ITC Industry News Bulletin #64
In this week’s New Zealand tourism news, visitor numbers continue to soar, finalists for the New Zealand Tourism Awards have been announced, and much more.
TOP STORIES
2016 New Zealand Tourism Awards finalists announced
The finalists for this year’s New Zealand Tourism Awards have been chosen, with 28 different brands in the running for various honours across eight business categories and two individual categories.
With individuals and groups spanning the nation, and tourism operators varying from thermal pools and ski fields to hotels and theme parks, the awards represent some of the very best of the country’s offerings. Plus, the awards align with New Zealand’s goal of reaching a $41 billion tourism revenue target by 2025.
Finalists can look forward to September 29 when the winners will be announced during a dinner and ceremony in Auckland.
Winter continues upward trend of visitor spending and arrivals
Tourism New Zealand is once again celebrating after a booming Autumn quarter saw an 18 per cent increase in visitor spending. The figures, released by the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Economic Development, reveal that much of that growth comes from China, Japan and Korea.
Kevin Bowler, Chief Executive for Tourism New Zealand, said “to have sustained such strong growth into the winter months is further confirmation that New Zealand can be a successful holiday destination for all seasons”.
These increases bring the total financial contribution from international visitors to $10.3 billion for the year to June 2016, Mr Bowler explained, which is a new high for the country.
As well as improvements in Asian markets, the visitor numbers from Australia hit over 50,000 for the first time ever, which is also believed to be a direct result of targeted campaigns in the country.
IN BRIEF
All Blacks’ captain joins forces with Air NZ
Kieran Read is well known for his role as the captain of the All Blacks’ rugby team, but he will now also work with Air New Zealand as an ambassador. The famous face has already been part of the popular ‘Men in Black’ safety clip for the brand, and is looking forward to working with them again to promote travel. Read more
Auckland Airport welcomes even more international arrivals
The Auckland International Airport released its July international visitor arrivals figures this week, which showed a huge 16 per cent increase to 171,400 during the month. According to the report, much of this was thanks to holiday arrivals. Read more
Tourism New Zealand introduces Halal Food Guide
Finding Halal food for Muslims can be tough during travel through new countries, which is why Tourism NZ has put together a Halal Food Guide to help visitors quickly find appropriate eateries. The guide was created with the support of the Federation of the Islamic Associations of NZ and the Kiwi Muslim Directory. Read more
Mayor claims ‘visitor levy’ won’t deter tourists
In response to the Green Party suggesting a ‘visitor levy’ to help pay for facilities in high-tourism areas, some people have suggested it may put visitors off. Kaikoura Mayor Winston Gray has claimed that those concerns are unlikely, however, saying that an extra $14-18 won’t make much difference to the cost of getting to NZ. Read more
Funding to help regions optimise tourism opportunities
A government fund is available to help regions make investments in tourism opportunities. With as much as $3 million available this year, Tourism Industry Aotearoa is urging communities to apply for some of the infrastructure funding. Read more
White Island may be used as a drawcard for Whakatane
White Island, New Zealand’s most active volcano, may be used as a key promotional tool for Whakatane. The city’s district council is currently in talks about creating a destination marketing plan, and will possibly use this natural attraction as a key feature. Read more
Air NZ announces plans to boost premium seating options
When Air New Zealand’s three new Dreamliners arrive in October, they will come with 27 Business Premier seats (instead of 18), and 33 Premium Economy Seats (up from 21). The new layout is due to an increased demand for premium travel options in and around New Zealand. Read more
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