Retailers in Auckland are reaping the benefits with two thousand passengers having had their departure from Auckland delayed.
The influx of stranded passengers has delighted local retailers, who are expecting a huge boost in takings.
"Ports of Auckland advised us this morning that we'd have visitors en mass, which is great given the economic climate," said Cameron Brewer of the Newmarket Business Association.
"It's been a bumper season for cruise ships into Auckland this summer. It's great for retailers. What's more with the low kiwi dollar, the likes of Americans are buying almost two New Zealand dollars for their one."
Sandy Olsen, spokeswoman of P&O UK, said Aurora needed maintenance work on a thrust bearing, which is used to transfer power from the ship's propeller.
"Aurora was due to depart early on Saturday evening, and we've yet to determine a departure day.
"Maintenance work will continue throughout Tuesday. More than 1700 passengers, mainly from the UK, will have several extra days in Auckland to go shopping or sightseeing.
"We are also offering an overland trip up to the Bay of Islands, as we've had to cancel our Bay of Islands sea visit. We've also had to cancel our stops in Wellington and Napier which is unfortunate," Ms Olsen said.
Aurora left Southampton in England in mid-January and is half-way through its voyage.
After leaving Auckland, Aurora will heading to Honolulu, San Francisco and Acapulco, Mexico, before arriving in Southampton on April 13.
Ports of Auckland general manger of port services Wayne Mills said the port was having no problem accommodating the ship during its extended stay.
"Normally cruise ship vessels schedule well in advance. Aurora arrived on Friday at 11pm, and we have no other ships booked in for the next couple of days," Mr Mills said.
