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In a move towards the future of sustainable tourism, Altitude Tours, helmed by Nigel Hobbs and Heidi Farren has revealed their latest brand initiative. the Tourism Innovation Group (TIG)
TIG is set to redefine the landscape of travel with a commitment to innovation, integrity, and sustainability. The launch signifies a new chapter for the New Zealand-based company, renowned for its award-winning approach to tourism.
Co founders and directors and Nigel and Heidi’s journey began in 2017 with Altitude Tours, growing from a single vehicle operation to a multi-award-winning enterprise, and praised with the New Zealand Tourism Awards in both 2022 and 2023. This success story is now expanding under the umbrella of TIG, which encompasses a portfolio of brands aimed at delivering unparalleled guest experiences while promoting sustainable tourism practices.
“Creating TIG was the next logical step for us.” says Nigel and Heidi
“We needed an overarching brand to facilitate joint ventures and collaborations that our individual touring brands couldn’t manage on their own. TIG allows us to grow and maintain our vision, mission, and values across all our business units.”
TIG’s current portfolio includes Altitude Tours, Black (a luxury tour operator in the Southern Lakes region), and from July 1st, Fiordland Tours, among others. This strategic expansion is designed to leverage TIG’s robust infrastructure, enabling the group to pursue new opportunities and joint ventures with ease.
They emphasise the holistic approach to sustainability that underpins TIG’s operations. “For us, sustainability isn’t just about the environment. It’s about human sustainability, economic stability, and social responsibility. We want to ensure that our impact is net positive for the communities we operate in.”
This vision extends to community collaboration and the concept of Tiaki, a Māori term meaning to care for people and place. They say “We believe in making a positive impact, whether through donations, supporting local charities, or advocating for tourism as a viable career. We’re not just planting trees; we’re investing in the future of our industry and our communities.”
TIG’s dedication to innovation and customer-centric experiences has been the cornerstone of its success. The group’s accolades, including the innovation and visitor experience awards, highlight their ability to create unique, market-specific products that resonate with both domestic and international travellers.
“Our focus on sustainability and innovation has driven our growth, even during the challenging years of the COVID-19 pandemic. We aim to continue this trajectory, ensuring that our values are reflected in every aspect of our business.” says Nigel and Heidi.
Looking ahead, TIG is poised to make even bigger strides, with plans to acquire and develop three new projects over the next 18 months.
As TIG forges ahead, Nigel and Heid remain committed to setting new standards in the tourism industry. “We’re not just building a brand; we’re creating a legacy of sustainable tourism that other companies can look to for inspiration. Our goal is to be a beacon of best practices, demonstrating that commercial success and sustainability can go hand in hand.” they say.
For more information about TIG and their innovative approach to sustainable tourism, visit their newly launched website, which details their values, sustainability practices, and future projects.
As Nigel and Heidi put it, “We’re here to make a difference, one unforgettable experience at a time.”
