Destination Rotorua says the city’s visitor tourism industry is raring to go as the country prepares to move into Level 2, and operators are extending New Zealanders an invitation to explore their wondrous city when domestic travel ‘restarts’ later this week.
Destination Rotorua CE Michelle Templer says Monday’s confirmation that we will be moving into Level 2 on Thursday is fantastic news for the local visitor and retail sectors and the city is looking forward to welcoming visitors here again as soon as possible.
“Rotorua has always been a favourite holiday destination for New Zealanders and we know that many are already planning their next holiday here,” says Michelle. “In fact, 59 per cent of all visitor spend in Rotorua last year came from domestic visitors and our industry is working hard to make it even more attractive for Kiwis to visit.”
Destination Rotorua works to promote the destination and to inspire people not only to visit, but to live here too.
“We are running a number of marketing campaigns at the moment, sharing beautiful video and imagery encouraging visitors to experience and enjoy time amongst our natural elements; our lakes, forest and geothermal landscape.
"Our research tells us that Kiwis love feeling connected with our natural surroundings; it is wonderful for their well-being and health. We hope to inspire them to book a holiday to take advantage of some great added value offers and packages.
“Manaakitanga has always been an important part of Rotorua’s identity and it’s great to know that we’ll soon be able to care for our visitors once more, just like we always have,” says Michelle.
Destination Rotorua has also recently launched the second phase of its In our Element marketing campaign, encouraging residents to explore their wonderful backyard and to support local businesses.
“We need more than ever to support each other as much as we can. The first phase of our locals’ campaign focused on businesses that were open in Level 3, which were largely retail, and food and beverage. As we move into Level 2, these businesses still need our support but there’s also the opportunity to explore our wider backyard and visit the incredible attractions and activities on our doorstep.
“People come from all over the world to experience this special place, and yet we have all of these natural wonders and world-class activities right outside our doors,” she says. “That’s why the campaign talks about us all being ‘In Our Element’.”
The first phase of the campaign encouraged locals to Support Local businesses by providing a one-stop place to find out which favourite cafés, restaurants, shops and other services were operating. The Explore Local aspect introduces local activities and attractions as they reopen and will list all of the special deals that are available to Rotorua residents in one centralised place.
“Now we’re moving into Level 2, we’re able to showcase all the tourism operators that can open at this level,” says Michelle. “As well as inspiring people to enjoy their own back yard, we also hope this campaign will help locals be great ambassadors for Rotorua by encouraging friends and family to visit.”
Rotorua locals can expect to see lots more over the coming weeks with billboards, bus advertising, TV on demand ads and a radio competition underway.
