Auckland | Shed 10, Queens Wharf

Thursday 13 August 2026

The New Zealand Cruise Association’s flagship Conference and networking event returns to Auckland on Thursday 13 August 2026, hosted at the iconic Shed 10 on Queens Wharf.

Set against the backdrop of a pivotal moment for cruise in New Zealand, the 2026 NZCA Conference brings the industry together to take stock, look ahead, and shape what comes next.

Why attend?

The cruise sector has reached a plateau. We understand the challenges, we’ve been working hard on the turnaround, and there is still important work to do, together.

The 2026 NZCA Conference delivers a dynamic programme featuring insightful panel discussions, thought-provoking presentations, and candid conversations with industry leaders and decision-makers from New Zealand and around the world. Expect fresh perspectives, practical insights, and bold discussions focused on solutions, opportunity, and the future of cruise in Aotearoa.

With Auckland at the centre of some exciting developments for cruise, there’s no better place to gather, connect, and reset the course.

Speakers include

Hon Louise Upston – Minister of Tourism and Hospitality

Hon James Meager – Associate Minister of Transport and Minister for the South Island

Annie Dundas – Director Destination, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited

Matt Rutherford – Vice President Asia Pacific, Princess Cruises

Deb Corbett – CEO APAC, Ponant Explorations

Alfie Smith – Director Global Ports Operations, Princess Cruises

Mike Mihajlov – Senior Director, Destination Management, Carnival Australia

Jeremy Goodman – Regional Director, Strategic Sourcing & Supply Chain, Carnival Corporation & plc

Sandy Olsen – Vice President, Corporate & External Affairs – Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific, Carnival Corporation & plc

Joel Katz – Executive Director, CLIA Australasia & Asia

Jill Abel – CEO, Australian Cruise Association

Andrew McKinnon – Director, Cruise, Aviation and Access, South Australian Tourism Commission

Debbie Summers – Managing Director, IDNZ

Roger Gray – CEO, Port of Auckland

Paul Hallett – Manager Implementation & Approvals, Biosecurity Import & Export Standards, Biosecurity New Zealand

Jacqui Lloyd – CEO, New Zealand Cruise Association

… more speakers and panellists to be announced over the coming weeks, including additional representatives from cruise lines, regional tourism organisations, ports, and tourism operators.

What’s in it for you?

• Unmatched networking – Connect with cruise lines, ports, destinations, operators, government agencies, and key partners from across the industry
• Expert insight – Hear directly from leaders shaping policy, operations, and growth
• Meaningful conversations – Be part of honest, constructive discussions about the challenges we face and the opportunities ahead

This is a must-attend event for anyone with a stake in the future of cruise in New Zealand.

Register now to be part of the conversations that will help shape the next chapter for cruise in Aotearoa.

PROGRAMME DETAILS

Morning Schedule

Lunch

Afternoon Schedule

Evening