The Sea Princess arrives at Akaroa October 2012. Source: Waynne Williams

The port of Akaroa will receive the majority of cruise vessels destined for Christchurch during the 2013/2014 cruise season, following a decision to revise designs for facilities at Lyttelton.

Lyttelton Port Company halted the development of new cruise berth facilities for Christchurch in March.

Original designs announced in 2010 are currently under revision to account for earthquake damage and increased seismic activity in the region.

The February 2011 earthquake and multiple aftershocks caused major damage to the port, estimated to be in the ‘hundreds of millions’, according to Lyttelton Port Company.

The modifications are likely to increase the cost of the facility by approximately 40 percent.

“If we don't get this right and fail to provide an experience of international standard then we not only put at risk the reputation of Lyttelton but also of New Zealand as a cruise destination,” Lyttelton Port Company chief executive Peter Davie said.

Akaroa port is currently scheduled to host 86 cruise ship arrivals through April 2013.

In related news, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2013 listed Christchurch in the top ten cities to visit next year.