14 April 2016
For immediate release
Tourism New Zealand and Christchurch Airport sign $6m commitment in new JV
Tourism New Zealand and Christchurch Airport (CIAL) have today signed a new MOU committing $6 million to jointly promote
New Zealand through Christchurch Airport.
The new agreement is for an initial period of three years with annual plans to be agreed.
This strategic agreement builds on a strong working relationship between the two organisations and will focus on
advertising, PR and trade activities.
René de Monchy, Director Trade, PR and Major Events Tourism New Zealand is keen to get started on the new programme of
work.
“Our two organisations have worked together for a number of years to grow the number of visitors from key overseas
markets and determine how we can best invest our resources to benefit Christchurch, the South Island and New Zealand’s
tourism industry.”
“We’ve built in a range of individual in-depth plans and targets for our largest markets of Australia and China as well
as for South East Asia.”
“Over the first year we’ll carry out campaign activity to promote South Island road trips departing from Christchurch,
aligned with Tourism New Zealand’s focus to attract visitors to more regions. Other activities include research and
enhancing and updating our imagery of the south.”
Justin Watson, Chief Commercial Officer - Aeronautical at Christchurch Airport says the airport is the South Island’s
largest tourism business and the main gateway for international visitors so it makes perfect sense to work with Tourism
New Zealand on encouraging even more visitors to experience the South Island.
“We know that when an international visitor enters through Christchurch Airport they spread out through the regions of
the South Island more than through any other entry point. This creates a significant economic footprint for the regions
of the South Island. It also creates a great opportunity for visitors to experience the vibrant and ever changing city
of Christchurch.
Both René and Justin are delighted that the combined efforts of Tourism New Zealand and CIAL will see a renewed
commitment to maximise the value of the overseas visitor market for Christchurch, the South Island and New Zealand.
ENDS