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More international visitors are set to explore regional New Zealand, following a $3.69 million investment through the second round of the Government’s Regional Tourism Boost, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston has announced.
Upston says the funding will support five new campaigns aimed at encouraging international travellers to visit regional destinations during the quieter autumn and early winter period.
“We want visitors to experience more of what New Zealand has to offer,” says Upston.
“From cycling the Great Lake Trails in Taupō and tasting pinot noir in the Waipara Valley, to enjoying speciality cheese in Ōamaru or admiring Southland’s fiords, visitors really can do it all.”
She says the investment will help spread the benefits of tourism more evenly across the country.
“We’re investing in five campaigns to help our regions shine, support local businesses and encourage visitors to explore beyond the usual hotspots.
“By highlighting time-limited travel and accommodation deals, and regionally distinctive hospitality experiences, we’re making it easier for international travellers to visit during the quieter months.”
The five initiatives supported through the second round of the Regional Tourism Boost are:
- $1.2 million for a national campaign encouraging visitors from the United States and Canada to explore all corners of New Zealand, coordinated by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
- $1 million to attract Australian visitors from the eastern seaboard to alpine and coastal destinations in the central South Island, led by ChristchurchNZ
- $600,000 to promote New Zealand’s Great Rides to Australian holidaymakers, led by Destination Great Lake Taupō
- $459,000 to encourage Australians from the Gold Coast to explore the lower South Island, delivered by Great South and partner regional tourism organisations
- $459,000 to attract visitors from Sydney and the Gold Coast to the heart of the North Island via direct flights into Hamilton Airport, led by Hamilton & Waikato Tourism
“Tourism is a powerhouse for our economy, supporting jobs, businesses and vibrant communities,” says Upston.
“This funding is about growth, building for the future and making sure all our regions benefit from international tourism.”
