The Voyager of the Seas cruise ship has docked in Tauranga this morning after being diverted from Vanuatu.

The diversion is due to seven people on board falling ill. But the Ministry of Health believes there is no risk of COVID-19 on the vessel.

'We are aware that there are seven people on board the cruise ship Voyager of the Seas due to dock in Tauranga tomorrow that are ill with typical influenza or gastroenteritis,” says a written statement issued by the ministry.

'Our current assessment is that there is no risk from COVID-19”.

The Voyager of the Seas cruise ship has a maximum capacity of 4369 passengers and crew.

Bay of Plenty chief executive Kristin Dunne says cruise ships docking in Tauranga are visiting under strict health and safety protocols, and host communities should feel at ease about welcoming them as always.

'Both Toi Te Ora Public Health Unit and the Ministry of Health have determined that there is no risk of COVID-19 (coronavirus) on board the vessel.

'I would like to reassure the community that the cruise industry has extensive experience and protocols for managing the health and wellbeing of their guests, and the host communities."

She says for many aboard the Voyager of the Seas this cruise is a holiday of a lifetime and through no fault of their own the ship has had to divert.

'Their time in our care could leave a lasting positive impression and it is my hope that we all rally to extend the manaakitanga we are known for.”

'I would like to reassure the community that the cruise industry has extensive experience and protocols for managing the health and wellbeing of their guests, and the host communities.”

Tourism Bay of Plenty reiterates a statement from February 21 confirming that the majority of more than 270 cruise ships globally continue to sail unaffected, including within New Zealand – but with strict precautions in place.