Cruise ships began to return to Aotearoa last year as the pandemic eased. (File photo) Photo: AFP
The head of the New Zealand Cruise Association will retire in June.
Chief executive Kevin O'Sullivan has been in the role for the last four and a half years.
Former chair Debbie Summers said he led the association through its most turbulent times.
"He has worked tirelessly and in particular, throughout our battle to restart these past years.
"NZ Cruise is in a better place for all his efforts.
"As chair I particularly appreciated Kevin's relentless positivity and sheer determination as he liaised and negotiated with the many stakeholders required to enable the sector's recovery post-Covid."
The current association chair, Jacqui Lloyd, has been named his successor.
Her most recent role is as the general manager of Destination Marlborough.
The association's deputy chair, Tansy Tompkins, said Lloyd was the perfect person to lead them through the next phase of the industry's recovery.
"Jacqui's extensive tourism background, senior leadership experience and relationship skills will help NZCA to further develop strategic alliances, unite our sector and expand our presence on the world stage as the cruise industry rebounds."