Network fragmentation and risk in cruise tourism infrastructure development: Auckland, New Zealand

Cities across the globe are faced with (re)developing cruise infrastructure because of the increase in the number, size and capacity of cruise ships. Infrastructure development involves stakeholder networks which embrace competing interests, potentially leading to network fragmentation and associated risks. Despite prior studies identifying the risks that can arise from network fragmentation in infrastructure development, there is little research considering this issue explicitly in the context of cruise infrastructure development. This paper explores the extent to which network fragmentation can lead to risks impacting the development of cruise infrastructure. Twenty-three semi-structured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders in Auckland, New Zealand. Results demonstrate that network fragmentation was evident, leading to critical risks. Fragmentation was driven by political instability, competing interests, inadequate governance, and a lack of: a) effective leadership, b) a coordinated national strategy or vision, c) transparency, d) trust, and e) inclusiveness, particularly in the planning phase.