The vibrant, worldclass destination of Rotorua will be in the spotlight next week (8-10 August) as New Zealand’s tourism experts and key influencers (inbound tour operators that book international visitors) descend on the region for the Tourism Export Council of New Zealand’s annual tourism conference and TECNZ Tourism Trade Event.
The Tourism Trade Event begins on Tuesday with record numbers of 38 Inbound Tour Operators in attendance. The trade event provides a platform for tourism businesses to update ITOs on changes to their visitor experiences and products.
Over the 1.5 days, TECNZ ITO members will have up to 75 one-on-one business meetings with TECNZ Allied members (activity, transport, accommodation operators).
The sold-out TECNZ Conference then follows starting on Wednesday afternoon with an official welcome by local Iwi and Mayor Tania Tapsell.
“This year’s theme ‘Rethinking the future’ indicates the international tourism sector has moved from survival mode to one that can now proactively focus on planning and look at trends that may influence future decisions throughout a business’s operation,” says chief executive Lynda Keene.
“As New Zealand moves into Year 2 of its international tourism recovery, it’s essential we explore areas of what is needed to ensure New Zealand’s global reputation and proposition remains competitive, innovative, and forward thinking.”
Over the two-day Conference, delegates will hear from Minister of Tourism Hon Peeni Henare, Tourism New Zealand CEO René de Monchy, economist Cameron Bagrie, New Zealand Story CEO David Downs, All Black legend Ian Jones, Genesis Energy CEO Malcolm Johns and the keynote speaker, Mike King, New Zealand’s mental health advocate and TV personality.
On Day two delegates will partake in workshops covering cyber security, health and safety planning for the future and a visit to the new Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa.
It will also include a panel discussion providing insights to trends from major source markets and a YoungTEC panel discussing artificial ntelligence and the youth Gen Z workforce.
“Rotorua is thrilled to be hosting the 2023 Tourism Export Council in our city,” says RotoruaNZ chief executive Andrew Wilson.
“The annual TECNZ Conference is always a highlight on NZ’s tourism events calendar and is a brilliant conference allowing industry to come together, share ideas, learn new trends, and network. Rotorua welcomes the opportunity to showcase our amazing region and we’ve organised famils for conference delegates that show the wealth of unique experiences Rotorua has to offer. We know delegates will be inspired by the conference, as well as what they see and experience here during their time here with us.”
