Australian roadshows reinforce Christchurch as hot destination
Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism (CCT) and 10 top regional operators plus Air New Zealand visited Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast in late April to spread the word about this diverse destination, meeting wholesale and frontline agents. A huge turnout saw enthusiastic support from 314 guests who attended four dinner events.
CCT’s Australia and New Zealand marketing manager, Juanita Friend said Australian agents were impressed by what Christchurch and Canterbury has to offer, including many exciting new products and attractions.
“The broad range of operators attending demonstrated just how much there is to do and see in our region, all easily accessed in no more than three and half hours flying time from Australia’s east coast,” Juanita Friend said.
CCT was joined by Air New Zealand, Mount Hutt, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa, Hermitage Hotel, International Antarctic Centre, Canterbury Trails, Kaikoura Information and Tourism, Interislander and TranzScenic, Christchurch Casino, Hotel Grand Chancellor and Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport.
Guests were given a taste of Canterbury’s fabulous food and wine experiences, and treated to Main Divide wine from Pegasus Bay winery in Waipara.
Operators put together enticing prize packs for each show. One lucky guest at each venue won a return flight for two to Christchurch with Air New Zealand. A five-day motorhome hire in Christchurch and Canterbury was also included with Kiwi Campers and Britz sponsoring these prizes.
Scott Callaway, marketing manager of Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa said there was much enthusiasm for the region.
“The level of attendance and enthusiasm shown by agents reinforced in our minds just how New Zealand and in particular Christchurch and Canterbury is viewed as a hot destination for Australians right now, and offers us all great opportunities,” he said.
Brian Lucas of Canterbury Trails, an operator of small personally-guided tours who presented at the roadshow, said all the Christchurch and Canterbury presenters received a very positive response.
“The large group who attended were exceptionally enthusiastic and receptive,” he said.
Report by The Mole
John Alwyn-Jones
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