Cruise Operations Specialist

About the role

The Cruise Operations Specialist will be a core member of ID New Zealand’s Cruise team, ensuring smooth coordination of shore‑excursion tours for international cruise lines visiting New Zealand. This fast‑paced role blends operational administration with strong relationship management across tourism suppliers and cruise clients.

Key responsibilities

• Manage and maintain tour bookings and operational systems.
• Liaise daily with tourism suppliers and cruise line clients to coordinate tour operations.
• Ensure booking information and operational updates are accurate and communicated promptly.
• Plan and execute special interest group travel, private tours, or fam trips for cruise line clients.
• Act as the primary operational contact for shipboard shore‑excursion staff during cruise season.
• Coordinate wharf tour dispatch and operations for cruise ship calls in Auckland.
• Take ownership of invoicing and operational administration.
• Support background preparation and documentation for cruise bids and proposals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with tourism operators and industry partners.
• Assist with problem solving and operational troubleshooting as required.

Required profile

• Previous experience in tourism, cruise operations, group travel, or destination management.
• Strong administrative and organisational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑management abilities.
• Proactive, solutions‑focused approach and ability to work independently.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and peak cruise‑season schedules.

Required skills

• Microsoft 365
• Excel
• Outlook
• SharePoint
• Tourplan (advantageous)

What we offer

• Dynamic and growing cruise and tourism business.
• Opportunity to work with international cruise brands and leading New Zealand tourism operators.
• Supportive and experienced team environment.
• Hybrid working model.