Latest News from Tourism New Zealand

New Zealand’s tourism industry is continuing to feel the effects of Influenza A (H1N1), with arrivals from Asia expected to be down till at least August.

The most recent visitor arrival statistics to New Zealand for the month of May 2009 show marked decreases in visitors from China (-32.8%), Japan (-41.8%) and Korea (-54.4%).

Provisional four-weekly arrivals figures and industry feedback from Asia suggest the picture is likely to remain similar for June and July.

With Influenza A (H1N1) continuing to spread, the New Zealand Government, like most governments, has moved to a ‘management’ phase of the disease.

These days, when travellers arrive in New Zealand they will no longer be screened for Influenza A, but health officials remain at major airports where travellers can present themselves if unwell.

Read the full story and download information for visitors and tourism businesses.

Read the Influenza H1N1 Q&A issued by the Ministry of Health

After 10 years at the helm of Tourism New Zealand its chief executive George Hickton is stepping down leaving a strong legacy for his successor.

When he joined the organization a decade ago, the picture was very different. George Hickton says back in 1999 his first set of goals was clear – to rebuild faith in the organisation and to introduce a single global marketing brand for New Zealand tourism overseas.

“When I walked in the door, things at Tourism New Zealand were difficult. Relations with the Government had broken down, we had multiple brands around the world and the industry had lost faith in the organisation’s ability to deliver results,” he says.

The past 10 years have seen things change significantly. 

Read the full story online 

The 100% Pure New Zealand brand will get a profile boost when it adorns the largest winter sports event in the Southern Hemisphere in August.

The biennial games will take place at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona, Snow Farm, Naseby and Dunedin from 21-30 August. It will feature alpine skiing, free skiing, cross country skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and demonstration sports.

Tourism New Zealand’s Chief Executive George Hickton says branding the games as the 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games will provide great international exposure for New Zealand.

Broadcast rights have already been confirmed for Canada, Australia, Germany and some Asian countries.

Read the full story online
 

24 June sees the official start of Matariki, signifying the dawn of the Māori New Year.

The cultural celebration, which has experienced a revival in recent years, is marked with a national festival of public events across the country. From stargazing to story-telling and feasting to foraging, Matariki is an opportunity for visitors to get a glimpse into Māori culture and enjoy the fruits of New Zealand’s abundant harvest.

Tourism New Zealand actively works to promote Matariki to visiting international journalists visiting New Zealand.

Read the full story online

For a list of events taking place across New Zealand visit  www.matarikievents.co.nz 
 

The presenters of Australia’s TODAY show spent two days broadcasting live from Queenstown on 29 and 30 June, sharing highlights of the region and the buzz of the Winter Festival with 800,000 Australians.

As well as the two-day broadcast from Queenstown, TODAY weatherman Steven Jacobs and reporter Mike Dalton presented live broadcasts every half hour between 22 and 26 June. Tourism New Zealand also worked with the TODAY show presenters to pre-record travel segments on 12 New Zealand regions, which were shown during the two-day New Zealand special. Presenters tested their fears against the Nevis Arc Swing, were pampered like celebrities and enjoyed scenic helicopter tours around Queenstown and the Remarkables.

Key partner Qantas provided all flights for the presenters and crew.

Find out more and watch videos from Steven Jacobs and Mike Dalton's tour of New Zealand

Read more about the TODAY show's visit to New Zealand