Wearable Arts and Tourism partnership
Tourism Minister Mark Burton is hosting a function at Parliament this evening at which the Prime Minister Helen Clark
will launch an exciting new partnership between tourism and culture.
Nelson-based Wearable Arts is to be promoted overseas by Tourism New Zealand as one of this country's premier cultural
tourism attractions.
"Wearable Arts began 14 years ago as a promotion for an art gallery in Nelson," Mark Burton said. "Now the annual show
attracts around 700 entries from all over the world. It's become a New Zealand cultural landmark.
"This government has emphasised the importance of partnerships – tonight we are celebrating a marketing and media
partnership between Tourism New Zealand and Montana World of Wearable Arts.
"This arrangement is a good example of Tourism New Zealand working to broaden the visitor perception of New Zealand, by
highlighting the country’s sophisticated mix of people and culture.
"Tourism New Zealand has had a relationship with Wearable Arts for several years now, using them on several occasions in
offshore events promoting New Zealand. Now a long-term arrangement has been entered into. Wearable Arts will be used as
part of an international marketing campaign for the next three years.
"This is a very appropriate and timely development, as Wearable Arts is evolving the show to a permanent facility. The
new World of Wearable Art complex being constructed in Stoke, near Nelson, will turn New Zealand's unique fashion
extravaganza into a year-round visitor attraction."
A private Nelson investor has supported the complex, with the government contributing a tourism facilities grant of
$150,000.
"It is a wonderful combination of cultural creativity, business acumen, and community support," Mark Burton said. "The
government is proud to be working in partnership with Wearable Arts, and this new marketing arrangement with Tourism New
Zealand will ensure we showcase it to the world."
ENDS