Cruise ships

Extra buses will be running at times when we expect a need. The normal Route 14 timetable runs for the rest of the day outside of cruise ship arrival and departure times. 

On days where an expected cruise ship has been delayed, the additional buses may be changed or cancelled. Please check the Orbus Facebook page or call the customer service team: 0800 ORBUSDN (0800 672 8736)

Wind can affect cruise ships entering and departing the Otago Harbour and can result in late cancellations. If a ship cancels on a day when additional buses were scheduled, the additional buses will no longer run and the normal bus service will operate as usual.

Please note, some of these extra trips may be provided by buses without Orbus branding.  

Harbourmaster has a focus on ensuring Cruise ships are able to enter and exit our harbour safely, and will normally be arranged between the Harbourmaster and the Cruise line directly. Visit the Harbourmaster site to discover all the work our Harbourmaster does.

The other main area the ORC focuses on during cruise ship season is Public Transport. This is an area that will often heavily impact on our local communities, as buses and trains will see increased use from cruise ship passengers. Each year ORC works with local communities to reduce any negative impacts residents may see. 

Port Otago has all the information you need on Otago Harbour’s shipping and cruise ship comings and goings.

Visit the Port Otago website for the current cruise ship schedule (note the schedule is subject to change).

The Otago Regional Council is responsible for maritime safety, so although we have a lot to do with the physical cruise ships, if you want to interact with the passengers, there are different organisations to contact. This is not a complete list, and will be updated periodically as new information comes to hand. 

Performing for cruise ship passengers

Busking and street performance is managed but the Dunedin City Council (DCC). You will need to call the DCC on 03 477 4000 the week before the cruise ship is due and book a half hour slot.

Holding a stall at cruise ship markets

Port Chalmers Markets

These are organised by privately, please contact Port Chalmers Cruise Ship Markets — Port Chalmers Markets for more information.

Octagon Markets

These are no longer being run. Please contact Dunedin City Council for updates. 

Pukerangi Markets

These are run in association with the Taieri Gorge Railway. Please contact Dunedin Railways for information: +64 (0)3 974 1812 or info@pounamutourismgroup.com.

Bus ticket sales

Port Chalmers to Centre City New World (city)

You must buy a ticket before you board your bus.

On big cruise ship days, tickets are only available from the ticket seller at the Port Chalmers library adjacent to the cruise ship terminal.

On small cruise ship days, tickets are available from the bus driver.

Tickets cost NZ $6 for a return fare  ($NZD, cash only - using smaller notes/correct change, if possible, will be greatly appreciated).

To return to your ship from Centre City New World, you can buy a ticket and board your bus outside New World Centre City. Map of where New World Centre City is below.

Centre City New World (city) to Port Chalmers

You must buy a ticket before you board your bus.

On big cruise ship days, tickets are only available at the bus stop outside Centre City New World (see map above).

On small cruise ship days, tickets are available from the bus driver.

Tickets cost NZD $6 for a return fare (cash only – using smaller notes/correct change, if possible, will be greatly appreciated).

Please allow plenty of time to get back to your ship as buses are subject to delays.