Dunedin is considering replacing a Scottish welcome for cruise ships with a Maori powhiri.
City council communications manager Debra Simes says the first of 20 ships is due next week, so a decision is needed quickly.
Bagpiping was trialed during the last cruise ship season, but Ms Simes says there were logistical difficulties if the ships were late or cancelled.
She told Waatea News that people have jobs and could not wait for the ships to berth.
Ms Simes said there will still be a piped farewell for tourists but talks are underway with Ngai Tahu to see if a powhiri is better.
