A tourism symposium in Auckland this week will be looking at how to counter perceived tourism fatigue.

The forum is being led by the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand (TECNZ) and will see a gathering of the inbound tourism industry and its suppliers to discuss the theme “Tourism – Contributing Towards a Better World.”

Chief Executive Judy Chen says there is no clear evidence of tourism fatigue in New Zealand however, judging by experience in overseas destinations and the increasing use of the term here, it is important the industry continues to promote the benefits of tourism to New Zealanders otherwise that label is going to stick.

But, she says it’s also in the best interests of the industry to look after the country and the people who live here to ensure tourism continues to enrich New Zealand.

Tourism fatigue, is when people feel that the benefits visitors bring to their community are being far outweighed by the perceived disruption they cause.

“The tourism industry is our largest export earner and is here for New Zealanders to benefit from through money coming into the regions, sustainable businesses and job opportunities.

If we don’t look after or contribute in some way to managing, maintaining and protecting our tourism offering we aren’t doing ourselves or fellow New Zealanders any favours.”

“With that in mind, the focus of our annual Xmas Symposium is to look at how we continue to do what we do but also contribute to making our corner of the world better, not worse, from tourism.”

“The TECNZ Xmas Symposium is an annual industry tradition and we usually get together to talk about the year that was and the high season to come. But with the rapid growth of tourism, which we know we as a sector are contributing to, we need to make sure we are doing everything we can to protect what makes New Zealand unique, it’s people and its environment.”

Guest speakers at the Symposium include Chief Executives from Diversity Works NZ, the Centre for Social Impact and the Next Foundation who will reflect on workplace diversity, environmental sustainability and ensuring funding made available for tourism delivers the desired long term economic and social outcomes.

ENDS

About the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand

The Tourism Export Council of New Zealand (TECNZ) is a trade association that has represented the interests of the inbound tourism industry since 1971. Its membership includes inbound tour operators (Inbound Members) and attraction, activity, accommodation, transport suppliers, regional tourism organisations and tourism services providers (Allied Members). TECNZ members collectively handle most of New Zealand’s international visitor arrivals. www.tourismexportcouncil.org.nz

Media Release
For immediate release 29 November, 2018

New owner for iconic Marlborough Sounds lodges

Marlborough Tour Company has expanded with the purchase of the popular Furneaux Lodge and Punga Cove Resort in the Marlborough Sounds.

The lodges are located in Endeavour Inlet, on the world-renowned Queen Charlotte Track.

Marlborough Tour Company General Manager Scott McKenzie says the expansion of the locallyowned company is very exciting for the company and for the future of Marlborough tourism as a whole.

“This purchase demonstrates our confidence in tourism growth in New Zealand, our confidence in Marlborough as a tourist destination, and also our confidence in the Queen Charlotte Track as an iconic tourist trail. Both lodges are an integral part of the overall track experience,” Scott says.

“We know that as an industry, Marlborough tourism will always deliver memorable, unique and firstclass experiences, and we are very excited to now be an even bigger part of that.”

Marlborough Tour Company was established by Marlborough couple Chris and Sue Godsiff more than 20 years ago. Earlier in 2018, a company principally owned by Barbara, Cathy, Trevor and Dennis Burkhart along with a holding by Nikki and Tony de Reeper purchased half of the company, with a common view, along with Chris and Sue, to bring more of Marlborough to the international and domestic tourism markets, all year round.

Chris says the company is set to grow tourism in the Marlborough region through strategic investment, solid marketing, and building the capability of Marlborough Tour Company and the region as a whole.

He is very pleased to welcome all existing staff from Punga Cove Resort and Furneaux Lodge to the Marlborough Tour Company family.

“We have some fantastic and exciting developments planned for both lodges in the future. For now, it’s business as usual as we head into another busy summer season here in beautiful Marlborough.”

/ends

For more information, please contact:

Scott McKenzie | General Manager | Marlborough Tour Company Ph +64 3 577 9997 | Mob +64 21 658 550 | scott@marlboroughtourcompany.co.nz

Chris Godsiff | CEO | Marlborough Tour Company Ph +64 3 577 9997 | Mob +64 21 904 654 | chris@marlboroughtourcompany.co.nz

Queenstown’s Aspen Hotel, located on Fernhill, has undergone a multi-million-dollar property renovation and rebrand. The new boutique accommodation makes the most of the same spectacular views, but now from the comfort of modern, design-driven accommodation, amenities and décor alongside an exceptional dining experience on site. It is with much pride and excitement that we introduce Kamana Lakehouse…

The contemporary 73-room Kamana Lakehouse captures the essence of Queenstown, bridging the gap between exploration and relaxation.

As the highest situated hotel in Queenstown only 3kms from downtown, guests will immerse themselves in sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, while enjoying an exclusive peaceful retreat in New Zealand’s adventure capital.

With only 16 rooms now to be completed, and an expectation that these are finished in January 2019, our beautifully refurbished rooms are ready for your clients. This is the perfect retreat: intimate and comfortable ensuites with functional contemporary design.

All rooms feature wall to wall windows, top of the range Sleepyhead Elegance beds, exclusive REAL WORLD toiletries, Private outdoor sitting space, mini fridge to stock as you wish, Free WIFI, mini safe, Bluetooth speaker, USB charging ports, 46” Led TV and T2 teas and in-room coffee

Savour modern takes on Mediterranean classics at nest Kitchen and Bar, the highest alfresco restaurant and lounge bar in Queenstown. Seductively- lit with floor- to-ceiling windows offering awe-inspiring views, a fine selection of Japanese whiskeys, and an extensive Rose collection, nest’s warmth invites you to share laughter, love and life.

For more information and inspiration visit www.kamana.co.nz

The rebrand takes effect Monday 03 December.

From that time on please direct all enquiries to:

Reservations                                               book@kamana.co.nz

Richard Crouch (GM)                                richard@kamana.co.nz

Mario Sandulescu (Hotel Manager)     mario@kamana.co.nz

All existing phone numbers remain.

Southern Discoveries has launched two new day trip options for exploring Milford Sound ahead of another busy summer season in this world-famous corner of New Zealand.

With a focus on in-depth and personalised experiences, the day trips both depart from Queenstown and promise to be the journey of a lifetime.

The Milford Sound Coach & Discover More option begins with an 8.15am departure and connects with Southern Discoveries’ small boat Nature Cruise, with a visit to the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory and a picnic lunch  included.

Customers also have the opportunity to return to Queenstown via scenic flight or helicopter following their cruise.

The company’s CEO Tim Hunter says the new summer day trips will continue to ensure each and every customer enjoys a unique and authentic experience in Milford Sound.

“Our team of local experts pride themselves on offering in-depth and memorable journeys, and we know these day trip options will deliver on that promise,” he says.

Meanwhile, the Milford Sound Coach, Cruise & Kayak option is an extension of Southern Discoveries’ popular Milford Sound Coach & Nature Cruise day trip.

Customers can now add kayaking and a visit to the Underwater Observatory to their adventure – two experiences that only Southern Discoveries can provide on coach day trips from Queenstown.

Departing at 7.00am and connecting to Southern Discoveries’ Nature Cruise, guests can enjoy one hour of guided kayaking, the Underwater Observatory and a buffet lunch. They also have the opportunity to return to Queenstown via scenic flight or helicopter.

“With options to go kayaking and visit the Underwater Observatory also included, our guests now have even more opportunities to witness the spectacular scenery above, on and beneath the water,” says Hunter.

The new day trip experiences have been made available by the expansion of Southern Discoveries’ premium fleet of coaches.

The company now operates four purpose-built, low-emissions coaches featuring an extra-wide glass roof that makes the most of the surrounding alpine scenery. Passenger comfort is also ensured courtesy of the reclining seats, extra leg room, USB charging ports, air conditioning and multi-lingual headset commentary.

Both the Milford Sound Coach & Discover More and Milford Sound Coach, Cruise & Kayak began on 19 November 2018 and will be available every summer between 1 November and 30 April.

ENDS

Tourism representation and marketing for luxury and boutique stays and activities. Going beyond cloud 9 to cloud 12.

Wild Kiwi offers immersive 7- to 21-day small group tours of New Zealand. With a maximum group size of 14-18, we foster an intimate atmosphere conducive to genuine connections among travellers.

Our guides play a central role, going beyond transportation to create memorable moments. Alongside, our top-notch vehicles contribute to the overall comfort of the journey.

Our primary focus is on the 18-39 age group, where we’ve found a niche in the growing flashpacker market since our inception in 2016. Additionally, we offer a Premium Product tailored for a broader audience, featuring the same quality experience with the added comfort of 3-4 star hotel stays, catering to all age groups.

GCH Aviation represent over three decades of helicopter, fixed wing and private jet aircraft services in New Zealand, Fiji and Vanuatu.

Tourism flights, Private Jet charters, certified flight training, air rescue and ambulance operations.

Private Jet and Jet Centre

Bases in Christchurch, Wellington, Nelson, Kaikoura and Greymouth.

Nomad Safaris pride themselves on showcasing the real New Zealand high country and history around the Southern Lakes region.

Based in Queenstown, they offer 4WD, ATV/UTV and e-bike tours around the area.

Their aim is for customer immersion in the environment to feel connected with the land, the people and their spirit.

12 November 2018

New Communications Manager joins Destination Wairarapa

Destination Wairarapa, the regional tourism organisation, has appointed journalist Sara Bunny to the position of Media Communications & Content Generation.

As an escapee from the Auckland rat race, it was the relaxed lifestyle, personal opportunities and exciting growth of the Wairarapa that attracted Sara and her partner to the area. “As part of my role as the media communications go-to at Destination Wairarapa, I’m really looking forward to continuing to strengthen tourism by promoting the unique stories of the region”.

A trained journalist, with a background that includes writing travel, lifestyle, health and current affairs features for the New Zealand Herald, Next magazine, and the Australian Women’s Weekly, Sara has also worked in copywriting, pr, web writing and social media management. Alongside a range of experience, she has a thorough list of key journalism contacts to bring to the table, and an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the New Zealand media landscape.

Media coverage of the region achieved by the RTO has been one of the factors which has seen sustained high percentage growth in Wairarapa’s tourism spend and visitor nights. Sara is looking forward to being a part of this dynamic region’s continued success.

DETAILS:

Sara Bunny Media Communications & Content Generation can be reached on +64 277 770 476

sarab@wairarapanz.com   www.wairarapanz.com

ENDS

Wednesday, 14 November 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Press Enquiries: marketing@wairakei.co.nz

Big Changes for Two of New Zealand’s Most Iconic Hotels

Recent appointments of a new General Manager and the creation of a Director of Sales and Marketing role for the hotels will ensure that big changes are on the horizon for two of New Zealand’s most iconic hotels, Chateau Tongariro Hotel and Wairakei Resort Taupo.

David Stavert joins Bayview Hotels New Zealand (Wairakei Resort Taupo and Chateau Tongariro Hotel) as the newly appointed General Manager, replacing Kathy Guy who retired earlier this month after almost two decades in the role.

Stavert first started with Bayview in 1995, has worked for both properties and was Executive Assistant Manager for Wairakei Resort when he left in 2011 to take up the General Manager role for sister property The Sydney Boulevard Hotel.

“I am excited to be coming home as general manager of these two hotels that I know so well,” says Stavert. “They are such unique properties with so many strengths. I look forward to bringing my operational background and experience to this position to continue to build upon the legacy of these heritage properties.”

Mr Stavert is also looking forward to working with the local communities of Taupo and the Ruapehu region.

“During my time at the Sydney Boulevard Hotel my passion for community and charity was a significant part of our ethos. I plan on bringing this same commitment with me and making a real impact within our local communities.”

Lee Watkins also joins the team as the Director of Sales and Marketing for Wairakei Resort Taupo and Chateau Tongariro. Lee brings over 23 years’ industry experience and has had roles with Accor Hotels and Stamford Plaza, worked in destination tourism sales for Auckland Convention Bureau, and recently looked after event sales for Tongariro Lodge.

“I am delighted and privileged to be leading the sales and marketing team for two of New Zealand’s most iconic hotels. Like Dave, I too return to Bayview Hotels after holding my first job in hospitality as a receptionist at The Grand Chateau 20 years ago. I look forward to bringing my experience to the team and working with them in creating memorable experiences for our guests, outstanding conferences and events, and all with the exceptional and warm hospitality our hotels have offered for many years.’’

Both Dave and Lee look forward to continuing their careers with Bayview and promoting two of New Zealand’s most iconic hotels and resorts into the future.

– Ends –