Tourism New Zealand is appealing for UK trade support as it seeks to rebuild interest in travel to the country in the wake of last month’s devastating Christchurch earthquake.
A range of alternative itineraries using Christchurch airport as a gateway and covering upper, middle and lower South Island have been compiled as the city is still under a state of emergency with many businesses remaining shut.
Some key tourism attractions are now operating including the Air Force Museum, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, and the Tranz-Alpine train service.
The Chateau on the Park hotel has also re-opened, which means there are now some more hotel beds available in the city area outside of the cordon zone, according to the tourist board.
Tourism New Zealand’s priority after the quake was to provide support and help ensure travellers in Christchurch, other parts of the country and those intending to travel had accurate and up-to-date travel information.
Chief executive Kevin Bowler said: “A strong economy is what we need to ensure Christchurch can get back on its feet as quickly as possible and tourism is vital to this.
“With this in mind we would like to ask the UK tourism industry’s support in encouraging visitors to continue to visit our beautiful country.”
International tourism contributes NZ$9.5 billion of foreign exchange to the New Zealand economy a year, including around 235,000 arrivals from the UK.
“We have been overwhelmed by the kindness and support which New Zealand has received from the UK and our sincere thanks goes to everyone who has been involved over the last two weeks, we really appreciate your help,” said Bowler.
“From a tourism industry perspective, other than Christchurch city, New Zealand is very much open as normal.
“Our tourism businesses across the country, and especially in the wider Canterbury area, have been making alternative arrangements for those who had planned to stay in Christchurch and will continue to do over the coming months.”
He added: “It is too soon to say how long the recovery and rebuilding of Christchurch will take, however, we know that the determined Cantabrian spirit will be a key factor to help rebuild the city. “
“We are confident that international visitors to New Zealand will continue to have a great time exploring and enjoying the experiences they had hoped for, such as tramping in Abel Tasman National Park, sailing in Auckland harbour or relaxing over a glass of world class wine.”