ITC Industry News Bulletin #16
Aviation news is dominating the headlines this week, with Jetstar announcing new regional flight routes and China Southern Airlines unveiling additional flights to the South Island.
TOP STORIES
New air services boost regional economies
New Jetstar flights to Nelson, Napier, New Plymouth and Palmerston North are expected to have a positive impact on regional economies, according to Tourism Industry Association chief executive Chris Roberts.
“We support their approach of building up a sustainable network that will encourage visitors to get off the beaten track and see more of New Zealand,” Mr Roberts said in a press release on Monday.
The new flights are also expected to boost domestic tourism.
“New Zealanders travelling within their own country contribute $37 million in economic activity every day. Offering them more good value options for flights will definitely boost that spending,” Mr Roberts added.
New China Southern Airlines service promises boost to NZ’s South Island
China Southern Airlines will start flying between Christchurch and Guangzhou in December, a move that promises to increase the number of tourists arriving in the South Island.
Christchurch Airport chief executive Malcolm Johns said these flights will help to meet increased demand from Chinese visitors to the South Island, “especially from the growing number of independent travellers who want to see and experience it”.
The new route is expected to generate more than $100 million New Zealand dollars for the economy.
“That is positive news not only for the tourism industry but also for southern air freight needs, which add up to significant economic development opportunities for every region of the South Island,” Mr Johns said.
IN BRIEF
Air New Zealand and Air China launch new alliance route
In yet more aviation news, Air New Zealand and Air China have announced another service between Auckland and Beijing. Read more.
Cycle trail project boosting economic growth
Prime Minister John Key said the cycle trails are creating jobs and boosting economic growth, and has therefore announced further funding. Read more.
Kiwi Regional Airlines’ first aircraft touches down in Hamilton
With flights between Dunedin and Queenstown, and Nelson and Hamilton, Kiwi Regional Airlines’ many be small, but this new company is doing much to connect New Zealand’s regions. Read more.
Will we see off-peak Chinese tourists?
Explore Group will soon launch new itineraries designed to encourage Chinese travellers to visit the country during the off-peak season. Sales Manager Carole Beggs said the itineraries will focus on making travel to New Zealand “simple and easy” all year round. Read more.
Operators look to culture-seeking tourists
Those who attended the Māori Tourism Trade Day in Auckland on Tuesday discussed key motivators for international visitors. Acting Chair of the board Dale Stephens said tourists were after more than “just getting on a bus and looking at our beautiful scenery” and were interested in learning about the local culture and history. Read more.
$15,000 raised for Yellow-eyed penguins on Real Journeys ‘Cruise-for-a-Cause’
A feel-good story to end the bulletin today. In a show of generosity, South Island tour operator Real Journeys has raised $15,000 to go towards important research to protect the Yellow-eyed penguins. Read more.
Posted in News | Tagged Air New Zealand, Aviation, China Southern Airlines, Explore Group, Jetstar, Kiwi Regional Airlines, Maori Tourism Trade Day, Real Journeys | Leave a reply