NZ tourism draws overseas interest

New Zealand tourism is still feeling the effects of the global economic crisis, but international bookers and buyers are returning to the industry's largest marketing event in increasing numbers.

Trenz, New Zealand's biggest tourism trade show, starts today. The annual event is the biggest chance for homegrown tourism operators, along with accommodation and transport suppliers and marketing organisations,to network with international buyers in the hope of forging new deals.

Tourism Industry Association New Zealand communications manager Ann-Marie Johnson yesterday said this year's event was hugely important because operators could capitalise on markets that had recovered quickly from the global economic crisis.

"We've got representatives of some new and emerging markets attending, including Eastern Europe and South America," she said.

"And while the numbers of New Zealand tourism operators have dropped slightly, the numbers of buyers are up from last year."

In 2007, 415 operators attended TRENZ. That number dropped to 270 last year, and stands at 250 this year.

In 2007, 350 buyers attended. That number dropped to 260 last year and is up to 270 this year.

International media were attending in larger numbers than ever.

Thirty-six trade magazine writers, plus representatives of global guide book giants, Lonely Planet and Rough Guide would be at TRENZ this year Ms Johnson said.

Organisers estimate about 31,000 15-minute meetings will takeplace during the four-day event.

"It's a bit of a mind-boggling figure, but each one of these meetings has the chance for business to be generated."

The face-to-face meetings were enough time for a sales pitch to be delivered and interest to be registered, Ms Johnson said.

As one of New Zealand's leading tourist destinations, the resort always has a strong representation, she said.

Representatives from Wakatipu-based tourism operators including Totally Tourism, Skyline Enterprises, Millbrook Resort, Shot-over Jet and Remarkables Lodge will all be in attendance, along with Destination Queenstown.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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