Making the Most of The Rugby World Cup

MEDIA RELEASE – Opportunity Hamilton

22 June 2011

Waikato Businesses Urged to Make the Most of Rugby World Cup 2011

The Hon Dr Jonathan Coleman, Associate Minister of Tourism, is addressing Waikato business leaders on Friday, 25 June, at SKYCITY Hamilton as part of the launch of the New Zealand 2011 Business Club. 

Associate Minister Coleman says, “Rugby World Cup is one of the world’s biggest sports events and as hosts we have an unprecedented opportunity to boost New Zealand’s international profile, and make lasting gains in trade and tourism. We’re expecting 85,000 international visitors and many of them will be business people.

“The NZ 2011 Business Club offers Waikato businesses a unique opportunity to expand their networks and develop links with those international visitors. It’s an ideal vehicle to build those connections in a way that’s second nature to New Zealanders  - as great hosts,” he says.

Sandra Perry, Chief Executive of Opportunity Hamilton, is urging regional businesses to get involved with the New Zealand 2011 Business Club and make connections with overseas business people during the Rugby World Cup. 

“Formation of the Business Club was announced in April and is a website where Kiwis can connect with overseas business people with similar interests who will be attending the Rugby World Cup matches in Hamilton.

“Government Ambassadors are recruiting overseas business people to join the Business Club.  Now, Waikato business people need to put their hands up to host these visitors while they are in our region.

“Opportunity Hamilton would like to see local businesses going above and beyond other regions to really showcase the benefits the Waikato has on offer,” says Mrs Perry.

The New Zealand 2011 Business Club will enable Waikato businesses to get information on the visitors coming to the area, including their commercial and social interests.  This will help the region plan events that match visitors’ interests.

Mrs Perry says Opportunity Hamilton will take the lead to work with businesses to plan and host a range of events.

The New Zealand 2011 Office presentation on 25 June will also be attended by special guest, ex-All Black, Colin Meads. 

For more information on the Business Club visit www.nz2011.govt.nz.

-ENDS-

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