The inaugural Qualmark 100% New Zealand Experience Awards have launched with a bang, with more than 80 registrations received from tourism operators across the country in the first two weeks.

The awards are designed to celebrate exceptional visitor experience offerings within the New Zealand tourism sector against the three award criteria of manaakitanga, tiaki and whānau.

Qualmark General Manager Gregg Anderson says the 100% Experience Awards celebrate the elements of New Zealand tourism that turn a holiday into a trip of a lifetime for our visitors while enriching New Zealand communities.

“Warm welcomes, genuine connections and care for people and place is what turns a Kiwi holiday into a trip of a lifetime for visitors. The 100% Experience Awards seek to recognise Qualmark members going above and beyond to create an outstanding experience for visitors and local communities alike,” says Mr Anderson.

The 100% Experience Awards are supported by Tourism New Zealand and Air New Zealand.

Air New Zealand’s Head of Sustainability Lisa Daniell says the airline is delighted to support the awards, which support and encourage sustainable tourism.

“Our vision is that tourism drives economic growth across New Zealand, while delivering an outstanding visitor and community experience and protecting our environment. The 100% Experience Awards are set to do just that by recognising tourism operators who show care for both people and place while offering exceptional visitor experiences,” says Ms Daniell.

The 100% Experience Awards follow the launch of Tiaki: Care for New Zealand, a tourism industry initiative to encourage travellers to care for people, place and culture while in New Zealand, for now and for future generations.

Registrations are open to Qualmark partners who hold the Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award. Partners may enter a single, bookable product, experience or activity that best reflects their core business.

The product or experience must also align with the Tourism New Zealand brand promise of 100% Pure New Zealand, which is in its 20^th year.

The 100% Pure New Zealand Experience Awards gala event will be held at Parliament in May 2019 with awards presented by the Minister of Tourism.

Winning businesses and their products will feature in premium inflight magazine Kia Ora, with monthly domestic and international readership of almost 400,000.

Qualmark Gold partners have until 5.00pm (NZST) 18 March 2019 to register their interest in the 100% Experience Awards. For more information, visit: https://www.qualmark.co.nz/en/member-area

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Fiordland Discovery offers exclusive small-group cruises in Aotearoa, New Zealand’s most cherished natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site, Fiordland National Park.

Our cruise experiences include both overnight and day trips in Piopiotahi Milford Sound from November to April. We focus on providing a personalised experience for a limited number of guests, allowing for a unique and immersive experience away from the crowds.

From April to the end of October, we offer scenic, historic, and nature adventure cruises in the stunning, remote wilderness areas and lesser-visited fiords of Fiordland National Park. These cruises accommodate a maximum of 18 guests.

Our 24-metre catamaran, the Fiordland Jewel, was specifically designed for the conditions of Fiordland. All nine climate-controlled cabins and the main saloon feature panoramic sea views. With a helipad, a top-deck hot tub, and plated meals prepared by our onboard chef, we ensure that our guests enjoy all the comforts they deserve.

A multi-million dollar top-to-toe makeover of the Hamilton Airport Hotel will deliver a destination restaurant plus 4-star conference and accommodation facilities for the region.

The revamped 62-room hotel will be complete by Christmas 2019 under the management of family-owned Jet Park Hotel Hamilton Limited from May 2019. Ownership of the hotel will remain with Waikato Regional Airport Limited (WRAL). WRAL purchased the hotel in January 2018 as part of its strategy to grow non-aeronautical revenue streams.

WRAL chief executive Mark Morgan acknowledged the role of Bruce Parker and his team who have leased the hotel since WRAL bought it. Jet Park, which already operates hotels in both Rotorua and Auckland, had a proven track record in outstanding hotel management and shared WRAL’s vision, he said.

“This will not be a budget-style facility. We want a high standard of accommodation with a range of other quality offerings including a restaurant, bar and extensive conferencing facilities at the hotel and terminal. Our growing regional visitor market, along with the increase in flights coming in and out of Hamilton shows the demand is there and growing. Let’s get on and deliver it.”

The existing hotel will remain open during the refurbishment programme which will be project managed by WRAL and Jet Park. Jet Park owner Liz Herrmann said the hotel, to be rebranded as part of the Jet Park group, would offer an “exceptional gateway to Hamilton and the Waikato”.

“The location and facility has absolutely enormous potential and we will be refurbishing it from top to bottom. Nothing will be the same. We’ll be starting with bed linen and ending with a brand new commercial kitchen and destination restaurant plus outstanding conferencing facilities,” she said.

“We want to create something really vibrant and take advantage of the beautiful gardens and the wonderful green space which is something you just don’t get everywhere. In that respect, we think there is also potential for weddings and other functions so there is a lot of opportunity on the site.”
As well as a Qualmark 4-star hotel rating, Jet Park would aim to secure silver status for environmental responsibility and sustainable management. The hotel would showcase original New Zealand artwork and Jet Park would look specifically for works from Waikato-based artists, Liz Herrmann said.

“The hotel will be a showcase and gateway to the region so let’s celebrate that.”

Hamilton & Waikato Tourism chief executive Jason Dawson said Jet Park was an experienced operator he predicted would do “very well” in the Waikato. The Hamilton and Waikato region is now the fifth largest market for visitor expenditure in New Zealand, pouring $1.557 billion per year into the regional economy. Last year motels and holiday parks in the region sold nearly 1.5 million guest nights.

“Based on what Jet Park has done in Rotorua and Auckland, they will do a great job and the refurbished 4-star hotel will be a very good asset to our tourism sector.”

Morgan said the appointment of Jet Park to operate the hotel would secure WRAL’s investment in the facility. He expected the hotel would strengthen the long-term earnings of the WRAL Group which includes Hamilton Airport, Hamilton & Waikato Tourism and Titanium Park Limited.
WRAL is a council-controlled organisation owned by Hamilton City, Otorohanga, Waipa, Waikato and Matamata-Piako District Councils.

For further information call:
Mark Morgan, WRAL CEO, 027 562 3351
Liz Herrmann, owner Jet Park Hotels 027 434 6282

MEDIA RELEASE

The first fully integrated airport hotel in New Zealand opens at Wellington Airport

The first hotel in New Zealand fully connected and integrated with an airport terminal opens at Wellington Airport today.

The four-star Rydges Wellington Airport hotel features 134 rooms, a bar and restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. A refurbished conference centre offering eight meeting rooms with capacity for up to 80 people will also open later in the year.

Steve Sanderson, Wellington Airport CEO, says the purpose-built hotel will offer a great accommodation option for a wide variety of travellers.

“Tourists, business people and travellers from the wider Wellington region who are flying out early or arriving late will find the hotel an ideal option – they’ll enjoy a great night’s rest and an easy walk to the terminal.”

“This hotel reflects our commitment to continuing to enhance the airport experience for the growing number of passengers travelling through Wellington.”

Rydges is part of Event Hospitality and Entertainment Australasia and Rydges Wellington Airport will be the organisations seventh Rydges hotel in New Zealand and third in Wellington.

Chad Johnston, Rydges Wellington Airport General Manager, says: “Having direct access from inside the main terminal level is unique and it’s exciting that Rydges Wellington Airport will be the very first fully integrated airport hotel in New Zealand.”

“The hotel has the added benefit of being a plane spotter’s delight – with most rooms having extensive views out to Lyall Bay and directly out over the runway.”

As well as complementary Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, an onsite gym, the hotel will offer day use rates to cater for early morning departures and those who have a long connection between flights, providing a convenient place to rest and relax.

The hotel also features original artwork by prominent New Zealand artists like Peter Hackett exhibited in the hotel’s lobby and entranceway.  Each room in the hotel also has a one-of-a-kind commissioned black and white photograph showcasing a different central New Zealand location.

Simon White, Event Hospitality and Entertainment’s General Manager of Hotel Operations, New Zealand, is confident the hotel will be popular.

“It is a testament to the quality of the Rydges brand with our experience and service delivery to the business and conference market.  With its fantastic accessibility and purpose-built facilities, we’re expect guests will enjoy this hotel and all it has to offer.”

The hotel took 22 months to complete and is part of a wider infrastructure development programme currently taking place at Wellington Airport. The programme includes a new transport hub and multi-level car park which opened in late 2018 and a $15 million, 6,000 sqm food and beverage and retail upgrade in the airport’s main terminal taking place over the next 12 months.

Bookings can be made at www.rydges.co.nz

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For more information contact:

Wellington Airport: Renee Carter renee.carter@wellingtonairport.co.nz +6421 707 295

Rydges Wellington Airport: Jacinta Cipolla jacita_cipolla@evt.com +6421 0821 4217

MEDIA RELEASE

 Destination Fiordland takes unique opportunity & New manager employed at Destination Fiordland

 The Board of Destination Fiordland have taken the opportunity through the recent establishment of the Southland Regional Development Agency (“SRDA”) to pursue a new funding model in order to better serve its members and create greater leverage from local oversight.

As of the 31st March 2019 Destination Fiordland will be known as Destination Fiordland Incorporated and will be funded through the Southland District Council and a strong membership base having previously sat under Venture Southland.  Board Chair Gareth Davis says that by entering into this new relationship with the Southland District Council the organisation can make decisions at a community level by those who are working at the sharp-end of the industry.

The Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Madeleine Peacock to move into the manager’s position.  Ms. Peacock has an extensive personal and professional background in tourism in Fiordland being granddaughter of Les and Olive Hutchins, one of NZ tourism’s pioneering families, as well as working on the front line in tourism for over 20 years.  She has spent the past five years working for Fiordland Trips & Tramps in Te Anau and has developed strong networks in the industry particularly with inbound operators.  Deeply passionate about the area Ms. Peacock also serves on the Guardians of Lakes Manapouri, Te Anau and Monowai.  Ms. Peacock says she is looking forward to leading Destination Fiordland as it moves into a new season of growth.  “There is immense depth of knowledge and experience in the tourism sector in Fiordland and great opportunity to promote Fiordland as a significant contributor to the NZ tourism industry.  It goes without saying that Fiordland holds its head high with an exceptional natural environment however one of the strengths of the region is a community committed to sustainable growth and my hope is that the next chapter will be one of the community working together to achieve this,” states Ms. Peacock.

The Board of Destination Fiordland, Venture Southland and the Southland District Council will be working together over the next month to ensure a smooth transition to the new funding model.  The Board notes that it remains ‘business as usual’ at Destination Fiordland with the organisation being in good hands with interim manager Philippa Murrell, and team members Sarah McDonald and Shevaun Taberner.

For further information please contact Madeleine Peacock on 027 367 1334, or Gareth Davis gareth.davis@prlaw.co.nz

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With our contemporary urban style and convenient location near the CBD and the airport, Hotel Elms Christchurch, Ascend Hotel Collection™ , offers 98 contemporary and affordable suites that is fitting for business and leisure travellers.  It is also one of the city’s top venues for signature meetings, conference, and functions.  Situated in a quiet suburban area, it is effortlessly accessible to top attractions, activities, restaurants and businesses.

Hotel Elms Christchurch specialize in providing an unforgettable accommodation and conference experience as our friendly and professional staff look forward to showing our guests the best of Christchurch hospitality. Our 24-hour Front Desk provides personalized service and security at any time. We also offer complimentary on-site parking with 4 electric car charging stations and access to an offsite gym located within a short walk from the hotel.

Our comfortable rooms come with complimentary Wi-Fi,  smart TV, fridge, tea and coffee making facilities and an ensuite. Each studio unit has black out curtains and individually controlled air conditional / heat pump units for added comfort.

Our onsite Fig Restaurant is open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Gluten free and vegan options are also available as is a stunning selection of the finest wines and beers crafted both locally and abroad. Make the most of our In Room dining and 24-hour room service if you are peckish in the middle of the night or if you simply enjoy your meal and beverages without leaving the comfort of your hotel room.

From standard rooms, Superior, Deluxe, Executive Suites and Apartment, to our locally popular Fig Restaurant and Bar, you would seldom find a better stay in Christchurch.  Discover Hotel Elms Christchurch, where quality is a promise.

Capstone Hotels appointed Management Company for The Theatre Royal Hotel in Kumara, Westland

New Zealand owned Capstone Hotels & Resorts have been appointed as the Management Company for The Theatre Royal Hotel, Kumara as of Monday 21st January 2019, says Capstone Managing Director Clare Davies.

Owners Kerrie and Mark Fitzgibbon carried out extensive refurbishment works to the 1876 heritage building and re-opened it in 2012 following demand created by the newly developed West Coast Wilderness cycle trail.

Kerrie and Mark say “we are delighted to be passing on the management of The Theatre Royal to Capstone. Clare and her team have the skills and experience to ensure that the property continues to go from strength to strength and they are committed to taking it to the next level”.

Since 2012, the Fitzgibbon’s have expanded the accommodation offering from the original six hotel rooms with bar and restaurant, to include sympathetically renovated self-contained cottages offering a range of accommodation options from budget to boutique. Kerrie’s passion for the past is clear with many vintage and antique pieces adorning the rooms including local artefacts and family heirlooms donated to ensure they can continue to be loved and admired. In 2016 the couple developed and built six, 2 bedroom Miners Cottages taking the full property inventory to 73 beds, suitable for groups, along with adding secure bike sheds to meet the growing number of cycle tourists passing through.

Clare Davies says “we are absolutely thrilled to be joining Kerrie and Mark to help them to continue on the journey of growing the business into the international tourism sector and cementing its place in the heart of locals and New Zealanders. Supporting Kerrie and Mark’s vision for this place is absolutely integral to the success of the property and ensuring that the heritage of the Hotel and the township is more accessible to visitors, putting Kumara firmly on the map.

The Fitzgibbon’s remain the owners of the property and the current staff all remain in place. Capstone Hotels have appointed long term staff member Jacqui Rigarlsford as Hotel Manager responsible for the day to day operations. Capstone Hotels will be representing the property at TRENZ 2019 in Rotorua.

Capstone Hotels & Resorts have properties located throughout New Zealand and the inclusion of The Theatre Royal Hotel brings their expanding portfolio to fourteen along with a number of activity operators.

Key Contacts:
For all trade enquiries relating to The Theatre Royal Hotel:
Nona Jackson Director of Sales & Marketing nona@capstonehotels.co.nz
Clare Davies Managing Director clare@capstonehotels.co.nz

Tourwriter launches online itinerary builder platform designed to reinvent the way tour operators design travel

Tour operator software company, Tourwriter, are introducing a brand new product to the Tourwriter family. Their new product, Minim, is being recognised as a significant step forward for tour operator software, reinventing the way tour operators create itineraries and collaborate with their customers and agents.

The online platform is available as a standalone platform for tour operators, as well as an add-on integration for customers using Tourwriter. Minim’s integration with Tourwriter’s existing platform will make Tourwriter the first company worldwide to offer customers a true end-to-end tour operator software solution.

The integration has been used by a number of our existing Tourwriter customers over the latter part of 2018. “It has been such a delight to see our existing Tourwriter customers be the first to take advantage of the Minim integration functionality,” said CEO, Glenn Campbell. “The initial design and development of Minim really has been guided by our loyal customers – we couldn’t have developed Minim as comprehensively without them” added Campbell.

Upon logging into Minim, it’s visual identity is clear; it’s clean, simple, and ultra intuitive. “We’ve created Minim with a design led approach. Not only have we crafted beautiful itinerary templates, but the entire itinerary building process has also been created with an intention to provide a sense of quiet  in what can often be an intense work environment. Minim works to  make ‘a day in the life of a tour operator’ even more enjoyable,” explained Andi Parker, Tourwriter’s Lead User Experience designer for Minim.

Along with its innovative design, Minim is also being launched with a radical pricing option for it’s standalone users: free. When it came to designing the pricing plans the team behind Minim leaned on their industry experience, having been tour operators themselves for many years prior. “We know that as a tour operator software provider, our only path to success is designing  products that help our customers succeed. The pricing model for Minim is inspired by that philosophy,” explained Head of Marketing Denise Campbell, who co-founded Tourwriter 14 years ago after a 12 year stint as a tour operator in New Zealand. “The free plan, Minim zero, is the perfect stepping stone for tour operators who want to trial the product ahead of moving to Minim plus or are just starting out. We wanted it to be effortless”. Minim will be the industry’s first itinerary building software to offer a free plan.

Its paid plan, Minim plus, boasts an array of cutting edge innovations designed to shake up the status quo of itinerary design. In-itinerary chat functionality allows travel designers to communicate seamlessly with their customers. Revolutionary B2B functionality allows tour operators to invite and collaborate with other businesses such as ground handlers, DMC’s, and business customers, making Minim the travel industry’s only platform designed to allow such collaboration.

Along with the never-before-seen features, Minim comes bursting with a meticulously crafted itinerary design, an effortless supplier database, a birds-eye-view Minim Analytics Dashboard and a refreshing new take on tour operator software pricing. Aside from a small monthly base fee, the paid plan will only charge Minim customers when an itinerary sale is confirmed, a nod to the company’s mantra, ‘Your success is our success’. “Tourism is seasonal, and by nature business can be unpredictable. Everything about Minim, even it’s pricing, was designed with this in mind. When you succeed, we do too. When business is quieter our Minim platform won’t be a burden that stretches the budget. It’s a win-win.” explained Tourwriter CTO, David Crompton, who led the development of the new product.

Minim officially launched this week. While several of Tourwriter’s customers had the opportunity to try the new product before anyone else, the announcement has largely been kept under wraps until now. To learn more about Minim, and to try it for yourself visit itinerarybuilder.tourwriter.com

Our premium product utilizes the taonga (treasures) that Ngati Porou have available providing access for our guests to visit a place that is regarded as the first in the world to see the sunrise.

Locally guided, our visitors are transported up our sacred maunga by 4WD UTV. Once at the top, our visitors will arrive at our nine pou “Te Takapau-o-Maui”. A sacred site with Maori carvings that depict the stories of Maui, the Polynesian adventurer, famous for his legendary deeds. Our visitors will learn about Maui and his stories, be exposed to an epic sunrise and mountainous views, and gain insight into the local region. Our visitors will also get to taste some of our local produce and cuisines and will also be given the opportunity to leave their footprint and plant a native seedling as part of our native tree re-generation programme.

To read more about Tourwriter’s blog on ‘Travel trends in 2019: What to expect and how to prepare’, click here