In the process of producing the CD, the publishers of New Zealand Trade Manual contacted all members of the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand to obtain any updates required for member listings in the Inbound Travel Directory, and offering the opportunity to upgrade listings with the addition of a company logo and/or image. If, however, you were unable to supply your updates in time for the production of the CD, please contact SOMO Creative as soon as possible because for a limited time it is still possible to update your listings before the production of the printed version of the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand Inbound Travel Directory 2013.

Day 1 (Tuesday 20 August 2013) includes an optional sightseeing famil for the Board, Full and/or Allied Members ahead of the Full Member Forum and Destination Wairarapa Showcase at the George Hood Aviation Centre.

On Day 2 (Wednesday 21 August 2013) has famil sightseeing in the morning. Later in the day is a Biz to Biz Speed Meet for Allied and Full Members at Copthorne Solway Hotel followed by a networking lunch. The main conference commences 2pm, with the Tourism Export Council Operator of the Year Awards taking place that evening.

Day 3 (Thursday 22 August 2013) The day starts with the AGM, Young TEC workshop and option of attending a Service IQ workshop on “training needs into the future”. The Plenary session begins at 9.15am with keynote addresses, a networking lunch and the “if I wasn’t in tourism I’d be a” …. themed function at Tui HQ in Mangatainoka.

Click here to view the Draft Conference Programme       

Click here for travel and accommodation 2013 information.

For the first time in 2012, the print version has been included as an insert within the New Zealand Trade Manual. This well-established publication for travel industry professionals is distributed worldwide into the hands of New Zealand travel retailers and wholesalers, making it the perfect vehicle to ensure maximum reach for the Inbound Travel Directory. The 2012 manual will be launched at TRENZ in Queenstown (7 – 10 May).

If you’re looking for a sneak peek, read the flipping book online or download the PDF.

This project repositions the hotel in the 4-star category and in line with Scenic Hotel’s brand standards.

A name change for the Inbound Tour Operators Council (ITOC) aims to remind tourism operators they’re part of New Zealand’s number one export industry.

“Some members of our industry fail to see the link to tourism being an export industryand we hope to change that,” chief executive Lesley Immink says. “With tourism as an export industry, the product and service is purchased by non-residents but experienced here. The word ‘inbound’ confuses the issue.”

The name change, which takes effect today, aims to inform and remind operators they should be proud to be involved in the tourism export sector. It is also hoped the inclusion of the words ‘tourism and export’ will help local and national government understand the economic value of the industry, and increase public appreciation of the employment opportunities it offers local communities.

A decade ago, when the Inbound Tour Operators of Australia changed its name to the Australian Tourism Export Council, tour operators finally realised they were part of the tourism export industry and were proud of that. ITOC hopes to achieve similar objectives with New Zealand operators.

“It was time for ITOC to re-energise itself, step up as the private sector of the industry and demonstrate its leadership capability. The name change is the first step towards doing that,” Lesley says.

President of the Tourism Export Council Martin Horgan adds, “I’m truly excited about the opportunities the re-branding will bring the organisation and our members. We’re enhancing our brand equity and whilst we’ve moved on from the ITOC brand identity, it’s something our membership and industry will be proud of and certainly not forgotten. Tourism Export is what we do today and what we need to be recognised for”.

Tourism New Zealand chief executive Kevin Bowler congratulated the Tourism Export Council on its latest developments. “Last year some 2.6 million travellers visited New Zealand so all efforts made to invest in the future of the industry, and enhance the industry’s performance and the visitor experience, is welcomed.”

ITOC has had at its heart the desire to grow inbound tourism to NZ, Tourism Industry Association spokeswoman Ann-Marie Johnson says. “If the Tourism Export Council, in partnership with the rest of the industry, can continue to build that focus and help bring even more attention to the high value of inbound tourism to NZ then the name change will make a difference.

“Name changes are name changes – the actions of the organisation under its new name is what will ultimately count.”

As part of this year’s rebrand, the Tourism Export Council website – www.tourismexportcouncil.org.nz – goes live this month. New features include an ‘electronic flipping book directory’, an e-notice board for members to post updates, a section for vacant tourism industry positions and a meet the member promotion. “More engagement and promotion of member benefits is key to the Tourism Export Council’s future,” Lesley says.

The organisation also plans to initiate a youth leadership national development programme designed to motivate and inspire new industry members, and help them develop business knowledge and networks. They will be matched with industry mentors who will share their experience and knowledge.

- ends -

For more information contact:
Lesley Immink
Tel: (04) 495 0810 or 027 6644 836
Email: lesley@tourismexportcouncil.org.nz

About the Tourism Export Council:

The Tourism Export Council of New Zealand (formerly the Inbound Tour Operators Council) was founded in 1971. It represents 250 inbound tour operators and product suppliers (accommodation, transport, attractions and activity operators) throughout the country who package, distribute and market New Zealand tourism products and services internationally.

What is your role in the business?
General Manager.

How long have you been in the tourism industry?
12 years – first job as Sales Consultant at Thomas Cook UK, selling their outbound European Cities product to the UK trade!

What got you into the tourism industry?
The hardest working man I have ever known (Dad!) gave me some good old-fashioned advice early on: get your foot in the door of a company with prospects, do right by people and work my way up! After getting a great grounding at Thomas Cook, I was totally hooked with all things tourism and have not looked back!

What’s your dream job?
I love the variety my current role presents every day – but I have to say the role of Her Majesty’s private secretary would be pretty interesting.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Probably my formidable talents in the field of Karaoke – I believe it’s the performance aspect that gives me the edge … that and my addiction to Yorkshire Tea.

What NZ destination would you like to holiday in next? Why?
I’d love to go back to Southland and explore at a relaxed pace, preferably around for the Bluff Oyster Fest for some delicious wine and seafood, followed by some time-out on Stewart Island – probably the most peaceful and relaxing place I have ever visited.

What do you think makes NZ the ultimate visitor destination?
The diversity that New Zealand offers really is incredible – everything from great city breaks, stunning beaches, lakes, ski, mountains and rainforests … oh, and great wine. As an international destination, New Zealand has a depth that often isn’t appreciated until you experience it; ultimately I think it means we always blow away client expectations – for even the most seasoned traveller.

What is your role in the business?
Account Manager.

How long have you been in the tourism industry?
Mmmmm … nearly 20 years!

What got you into the tourism industry?
A love of travel. And that hasn’t ever died.

What’s your dream job?
Actually, volunteering around the world helping those less fortunate than ourselves.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I’m a super-keen paddle-boarder.

What NZ destination would you like to holiday in next? Why?
Lake Waikaremoana, so I can start ticking off the New Zealand Great Walks.

What do you think makes NZ the ultimate visitor destination?
Ultimately it’s the amazing and diverse scenery. And, of course, us friendly Kiwis!

What is your role in the business?
MD – could mean Managing Director or Mentally Deficient. I’ve had reports of both.

How long have you been in the tourism industry?
That would be ages. Welcoming Newman’s coach tour passengers to NZ at 17 years young – now 21 (x2)!

What got you into the tourism industry?
I ask myself that question often. The girls? The money? The lifestyle? Let me think!

What’s your dream job?
Oh, the irony of that question! Should ‘dream’ and ‘job’ really feature in the same sentence? If I had to choose today, I’d pick demolition expert. I’d have location on my side! Otherwise … professional Rugby League + Rugby Union + boxer also looks like a good gig.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I like to dress in skin-tight black neoprene.

What NZ destination would you like to holiday in next? Why?
Greymouth and the West Coast of the South Island – coz I heard there is an AWESOME conference there in August!

What do you think makes NZ the ultimate visitor destination?
The culture, the people, the mountains, the lakes, the views, the reverse seasons, the food, the wine, the restaurants, the bars, the cities and the national parks and everywhere in between, the penguins, the dolphins, the kiwis, the ski fields, the jet boats, the cruises, the rail journeys, the exquisite lodges, hotels and B&Bs, Stoke Beer, helicopters, glaciers, hangi and concerts, mud baths, kayaking, tracks and tramping, sailing on Auckland Harbour, the Hobbits and, of course – sheep!

What is the name of your business and where are you based?

What is your role in the business?
Chief Executive.

How long have you been in the tourism industry?
Ooh, hard to say out loud, but 30 years. Started as a housemaid at THC Milford Sound.

What got you into the tourism industry?
Followed my sister who was a hotel receptionist at Milford and seemed like she was having all the fun.

What’s your dream job?
I’m in an excellent place now although never dreamed about it. Perhaps tourism advisor to Minister of Tourism …

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I’m a black belt in karate.

What NZ destination would you like to holiday in next? Why?
Milford Sounds – to take my husband who has heard us talk of it for years but never seen it.

What do you think makes NZ the ultimate visitor destination?
Our sense of empowerment and open spaces.

Click here to read advertising rates for new Directory .

Click here to fill out the booking form for the Directory now.

New criteria for export marketing grants from NZTE on the face of it, are encouraging for inbound tour operators who meet the requirements. However, Chief Executive Lesley Immink met with NZ Trade & Enterprise recently and unofficially were told that they were unlikely to qualify. The new F0CUS 500 criteria includes international assistance for the top 500 export companies (they currently fund 380) with a minimum turnover of $3 million, at least 20% of your business must be export and approx 15 FTE’s employed. The new fund is called “International Growth Fund” or the IGF, and while several of our major inbound operators meet the criteria, it is Tourism New Zealand who is charged with marketing New Zealand to the world says Nick Metson of NZTE. It is for this reason that additional government or MED funds would not be allocated to support separate export marketing grants for inbound operators. The other difference to the criteria is that the ‘idea must be a game changer’ and extension on ‘business as usual’ is not enough to be approved. They must also be able to demonstrate for the past three years, significant growth.

When challenged about inbound operators going into new markets to lead the way for Tourism New Zealand and the return on investment could be significant re development in new markets eg. Russia, Brazil, the old ‘tourism is not a very productive sector compared to other export industries’ was bought up. It is for this reason that the new name change for ITOC to the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand cannot come quick enough. (01 March 2012) We need our key agencies to acknowledge the contribution that tourism has in our economy for GDP, Forex, GST and employment opportunities. Their support to the inbound sector re their request for export marketing grant assistance could make a difference in attracting the high yield visitor that we seek, sooner rather than later . Aus Trade in Australia fully support their inbound industry with export marketing grants even though it is their sixth rated industry. They are investing huge amounts into Eastern Europe, the Middle East and South America over the next few years and if we aren’t careful, will be the poor cousins and second choice.

It is obvious that small nimble private sector companies can move quicker and determine financial viability of an export product or service than a government agency. If an operator matches an export marketing grant dollar for dollar, they will not waste their time and money if the early investigations prove fruitless. How many IT companies has NZTE and the FORST fund invested in with no return? The tourism industry is not a risk industry, is surprisingly stable despite the economic crisis and acts of gods, and is the number one export earner for the country. So, the Tourism Export Council is seeking a ‘pipeline inbound tourism operator’ who meets the above criteria to test the process. Contact the Chief Executive on Lesley@itoc.org.nz for more information. Tourism Export Council (ITOC) Background:

The Tourism Export Council of NZ was founded in 1971 and celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2011. It represents 250 tour operators and suppliers (accommodation, attraction, activity and transportation) throughout the country who package, distribute and market New Zealand tourism products and services internationally.

ENDS

For more information, please contact:

Lesley Immink, Chief Executive Phone: 04 495 0810 Email: lesley@itoc.org.nz

In 2012, the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand Inbound Travel Director is incorporated as a section within the New Zealand Trade Manual and will be launched at TRENZ 2012. With a print run of 8,000 copies, this well-respected trade manual is distributed to New Zealand specialist travel agents and wholesalers worldwide.

The move has been made to better reinforce the position of tourism as a one of New Zealand’s significant export industries.

Part of the rebranding process includes a new logo designed by TML Publishing, a Christchurch-based publisher and design studio. The logo is available in a horizontal and a stacked version, and in black and white, and silver, as alternatives to the full-colour version for material printed in monochrome.

Click here to view and download jpeg files of the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand logos. When using the logos, please refer to the Usage Guide for logo limitations and placement directions. If you have any queries, please contact the Chief Executive.

• www.nyuujitanken.co.nz (Japanese tourism and lifestyle directory)
• www.tansuoxinxilan.co.nz (Simplified Chinese tourism and lifestyle directory)
• www.newzealandtamheom.co.nz (Korean tourism and lifestyle directory)

Other services include translation, Asian web and social media development, Asian media planning, etc.

For more information, contact Tony Boot tony@btmnz.co.nz.

New criteria for export marketing grants from NZTE on the face of it, are encouraging for inbound tour operators who meet the requirements. However, Chief Executive Lesley Immink met with NZ Trade & Enterprise recently and unofficially were told that they were unlikely to qualify. The new F0CUS 500 criteria includes international assistance for the top 500 export companies (they currently fund 380) with a minimum turnover of $3 million, at least 20% of your business must be export and approx 15 FTE’s employed. The new fund is called “International Growth Fund” or the IGF, and while several of our major inbound operators meet the criteria, it is Tourism New Zealand who is charged with marketing New Zealand to the world says Nick Metson of NZTE. It is for this reason that additional government or MED funds would not be allocated to support separate export marketing grants for inbound operators. The other difference to the criteria is that the ‘idea must be a game changer’ and extension on ‘business as usual’ is not enough to be approved. They must also be able to demonstrate for the past three years, significant growth.

When challenged about inbound operators going into new markets to lead the way for Tourism New Zealand and the return on investment could be significant re development in new markets eg. Russia, Brazil, the old ‘tourism is not a very productive sector compared to other export industries’ was bought up. It is for this reason that the new name change for ITOC to the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand cannot come quick enough. (01 March 2012) We need our key agencies to acknowledge the contribution that tourism has in our economy for GDP, Forex, GST and employment opportunities. Their support to the inbound sector re their request for export marketing grant assistance could make a difference in attracting the high yield visitor that we seek, sooner rather than later . Aus Trade in Australia fully support their inbound industry with export marketing grants even though it is their sixth rated industry. They are investing huge amounts into Eastern Europe, the Middle East and South America over the next few years and if we aren’t careful, will be the poor cousins and second choice.

It is obvious that small nimble private sector companies can move quicker and determine financial viability of an export product or service than a government agency. If an operator matches an export marketing grant dollar for dollar, they will not waste their time and money if the early investigations prove fruitless. How many IT companies has NZTE and the FORST fund invested in with no return? The tourism industry is not a risk industry, is surprisingly stable despite the economic crisis and acts of gods, and is the number one export earner for the country. So, the Tourism Export Council is seeking a ‘pipeline inbound tourism operator’ who meets the above criteria to test the process. Contact the Chief Executive on Lesley@itoc.org.nz for more information. Tourism Export Council (ITOC) Background:

The Tourism Export Council of NZ was founded in 1971 and celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2011. It represents 250 tour operators and suppliers (accommodation, attraction, activity and transportation) throughout the country who package, distribute and market New Zealand tourism products and services internationally.

ENDS

For more information, please contact:

Lesley Immink, Chief Executive Phone: 04 495 0810 Email: lesley@itoc.org.nz

The tourism industry is made up of different sectors, like the chapters in a book. Each chapter by itself, can be read independently but when read in one sitting or strung together, contributes to the story as a whole. Some chapters are written fast, and some slow. Some are full of character and action and some support the detail needed to thread it all together to make the story full of substance. If we think of the tourism story, some chapters are written and favoured by inbound operators and some by product suppliers. Some chapters are written by technology savvy authors and some by agencies who benefit from working with different sectors in the industry. However, and whoever writes the chapters, the contents over-all should add up to a robust, productive best seller!

In the 90’s, the industry was ‘sold’ a national quality standard system that would give confidence to off-shore partners and customers, that we care enough about them to ‘rank’ ourselves and operators. The core of the industry despite initial reservations, bought into the system that would provide a marketing advantage or an annual business assessment of safety and standards. In theory, New Zealand was going to promote a world class story with world class experiences by acknowledging those operators accordingly – a great vision to work towards.

In reality, anyone can start a tourism business with no checks or quality standards to adhere to. After initiating the above quality standards system, our national tourism organisation and website allow ‘anyone’ to register and compete with the operators who have supported them from the beginning. It seems that we are no longer on the same page or in the same book. There is no ‘editor’ but a host of ghost authors and now the possibility of a third party booking engine selling it’s own storyline in direct competition with inbound wholesalers and many product suppliers.

There are too many operators participating in the New Zealand tourism industry that do not belong to our leading tourism organisations of ITOC, TIA, RTO’s or Qualmark. If a policeman or doctor from another country wants to work in New Zealand, they need to belong to the appropriate organisations and regulatory bodies before they are allowed to practise. We as an industry need to encourage those who want to work here, whether they be on-shore or off-shore, to have membership and participation with our key organisations. We have a responsibility to check we are delivering on our 100% promise to the world and to minimise any negative impacts when some operators bring us into disrepute.

To deliver a world class story we need all businesses and organisations in the industry to work together and encourage business excellence. We can’t afford to keep underselling our country through discounts and deals. We need to step up and work out how we want the New Zealand tourism story to end. A discounting trashy cheap novel that is read once and discarded, or a top quality high valued best seller that is revisited and recommended to others?

The Inbound Tour Operators Council of NZ was founded in 1971. It represents 250 tour operators and suppliers throughout the country who package, distribute and market New Zealand tourism products and services internationally.

Contact: Chief Executive, Lesley Immink ph: 04 495 0810 email: lesley@itoc.org.nz

“Why discriminate against coaches?” he asks. “(Are they) just easy targets? Coaches are an environmentally effi cient and responsible mode of transport for New Zealand visitors, driven by qualifi ed professionals who respect our roads, our attractions and conservancies.”

He tells IT:”The same can’t always be said for those travelling in rented vehicles. And what causes less congestion on the summit, 40 people in one coach vs. 20 rental cars?” Mount Eden is one of the most visited attractions in New Zealand with more than 1.1 million visitors a year.Key attraction “Such visits to the summit are promoted as a key attraction in most Auckland and New Zealand itineraries. To deny visitors this brochured and advertised attraction will expose ITOs and our wholesale partners to compensation claims in countries such as Japan and the UK where strict consumer laws apply. At the very least the industry needs a period of 18-24 months to live out our brochure obligations.”

If the council is prepared to compensate RWC fans for failed RWC transportation, and is it also prepared to do the same for coach passengers who were expecting to enjoy the vista from the summit of Mt Eden? Mr Horgan asks.Naivety “To suggest the coach tour passenger demographic could trek the last 200m to the summit shows real naivety.

If this is the council’s best suggestion for coach tour passengers then this Auckland highlight will be out of the reach of many of our highest-spend visitors.” If total protection of the site were the true motivation behind the move then all vehicle transport to the summit would have been stopped, not just coaches. “Do we want our own Uluru where any visitation is frowned upon?”

Mr Horgan suggests the council should allow 18-24 months before any closure so ITOs can live out their brochure obligations.

ITOC Background:
The Inbound Tour Operators Council of NZ was founded in 1971 and celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. It represents 250 tour operators and suppliers throughout the country who package, distribute and market New Zealand tourism products and services internationally.

ENDS