Christchurch to showcase destination to tourism influencers

Tourism Export Council of New Zealand

Christchurch to showcase destination to tourism influencers in 2019

Tourism operators are eagerly anticipating a visit to Christchurch for next year’s annual Tourism Export Council of New Zealand (TECNZ) Tourism Conference, 14-15 August 2019.

It is the first time the conference has been held in the city for 20 years and will be an opportunity to showcase all the new tourism options available in Christchurch, plus old favourites.

Chief Executive of TECNZ, Judy Chen said, “We are excited to be heading back to Christchurch for next years conference. As tour operators, our members have a deep understanding of the Christchurch tourism offering and the challenges the region has faced over the last seven years since the 2011 earthquakes.”

“There is no doubt, as the rebuild nears completion that Christchurch is again becoming a key destination on holiday itineraries. We look forward to seeing all the new activities and attractions, as well as, the fantastic food and beverage scene the city has to offer in 2019.

Many of these operators are members of TECNZ and we’re looking forward to seeing the new attractions and activities they have to offer.”

The destination for the 2019 conference was hotly contested and announced yesterday at the conclusion of the Tourism Conference in Napier.

ChristchurchNZ General Manager Destination and Attraction Loren Heaphy said it was exciting to be able to play host to so many tourism operators.

“They will be able to see first-hand all the great tourism product on offer in our city. There is so much to explore and seeing it in person is a powerful way to experience how our city has shaped and developed.”

Ms Chen said the South Island is always a compelling visitor destination, with Christchurch often the key connector to other great destinations.

“Our Board recently visited Kaikoura and were delighted to see how the area had bounced back despite the challenges of the last couple of years since the 2016 earthquakes.”

“There’s no doubt it’s been tough but the rebuild of the roads into the region and the redevelopment of the wharf for the iconic whale watch experience are all compelling reasons for tour operators to keep promoting the town.

The recent announcement of the 118 room Sudima Hotel development will also add useful large-scale accommodation to the area, making group tours and overnight stays much more do-able. This in turn increases length of stay and spend in the town, which is a win-win for us all.”

ENDS

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