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Latest NewsAll the latest tourism related news from the Auckland region and beyond.
Campaign uncovers Auckland’s gems
Tourism Auckland has launched a new advertising campaign highlighting some of Auckland’s best-kept secrets.
The new print and online campaign aims to surprise Aucklanders and domestic travellers with images of little-known jewels of the region. It encourages visitors to stay longer and enjoy the diversity and proximity of the region’s experiences.
Chief executive Graeme Osborne says the campaign is a long-term investment by Tourism Auckland to change perceptions of the destination.
The campaign incorporates print advertising, Tourism Auckland’s website www.aucklandnz.com, e-mail marketing, search engine marketing and billboards. It will also be used internationally in coming months.
The campaign is also the first to feature Auckland’s new regional brand identity, which has been a collaborative project led by AucklandPlus, the economic development arm of Auckland Regional Council. The regional brand will feature in Tourism Auckland’s consumer campaigns in future and further details are on the website www.brandauckland.com.
Tourism Auckland has been a partner in the development of the brand. “We believe the time is right to have a strong destination brand that represents the whole of the Auckland region,” says Mr Osborne.
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New Daily Auckland-Melbourne Service
Monday, 22 September 2008, 11:14 am
Press Release: Virgin Blue<
MEDIA RELEASE
Welcome Aboard Possums!
“Megastar” Launch Flight Celebrates New Daily Auckland-Melbourne Service
Monday 22 September 2008: Glamorous glasses and purple rinses will be in evidence at Auckland Airport today as Pacific Blue begins its new daily service to Melbourne with an inaugural flight that pays homage to one of Australia’s megastars*.
Pacific Blue announced the new service in July, becoming the first low-cost carrier to fly the route. Commenting on today’s launch Pacific Blue’s General Manager, Commercial, Adrian Hamilton-Manns said that once again the airline’s entry to a new market was lowering the cost of air travel for all Kiwis.
“After announcing six weeks ago that we would begin flights from Auckland to Melbourne and Sydney, our competitors have been falling over themselves to try to match our lower fares,” said Mr Hamilton-Manns. “This is exactly what happened when we launched our affordable domestic fares last year, so their efforts have again proved that Pacific Blue is the low-fare leader and shows what real competition can achieve.”
Today’s launch flight from “the City of Sails to Moonee Ponds” takes off at 6.30am (NZST) from Auckland and will arrive in Melbourne four hours later at 8.30am (AEST). The return flight will leave Melbourne at 9.30am (AEST) and touch-down at Auckland Airport to a water-arch welcome at 2.45pm (NZST).
Mr Hamilton-Manns said Pacific Blue was excited to be offering an affordable travel option for Aucklanders to visit Melbourne. “Melbourne is a hugely popular destination for Aucklanders for business and leisure, and now they can visit this cosmopolitan Australian city without paying a fortune.”
Auckland Airport CEO Simon Moutter said that today’s launch flight is a welcome addition to Pacific Blue’s services at Auckland Airport. “It’s great to see Pacific Blue providing more options to travellers who are keen to get across the ditch. Australians and New Zealanders love exploring both countries and we relish the opportunity to welcome more trans-Tasman travellers through Auckland Airport,” said Mr Moutter.
Pacific Blue will be operating one of its brand new Boeing 737-800 Next Generation jets – “Maiden New Zealand” – on today’s launch flight. “We’ve recently taken delivery of two brand new 737-800 jets to support our trans-Tasman and Pacific Island growth,” said Mr Hamilton-Manns. “These new aircraft bring our fleet number to nine and our average fleet age to just over three years.”
In recent months Pacific Blue has announced a range of new routes including Auckland to Melbourne and Sydney, Sydney to Vanuatu, and Brisbane to Port Moresby.
Guests on today’s launch flight from Auckland will be hosted by several Dame Edna lookalikes and will enjoy Pacific Blue’s traditional launch flight celebrations including a glass of bubbly, a slice of traditional Kiwi-Aussie pavlova, a special limited edition launch flight t-shirt giveaway, as well as an in-flight auction and fundraising efforts with all proceeds donated to Variety, the Children’s Charity.
Guests on board the return flight from Melbourne will enjoy similar celebrations on a “Pasifika Style” themed flight, including an innovative partnership between Pacific Blue and Tourism Auckland. Two Tourism Auckland i-Site team members – renamed “Fly-site” for today – will be aboard the flight from Melbourne to promote Auckland to Melbourne Guests and answer questions about visitor attractions in the Auckland region.
* Pacific Blue appreciates that Dame Edna is a megastar, and while we're delighted to pay homage to her on these flights, we'd like to point out that neither Dame Edna, Barry Humphries nor any of his other characters are associated with us, nor has any licence been given to us to use any of Barry Humphries’ characters. Unfortunately, the megastar herself will not be present on the inaugural flights or at associated celebrations.
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World’s best in Auckland’s harbour playground
15 September 2008
Auckland is thrilled to welcome the world's best sailors to the city's harbour playground for next year's Louis Vuitton Pacific Cup.
Racing between at least six of the America's Cup crews, including our own Emirates Team New Zealand, will take place in the Waitemata Harbour from 31 January to 14 February.
Mayor of Auckland Hon. John Banks says securing such a high calibre event for the city is a real coup.
"This is an opportunity to combine two of New Zealand's crown jewels – our yachting pedigree and the beautiful waters of our harbour.
"What a great part of our city to have on show to the world."
AucklandPlus chair Michael Barnett says the regatta pushes Auckland further along the road to being a desirable major events destination.
"We want Auckland to be perceived as a dynamic, innovative and engaging city by global audiences."
Barnett is pleased to see three Auckland organisations – Auckland City Council, AucklandPlus and Tourism Auckland – acting collaboratively to support this event.
"Following on from the successful regional approach to Rugby World Cup 2011, this is yet another example of key organisations working together to maximise the benefits for Aucklanders."
Unlike the previous America's Cup finals held in Auckland, this regatta will occur in the heart of the city between Rangitoto Island and Orakei Wharf, giving spectators on land a great view of the action from vantage points on Devonport's North Head and Bastion Point.
Tourism Auckland chief executive Graeme Osborne says the breathtaking backdrop to the racing will be an incredibly powerful global image.
"International audiences will be able to see everything from our volcanic cones to our golden beaches while viewing world-class yachting. That sort of postcard image will have a dramatic impact."
Today's announcement follows news earlier this month that one of the biggest names in football, David Beckham, is coming to Auckland in December, and that the region has also secured all four matches at the business end of Rugby World Cup 2011.
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THIS IS AUCKLAND - Official Guide 2008/2009
The latest addition of Tourism Auckland’s official guide is now out! This year the guide has taken on a new look to coincide with our marketing campaign launched in September 2008, as well as AucklandPlus’s regional brand work.
It is a more spirited guide, showing off Auckland as a youthful, vibrant and energetic destination. The editorial pages has seen a revamp with the introduction of 50 things to do in Auckland, a walks of Auckland page, heritage sites to visit, as well as shopping and dining options. This makes the guide a more comprehensive tool for all visitors.
The guide is divided into seven touring routes of the region. A new addition to the touring route editorial is the “This is not to be missed” segment, showing visitors there is heaps to do within the Auckland region. This year we also received contributions from some key personalities that have added character to the regions including Valerie Vili, Joe Rokocoko and Kevin Ireland.
This year the guide also includes a larger A3 map section, with maps including the Auckland region, Central City, Manukau and Takapuna. The transport section has also been transformed into ”Getting Around” to offer a much more comprehensive guide to public transport within Auckland, airport information and vehicle rentals.
This is Auckland” official guide will be distributed through various channels including the i-SITE network, international media, overseas Tourism New Zealand offices, travel agents, wholesalers, inbound agents, education institutes and trade shows.
If you are interested in ordering copies of “This is Auckland” official guide please contact .
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Tourism Auckland and the GAP Year
Tourism Auckland is bringing another young traveller to Auckland this week with our Bebo Gap Year programme. Dave Brett, the UK representative, has arrived in Auckland and will be with us for the next ten days. He will be participating in a number of activities around the region including a four day trip to Great Barrier Island, as well as sailing onboard the Lion Nathan yacht in the Coastal Classic Yacht Race.
To welcome Dave to New Zealand and Auckland, a video has been posted on our page by Lewis (the New Zealand representative) enticing him to embrace the kiwi lifestyle. You can see if Dave accepts the challenge by watching http://www.bebo.com/thegapyear. There will be two video blogs posted over the next couple of weeks as well as regular updates as to what he is up to.
The Auckland profile page has had over 60,000 page profile views with around 1,250 people joined up as friends to the page. You can get involved in our page by leaving us a comment and joining our friends list, alternatively email if you would like to offer a hot deal or competition.
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Auckland on show!
Auckland has hosted the second visitor from the Bebo online realty show ‘The Gap Year’. Dave Brett, the UK winner, embraced the Kiwi adventure spirit and spent ten action-packed days in and around the Auckland region.
Not only did he bungy off the harbour bridge, canyon down gorges and climb around the Sky Tower, Dave also participated in the Coastal Classic onboard the Lion Nathan boat and spent three days on Great Barrier Island.
He truly did enjoy his experience in Auckland, and is great to see that he has posted a number of blogs on his page and comments to his friends about his time in Auckland.
To see what Dave did in Auckland, three video blogs have been posted on our page at www.bebo.com/auckland, you can also view them on the official gap year home page at www.bebo.com/thegapyear.
The Auckland profile page has had over 62,500 page profile views and over 1,300 people joined as friends of Auckland. You can get involved too in the page by leaving us a comment and joining our friends list, alternatively email if you would like to offer a hot deal or competition.
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Auckland secures major conference for 2011
13 November 2008
Auckland has won a bid to host a major medical conference in 2011, worth an estimated $6 million to the region.
Tourism Auckland – in conjunction with the Starship Organising Committee, Conventions and Incentives New Zealand and The Conference Company – is pleased to announce that Auckland will host the 43rd Société Internationale d’Oncologie Pédiatrique (SIOP) Annual Congress in October 2011.
The conference is expected to be attended by 1700 delegates.
Chief executive Graeme Osborne says Tourism Auckland is thrilled with the win against tough competition from around the world. “This conference will inject a large amount of money into the Auckland economy and we are proud to be playing a role in this.”
The congress commences straight after the Rugby World Cup final, which organisers hope will be an added incentive for potential delegates.
Tourism Auckland was initially approached in February 2007 by Dr Scott Macfarlane of Starship Children’s Hospital and has lobbied for the event since then. Presentations were delivered in Sydney and Berlin as part of the bid process.
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Tourism Auckland on board cruise ships
13 November 2008
Visiting cruise ship passengers will have access to on-board Tourism Auckland ambassadors this summer in a first for the region.
Tourism Auckland has secured the agreement of major cruise companies to take information direct to transit passengers, providing better promotion of the region’s attractions and activities.
Two ambassadors will board a total of 22 transit cruise ships this summer, armed with the official Auckland Guide, generic Auckland information and directions to Auckland’s visitor information centres. The first ship will be the Clipper Pacific, which will be berthed at Queens Wharf on 29th November.
Chief executive Graeme Osborne is delighted Tourism Auckland has been given the green light to assist passengers who have not pre-booked shore excursions.
“The cruise industry is vital for the region and attracts a large number of international visitors to Auckland. We will use this opportunity to raise the profile of destination Auckland and ensure visitors receive positive and practical information when they arrive,” he says.
Tourism Auckland will continue to meet and greet the additional 59 ships expected to visit Auckland this season.
During the 2007/08 cruise season, Auckland received $123.8 million of total cruise industry direct expenditure, about 60% of the national spend. Approximately 89,600 passenger days were spent in Auckland, around 21% of all passenger days spent in New Zealand.
The forecast for the 2008/2009 cruise season estimates the Auckland region will see direct spending of $128 million, sustaining around 1,413 full time employees in the region.
Source: Economic Impacts of the 2007-2008 New Zealand Cruise Ship Season, prepared for CRUISE NEW ZEALAND by Market Economics Ltd, Auckland, July 2008.
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THIS IS GREAT BARRIER ISLAND out now
Tourism Auckland’s Great Barrier Island guide – “This is Great Barrier Island” is out now! This year’s guide has taken on a new look to run alongside our official Auckland Guide and coincide with our marketing campaign launched in September 2008. It also includes AucklandPlus’s regional brand work.
The guide gives Great Barrier Island a more vibrant and upbeat feel than in previous years. The pages have been reworked and the guide includes a map of the island with key areas highlighted, as well as some essential information for travellers and what to expect when they arrive. It also highlights what visitors should see and do to make the most of their visit to the island. A new addition to the guide is the introduction of personalities from the island, adding to the character of the island and explaining why they love Great Barrier.
If you are interested in ordering copies of "This is Great Barrier Island" official guide please contact . The guide is also available to view online at both www.aucklandnz.com and www.greatbarriernz.com.
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"This is Auckland” Campaign - A T.rex named Sue
Last weekend saw Tourism Auckland’s “This is Auckland” campaign launched into the Christchurch and Wellington markets.
The campaign is a joint effort between Tourism Auckland, the Auckland Museum and SKYCITY, and is looking to drive visitor nights to the Auckland region over the December and January period. The campaign is focused on “A T. rex Named Sue” exhibition at the Auckland Museum and there will be a combination of advertisements based around the exhibition and the SKYCITY offer.
The campaign includes print advertisements in December and January in both The Dominion Post and The Christchurch Press. Advertisements will also appear in Kia Ora, Air New Zealand’s in-flight magazine, and billboards at Wellington and Christchurch airports in January. Additionally, these will have a supporting presence in Tourism Auckland’s Airport and SKYCITY i-SITES and Tourism Auckland’s consumer website: www.aucklandnz.com.
This is the first of a number of joint initiatives that Tourism Auckland would like to roll out over the next twelve to eighteen months. If you would like to discuss future opportunities with Tourism Auckland please contact Christine Gold, on 09 979 7061,
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Rugby World Cup 2011 update
What has been confirmed for Auckland?
The 2011 tournament has an estimated television audience of more than four billion people, and we expect at least 60,000 international visitors to come to New Zealand, with the majority arriving in Auckland. Rugby World Cup 2011 provides us with an opportunity to showcase Auckland to the world.
RWC 2011 will be held across New Zealand over a six-week period in September and October 2011. Auckland has been confirmed as the host city for the final (which will be held at Eden Park over Labour Weekend: 22 or 23 October 2011), both semi finals on 15 and 16 October 2011 (also to be held at Eden Park), and the bronze final.
What's the structure of the tournament?
Twenty countries will participate in the 48-game tournament. The pool draw is as shown below:
| Pool A |
Pool B |
Pool C |
Pool D |
| New Zealand |
Argentina |
Australia |
South Africa |
| France |
England |
Ireland |
Wales |
| Tonga |
Scotland |
Italy |
Fiji |
| Americas 1 |
Europe 1 |
Europe 2 |
Oceania 1 |
| Asia 1 |
Play-off Winner |
Americas 2 |
Africa 1 |
Eighteen different regions across New Zealand have expressed interest in hosting matches or teams, including the Auckland region. There are 40 pool matches in total to be allocated. Decisions on match venues as well as the match schedule are expected to be announced in March or April 2009 following a recommendation by the Board of Rugby New Zealand 2011 to Rugby World Cup Limited. Team bases will be announced in late 2009.
What is the region doing to prepare for RWC2011?
Councils and regional agencies across Auckland, including Tourism Auckland, are all working together in planning for RWC2011.
Workstreams have been set up in key areas such as Visitor Market, Economic Development, Sustainability and Transport. Each of these workstreams meet regularly with representatives from across the region to plan and implement operations for RWC2011. These workstreams report to a Regional Steering Group, which in turn is the main Auckland contact with Rugby New Zealand 2011.
These workstreams provided information on their respective areas of expertise to the region’s bid team, who submitted our two completed bids to Rugby New Zealand 2011. These bids will determine exactly how many teams and matches will be held in Auckland.
What is Tourism Auckland doing?
Tourism Auckland represents the tourism industry on all of the regional workstreams, and is the lead agency for the Visitor Market workstream.
The Visitor Market workstream has drawn up a plan of marketing and promotional work from 2008 until 2011.
From this plan, two “Destination Auckland” nights have already been held in Paris and London to promote Auckland as the “business end” of RWC 2011 to key travel trade. These events were held in conjunction with regional partners: AucklandPlus, Auckland City and the Regional Steering Group.
Other activity from the marketing plan which Tourism Auckland and the Visitor Market workstream will be responsible includes:
- development of an Auckland-specific RWC guide for 2011
- maximising business tourism and study opportunities
- consumer and trade campaigns in key markets
- destination information for media
- increased capacity and capability for handling enquiries through the i-SITEs and call centre
- development of an “export ready” programme for tourism operators that is specific to RWC 2011.
Is it really worth all this effort?
Yes! RWC 2011 has the potential to generate $315 million of direct economic benefits for the Auckland region. It will be a catalyst for major infrastructure improvements such as public transport and roading, providing a much improved destination for visitors. It will provide media exposure for Auckland far beyond what we could ever afford to buy. RWC 2011 will also show other event organisers around the world that Auckland can enthusiastically and successfully host major events.
We will be updating information on this website specific to tourism and RWC 2011. For general information on the region’s activities around RWC 2011 including regional press releases, please visit www.auckland2011.com
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Online Kiwis want Auckland
This week Google released Zeitgeist highlights from Google searches around the world and Auckland is the New Zealand destination most Kiwis wanted to know more about in 2008.
Zeitgeist is a list of the most popular, fastest rising and other carefully categorised search terms that have been submitted to Google over the past twelve months. Auckland featured most prominent among the list of destinations searching on google.co.nz.
Other domestic destinations featured were Christchurch, Wellington, Rotorua, Taupo and Queenstown.
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Louis Vuitton Pacific Series ticks all the boxes for Auckland
AucklandPlus, Tourism Auckland and Auckland City Council have joined forces to ensure that Auckland and its residents reap maximum benefits from Louis Vuitton Pacific Series.
The regatta began on 30 January and runs until 14 February in Auckland's inner harbour and the Viaduct Marine Village.
Mayor of Auckland Hon. John Banks says the high calibre regatta is a welcome addition to Auckland’s sporting calendar.
“The event presents a great opportunity to showcase Auckland’s waterfront to overseas media and international visitors.”
Tourism Auckland CEO Graeme Osborne says the regatta is a boom for the visitor market.
“Global media coverage of the event will provide fantastic international profiling for 'Brand Auckland' while the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series will significantly boost visitor numbers and visitor spend in the region."
For more, view the media release here
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Auckland tops accommodation website
Auckland is top of the pops on Wotif.com website.
The popular accommodation website rated Auckland the top New Zealand destination to stay in 2008. The list is put together based on Wotif.com customers’ booking habits each year.
Wotif.com is the most popular way for business and leisure travellers in Australia and New Zealand to book accommodation online. Every month the site attracts 3.4 million visits, with customers making over 205,000 bookings.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says it’s both encouraging and positive news to see Auckland leading the way once again. “Our region has so much to offer and it’s fantastic that this is being recognised and reflected by domestic and international travellers in their online booking decisions.”
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Tourism Auckland backs Australian radio competition
Couples keen to lose weight will feature in Tourism Auckland’s latest promotion, which was launched on 96FM in Perth this week.
A trip to Auckland will be the prize for Channel Ten and 96FM’s new Gamer Versus Trainer competition, which is modelled on its Biggest Loser television programme.
During the three-week challenge two couples will compete to lose the most weight, with one couple using a personal trainer and the other pair a Nintendo Wii Fit.
The couple that sheds the most kilograms will win a return trip to Auckland and five nights’ luxury accommodation at the SKYCITY Grand Hotel.
During their stay the pair will experience the adrenaline of a SkyWalk or a SkyJump and enjoy outstanding cuisine at the award-winning restaurant dine by Peter Gordon.
Throughout the challenge Tourism Auckland staff will talk live on 96FM to promote the prize package and destination Auckland.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says this opportunity to partner Channel Ten and 96FM fits well with our program for increased promotional activity in the Australian market.
“With the decline in visitors from other key international markets, an increase in our activity in Australia is imperative.
A unique competition like this will help generate exposure for our region. It’s just one of our many initiatives planned to help boost trans-Tasman visitor numbers to Auckland,” says Graeme.
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Auckland hailed as cultural capital
“Forget what they say in Wellington, the creative capital of New Zealand is Auckland.” So says Simon Wilson, a senior writer at Metro, and former Wellingtonian.
This headline features in the March issue of Metro, Auckland’s renowned current affairs magazine. The eleven page article talks about the vibrant cultural scene in Auckland. A few of the comments include:
“The arts epicentre is Auckland. Most of the leading work is here. Most of the leading practitioners, if they were not born here, have made the move.”
“Auckland has more cultural institutions than Wellington, more events and much bigger audiences. Most cultural industries are based here and most of the work is here.”
“Last year Priscilla Queen of the Desert played better here than anywhere in Australia, in the process proving its worth for a European tour and helping European promoters see the value of the Auckland market. We sold more Priscilla tickets to visitors from Hawkes Bay than Waitakere. Sold more in Dunedin than Waitakere, for that matter. They came in busloads from all over the country. And they stayed in hotels, ate in restaurants, shopped in the CBD and Newmarket and took in the tourist sites.”
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DATE CHANGE : John Key at next Industry Update
Hon John Key, Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, will be the guest speaker at Tourism Auckland’s next Industry Update event.
It will be held on Thursday 21 May at SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre.
More information about the event and how to register will come soon.
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New look conference planner for Auckland
Auckland Business Tourism has launched its new 2009 Conference, Incentive and Travel Planner.
The stylish planner offers a more comprehensive guide to what’s on offer in Auckland. It features an increased activities section with dining options and sample itineraries of things to do across the region.
To view the media release click here.
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Tourism New Zealand road show rolls into Auckland
Tourism Auckland and ITOC hosted the Tourism New Zealand regional roadshow on Monday.
The event saw more than 250 tourism operators get face-to-face with Tourism New Zealand chief executive George Hickton and his off-shore regional managers.
The managers talked about trends in the key international markets and predictions for the year to come.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says the event was a great opportunity for operators to learn more about what’s being done to market our country internationally.
Key outcomes of the road show include:
- Tourism New Zealand predict overall tourist numbers will decline five to ten percent this year. It’s important to focus on next summer (09/10) and plan for forward bookings.
- With international tourist numbers declining the Australian market is vitally important. Four out of every ten people who visit New Zealand are from Australia.
- New Zealand’s advantage right now for Australian travelers is that it’s affordable, accessible and available.
- Tourism New Zealand has increased its spend in the Australian market and launched a new ‘What’s On’ campaign.
- People are increasingly using online methods to plan their travel. Operators were urged to list on http://www.newzealand.com and to keep their websites up-to-date.
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New chocolate bar has an Auckland flavour
Auckland’s harbour, skyline and iconic Rangitoto Island are the stars of a new luxury chocolate bar.
The gourmet bar, produced by Devonport Chocolates, is a fusion of chocolate and art. It features wrapping with a lively Auckland-themed illustration by local artist Fraser Williamson.
The fun image captures the vibrancy of Auckland, with the Auckland Museum and SkyTower paired with a seagull, boats in the harbour and a man jogging.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says it’s wonderful to see Auckland promoted in this novel way.
“Our skyline and harbour are brilliant Auckland assets and we’re delighted to see them incorporated into this new product. I expect the bar will appeal to locals and tourists alike.”
For the full media release, click here.
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Auckland top spot for Aussies
Aussies choose Auckland over Big Ben and Buckingham Palace.
For forward bookings Auckland is the number one destination for Australians to travel to, with London out of the top ten for the first time in living memory.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says Auckland is an accessible and affordable destination right now.
“With the arrival of the Emirates A380 and Jetstar there are 110,000 extra seats on the Tasman this year. Fares across the ditch are also at their lowest for a decade and the Australian dollar is strong,” says Osborne.
Tourism Auckland has increased its promotional activity in the Australian market to help boost trans-Tasman visitor numbers to the region.
It is currently running a radio promotion with 96FM in Perth and other activities will be announced soon.
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Tourism Auckland spins Wheel of Holidays in Australia
Tourism Auckland has this week joined a radio competition in Sydney to help entice more visitors to the city of sails.
A trip to Auckland is one of the major prizes in a Wheel of Holidays competition on Radio 2GB, which is the city’s most popular station for listeners over age 25.
During the three-week competition Sydneysiders will register online and go in the draw to spin the wheel of holidays, where they could win the ultimate Auckland break.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says this opportunity to partner with Radio 2GB fits well with our ongoing program of promotional activity in the Australian market.
“Auckland is already the number one international holiday destination for Australian travellers, but we need to work hard to boost visitor numbers and forward bookings,” says Graeme.
“A competition like this will help to further raise the profile of Auckland as an attractive holiday destination.”
To read more, view the full media release here.
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Auckland in limelight for Rugby World Cup 2011
Tourism Auckland is thrilled that Auckland has secured the opening ceremony and match for Rugby World Cup 2011.
Following today’s announcement of the match schedule by Rugby New Zealand 2011, the Auckland region will get set to host the opening game, seven other pool matches, the bronze final, semi-finals and final.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says the Auckland region will reap significant tourism benefits from being the hub of Rugby World Cup.
“Having the opening here is the perfect opportunity for Auckland to turn on a great show for visitors, and also showcase our magnificent city to millions of television viewers across the globe,” says Osborne.
To read more, view the full media release here.
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Auckland on show to millions
Auckland has made it to the front page of the world’s widest circulated newspaper.
The Times of India – which has a readership of around 13.3 million – featured a picture of the famous cricket player, Sachin Tendulkar, doing the SkyWalk around Auckland’s SkyTower. The inside sports page included a picture of the rest of the team enjoying the SkyWalk.
The photo of Tendulkar also ran on the cover of six other Indian papers and inside another seven, reaching a whopping 25 million readers.
This superb coverage follows a media frenzy earlier this month, when Tourism Auckland and AJ Hackett Bungy challenged the Indian cricket skipper, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, to bungy off the Auckland Harbour Bridge.
Although Dhoni declined the offer it sparked great excitement in India, generating stories on 50 websites the first day, 100 just 24-hours later and stories on seven TV channels.
This is priceless exposure for Auckland in India, which is a growing tourist market.
View the clippings below.
 
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Kiwi find new home on Motuihe Island
New Zealand’s national bird has just moved into its new home on one of Auckland’s most stunning islands.
Up to 15 little spotted kiwi were welcomed on Motuihe Island this weekend. The birds, which each weigh up to 2.4kg and are about the size of a bantam hen, were released by Department of Conservation staff in front of a crowd of 400 onlookers.
The new kiwi population is the closest one to Auckland and overnight visitors to the island will hear the kiwi calling just after dusk.
Motuihe Island is located in the Waitemata Harbour and is a 30-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. With its white sandy beaches and native wildlife, the island draws thousands of visitors each year.
Read more >>
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Auckland is all of a ‘Twitter’
Auckland has kick-started a New Zealand-wide tweet-fest on social networking website Twitter, thanks to the exploits of the Twitch-hiker.
British journalist Paul Smith made his way to New Zealand relying solely on the goodwill of Twitter users to get him here, put a roof over his head and show him around the country. Since leaving the UK on 1 March he has already travelled via Amsterdam, Paris, Germany and the US.
Following his arrival in Auckland early yesterday morning he’s already been up the Sky Tower, had lunch at a vineyard in the Waitakere Ranges and checked out Piha. Last night he joined a crowd of locals at a wine bar in Ponsonby.
While this may all sound strange to non-Twitter-users, the Twitch-hiker’s journey has in fact been big news in the UK and US. Paul Smith appeared on the ABC Network's Good Morning America last week and has more than 8,500 ‘followers’ on Twitter. Here in New Zealand he’s already been interviewed by Kiwi FM, Newstalk ZB and on Campbell Live.
Twitter is the latest social networking tool making news in the UK and North America. The concept of Twitter is allowing people to stay connected through answers to the question "What are you doing right now?"
Check out the activities of the Twitch-hiker here >>
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Mild to Wild brochure set to inspire conference groups
Tourism Auckland’s convention bureau, Auckland Business Tourism, has launched its new ‘Mild to Wild’ brochure which features 50 outstanding things to do in Auckland.
The brochure was first produced last year and is designed to entice conference and incentive groups with 50 fun and surprising things to see and do in the Auckland region.
Auckland Business Tourism manager, Anna Hayward, says it’s about highlighting the diversity of what’s on offer in Auckland.
“We were constantly being asked for some really different and exciting group activities. And these are real blow-you-away things to do, like paddling a Maori waka or eating breakfast on the top of the Auckland Harbour Bridge,” says Anna.
For the full media release, click here.
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Join Great Barrier Island’s coastal clean-up
Roll up your sleeves and get involved
We all know that our clean green reputation is what draws many people to New Zealand.
Sustainable Coastlines is an initiative that allows you to join in and help keep (or make) that clean green reputation a reality – and at the same time get to know Great Barrier Island a little better.
Sustainable Coastlines will coordinate a coastal clean-up event on Great Barrier – one of Auckland’s most remote islands – on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 April. The timing is ideal for a clean-up due to the heavy marine traffic during the summer period.
The idea is simple: to involve as many people as possible from all areas of the community to help clean-up the coastline. Afterwards there’ll be an analysis of the rubbish to use as recycling education for young people. This idea has been inspired by The Sir Peter Blake Trust and their “Care For Our Coast” campaign.
The local Iwi, Ngati Rehua, has given Sustainable Coastlines their blessing for the event. They will give a presentation on the ferry on the way to Aotea/Great Barrier and a welcome for the volunteers when the boat arrives at Tryphena Harbour. They’ve also kindly offered to house some of the school children at the beautiful Motairehe Marae.
Schools from Aotea/Great Barrier will participate in the event on Friday 3 April and schools from the Auckland region have also been invited.
On Saturday 4 April volunteers are needed to help clean areas on Aotea/Great Barrier that pose challenges for access. Already groups such as the Navy, university students, surfers, divers and locals from the island have confirmed they’ll get involved. Let’s add tourism operators to that list…
If you'd like to help out get in touch with Sustainable Coastlines directly:
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Auckland amused by Aussie bloggers
Tourism Auckland’s chief executive, Graeme Osborne, has told a pair of Aussie bloggers he’d give them a personal welcome to Auckland.
The Australian couple has sparked headlines in New Zealand and across the ditch with their online expat guide, which warns that Auckland is a "horrible soulless city".
The anonymous duo have used their website, fushnchups.co.nz, to attack their new home here. Read the full article here.
They sum up Auckland as horrible and soulless, a comment Graeme Osborne took exception to.
"Maybe they're just envious that Auckland recently rated ahead of every Australian city as a tourist destination," says Graeme.
"They should get in touch with me personally and I guarantee I'll change their impression."
Graeme was interviewed about the blog this morning on TV One’s Breakfast and commented about the light-hearted aspect of it. View the interview here.
“We’ve got to remember that this is one pair’s opinion out of the one million Australians that visit New Zealand each year,” he says.
“Our Australian brothers and sisters are very important to our tourism industry and as Kiwis we should continue to do as we always have, which is to be welcoming hosts.”
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Tourism Auckland launches holiday deals in Australia
A weekend break in Auckland is an attractive option thanks to Tourism Auckland and Blue Holidays’ latest travel deals.
Tourism Auckland has partnered with Blue Holidays - the holiday program of Pacific Blue - on a four-week advertising campaign to promote some great getaways to Auckland.
The airfare and accommodation deals mean visitors can enjoy a low-cost long weekend in Auckland, with a stay for three nights and pay for two deal.
The radio, online and print campaign will run in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, where the Gold Coast Airport is a partner.
The print advertisements incorporate images from the ‘This is Auckland’ campaign, which focuses on the natural and surprising aspects of the region.
For the full media release, click here.
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Tourism a winner in Louis Vuitton Pacific Series
Auckland and its tourism industry reaped the benefits of the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series, according to an independent economic impact report released.
The two-week regatta, held from 30 January to 14 February 2009, injected at least $16.1 million of additional cash into the Auckland economy.
Hospitality and tourism sectors enjoyed a benefit of $5.44 million.
The nine visiting teams spent around 6,600 nights in Auckland, while the domestic and international spectators generated 2,100 nights.
Tourism Auckland, which sponsored the regatta alongside Auckland City Council and AucklandPlus, is thrilled with the result.
For more, view the media release here.
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Tourism Auckland supports the Super City
The proposal for Auckland’s Super City will move full steam ahead.
This week Prime Minister John Key confirmed the Government would create a single super council and single mayor for Auckland, as recommended by the Royal Commission on Auckland Governance.
But he announced that the Government had rejected a key recommendation for six local councils under the main body, and would instead set up 20-30 ‘local boards’ to address grassroots democracy.
Read more about the response to the announcements here:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10565730
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, is optimistic and supportive of the proposed changes, but says it’s business as usual for the region’s destination marketer.
“I expect the Super City structure will be positive for Tourism Auckland, in terms of reinforcing our regional mandate, delivering a more equitable and appropriate funding model and positively impacting the visitor experience by way of improved tourism infrastructure,” says Graeme.
“The detail is yet to be worked out and in the interim it will be business as usual as we work alongside our industry partners to maintain Auckland's position as New Zealand's best performing visitor destination.”
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Mollies among the cream of the crop
Mollies boutique hotel in Auckland’s St Mary’s Bay has been selected to be a member of one of the world’s most prestigious and exclusive hotel collections.
Following a worldwide search the Paris-based association, Relais & Châteaux, announced in January 2009 that they had been assessing 100 possible new candidates.
From these only 25 new members have now been confirmed – and Mollies is one.
Existing members include some of the finest castles, palaces and fortresses of Europe and the world’s most respected and even revered establishments across the Americas, Asia, the Orient and Oceania.
Mollies owners, Frances Wilson and Stephen Fitzgerald, say that selection for membership fulfils a lifelong ambition.
“We have so often admired the commitment to excellence and the sheer class and style of many of the Relais & Châteaux hotels in Europe and America especially,” says Frances. “Now to be acknowledged in their number is a very great honour indeed.”
For the full press release, click here [pdf]
For more information, visit www.mollies.co.nz
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Auckland Business Tourism pleases crowd with Convene famils
More than 80 buyers enjoyed cooking fresh fish, bungy jumping and exploring country gardens on pre-Convene famils hosted by Auckland Business Tourism.
The famil programme was part of the Convene Auckland trade show held at SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre on Tuesday 7 April.
Auckland Business Tourism sponsored the programme for the second year running and hosted four experiences – urban Auckland, north of the bridge, Clevedon countryside and adrenalin.
Auckland Business Tourism manager, Anna Hayward, says her team is delighted with the success of the famils.
“We aimed for a good mix of fun, creativity and learning about local product, while of course showcasing the Auckland region. We’ve had extremely positive feedback from buyers,” says Anna.
For the full media release, click here.
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Tiritiri Matangi Island rated a top eco project
Auckland’s Tiritiri Matangi Island has been named among the best conservation projects in Australasia.
A panel set up by the journal of the Ecological Society of Australia and the Society for Ecological Restoration International named 25 top ecological restoration projects in Australia and New Zealand.
It’s a great result for the island sanctuary of Tiritiri Matangi to be included within the list.
The island, which has long been recognised as one of New Zealand’s most important and exciting conversation projects, provides a pest free habitat for many native bird species.
As an open sanctuary, visitors are welcome to explore Tiritiri Matangi and see some of New Zealand's most endangered birds in the wild.
Read more - http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10566652
Click here to subscribe to our RSS feed.
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Crocs settle in at Butterfly Creek
In three weeks’ time visitors to Auckland will be able to meet the two largest and most dangerous predators in New Zealand – a pair of Saltwater crocodiles.
The crocs, Scar and Goldie, arrived at Butterfly Creek in Manukau this week and are settling into their new home. The feisty beasts are approximately 40-years-old, almost five metres in length and weigh over half a tonne each.
The pair will spend two weeks in quarantine before beginning new roles as the stars of a Saltwater crocodile exhibit. Read more >>
Along with the ferocious reptiles, Butterfly Creek is also home to free flying butterflies, a tropical acquaria, colourful bird aviaries and a children’s playground. Read more >>
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Super ranking for Auckland
Auckland is one of the best cities in the world to live in, according to Mercer's 2009 Worldwide Quality of Living Survey.
In the international consultancy and investment service provider's survey of 215 cities, Auckland was ranked fourth-equal with Vancouver, rising from fifth last year.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says this is an outstanding result.
“A ranking of fourth in the world is brilliant and will help to further boost our international reputation as a world-class city and a great place to live, work, study or visit,” he says.
The winning city was the Austrian capital of Vienna, with Swiss cities Zurich and Geneva ranked second and third.
The big Australian cities came in behind Auckland. Sydney was ranked 10, Melbourne 18, Perth 21, Adelaide 30 and Brisbane 34.
Mercer determines rankings on 39 criteria, including political, social, economic and environmental factors, plus health, education, transport and other public services. The data was collected between September and November last year.
Read more >>
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Tourism recording studio parks up in Auckland
After travelling close to 9,500 kilometres and visiting 55 towns and cities, Tourism New Zealand’s groundbreaking mobile recording studio ends its four month road trip in Auckland today.
The mobile recording studio has been travelling around New Zealand, heading to Kaitaia in the far north and down to Bluff in the South, recording short video diaries from international visitors.
The video diaries – the ultimate in word-of-mouth advertising - are then edited and posted on YouTube by Tourism New Zealand within minutes.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, said he’s delighted the studio would make its final stop in New Zealand’s largest city.
“With Auckland welcoming 70 per cent of international arrivals to New Zealand, it makes perfect sense for the city to be both the first and final stop for the studio,” he said.
“We are totally supportive of Tourism New Zealand using this bold and innovative application of new technology.”
Around 1,500 video diaries have been recorded and viewed by over 110,000 people – far more views than were anticipated.
Video diaries have been recorded by visitors from 42 countries including Australia, the US, UK, Japan, Germany, Canada, Spain and South America. Some videos have been viewed thousands of times.
Read more >>
To view video ‘raves’ go to http://nz.youtube.com/PureNZHaveYourSay
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Swine Flu update
Tourism New Zealand is regularly monitoring the situation with the Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu.
International travel sellers are seeking guidance from Tourism New Zealand following confirmation of positive test results for Swine Flu.
So far, New Zealand has 13 confirmed cases of Swine Flu. The figures are being constantly updated and Government officials expect further cases to be confirmed.
Government reports indicate that people with the virus have been treated with Tamiflu and told to stay at home. In all cases people are reported to be recovering well and a group of school students, the first group confirmed to be carrying the virus, are expected to return to school this week.
Read more about Tourism New Zealand’s response here.
For the latest information on Swine Flu in New Zealand go to the Ministry of Health website http://www.moh.govt.nz. Anyone wanting more information should call Healthline 0800 611 116.
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Swine Flu impact minimal
According to Tourism New Zealand the impact of the confirmed cases of Influenza A H1N1 (known as Swine Flu) on New Zealand’s tourism industry to date remains minimal, with few postponements and cancellations.
As of 4 May New Zealand has six lab-confirmed cases of the influenza. A further 11 are listed as ‘probable’ cases that have tested positive for Influenza A. (See the Ministry of Health website for the latest updates of the number of cases in New Zealand.)
Tourism New Zealand chief executive, George Hickton, says there continues to be enquiries from international visitors about the safety of travelling to New Zealand, however actual cancellations remain few.
"There has been a lot of media coverage of the flu overseas, however in most cases New Zealand is mentioned as one of the places where the Flu has been confirmed, as opposed to being the focus of the coverage."
All New Zealand international airports are open and operating normally and there have been no cancellations of international services into New Zealand as a result of the influenza outbreak.
Tourism agencies have put out information through New Zealand information centres to inform international visitors of the current situation, give advice and ensure visitors know what to do, should they suspect they have contracted the disease. Read more: Swine Flu Information for Visitors in New Zealand »
The Government’s statement for travellers is available here.
For the latest information on Swine Flu in New Zealand go to the Ministry of Health website http://www.moh.govt.nz. Anyone wanting more information should call Healthline 0800 611 116.
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Auckland stars on David Letterman Show
Auckland recently featured on the hit US tv programme, Late Show with David Letterman, which is broadcast to over 3.8 million viewers.
Zachary Quinto, the US actor who plays Spock in the new Star Trek movie, talked with Letterman about his visit to Auckland and adventurous encounter with the Sky Tower.
Quinto did a Sky Jump and gave a rave review about it – watch the video here »
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We are fourth - Auckland tribute
Auckland musicians and celebrities have released a catchy song to celebrate Auckland being rated the fourth best city in the 2009 Mercer Quality of Living survey.
The anthem ‘We Are Fourth’ pays comedy homage to the City of Sails and celebrates its success in representing New Zealand in the survey’s top 10, coming in ahead of iconic cities such as London, Sydney and New York.
‘We Are Fourth’ was written by singer-song writer Linda Puffin. It features guest vocals from Opshop’s Jason Kerrison, Tyree and Deach from Smashproof, Jordan Luck, J Williams, Annabel Fay, Josh Leys and Lucid 3’s Victoria Girling-Butcher, plus an all-star chorus of famous Auckland faces including the Mad Butcher Peter Leitch, former Warrior Monty Betham, Nick Campbell and Simon Oscroft from Midnight Youth, and Jon Austin from 48 May.
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Tourism Auckland Industry Update
Register now for this industry event on Thursday 21 May 2009 from 1pm - 5pm. Hear a superb line-up of speakers including the Prime Minister, Tony Alexander, Hon Peter Salmon QC and Martin Snedden.
View the full programme here.
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Picassos among $115m gift to Auckland Art Gallery
An American billionaire couple are gifting $115 million of art to the Auckland Art Gallery, the biggest philanthropic gesture of its kind in Australasia.
The gallery’s new collection will be a great asset for Auckland and undoubtedly benefit its tourism industry.
The 15 paintings and works on paper have been promised by Julian and Josie Robertson, who own golf courses in New Zealand,.
The art, to be known as the Julian and Josie Robertson Collection, dates from 1875-1951 and includes works by Paul Cézanne, Paul Gauguin, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Piet Mondrian, Salvador Dali, Georges Braque, André Derain, Fernand Léger, Pierre Bonnard and Henri Fantin-Latour.
Mr Robertson and his wife had the idea for the gift after the gallery hosted an exhibition of 14 paintings from their New York collection in 2006. The free show attracted 30,000 visitors in 30 days, and the positive public response via letters and comments, which the gallery sent to the Robertsons, profoundly moved them.
Read more >>
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Tourism Auckland on Trade Me
Cantabrians entered a bidding war on trademe last week to secure Tourism Auckland’s first holiday package.
Two ultimate rugby weekends in Auckland were released on Trade Me, with more than 1400 people viewing the ten day auction.
The pair of successful bidders will fly to Auckland this weekend with Air NZ, stay at SKYCITY Hotel and drive a Budget Rental Car for the weekend. They’ll enjoy the Blues vs Crusaders match at Eden Park and the Vodafone Warriors vs Cowboys at Mt Smart Stadium.
Watch out for more Tourism Auckland auctions on Trade Me.
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Tourism Auckland supports ‘Big little city’ campaign
Tourism Auckland is supporting a "Big little city" campaign, which was launched yesterday by Heart of the City mainstreet association.
The advertising and PR campaign aims to boost visitor numbers and engender pride about their city amongst Aucklanders.
The multi-media campaign focuses on Auckland City as a "vibrant, buzzing and activity rich destination" that is the event capital of New Zealand. The theme is "Big little city: Open Daily."
Heart of the City is backing the promotion with the support of Tourism Auckland, Auckland City Council, retail, travel, accommodation, attractions and event organisations in Auckland City.
The campaign will appear on television and in print and on the website http://www.aucklandnz.com.
Read more »
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Tourism Auckland gives Aussies 50 free flights
To celebrate the 50th birthday of Auckland Harbour Bridge Tourism Auckland is giving away 50 free flights to Australians.
In partnership with Emirates, Tourism Auckland has launched a two-week radio campaign on 2GB in Sydney, starting on Monday 18 May and running until the bridge’s birthday on 30 May.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says this is a unique way to celebrate the iconic Auckland landmark.
“Sydney and Auckland both have a bridge spanning our beautiful harbours, so we’re keen to mark this occasion with our Australian neighbours,” says Graeme.
“We hope this promotion will help to further raise awareness of Auckland as a diverse holiday destination, and help to boost trans-Tasman visitor numbers and spend in the region.”
Read more »
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Nationwide showcase a success
More than 140 travel trade boosted their knowledge at the Tourism Auckland/Inbound Tour Operators Council (ITOC) product update.
Nineteen regional tourism organisations (RTOs) showcased their products to the inbound travel trade at the two-day event held at the Rendezvous Hotel in Auckland last week.
The intention of the event was to ensure ITOC member companies are up to date with new regional product before TRENZ, which takes place in June.
Tourism Auckland’s general manager marketing, Jacqui Lloyd, was thrilled with the success of the event.
“I’m sure both RTO participants and ITOC managers and staff would agree it was an efficient way of getting the latest information on products and services,” she says.
Read more »
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Convention Centre for Auckland looks positive
At today’s Tourism Auckland Industry Update the Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, John Key, announced his support for investment in tourism facilities.
He said the government will commit $250,000 to conduct a feasibility study into the development of an international conference centre in Auckland that will cater for up to 4,000 people.
The announcement was made before an audience of more than 600 people at the Tourism Auckland event, held at the SKYCITY Convention Centre.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says he’s delighted with the government’s commitment to create a national convention centre.
“For New Zealand to remain competitive there’s a strong case for our country to have a national events facility of world-class scale and quality. I’m sure the majority of the C&I industry would support this.”
The Prime Minister said the feasibility study would be conducted over a six to 12 month period.
Auckland City Council will put a further $20,000 towards the feasibility study and contribute $30,000 for the business case.
Read more »
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Keep up to date with what’s on at TRENZ
TRENZ started brilliantly on Monday night with the Tourism Auckland welcome function held in a super-size boat shed at Orams Marine in Westhaven.
Delegates were given an official Maori welcome and a warm Auckland 'Kia Ora' from Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne.
To keep up to date with what's happening at TRENZ visit the Tourism New Zealand blog - http://www.TRENZblog.com.
Blog editor and Canadian PR consultant, Ruth Atherley, will update readers on news and views from TRENZ, including product updates and interviews with travel professionals and politicians. Ruth has also been out and about in the Auckland region and will blog about her experiences.
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Tourism Auckland backs government support for Queen’s Wharf
Tourism Auckland is delighted that the Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, John Key, has today given his support for the redevelopment of Queen’s Wharf.
The PM announced that government has at the very minimum secured Queen’s Wharf for use during Rugby World Cup 2011, and that negotiations are well underway to purchase the wharf and develop a cruise terminal before the event.
The announcement was made before an audience of more than 1000 people at TRENZ 2009, held at the ASB Showgrounds in Auckland.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says he’s delighted with the government’s support for the redevelopment of this harbourside area, which is an integral element of Auckland City Council’s waterfront development proposal.
“The Waitemata Harbour is clearly one of Auckland’s jewels and Queen’s Wharf is the ideal starting point for better connecting the city to the sea,” he says.
“A future commitment to developing enhanced cruise ship facilities is also vital to securing this important sector for Auckland and New Zealand.”
For more, view the media release here.
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Harbour islands to be revived
The Department of Conservation (DOC) has announced that it will start an exciting and ambitious plan to restore the beautiful islands of Rangitoto and Motutapu.
DOC says its goal is to breathe life back into the islands in the Hauraki Gulf and create an accessible, iconic nature sanctuary right on Auckland’s front door step.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says this is superb news.
“This will add to the restoration work that has already taken place on Tiritiri Matangi Island and Motuihe Island. Both are now stunning Auckland jewels which offer a unique experience for visitors,” he says.
Motuihe Island’s appeal has increased recently thanks to the introduction of rare brown spotted kiwi birds to the island. Visitors can take a 25-minute ferry to Motuihe from downtown Auckland and hear the kiwi, New Zealand’s native bird, calling just after dusk.
Read more >>
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Waiheke red a winner
The Kennedy Point Waiheke Syrah 2007 has won the International Syrah Trophy at the prestigious 2009 International Wine Challenge in London.
The wine also won the New Zealand Red Wine Trophy, New Zealand Syrah Trophy and the Auckland Syrah Trophy.
The International Wine Challenge (IWC) is the world’s most prestigious independent wine competition. This year there were 9,500 entries with wineries from all over the world sending more then 40,000 bottles of wine.
Kennedy Point on Waiheke Island was planted in 1996 and is a boutique vineyard owned by Neal Kunimura and Susan McCarthy.
“Winning the IWC trophies and also the trophy for the best International Syrah and best New Zealand red wine is the fulfillment of years of hard work perfecting our vineyard and wine making process,” says Susan McCarthy.
The Waiheke wine region is becoming well known for outstanding red wines and Kennedy Point is one of several vineyards producing award-winning wines.
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Auckland ranked amongst world’s best cities
25 May 2010
Auckland has once again secured its reputation as one of the world’s top five lifestyle cities.
For the second year running Auckland has been ranked in fourth position, on par with Vancouver, in the Mercer 2010 Quality of Living Survey.
Tourism Auckland Chief Executive, Graeme Osborne, says this is a superb result, which helps to reinforce the city's reputation as an outstanding destination to live and visit.
"This positioning ahead of all other cities in Australasia is recognition of Auckland’s harbourside location and superior lifestyle offering,” he says.
The survey covered 221 cities and was based on 39 criteria including socio-economic, environmental, health, education and transport.
Cities were compared to New York as the base city, with an index score of 100.
Read the full report here.
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Houston connection a winner
27 May 2010
New Zealand will soon be a step closer for thousands of Americans with the announcement today of a new direct daily Continental Airlines flight from Houston to Auckland.
The new service, from one of America’s biggest air hubs, will start in November 2011. The new route will open up the East and central US, and connecting flights into Europe.
Tourism New Zealand and Tourism Auckland welcomed the announcement as a great development for New Zealand.
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler said New Zealand has strong appeal as a specialist destination with North Americans, particularly those interested in the outdoors, adventure and culture.
“Our research shows that US visitors are New Zealand’s most satisfied international travellers, rating their visits at 9.4 out of 10, and they are keen to recommend New Zealand once they’ve been here.”
Mr Bowler said the new service was a great opportunity for New Zealand to attract more visitors from the US where Tourism New Zealand was actively working to build New Zealand’s profile.
“Auckland is a great arrivals point for Americans wanting to explore the region and wider New Zealand,” he added.
Tourism Auckland Chief Executive Graeme Osborne said as the country’s largest and most globally connected city, Auckland welcomed over 70 percent of international arrivals to New Zealand.
“This commitment from Continental Airlines is a significant coup in Auckland’s ability to host more American visitors. Securing direct air links from the second largest US state is a huge win for destination Auckland.”
Read the full media release here.
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New Auckland venues on show at MEETINGS
16 June 2010
Auckland Convention Bureau is gearing up to showcase the region’s hottest new venues to buyers at MEETINGS next week.
The Bureau is supporting Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) to host the annual trade show, held at SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre on 23 and 24 June.
The Auckland region will have a strong presence with 24 operators spanning venues, accommodation, transport and activities.
Among them will be first time exhibitor, The Viaduct Events Centre, which is in its early stages of construction in a prime location on Auckland’s waterfront.
Auckland Convention Bureau Manager, Anna Hayward, says it’s a big win to have the waterside venue on show at MEETINGS.
“The Viaduct Events Centre is an exciting development that will enhance Auckland’s conference inventory and provide a world-class waterside events location,” says Anna.
With 3000sqm of exhibitions, meetings and hospitality space, the stand-alone facility in the newly developed Wynyard Quarter is expected to be in use before Rugby World Cup 2011.
Read more >>
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Tamati searches Waiheke for the next big chip
TVNZ’s roving weather presenter Tamati Coffey spent this morning on Waiheke Island taste-testing local produce in his search for the next chip flavour.
The nation-wide Bluebird campaign has seen Tamati and the breakfast crew visit several New Zealand towns over the last month to sample local delicacies and flavours
Dozens of local Waiheke operators gathered at renowned Mudbrick Vineyard on sunrise to put their potential chip flavours to the test.
The creative flavours included preserved lemons, olives, oysters and even chocolate. However the lemon infused olive oil and pesto/feta chip flavours were crowd favorites, even getting a mention from the show’s anchor Paul Henry.
The winner of the Bluebird campaign will receive a cheque for $20,000, two percent of sales and their chip flavour will remain on the shelves as long it's loved.
Tamati’s weather segment was a great domestic advertisement for Waiheke and its excellent range of produce.
Watch the ‘Tasty Thursday’ clip online here >>
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Tourism Auckland secures funding
Tourism Auckland wins bid for Sustainable Tourism Advisers in Regions (STAR) funding.
Tourism Minister Damien O’Connor announced that Tourism Auckland is to receive $88,000 over three years for the implementation and delivery of sustainability advisory services to tourism businesses in the Auckland region. Auckland is one of nine regions to receive STAR funding to work with tourism operators to reduce the impact on the environment.
Tourism Auckland chief executive Graeme Osborne said he was delighted the region will receive government funding to help increase sustainable tourism.
“As sustainability is vital for our industry’s future, the STAR initiative will certainly help us strengthen our sustainability effort and allow us to dedicate more time and resources to support our region’s operators.” Osborne says.
The STAR programme contributes to an important outcome of the New Zealand Tourism Strategy 2015, that the tourism sector takes a leading role in protecting and enhancing New Zealand’s environment.
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Louis Vuitton Pacific Series
The inaugural Louis Vuitton Pacific Series comes to Auckland from 30 January. The best of international yachting is finally back on the water with some serious close racing, and of course the ever-pleasant Auckland summer. Louis Vuitton has joined forces with Emirates Team New Zealand to create the event, complete with a new cup.
We will be updating this site as more information comes to hand.
Who is participating?
The international participants confirmed thus far are:
- Alinghi, Switzerland (Brad Butterworth)
- BMW Oracle Racing, USA (Russell Coutts)
- Damiani Italia (Vasco Vascotto)
- Emirates Team New Zealand, New Zealand (Dean Barker)
- China Team, China (Ian Williams)
- Greek Challenge, Greece (skipper tbc)
- K-Challenge, France (Sébastien Col)
- Luna Rossa, Italy (Peter Holmberg)
- TEAMORIGIN, Great Britain (Ben Ainslie)
- Team Shosholoza, RSA (Paolo Cian)
Where will the racing be held?
Racing will be on short courses within the inner Harbour – making it very accessible for public viewing. There will be three course options which will be chosen according to the wind direction each day, all located within one and four miles from the viaduct harbour.
What’s the format?
We are up to the challenger finals stage of the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series. Because of the strong winds on the harbour, the challenger finals is now a best of three instead of a best of five competition, with BMW Oracle Racing and Alinghi the two challengers to make it through the round robins and sail offs.
The first of these three races was brought forward and held yesterday (Wednesday 11 February) - a true nail-biter that finished with Alinghi ahead by just one second.
The two remaining races will be held today (Thursday 12 February). So we are just one (if Alinghi wins), or possibly two, races away from seeing who will meet Emirates Team New Zealand for the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series Final. These final races, which are a best of seven, remain scheduled for Friday 13 February and Saturday 14 February.
Crews will race in New Zealand's NZL 92 and NZL 84 and BMW Oracle Racing's USA 87 and USA 98. Because the teams will be racing on very similar boats, this series is all about the skill of the crew, not the boat builders! The two American boats were offloaded from their transport ship just before Christmas and a team of 30 Kiwi and American shore crew members worked throughout the holiday period to prepare the boats for racing. The work included changes to the rigs and sail plans to make each pair of boats as equal as possible.
Chase boats will transfer teams to and from the racing yachts and their team base boat on the water.
What’s happening in the village?
The Louis Vuitton Pacific Series village will be in the Viaduct Harbour Marine Village, which can be accessed from Halsey Street and by floating bridge across the water. It will be open from 8am until 9pm daily.
Those of you who were in Auckland for the America’s Cup might remember the secrets: skirts on the boats and teams that were quiet about their sailing activities. However, there are no secrets around the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series! The public is welcome in the village area and there will be entertainment for sailing fans, families and international guests. The village will include merchandising, the big screen and stage, sponsor tents and a bar and restaurant. You just might find yourself having a celebratory beer with one of the teams fresh off the boat after a hard day of racing.
There will be an official programme for the series in the New Zealand Herald on 29 January, but if you miss out on a copy, there will also be some available in the village.
There will be public press conferences in the village each day, one hour after the finish of the final race.
How can I watch the racing?
If you're viewing from the water, you're best to stay around the start line - the quick short legs mean you'll be able to see the teams up the course from the start line. There are no official spectator boats, so if you don’t have your own call Tourism Auckland (numbers below), as there will be charter boats available. Check the Harbourmaster regulations for spectator boats.
The best place to view the racing from the land is North Head, followed by Bastion Point, depending on which course the boats are racing on. There will be live radio commentary on the racing for you to listen to on BSport Sailing on 103FM.
Then of course there is always the big screen (38 square meters!) in the Regatta Village, which will include live coverage.
TVNZ will also be showing highlights of the day’s racing.
If you’re an on-line fan you’ll also want to check out Virtual Eye, now so detailed and expertly animated that you’ll feel like you’re watching the real thing. This will be covering all the racing, not just the highlights. Details of the times and website address will be listed here shortly.
What is Tourism Auckland doing to support the event?
SKYCITY is a sponsor of the event, and will be providing the accommodation for the crews. However, we’re all aware of the flow-on effect of major events in Auckland – as one hotel becomes full from a business, sporting or arts event, the overflow of visitors seeking accommodation shares the love around all providers in Auckland. Tourism Auckland is providing accommodation information to enquirers around Louis Vuitton Pacific Series through our usual channels i.e. Auckland Business Tourism for group and corporate business, and the i-SITES, call centre and reservations e-mail for individual travelers.
There are a number of other events on over the time of the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series. Besides long running events such A T. rex named Sue, Auckland will also be home to Waitangi Day Celebrations, Headland Sculpture on the Gulf, Le Grand Cirque, The Waiheke Wine Festival, Auckland Lantern Festival and Top Gear Live. In other words, there is plenty of opportunity for Tourism Auckland and the industry generally to be promoting Auckland as the place to be over the two weeks of the series. Our campaign work is driving hits to our website where we will emphasising this abundance of activity, as will our e-newsletters, radio slots and other promotional channels.
Tourism Auckland is also working closely with the event organisers and other Auckland partners to ensure we maximise media opportunities and Auckland’s role as host city.
If you have a boat available for charter or for individual spectators to use during the Series please send the details to our Call Centre: We are receiving many queries from interested parties.
If you have any queries please contact Susan Sawbridge:
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Waiheke features on budget friendly travel list
Frommer’s Travel Guides has released its list of top 12 destinations for 2009 focusing on places that are affordable and interesting – and Auckland’s Waiheke Island is on the list.
Frommer’s has this to say about Waiheke:
“Just a ferry ride away from cosmopolitan Auckland sits the quaint Waiheke Island. It's a favourite summer holiday spot for Kiwis, the secluded shores dotted with baches - the equivalent of a summer cottage. If the beach isn't your thing, no worries, Waiheke is a hot spot for New Zealand's massive wine and olive industries. Growers of both grapes and olives have caught wind of all those traveling foodies and responded by building sleek and modern accommodation amongst the vines, providing high-end creature comforts, menus offering food for the sophisticated palate and spectacular views of the bay and distant Auckland.”
For the media release, click here.
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"Have your say” mobile recording studio
Tourism New Zealand’s mobile recording studio is in Auckland this week as part of its nationwide tour.
International tourists can step inside to record travel stories which will be posted on social networking websites.
The impressive looking vehicle will be parked in Devonport on Monday, the Museum on Tuesday and Piha on Wednesday afternoons. Tourism Auckland i-SITE staff will be on hand to tell tourists and locals alike what’s going on in Auckland.
Tourism Auckland chief executive Graeme Osborne says he’s totally supportive of Tourism New Zealand lifting their domestic profile by way of this innovative application of new technology.
“Massive and ever increasing, numbers of people of all ages are using social networking websites and it’s important that destination marketers use these new channels for communicating with individual customers. Tourism Auckland has had its own success with social networking through our bebo.com campaign, with our webpage being visited by more than 62,000 potential tourists.”
Check out the mobile recording studio:
- 12 January, 1-6pm
Venue: Flagstaff Terrace (by Windsor Reserve), Devonport
- 13 January, 12-5pm
Venue: Auckland War Memorial Museum
- 14 January, 12-5pm
Venue: Piha Domain
For more information see the website.
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Tourism Auckland joins Facebook
Tourism Auckland has increased its web presence with a ‘This is Auckland’ page on social networking website Facebook.
The page features the latest information about what’s on in Auckland, photos, competitions, hot deals and more.
Tourism Auckland chief executive Graeme Osborne says “People of all ages are accessing new technologies and the tourism industry needs to take advantage of that. We’ve already had success with social networking through our bebo.com campaign, with our webpage being visited by more than 62,000 potential tourists.”
To check out the Facebook page and become a friend of ‘This is Auckland’ visit www.facebook.com
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Auckland’s Kia Ora to international students
More than 1,700 new international students learnt to say Kia Ora at yesterday’s Auckland International Student Welcome event.
The annual event, hosted by Study Auckland, was held at the ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre. It attracted students of all ages from schools, tertiary institutions and language providers from across the Auckland region.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, welcomed the students and encouraged them to embrace life in Auckland. “We want your learning experience to be superior. We want you to have a fantastic time in Auckland and to encourage your friends and family to come and visit you here,” he said.
To view the full media release click here.
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Langham Hotels International
11 July 2008
Langham Hotels International (LHI) has signed a new management agreement which takes Langham Place, a sister brand of The Langham, outside Asia. The luxury hotel operator will manage the five-star boutique Vineyard Resort + Spa on behalf of Isola Estate on Waiheke Island, an exclusive enclave 30 minutes off the coast of Auckland, New Zealand, which will open in 2010.
The resort will nestle amongst the 26 award-winning vineyards of Waiheke Island including its own, forming the basis of a paradise for travellers and meeting planners seeking a gastronomic and wine lover's experience. The management agreement with Isola Estate marks the sixth Langham Place branded property in the world.
Langham Place Vineyard Resort + Spa, Waiheke Island, Auckland is designed by one of New Zealand's leading hotel architects, CDA Architecture. The boutique resort will feature modern Tuscan-style characteristics and showcase 78 contemporary condominium-style rooms and suites, a Chuan Spa, state-of-the-art gym, tennis courts, a premium quality restaurant as well as extensive meeting and banquet facilities for up to 300 people.
The island resort experience will include an interactive wine theatre which will form the heart of the special events showcase for conferences, meetings, incentive groups, banquets and wine tours.
Langham Place Vineyard Resort + Spa, Waiheke Island is just 8 minutes by helicopter and 30 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland.
Dr. KS Lo, Chairman of Langham Hotels International said: "The Langham brand is well-established in Auckland with an enchanting property in the heart of the city. We're pleased to be introducing its vibrant sibling brand, Langham Place to New Zealand, offering a stimulating and adventurous choice for the region."
"Langham Place will help to open up new global luxury travel markets when it opens with its exciting blend of inspiring hospitality. Waiheke island will capture imaginations with an incredible aerial arrival experience that will be matched only by its vineyards and facilities," he added.
Brent Gibson, Managing Director of Isola Estate anticipates that a new level to New Zealand's luxury wine tourism market will be created. He said: "Langham Place Vineyard Resort + Spa, Waiheke Island will be the Martha's Vineyard of the South Pacific. The resort will create a new dynamism to the economy of Waiheke Island - building a five star boutique, wine-based hospitality business."
"When the resort is completed, it will create a buzz with meeting planners looking for new ideas in New Zealand and the South Pacific by adding new facilities to the Auckland scene."
"Langham Hotels International's operation of Isola Estate will ensure that the hotel achieves maximum exposure to the international market, and that it has the impeccable service standard for which Langham properties are world-renowned; Isola Estate is being developed in a sustainable, controlled manner which fits with the landscape visually and ensures that the clean, green qualities for which Waiheke Island - and New Zealand - are known are protected and preserved," he concluded.
Langham Hotels International is the subsidiary of the Hong Kong-based Great Eagle Holdings, spearheaded by Dr. KS Lo, who is also the Chairman and Managing Director of Great Eagle Holdings. Spanning four continents, the group currently features 15 properties either open or under construction, with over 5,000 rooms in 11 cities, namely Auckland, Beijing, Boston, Changchun, Hong Kong, Koh Lanta, London, Melbourne, Pasadena, Shanghai and Toronto.
For more information regarding Langham Hotels International, please see the website: www.langhamhotels.com
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Takatu Vineyard and Lodge
The World's Greatest Hotels, Resorts and Spas - Travel + Leisure Magazine 2008.
Takatu Lodge was 1 of only 3 properties in NZ to be chosen to be featured in Travel + Leisure Magazine's ultimate book of travel. The editors have distilled this coverage into an indispensable guide to the year's most dazzling properties from around the globe. You'll find more than 200 images from Travel & Leisure's award-winning photographers in this book, as well as a guide to the winners of Travel + Leisure's annual World's Best Awards, an extraordinary collection of hotels, resorts and spas selected by readers.
About an hours drive north of Auckland, Matakana is fast becoming a favourite wine destination. Heather and John Forsman visited 23 inns across New Zealand and Australia before opening Takatu Lodge. A Maori word meaning "well-prepared", Takatu has only four rooms, and you can't go wrong with any of them; each makes the most of the lodge's location, on a gorgeous vineyard. Bathtubs look out on the vines, and public spaces are uncluttered and serene. In the glass-walled sitting and dining room, guests gather for three-course breakfasts that can include homemade muesli or ricotta pancakes with fruit. And just outside, a poured-concrete patio has furniture arranged around a huge hearth - perfect for an evening tasting of the estate's wine.
Check out the full World's Best Awards list on the Travel + Leisure Magazine website.
For more information regarding Takatu Vineyard & Lodge, please see the website.
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Tourism Auckland congratulates winners
Auckland tourism operators took out nine awards – including the top prize - in Tuesday night’s New Zealand Tourism Awards, announced in Christchurch.
Magic Travellers Network, the flexible transport network for the independent traveller, won the prestigious Supreme Award 2008 for tourism excellence. Auckland-based Magic also took out the awards for Tourism and Transportation Services, Visitor Transport and Qualmark Tourism Mark of Quality Award.
Other Auckland winners included:
- Tourmasters South Pacific – Tourism Distribution services
- Air New Zealand Grab a Seat – Phillips Innovation Award
- The Langham Auckland - Green Globe Sustainability Award
Among the individual award recipients were William Goodfellow from ExploreNZ who won the PATA Young Tourism Professional award and Kiyomi Gunji from Southern Travel Holdings who received the Horwath Sir Jack Newman Award for service to New Zealand Tourism.
Tourism Auckland chief executive Graeme Osborne says the awards demonstrate the high level of quality and excellence in the tourism industry in the Auckland region.
“Our congratulations go to all the winners, particularly the Magic Travellers Network with their fantastic achievement this year,” he says.
“We look forward to the continuing success of the Auckland region at next year’s awards.”
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Tourism Auckland finalists in sustainability award
28 August 2008
Tourism Auckland made it to the finalist stage in the northern region Sustainable Business Network awards for "Trailblazer - Not for profit". We didn't take top honours, but even to be a runner up we feel is quite an achievement. We've been working hard in the area of sustainability both internally and for the industry, and it's great to have this acknowledged by an outside organisation. But we're pleased to say that the winner was an Auckland tourism operator, YHA Auckland International. Congratulations to another tourism winner, cityhop, for the "Sustainable Design and Innovation" award.
For more information, please visit the website: www.sustainable.org.nz
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Could you be the next bachelor?
Following the success of TV show The Bachelor filming their final two episodes in New Zealand, Tourism New Zealand is encouraging Kiwi bachelors to apply to be the show’s next star.
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive George Hickton says a Kiwi bachelor would put New Zealand in the spotlight in the US and around the world as The Bachelor is shown.
“Millions of Americans saw how beautiful New Zealand was earlier this year on The Bachelor. If the next Bachelor is a New Zealander it will be a great opportunity for Americans to learn more about our amazing country, our stunning landscapes and, of course, our friendly locals,” Mr Hickton said.
The television show focuses on one man’s quest for love. The Bachelor gets to know the bachelorettes through a series of romantic escapades and has to choose one woman from 25 over several weeks.
Tourism New Zealand has now set up a special Facebook page with more information about The Bachelor and a direct link to the application forms.
If you are interested in becoming the first Kiwi bachelor or know someone who would be a great candidate then visit>> http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kiwi-Bachelor/81499426914?ref=nf for more details.
Get in quick because applications close this Sunday 31 May.
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Happy Birthday Auckland Harbour Bridge
The Harbour Bridge is turning 50 this weekend and Auckland is celebrating!
The landmark, which was built in 1959 to bridge the gap between St Marys Bay and Northcote Point, is iconic to the city skyline.
You can experience the bridge first-hand this weekend. Auckland Bridge Climb and Bungy has several great deals to celebrate the bridge’s 50th anniversary.
Special two for one offer – take a friend and you’ll get two bridge climbs for the price of one. Capture the moment with a free commemorative photo from the summit of the bridge.
Plus anyone with a birthday in the month of May will get a free bungy jump when they do a bridge climb. To book call 0800 GO CLIMB. For more information >>
If you’re not game to climb the bridge there are many other ways to enjoy it. Take a harbour cruise and sail past on a ferry, or climb Mt Eden, Rangitoto or North Head and view the bridge from afar. Alternatively book your spot for the Auckland Marathon in November and run across it.
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Help stop Influenza A
The Ministry of Health is asking tourism operators to help stop the spread of Influenza A (H1N1) by distributing a new information flyer for international visitors.
Ministry of Health Director of Public Health Dr Mark Jacobs says tourism operators are well placed to help keep New Zealand healthy by distributing the information to all travellers and tourists they come into contact with.
"At the moment in New Zealand there is no community spread of the new Influenza A (H1N1) also known as 'Swine Flu'," he says. "We are trying to keep it that way for as long as possible.
"It's very unlikely we can keep it out forever, however, and you can help us by ensuring that anyone visiting New Zealand from a country where there has been confirmed cases and community spread of the virus, knows what to do if they develop symptoms of influenza."
Visit the Tourism New Zealand website to read more and download the information flyer.
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Bush and Beach celebrates 25 years
Bush and Beach, one of Auckland’s leading tourism operators, is celebrating its 25th birthday this month.
This is a significant milestone for any business but for New Zealand’s longest running eco-tour company this endorses its sustainable principles.
Eco-tours were once considered the domain of long-haired, lentil-eating hippies but have now become not only mainstream but a sought after tourism activity.
“We are so proud to have this 25-year history of showcasing our beautiful region in a sustainable way” says Helen Bissett, CEO of Bush and Beach.
“To have stayed in business all these years and to now be growing steadily is quite an achievement. It vindicates eco-tourism as a viable business enterprise.”
Caring for their environment and supporting their local community is at the heart of what this company stands for.
Bush and Beach runs daily tours to Auckland's coastal rainforest, wild black sand beaches, untamed Great Barrier Island and Coromandel Peninsula. Each trip gives a unique experience of spectacular natural worlds with rare and endangered flora and fauna.
For more information >>
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Auckland welcomes TRENZ
Auckland is on show to hundreds of international travel trade representatives at TRENZ this week.
TRENZ 2009, New Zealand’s largest international tourism business event, is on at the ASB Showgrounds from 8 to 11 June.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says he’s delighted to be partnering the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA) and tourism suppliers in hosting TRENZ 2009 in Auckland.
“As New Zealand’s largest city, the City of Sails is ideally positioned to host this year’s TRENZ. Auckland welcomes 70 percent of international arrivals to the country and hosts 34 percent of all international visitor nights in New Zealand,” he says.
“In the six years since TRENZ was last in Auckland, our product offering has grown extensively and we’re looking forward to profiling both our products and our diverse region to the line-up of international buyers and media.”
The event will showcase 270 leading New Zealand tourism operators to 260 international travel and tourism buyers, as well as 30 international media representatives.
All New Zealand’s major tourism markets, including Australia, UK, USA, China and Japan will be represented.
Over four days the New Zealand operators will meet the buyers in a series of 15 minute business appointments, where they will negotiate agreements on accommodation, transport, tours and activities.
Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA) chief executive, Tim Cossar, says the event is especially important in this current economic climate.
“Now, more than ever, New Zealand tourism’s industry needs to keep our share of voice in international markets strong and TRENZ 2009 is critical in helping us to make this happen,” he says.
TRENZ 2009 is managed by TIA as agent of the Tourism Industry New Zealand Trust and in partnership with Tourism New Zealand, Air New Zealand and other industry supporters. The Ministry of Tourism is also a major supporter of TRENZ 2009.
For more information visit www.trenz.co.nz
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Queen’s Wharf development to move full-steam ahead
The Government has struck a deal to buy Auckland's Queen’s Wharf, meaning a massive redevelopment of the wharf for the 2011 Rugby World Cup will proceed.
John Key made the announcement yesterday after reaching agreement with the wharf’s current owners the Auckland Regional Council.
"By purchasing this site we have secured an asset that will live long after the Rugby World Cup has finished and give pleasure to visitors and locals alike for generations to come," he said.
The intention is for Queen’s Wharf to be opened up for public access and developed into a premier cruise ship terminal for New Zealand.
The move has won applause from Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne.
Speaking on Radio New Zealand this morning he said “We’re all looking upon this as being something quite catalytic. This is a real legacy opportunity for Auckland.”
Listen to the full interview here >>
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Today Show live from Auckland
Auckland was beamed live into the homes of thousands of Australians yesterday when the TODAY Show was broadcast from the city.
The landmark Australian breakfast TV show airs daily between 5.30am and 9am and is watched by 800,000 Australians.
On a beautiful winter’s morning weatherman Steven Jacobs and reporter Mike Dalton presented a live broadcast from Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World.
The segment is part of a series of live crosses from around the country this week, as the pair travel down to Queenstown where there’ll host a special two-day New Zealand show.
Along with the weather slot, the Auckland region will also feature in a pre-recorded travel segment shown on the programme.
The TODAY Show’s visit was organised by Tourism New Zealand. Read more >>
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Are you an outstanding young tourism professional?
Rising stars in the New Zealand tourism industry are being sought for the 2009 PATA Young Tourism Professional Award.
The Award, managed by the Tourism Industry Association (TIA), recognises aspiring young individuals who are paving the way in the tourism sector.
The 2008 award recipient was Auckland’s own William Goodfellow, managing director of Explore NZ. William says the award recognises the hard work put into the business.
“Winning the 2008 PATA Young Tourism Professional Award was a great surprise, a tremendous acknowledgement of our innovative approach and hard work, not just for me personally but the whole team,” he says.
The winner of the 2009 award will receive a grant of $2500 to advance their professional development and access to ATTTO management courses.
The award is open to those working in the tourism industry under the age of 35 at the closing date for entries – 14 August 2009. Finalists will be announced in early October.
Click here for more details.
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Influenza A ‘H1N1’ Swine Flu update
Influenza A (H1N1), ‘Swine Flu’, is now spreading in New Zealand’s community.
The Ministry of Health has moved from a ‘containment’ phase to a ‘management’ phase. This means that the focus has now switched to providing care for those at most risk of more severe illness. Quarantine and isolation measures will no longer be used in most cases. Antiviral medication such as Tamiflu, and special treatment, will only be provided to those who are most at risk.
Information for tourism operators on how to prepare your business for the possibility of having large numbers of staff off sick and how to deal with sick guests has been updated and is now available on TIA's website.
Key points to be aware of are:
• Influenza A (H1N1) is not severe in most cases, and people will be able to care for themselves at home. Most people will not need to see a doctor.
• Many more people are likely to get the H1N1 than normal seasonal flu, so there is likely to be significant disruption to business while staff are off sick, or caring for sick children.
• Businesses need to work within their normal sick/annual leave provisions and are encouraged to be as flexible as possible with staff.
According to the latest Tourism Indicators Monitor Asian markets have fallen sharply since mid-May after the Influenza A (H1N1) 'Swine Flu' outbreak. South Korea, China and Japan are the most impacted, while other important markets for New Zealand are relatively stable.
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Basketball’s best in Auckland
The world’s best young basketball stars have converged on Auckland for the 2009 FIBA U19 World Championship.
From tomorrow until 12 July some of the tallest men in the world will play in the most prestigious youth basketball event, held at the ASB Stadium in Kohimarama and the North Shore Events Centre.
Spectators can join NBA talent scouts and pick the next Michael Jordan from the top sixteen international basketball teams in the world.
Already the players are causing a stir with Syria’s tallest man gracing the front page of the New Zealand Herald yesterday after a visit to an Auckland primary school. Read more >>
To find out more about FIBA click here >>
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Study Auckland Conference hones in on export education
Export education was under the spotlight at the Study Auckland annual conference on Thursday 2 July.
The conference, ‘Setting the Compass on Export Education in Auckland’, was attended by more than 60 Study Auckland members from schools, tertiary institutions and private language providers.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says the event offered a valuable learning and networking experience.
“The importance of export education should not be under estimated. It’s moving ahead in leaps and bounds and as an industry we need to work together to maximise opportunities,” he says.
Conference participants benefited from a range of professional development sessions, along with a market update from Graeme Osborne and a presentation from Ministry of Education CEO, Karen Sewell.
The Auckland region dominates the international student market with a contribution of 54 per cent of the total value-added GDP. This is a market which brings $2.36 billion in foreign exchange to New Zealand’s economy.
Read more >>
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Australian campaign a winner
Tourism Auckland’s ‘Have a short and sweet as break’ campaign has generated a huge result of package sales for Auckland holidays.
Tourism Auckland partnered with Gold Coast Airport and Blue Holidays - the holiday program of Pacific Blue - on a five-week advertising campaign to promote some great getaways to Auckland.
The radio, online and print campaign ran in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
The airfare and accommodation deals meant visitors could enjoy a low-cost long weekend in Auckland, with a stay for three nights and pay for two deal.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says the campaign generated very strong airfare and holiday sales to the Auckland region.
“It’s an outstanding outcome for our first campaign of its kind with Blue Holidays. The financial returns and resulting boost in visitor numbers are impressive, but the benefits won’t stop here with the increased awareness of Auckland helping to lure more Aussies to our region,” he says.
Along with the positive financial results, the campaign exposure was also significant, with more than 431,000 Australians witnessing the promotion at least three times.
“I’m confident that the campaign helped to raise Auckland’s profile amongst Australians as a diverse and attractive destination,” says Graeme.
The campaign incorporated images from the ‘This is Auckland’ campaign, which focuses on the natural and surprising aspects of the region.
Tourism Auckland’s involvement in the Blue Holidays campaign is one of many recent initiatives in the Australian market. It follows two successful radio promotions with 2GB in Sydney and a promotion with Channel 10 and 98FM in Perth.
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Supercity seen as chance to lift tourism industry
Major players in Auckland’s tourism sector hope the proposed Supercity amalgamation might lift the region's performance in one of its most important businesses.
Industry leaders argue that tourism promotion in Auckland is fragmented and seriously underfunded.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, shares his views with Radio New Zealand.
Listen to the full radio interview here >>
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Auckland is top spot for international conference
Auckland has won the bid to host the International Neuropsychological Society Conference in July 2011.
The successful bid was done by Tourism Auckland’s business tourism bureau.
The four day conference will take place at the SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre in July 2011, giving a boost to the industry in the winter months.
With 500 delegates attending from around the world, the conference will bring more than 2000 delegate days and an estimated $1.4million to the region.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, is delighted with the win.
“We continuously bid for events likely to benefit the region’s hotels and venues. To secure this conference in the middle of the low tourist season is a great result,” he says.
Auckland Business Tourism manager, Anna Hayward, adds that it’s a coup to win a conference out of the United States, especially in this market.
“This demonstrates that we remain competitive internationally and can hold our own as a compelling destination,” says Anna.
The International Neuropsychological Society is a non-profit organisation with its headquarters in the United States. It is dedicated to enhancing communication among the scientific disciplines, which contribute to the understanding of brain-behaviour relationships.
Executive secretary for the Society, Robert Bornstein, says he looks forward to bringing their conference to Auckland in two years’ time.
“We have strong relationships with colleagues in the Pacific Rim and are excited about coming to Auckland and experiencing its culture and welcoming people,” he says.
Auckland beat Beijing to secure the conference.
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Meetings makes headlines
Meetings – New Zealand’s largest Conventions & Incentives trade show – is on this week at SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre.
The Auckland Business Tourism (ABT) exhibit features an impressive 30 stands, giving the region more exposure than ever before.
Conventions & Incentives New Zealand CEO, Alan Trotter, says business tourism is currently holding steady in the economic climate and the outlook for the coming year in New Zealand is strong.
“Looking ahead over the next six to twelve months, both international and domestic conference and incentive bookings are looking reasonably healthy. Admittedly the industry has found the last year or so challenging, but I think the worst of the trough is over and we are on the way up,” he says.
Trotter added that the Meetings 2009 event, which showcases 170 of New Zealand’s conference and incentive suppliers to overseas and local buyers, will provide a much needed boost to business tourism throughout the country.
“More than $25 million dollars worth of business is usually booked during the 2 ½ day annual tradeshow, with a further $160 million secured over the next year or so from leads established at the show,” he says.
A story about the C&I industry featured on TV3’s ASB Business programme today and included comment from Tourism Auckland’s chief executive, Graeme Osborne. Watch the story here >>
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New TIA website launched
The Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA) has launched a new website aimed at improving online resources for members and boosting the voice of the tourism industry.
The website includes several new features including a regular blog from TIA chief executive Tim Cossar and other leading industry commentators, daily news, online polls, video updates and more resources and information on benefits for members.
“It’s our job to promote the importance of the tourism industry as one of New Zealand’s leading export industries, and to promote our members as actively as we can in the global online space,” TIA chief executive Tim Cossar says.
“Tourism operators are straight talkers and this site aims to provide easy to read up-to-date information on what’s happening in the tourism industry here and now, and at the same time give members an advanced understanding of national and regional industry issues that could have a longer term impact on their businesses.”
Check out TIA’s new website at www.tianz.org.nz
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Big boost for conventions research
The benefits of the Conventions and Incentives (C&I) sector will be better understood with the launch of an enhanced research survey.
Covec has been awarded the contract to expand the scope of the existing Conventions Activity Survey.
The refined survey will determine economic measures and provide more detailed classification of the types of corporate events, including government and incentive.
The project was driven by a Research Advisory Group (RAG) including representatives from the New Zealand Convention Bureaux, Regional Tourism Organisations, the Ministry of Tourism and Conventions and Incentives New Zealand.
RAG chair and chief executive of Tourism Auckland, Graeme Osborne, says this is hugely positive for the sector.
“I’ve always believed the C&I sector is a significant contributor to tourism GDP. The expanded survey will help confirm these economic benefits and provide more details about the types of C&I business, as well as better inform business and investment decisions in this valued sector,” he says.
In addition to measuring the sector on origin, destination, and quantum of delegate days in New Zealand, the improved survey will measure delegate spend before, during and after events.
It will also estimate the contribution of the C&I sector to the regional and national economies of New Zealand.
Read more >>
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Kia Ora – it’s Maori Language Week
Auckland’s Coast to Coast Tours has acknowledged the importance of Maori Language Week by giving Maori names to its first two orphan lambs born in the 2009 season.
The company runs eco-tours of its 100-acre genuine working sheep farm, which is just 40 minutes from downtown Auckland.
The farm has around 500 sheep and during the lambing season it usually gets around ten orphan lambs that are either sickly or have been abandoned by their mothers.
“This year it just happened that twin male lambs were born at the beginning of Maori Language week,” says owner / operator Donna Hamilton.
“Fittingly we have called them ‘Tahi’ meaning one and ‘Rua’ meaning two. It’s going to be great because we often find that Maori names lead into discussion about the Maori language with our overseas tourists,” she says.
Maori Language Week runs from 27 July to 2 August 2009 and Tourism New Zealand is encouraging all Kiwis to learn more about one of the most unique things about living in New Zealand – Maori culture and language.
"We’d like to see all tourism operators using "Kia Ora" to greet people. It really does have an impact on visitors, and the more consistent we are the more the visitors will appreciate the uniqueness this language brings to our country," says Tourism New Zealand chief executive George Hickton.
"Kia Ora" can be used for the equivalent of "Hello" and also for "Thank you". "Ka Kite" is an informal sign-off, meaning something like "See you later" or "Hope to see you again". For those frequent emailers use "Nga Mihi" as an informal sign-off, such as "Cheers".
Read more >>
If you want to know more and get some ideas about what your organisation can do during Maori Language Week visit: www.korero.maori.nz
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Auckland kicks-off New Zealand cruise season
16 Ocboter 2009
The Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Hon John Key, will toast the arrival of Star Princess at Auckland’s Princes Wharf today to mark the launch of New Zealand’s 2009-10 cruise season.
The 2,600 guest capacity ship will be the first of 25 ships to make 57 calls to Auckland during the full summer and winter cruise season, which runs through until August next year.
Carnival Australia & New Zealand managing director, Jen Madsen, says that while the economic situation had impacted some international cruise operators, the New Zealand market had shown resilience.
“Despite a slight drop in the number of cruise ship calls this season, we are hearing positive reports from around the industry and are expecting a speedy recovery," says Jenny.
“We are hosting 25% more cruise ship calls this season than we did just three years ago, and have also seen an increase in winter cruise calls over the last two years.”
Auckland will host nine calls by the Pacific Sun during the 2010 winter season.
Tourism Auckland i-SITE staff will welcome cruise passengers when they arrive at Princes Wharf and give them information about what to do see and do in Auckland.
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Visitors to tour region for Rugby World Cup
18 December 2009
Visitors to Auckland for Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011) will have the opportunity to explore the region, with at least 12 teams based in Auckland during the Tournament.
Today’s announcement confirmed that teams will train at seven different venues throughout Auckland, from Silverdale in the north to The Trusts Stadium in the west and Lloyd Elsmore Park in the east.
Other training venues selected include Western Springs Stadium, Mt Smart Stadium, Onewa Domain and North Harbour Stadium.
Tourism Auckland chief executive, Graeme Osborne, says it’s a positive result for Auckland and its tourism industry.
“The Tournament is a chance to showcase the Auckland region and this broad mix of training venues provides an opportunity to do that. As visitors move around to follow their team they’ll be encouraged to experience many of the region’s jewels,” he says.
Three teams will be hosted in Rodney for a total of 19 nights providing visitors easy access to places like Matakana, Pakiri Beach and Goat Island Marine Reserve.
France is expected to be accompanied by large numbers of travelling fans and will be based at Onewa Domain near the North Shore beaches.
High profile teams New Zealand, Australia and England will all spend time at Trusts Stadium out west, just a stones throw from the Waitakere Ranges and rugged west coast.
Read more about Auckland's team bases here and the rest of New Zealand's here >>
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Auckland Airport triumphs again
11 February 2010
Auckland Airport has been awarded the Airport of the Year (under 15 million passengers annually) in the 2010 Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Aerospace & Defence Awards.
The accolade was announced in Singapore in early February and follows the earlier successes of Auckland Airport at two other prestigious award ceremonies.
In the 2009 Skytrax awards Auckland was named one of the 10 best airports in the world and in the 2009 World Travel Awards Auckland was named the best airport in the Australia Pacific region.
Auckland Airport’s chief executive, Simon Moutter, says the repeated recognition of the passenger experience at Auckland Airport is very rewarding.
“Each award reflects the hard work we are doing with our airport partners, including airlines, border agencies and baggage-handlers to improve the traveller experience,” says Moutter.
Auckland Airport handles more than 70 percent of international arrivals into New Zealand. It is Australasia’s second largest airport and is well connected to points around the world, with 18 different international airlines serving Auckland.
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Major makeover for Kelly Tarlton’s
12 February 2010
Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World has unveiled plans to completely renovate the attraction by August 2011.
Construction will begin next month and take place in two stages over the period of 18 months.
Kelly Tarlton’s CEO Mike Horne is excited about the upcoming renovations and what it will do for the already popular experience.
“The work we are undertaking is significant and clearly demonstrates our commitment to ensuring Kelly Tarlton’s is a world class destination. The upcoming 18 months will be an exciting time for the team at Kelly Tarlton’s as we work to significantly improve this popular attraction,” says Mr Horne.
The make-over will place more emphasis on conservation which Kelly Tarlton’s has been heavily involved in for 25-years.
The first phase will transform the Oceanarium into a unique marine encounter named Kelly’s Reef. The sub-tropical underwater world will be themed around the Poor Knights/Three Kings marine environment.
A new turtle rehabilitation centre will also be created adjacent to Kelly’s Reef. The centre will be used to help promote the recently launched Kelly Tarlton’s Marine Wildlife Trust as well as the teams’ conservation, rescue and rehabilitation work.
The second phase will focus on upgrading the Antarctic Encounter. Once complete it will boast 30 percent more landmass for the penguin colonies, as well as new up-close public viewing areas.
Kelly Tarlton’s is confident that the renovations will cause minimal disturbance to visitors during this time.
Kelly Tarlton’s is one of New Zealand’s most well known attractions. To date more than 11 million visitors have experienced its exhibits.
For more information about the upcoming renovations and new experiences at Kelly Tarlton’s please click here »
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Queens Wharf – enough talk
Tourism Auckland supports the proposed $97m redevelopment of Queen’s Wharf.
Tourism Auckland Chief Executive, Graeme Osborne, says it’s time to seize the moment and move forward.
He encourages everyone that supports his view to email Auckland’s leaders to show their support for the option four redevelopment of Queens Wharf.
Read Osborne’s full opinion piece here >>
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Tourism Auckland welcomes GM Marketing
16 February 2010
Tourism Auckland’s team will be enhanced and strengthened by the addition of Rose Johnston to the new role of General Manager Marketing.
Rose - who took up the position this week - has a wealth of experience spanning many aspects of the tourism industry, including private and public sector organisations.
During her 11-year career in both New Zealand and the UK she has worked for hotels, tour operators and regional and national tourism organisations.
Rose has a proven track record with managing relationships and her marketing experience includes trade and consumer marketing and online and offline multi-media campaigns.
Tourism Auckland Chief Executive, Graeme Osborne, says Rose has the broad tourism knowledge and sharp intellect required for the role.
“Her depth of experience coupled with passion and integrity make her an ideal General Manager Marketing for Tourism Auckland. I look forward to her contribution in helping guide the progress of New Zealand’s major visitor destination,” says Osborne.
Read more >>
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Help make Auckland the Airport of the Year
23 February 2010
Tourism Auckland encourages operators to support Auckland Airport in its mission to be voted the world’s best airport.
Last year international travellers voted Auckland into the top 10 airports in the world. And this year the airport wants to do even better.
The World Airport Survey lets customers vote for their favourite airport to receive the prestigious Airport of the Year Award from Skytrax, which is a renowned global survey.
Voting closes on 28 February. To show your support and vote for Australasia’s second largest airport click here >>
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Mollies named among best in the world
25 February 2010
For the third year in a row Auckland’s Mollies has been named among the 101 Best Hotels in the World by Tatler Magazine.
Mollies has done extremely well to be recognised in an area predominantly awarded to overseas-owned hotels or superlodges.
Mollies owner, Frances Wilson, is thrilled with the recognition that the boutique hotel has received.
“This is our baby – and to have her yet again in the spotlight on the international stage is such a reinforcement of the personal, caring passion that we, and every staff member, bring to looking after our guests,” she says.
The hotel, referred to as a “love letter to guests” by Tatler Magazine, sits alongside London’s Ritz, the Taj Mahal Palace and the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok.
Tourism Auckland Chief Executive, Graeme Osborne, has commended Mollies on its accomplishment.
“The lengths gone to by Mollies to present a superior quality offering with such a high class point of different makes this award totally deserved. To be ranked in the company of some of the world’s big-name hotels is a true credit to Mollies’ enduring quality. Auckland can really be proud of this superb boutique hotel,” says Osborne.
Mollies is a boutique, family-owned and operated small hotel in St Mary’s Bay in Auckland.
The hotel has also recently been admitted to one of the world’s most prestigious hotel collections – Paris-based Relais & Chateaux.
For more information about Mollies click here >>
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Hauraki Gulf Marine Park celebrates 10 years
2 March 2010
The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park celebrated its 10 year anniversary by announcing the inclusion of new parks and private land within the marine park.
The new additions will include Waitakere City Council parks and reserves bordering the Waitemata Harbour and Waiheke Island covenanted land owned by the Forest and Bird Protection Society.
Auckland Regional Council chair, Mike Lee, is excited about the recognition and the support that the Marine Park has received.
“The value of these islands and waters is inestimable – as wildlife sanctuaries, as recreational assets, and as tourist attractions. Most important of all though is their role in sustaining a healthy ecosystem” says Mr Lee.
To mark the anniversary, Tourism Auckland will launch a new website dedicated to the islands of the Hauraki Gulf. The website, www.haurakigulfnz.com, will launch in early March.
Tourism Auckland Chief Executive, Graeme Osborne, is a strong advocate of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
“While the 10th Anniversary is a significant milestone in its own right, as importantly it is an opportunity to celebrate the integral lifestyle opportunity the Gulf represents for Aucklanders and the massive visitor potential that exists within a stone’s throw of central Auckland.
“Recent investment in enhancing the Gulf as a pivotal wildlife and heritage asset for Aucklanders and our guests provides a unique point of different for Auckland as a global lifestyle region,” says Mr Osborne.
The Marine Park contains 1.2 million hectares of sea, from Mangawhai Heads to Waihi Beach.
The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park was created to recognise the Gulf’s significance and importance to the nation and tangata whenua, protect its resources in perpetuity, and require all who have management responsibilities to act in a careful and integrated way.
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International students relish Auckland welcome
3 March 2010
More than 1,600 new international students enjoyed a taste of Auckland’s vibrancy at yesterday’s International Student Welcome at the Auckland Town Hall.
The annual event, hosted by Study Auckland, attracted students of all ages from schools, tertiary institutions and language providers from across the Auckland region.
Tourism Auckland Chief Executive, Graeme Osborne, welcomed the students and applauded them for choosing Auckland as their study destination.
“I’m proud of what our region has to offer – both the excellent quality of education and the superior lifestyle. I encourage you to embrace life in Auckland, explore the region and make the most of your time here,” he said.
The event was hosted by Kasina Campbell who wowed the crowd during a performance with the New Native dance group.
Attendees also enjoyed inspirational speeches from students who currently study here, as well as entertainment from Mt Albert Grammar School kapa haka group and The Corelli School of Performing Arts.
Read more >>
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Air New Zealand’s changes welcomed
23 March 2010
Tourism Auckland backs Air New Zealand’s trans-Tasman service changes.
The renowned Kiwi airline has announced that anyone flying to Australia and the Pacific on Air New Zealand from late this year will have four options of service priced accordingly, with the bottom option challenging budget airlines.
The airline's A320 aircraft on trans-Tasman and Pacific services will have one-class and 171 seats.
Customers will be able to choose from four seat options:
- A Seat option allows one carry on bag of 7kg, tea, coffee and water and access to some entertainment options but no new release entertainment.
- A Seat Plus Bag option allows one carry on and one checked bag, tea, coffee and water and some entertainment.
- The Works option has a meal and drinks and a seat request.
- Works Deluxe allows two priority bags, a carry on bag, a seat request, a meal and drinks, a guaranteed empty seat next to you, premium check in, lounge access and better entertainment options.
The airline will also introduce automated check in procedures similar to those currently used on domestic flights.
The Tasman is one of the most fiercely competitive airline markets in the world, with eight airlines competing for the 5.8 million passengers who fly between Australia and New Zealand each year.
Air New Zealand had a market share of 2.1 million of these passengers and plans to maintain this.
Each week Air New Zealand operates 280 trans-Tasman flights and 72 Pacific Island flights.
Read more >>
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Pacific Blue launches Cairns to Auckland flights
24 March 2010
Cairns residents have more choice about their travel to Auckland thanks to the launch of Pacific Blue’s new direct flights.
Pacific Blue, Virgin Blue’s New Zealand-based international airline, has this week launched its first international service from Cairns to Auckland.
The airline will operate twice weekly return flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays and has committed one of its Boeing 737-800 aircrafts to the route, boosting seat capacity by 79 percent across ‘the ditch’.
Virgin Blue CEO Brett Godfrey said the new service had already stirred up competition on the route, with Pacific Blue attracting solid load bookings into the middle of the year and competitors dropping their fares.
“By the way bookings are currently trending we’re very confident this new, affordable direct service will continue to grow in popularity in both directions,” he said.
Pacific Blue and Blue Holidays currently have some travel packages in the market to entice Queenslanders to chill out in Auckland this winter.
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Auckland Airport in world’s top 10
24 March 2010
Auckland Airport has been rated the ninth best airport in the world and the best airport in the Australia Pacific region in the independent 2010 Skytrax World Airport Awards.
These accolades help to cement the airport’s status as a world-class tourism and trade hub.
Auckland Airport is the only airport from the Australia Pacific region and one of only four airports from outside Asia to make this elite top-10 global list.
As well as beating off strong competition to win the Best Airport Australia Pacific trophy, Auckland also triumphed in the Staff Service Excellence category for the region.
Auckland Airport chief executive, Simon Moutter, said, “We’re incredibly proud. Being recognised as one of the 10 best airports in the world last year was outstanding in itself, but to see our focus on service delivering an even better result this year is immensely rewarding.”
The Skytrax World Airport Awards are the industry’s most extensive air traveller-based awards.
The survey of airport customers was conducted between July 2009 and March 2010 and covered more than 9.8 million travellers from over 100 different countries.
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Auckland’s a winner with biggest losers
29 March 2010
Auckland starred on prime-time television in Australia last week, as the final four contestants on Biggest Loser Australia were put through their paces in the Auckland region.
Tourism New Zealand, with support from Tourism Auckland, hosted the Biggest Loser contestants and crew in February for a day of challenges.
Five New Zealand episodes went to air last week to an audience of around one million.
Contestants were welcomed to the City of Sails with a Māori powhiri on Karekare Beach in west Auckland, before taking part in their first New Zealand challenge: an abseil down the 80-metre KiteKite Falls in the Waitakere Regional Park.
As well as the television episodes, Auckland and New Zealand will feature in a two-page spread in OK! Magazine (circulation 114,000).
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler says the contestants' experiences will help bring New Zealand to life for Australian television audiences.
"The contestants told us their time in New Zealand was life-changing, and to be able to share that with over a million Australians is priceless coverage for New Zealand," says Bowler.
Tourism Auckland has a strong focus on the Australian market and has recently launched its inaugural media campaign across the Tasman.
The dynamic campaign – which is closely aligned with Tourism New Zealand’s 100% Pure brand – highlights that Auckland is a diverse region where you can ‘Make your own adventure’.
Check-out the campaign website here >>
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