ITC Industry News Bulletin #62
In this week’s airline, travel, and tourism news, New Zealand ranks as one of the world’s most reputable countries, the CEO of Tourism New Zealand resigns, and more.
TOP STORIES
New Zealand one of the world’s most reputable countries
‘The most reputable countries 2016’ report has ranked New Zealand in seventh place. The Reputation Institute takes 16 different factors into account when determining the placings, with the help of 48,000 voters.
Out of 55 countries ranked in the report, New Zealand took its spot in the top 10 for factors such as having friendly and welcoming citizens, being a safe place to visit, and having an appealing environment, amongst other things.
This marks the second year running that the country has held seventh place, after moving up from eighth place in 2014.
Sweden took the honour of the number one spot, and was followed by Canada, Switzerland, Australia, Norway, and Finland before New Zealand. Denmark, Ireland and The Netherlands rounded out the top 10.
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive steps down
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler has stepped down from his role after seven years on the job. As one of the key players in New Zealand’s tourism industry, and therefore strongly connected to the incredible recent tourism records, his absence has already been noted by other leading organisations.
Tourism Industry Aotearoa Chief Executive Chris Roberts has highlighted Kevin’s achievements in a brief statement.
“Under his leadership Tourism New Zealand has continued to be one of the most respected national tourism marketing organisations in the world,” he explained.
In a separate article, Kevin spoke about his time as head of the organisation, saying that framing the country as ‘Middle Earth’ was one of the most satisfying aspects of the role.
“Our biggest draw card is our natural infrastructure – our mountains, lakes and coastlines,” he added.
IN BRIEF
Air NZ ranks third in TripAdvisor reviews
TripAdvisor has recently started allowing consumers to rank their flight experience as well as attractions and accommodation options. According to an analysis of the results, Air NZ ranks third in the world behind Emirates and Singapore Airlines. Read more
Gisborne tourism gets cash injection
The Eastland Community Trust has given $1 million towards Gisborne’s efforts to promote local tourism. The funds are set to work alongside Air NZ’s 70 per cent increase in passenger capacity to the city to help improve tourist interest and spend. Read more
Tourism operators to benefit from online tool
Tourism Industry Aotearoa has announced its development of an online tool that will aid tourism operators in identifying key data for domestic travellers. The tool will help identify various demographics and how to best reach those groups with targeted messages. Read more
Hurricanes final adds $2 million to Wellington economy
By winning a home final, the Wellington Hurricanes Super Rugby team may have also won the city as much as $2 million in tourism spend. The Wellington Regional Economic Development Agency estimated roughly 8,000 visitors over the past few weeks, totalling up to $2 million in new spending. Read more
$10,000-per-night rooms to top New Zealand’s priciest
A new hotel development on Queenstown’s lakefront is tipped to open with one of New Zealand’s priciest room rates at $10,000 per night for the penthouse suite. While still under construction, the structure has been designed by local architect Michael Wyatt. Read more
‘Pete’s Dragon’ continues to showcase New Zealand
Tourism New Zealand has been working with Disney, the company behind the remake of the children’s film ‘Pete’s Dragon’, to showcase the country. The film hit cinemas this week, just as Tourism NZ released cast interviews and additional video content. Read more
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