport options on land include trains, taxis, buses and chauffeur-driven cars to take tourists to the city and to tourism attractions.
Mr Brown said the landside operators worked tirelessly to ensure the disembarkation and embarkation of each cruise ship went as smoothly as possible.
Dunedin City Council economic development unit destination management business development adviser Sophie Barker said it worked alongside other agencies as part of a Cruise Action Group.
Yesterday, 16 buses, not including those used by local tourism attractions, transported hundreds of passengers to and from the city.
Improvements to the previous season, including guides for retailers and changes to the traffic management plan, and "a lot of behind-the-scenes planning and communication, had helped make the season work well".
"We have May to September to improve from any feedback, and October to April to observe plans in action. The council keeps a sharp eye on how the cruise passengers are managed and enjoying their experience."
Ms Barker said the cruise industry was growing so fast that "we have had to work hard to ensure we cater well for this market".
