ITC Industry News Bulletin #44
In this week’s airline, travel and tourism news, the South Island credits Instagram with attracting more visitors to its shores in 2015, several tourism operators challenge Easter trading laws and much more.
TOP STORIES
New Zealand’s South Island Sees Tourism Boom Thanks to Instagram Photos Like These
The South Island reported record visitor growth in 2015, far exceeding the North Island – and many tourism leaders believe this could be thanks to Instagram.
Lake Wanaka Tourism general manager James Helmore told stuff.co.nz that they invested a lot of time into boosting Wanaka’s Instagram presence last year.
“We’ve done everything from Insta-meets, when you get a whole lot of people coming together to take photos to put on Instagram, to hosting influencers from around the world,” says James.
The link between Instagram and the South Island’s tourism growth caught the attention of international media, with Conde Nast Traveller covering the story. Click the ‘read more’ button below to read Conde Nast’s full coverage and see some of 2015’s most beautiful South Island Instagram pics.
Easter retailers ready for rules relaxation
For most New Zealanders, Easter is a time for relaxing with friends and family, attending church or enjoying one too many chocolate eggs. However for some tourism retailers, the four-day weekend can be the cause of much stress and anxiety.
Wanaka Chamber of Commerce spokesperson Alistair King recently told the NZ Herald that many retailers open their doors despite anti-trading laws, risking large fines.
“There were close to 50,000 people streaming through Wanaka over the long weekend and days like Sunday when there are that many people here, retailers just can’t afford not to be open,” he said.
Mr King is one of many retailers calling for relaxed trading laws throughout New Zealand on Easter weekend. Currently, some tourist towns are allowed operate as per normal over Easter, while others are not – causing immense frustration for those who have to close up shop.
IN BRIEF
Wellington Sevens stays in capital
The Sevens rugby tournament is set to return to Wellington for another two years, despite fears that slowing ticket sales would see it move elsewhere. Read more.
Conservation expeditions to Dusky Sound
The Department of Conservation has announced there will be three more expeditions to Dusky Sound this year, operated in partnership with Real Journeys. These expeditions raise awareness about the importance of conserving the ecosystem. Real Journeys chief executive Richard Lauder said last year’s expeditions sold out in one weekend, and he’s expecting a similar level of interest in 2016. Read more.
New Zealand a popular destination for Ramadan
Head of Islamic Studies at the University of Auckland believes New Zealand may be a popular destination for wealth Muslims during Ramadan. Read more.
Air New Zealand reviews stake in Virgin Australia
Air New Zealand is currently seeking advice about whether or not to sell its stake in Virgin Australia, following Virgin Australia’s trading halt on the Australian Stock Exchange. Read more.
Amazing Race Host shows off Nelson
Phil Keoghan, the New Zealand born host of the Amazing Race, will be in Nelson this Saturday, along with the series’ film crew. A drone is expected to fly above the region, putting New Zealand on show for the Amazing Race’s many viewers. Read more.
Posted in News, Travel and Tourism News | Tagged Air New Zealand, Amazing Race, Dusky Sound, Easter Tourism Trading, Instagram, Phil Keoghan, Ramadan, South Island Tourism, Virgin Australia, Wellington Sevens |One Response to “ITC Industry News Bulletin #44”
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Social Media Enthusiast says:
Great write up about Instagram and South Island tourism. I completely agree!
Social Media Enthusiast