New realities for New Zealand tourism
The Christchurch earthquake has changed the outlook for New Zealand tourism – perhaps for ever.
Tim Cossar, chief executive of the Tourism Industry Association of New Zealand (TIA), speaking at TRENZ, said recent coalface discussions with tour operators throughout New Zealand had revealed the extent of “dramatic change†in source markets.
Tour operators, hotels and regional and national tourism bodies had long been used to servicing western markets and Japan but they were now having to change their focus as Asian markets grew. “It is daunting for operators,†Cossar said.
Cossar said tourism has never had such a high profile within New Zealand as it has in the past three years, but it was key that the industry continued to deliver on the promise of 100% Pure.
Looking ahead, the industry believes more work still needs to be done on infrastructure, especially roads in regional areas used by tourists.
Cruise industry facilities also needed more work, and a national convention centre was required to allow New Zealand to compete for the largest conference business.
Cossar said TIA was right behind more regulation and an audit of New Zealand’s adventure tourism industry, and backed new efforts to encourage campers – mostly visitors driving campervans around the country – to be clean and green.
On this year’s Rugby World Cup over six weeks in September and October, Cossar said plenty of rooms were available for visitors to explore New Zealand outside of the Cup venues.
Ian Jarrett
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