Next week more than 1500 international travel delegates and the country’s leading tourism operators will experience Ōtautahi during TRENZ, a four-day trade event designed to build relationships, broker business opportunities and explore new tourism experiences from the country’s visitation sector.
TRENZ being held in Ōtautahi represents another significant milestone for the city. In 2019, prior to COVID, the tourism industry was valued at over $39 billion to the New Zealand economy, with $1 billion spent in the Christchurch economy while still in recovery post-earthquake. In 2010 visitor expenditure in the city exceeded $1.7 billion. The last time TRENZ was held in Ōtautahi was 2006.
The trade show doubles not only as a business generating tradeshow, but as a chance for international travel trade and inbound tour operators to refamiliarise themselves with the city and region.
ChristchurchNZ’s head of tourism Kath Low says “ChristchurchNZ is thrilled to welcome back TRENZ delegates to our vibrant city. For many of the delegates it will be their first experience of Christchurch. For others it will be their first time back since 2006 – they will be surprised and delighted.”
“The program of appointments, famils and events is designed to nurture and re-energise as we reconnect in person after considerable time. It is Christchurch’s time to shine and we’re so eager to show it all off.” she says.
Rebecca Ingram, ceo of Tourism Industry Aotearoa says “TIA is proud to partner with ChristchurchNZ to bring this event back to life after the COVID disruption of the past three years. Prior to the pandemic, tourism was the most valuable sector to New Zealand’s economy, and this is the industry’s chance to reconnect but also critically reimagine how travel and tourism will grow and develop into the future.“
“We’re so thrilled the event is being held in Christchurch. We had expected to host the event here three years ago however Covid-19 delayed things. The city and its fantastic tourism community are very ready for this event, and for the world, to be back.” says Rebecca
The four-day trade show offers delegates a chance to experience the city’s attractions through a familiarisation programme including perennial favourites like Christchurch Attractions’ tram and gondola, and the International Antarctic Centre.
There are over 80 new products and sellers including Christchurch Adventure Park, a waka ride on the Ōtakaro Avon River and a walking food tour exploring the city’s cultural heritage among the line-ups.
Christchurch Attractions ceo Sue Sullivan says “We are proud to be involved in this historic return of TRENZ and extend a warm welcome to our global guests visiting this month. Ōtautahi can be proud of what we have achieved, and it is inspiring to join the new generation of kaitiaki welcoming visitors to our rebuilt and revitalised city.”
