3 December 2012
Eco-tourism experience takes Waiheke Island to new heights
Auckland Mayor Len Brown became one of the first to enjoy a high flying environmental experience at Waiheke Island’s new
EcoZip Adventures today.
The activity – the only one of its kind in Auckland – combines spectacular vistas with adventure and education. Visitors
ride on three 200 metre ziplines over a vineyard and mature tree canopy and finish with a guided walk through
300-year-old pristine native bush.
The Mayor flew down the first zipline and was impressed with the experience, saying it exemplifies what is so special
about Auckland as a destination.
“It’s an absolute blast! It makes the most of our amazing natural setting, with the bush, harbour and city in the
distance. The zipline really shows off everything Auckland has to offer,” he says.
Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) Acting General Manager Destination, Jason Hill, says the new
eco-tourism venture is a welcome addition to the popular visitor destination of Waiheke Island, which is renowned for
its excellent vineyards.
“It’s great to see this unique activity launch on Waiheke to complement the island’s outstanding food and wine offering.
EcoZip’s combination of fun, adventure and nature is something that will resonate with many visitors from our key
markets of Australia, China, North America and the United Kingdom,” he says.
“We are working to encourage both domestic and international visitors to stay longer in the Auckland region and new
tourism activities help add to our destination’s appeal.”
Since opening in November, EcoZip Adventures has attracted people of all ages from around New Zealand and offshore.
EcoZip Adventures Managing Director Gavin Oliver says the experience is more an environmental adventure than a thrill
seekers’ ride.
“There are countless exhilarating adventure activities around New Zealand. What EcoZip has created is a chance for
people to experience and learn about our native bush – to literally see it from new angles,” he says.
Waiheke Island is located 35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland. Known as the ‘island of wine’ for its 30 boutique
vineyards, Waiheke also attracts visitors for its olive groves, sandy beaches and thriving arts scene.
ATEED works to help drive Auckland’s visitor economy and contribute to making Auckland the world’s most liveable city.
ENDS