Media release
2nd December 2004
New Zealand tourism experts support report on Pacific growth & reform
New Zealand tourism researchers are backing an Australian report which calls for reforms rather than aid, as a key to
self-sufficiency among Pacific Island nations.
AUT Professor of Tourism Simon Milne says a report released today called 'The Pacific Is Viable' reinforces the need for
sustainable business growth and investment in the Pacific.
International investors heading to Pacific in 2005
Professor Milne has today outlined details of an upcoming Pacific tourism investment conference, planned for Fiji from
the 1- 4 February. He says the February forum - Profit In The Pacific Investment Conference - reflects growing worldwide
interest in Pacific Island tourism investment.
Ironically, the February gathering of international investors is being driven by the European Union rather than regional
interests. Profit in the Pacific is part of a PROINVEST aid program to promote tourism related business partnerships in
the South Pacific.
"The EU has identified more than 100 high quality Pacific tourism products worthy of investment," says Professor Milne.
"The investment opportunities range from hotel construction through to small adventure tourism ventures," he says.
The EU has organised the February forum as a way of attracting foreign capital to small Pacific nations. Investors from
Europe and the Pacific Rim will be on hand at the conference, as will major aid agencies. Private investors from New
Zealand are also being urged to attend.
"Profit In The Pacific will be the highest calibre tourism investment forum ever to take place in the Pacific region,"
"Tens of millions of dollars are expected to pour in the region as a result of new joint ventures, trading partnerships
and technical assistance arrangements."
Professor Milne says New Zealand investors will have some advantages over their European counterparts.
"New Zealand investors should view this as an opportunity right on our doorstep, in a region we know better than many
European investors," he says.
"The conference will have special appeal to Pacific Islanders living in New Zealand; this is great opportunity for them
to explore investment prospects throughout the region."
Those seeking more information about the conference and the related investment opportunities can view the website at
www.profitpacific.com .
*The New Zealand Tourism Research Institute, based at the Auckland University of Technology http://www.aut.ac.nz, brings
together experts in the tourism and hospitality arena. The Institute aims to develop timely and innovative research
solutions for the tourism industry and those who depend on it. NZTRI's focus is on helping to develop a profitable and
sustainable industry which provides tangible benefits for business, residents and visitors. Current projects are in New
Zealand, the South Pacific islands, Mexico, Newfoundland and Vietnam
Released on behalf of the European Union by Slice Media Limited