Positive initiative for business

An island initiative will see more than 30 Waiheke-based businesses getting promoted in a Rugby World Cup book – but time is running out for others to seize the opportunity.

The book is the Official Rugby World Cup Travel Guide for the four yearly event, which is taking place in New Zealand next year for the first time since the competition's inception.

Co-ordinating the island's involvement in the guide is Wild on Waiheke's Rob Webb.

With the event taking place during the winter months he says being part of the five or six pages which will be dedicated to Waiheke Island will be a great opportunity to garner business.

The guide, including the feature on Waiheke Island, will be sent out to rugby lovers around the world via the official world cup book.

"We all see a great opportunity to showcase Waiheke Island during this event and to have a busy winter period, which can always be a challenge for the island."

Figures being touted by rugby world cup officials suggest more than 60,000 visitors will make the trip to New Zealand along with 2000 media personnel. The income from the event is expected to be more than $1.15 billion.

Mr Webb says the level of interest from island companies wishing to take part in the guide "truly reflects how the island-based companies see the potential benefits of the world cup".

Businesses wishing to join in the campaign should contact Mr Webb at Wild on Waiheke, by calling 372-4225 or 027-548-5939.

- Waiheke Marketplace