Letter: Cruise ships

We had another cruise ship in port on Monday but if I hadn't seen it I would be none the wiser. Why isn't it reported/advertised before the arrival so locals and businesses can get involved?

I was lucky enough to be in Akaroa over Waitangi Weekend and in the four days there they had five cruise ships in and the locals went to much effort to welcome the visitors.

There were a number of gazebos on the wharf and waterfront with information and tour opportunities for the visitors and nearly every shop in the town had welcome signs in their windows and there was a market with locals selling their wares.

There were also local limousine rides, vintage car rides even motorbike sidecar rides - all of which were extensively used as a novelty ride around the town.

Having been on cruises myself I know first hand that you don't always book your excursions before arriving in the port, rather wait and see what the locals offer on arrival.

I see Aoraki Tourism has an extensive list on its website welcoming the visitors and listing things to do but after speaking to a few visitors down the street, they were completely unaware of this.

My question is: Who is responsible to advertise the arrival and allow locals to promote Timaru and wider South Canterbury, and why don't we (Timaru) do more to welcome visitors?

Some examples: Approach schools, charity or sporting groups to raise extra money by selling items direct to the tourists.

Approach the vintage car or local car clubs and giving them the opportunity of providing rides.

Advertise that a ship of visitors is due a few days before it arrives and encourage local business to welcome them.

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Letter: Cruise ships