SCOOP.CO.NZ archive pages provide PLAIN FULL TEXT search access to the Scoop archives divided into CATEGORIES. The database indexes approximately 4 months of Scoop items and is updated each night. You can search Scoop's complete 8 years of data at Knowledge Basket.
The country’s leading retailing district is supporting the Auckland Chamber of Commerce’s call today for Parliament to fix the annual Easter trading circus once and for all. Reignited calls from Auckland’s Chamber of Commerce and the Newmarket ... More >>
House of Travel outlets in Botany Junction, Nelson and Palmerston North are the only travel retailers in New Zealand to be invited to attend the world premiere of SpaceShipTwo, the space vehicle developed by Scaled Composites to take private passengers to space. More >>
T he railway official eyes us warily. Studies our passports. Eyes us again. He's the image of bureaucratic lassitude, in a sweaty once-white wifebeater. “Two dollars.” More >>
Friday 20 November 2009: Pacific Blue has added a fourth flight from Auckland to Rarotonga for the holiday season. The Thursday non-stop service departs Auckland at 6.30pm and arrives in Rarotonga at 11.25pm (previous day). The return flight leaves ... More >>
Wellington Zoo is celebrating its recent success at the National Sustainable Business Network (SBN) Awards in Auckland, where it picked up the coveted People’s Choice Award on the night. More >>
A two hour, brand new and unique adventure activity action opens next month as Ziptrek Ecotours launches its flying fox operation from Skyline on Bob’s Peak overlooking Queenstown. Ziptrek was founded in Whistler, Canada, where it is a must-do, award-winning ... More >>
If it has been a while since you went a little wild on holiday, maybe now is the time to travel someplace where letting your hair down is the order of the day. Whether your ideal holiday is letting off a bit of steam at some of the world’s best parties, ... More >>
Qantas today announced that it would commence a third year-round Queenstown-Sydney service to commence 21 February 2010. More >>
The Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the New Zealand Commerce and Industry Office (NZCIO) announcement that New Zealand will waive visas for short term visitors from Taiwan. From 30 November 2009, Taiwanese passport holders travelling ... More >>
The Hospitality Association has called for greater penalties for those using false IDs to access alcohol. This call has been included in submissions to the review of the Sale of Liquor Act, being run by Sir Geoffrey Palmer, President of the Law Commission. ... More >>
Queenstown continues to remain firmly on the map for the Australian backpacker and adventure traveller with several thousand seeking advice before visiting here. Destination Queenstown along with AJ Hackett Bungy and NZONE represented the resort at this year’s ... More >>
An excellent booking response for the “Endeavour Express” scenic train excursion from Napier to Gisborne and return on Saturday 21st November has forced the heritage train operator, Steam Incorporated, to run a second train on Sunday 22nd November. ... More >>
STA Travel is on top of the world yet again after being voted Australasia’s Leading Travel Agency at a global awards ceremony in London last weekend. More >>
Emirates is making it easier to experience private-jet style travel with special transTasman fares from Auckland from $1,196 one way for its first class suites on sale till November 30. The award-winning airline also has attractive business class ... More >>
The $55 Million Hilton Lake Taupo Opens as the First Deluxe International Hotel in Taupo and the Second Hilton in New Zealand Originally the historic Terraces Hotel, it is now completely refurbished and expanded Taupo, New Zealand and McLean, Va. ... More >>
Nov. 17 (BusinessWire) – Jasons Travel Media said first-half earnings fell 11% as the economic downturn dented advertising at its What's On guides, offsetting stronger returns from its holiday directories as more kiwis chose to take vacations at home. More >>
Queenstown’s AJ Hackett Bungy has won a coveted ‘golden backpack’ after being voted Best Tour/Activity in New Zealand. More >>
Wine and food lovers from around the country enjoyed another great day out at this year’s Toast Martinborough Wine Food and Music Festival More >>
Singapore Airlines and Tourism New Zealand have signed a marketing agreement to jointly develop and promote tourism to New Zealand on Singapore Airlines’ services. More >>
Singapore Airlines and Tourism New Zealand have signed a marketing agreement to jointly develop and promote tourism to New Zealand on Singapore Airlines’ services. The three-year deal will come into effect on 1 January 2010. Under the terms of the memorandum ... More >>
The All Black have beaten Bahrain 1-0 in Wellington, qualifying for the South Africa World Cup in 2010. Scoop photographer Karim Sahai was on the sideline for the historic clash at Wellington's Cake-Tin. More >>
Joint ventures help get the job done and often lead to a prosperous long-term relationship and that’s certainly the plan with Bike Taupo and Wairakei Resort and it’s an ideal partnership. More >>
A dream that began around whanau kitchen tables in Kaikoura more than 20-years-ago has been realised on the world stage with Whale Watch Kaikoura taking the top international tourism prize from Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards. More >>
The promise of a great game of soccer is enticing thousands to the Capital for the All Whites’ qualifier game on Saturday night. "All flights from Auckland to Wellington are sold out from midday today till 4pm tomorrow," says Air New Zealand General Manager ... More >>
A group of New Zealand websites has decided to get together and encourage discussion of the positive side to climate change mitigation. Afterall - how many of us really believe that the way the world is currently run is optimal - both for our personal ... More >>
Intrepid travellers around the globe have been snapping their way to some fantastic prizes in this year's annual photography competition. With digital camera, a keen eye and a great travel spirit, entries sought to encapsulate a time and a place. ... More >>
New Zealand’s ultimate travel planner eyeballnz.com wants your help in showcasing New Zealand to the world. Whether photography is your profession or your passion, send in your digital pics that best capture your home town or favourite spot and ... More >>
We extend a warm invitation to you, your friends and family to come down to Cuba with us. We have many holiday and spring tours at http://CubaFriends.com More >>
But my prize for the most shameless two fingers to the global community goes to New Zealand, a country that sells itself round the world as "clean and green". More >>
Whale Watch Kaikoura’s latest international award is well-deserved and will help bolster New Zealand’s reputation as a top-class tourist destination, says Labour’s Tourism spokesperson Kelvin Davis. “Whale Watch Kaikoura has been named overall ... More >>
A major review of Japanese government spending could spell the end to whaling in the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary, according to Greenpeace, after the review committee proposed massive cuts in subsidies to a body which funds the so-called scientific ... More >>
There's a wonderful column by Rosemary McLeod in the Dom-Post this morning (12 November). She skewers the grotesqueries of Rodney Hide's apparently bizarre behaviour beautifully. But even Rosemary has missed something important about this whole affair. More >>
Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, John Key says Whale Watch Kaikoura’s latest tourism achievement will have positive spin offs for all tourism operators in New Zealand. Whale Watch Kaikoura has been named overall winner of the Virgin Holidays ... More >>
Whale Watch Kaikoura has outshone some of the world’s leading tour operators to claim the Supreme award at this year’s Responsible Tourism Awards in London. The awards were held last night (NZ time), as part of World Responsible Tourism Day at the World Travel Market in London. The event, the largest of its kind in the world, attracts more than 5000 exhibitors from more than 200 countries and the awards ceremony is the centrepiece. More >>
New Zealand confirmed as one of five world heritage night sky reserve sites to go to Rio meeting next year More >>
Today sees the announcement of wine writer Michael Cooper’s Best Wine Buys of the Year, with both the red and the white picks coming in at under $20. Eradus Awatere Valley Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2009 took out the crown for the best white and ... More >>
Tourism operators looking to grow their international business are invited to apply to attend TRENZ 2010 – the New Zealand tourism industry’s annual international showcase. More >>
YHA Wellington City has won a prestigious international Responsible Tourism award at the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards, hosted at the World Travel Market in London. The hostel has won the best large hotel / accommodation section. The awards ... More >>
Positively Wellington Tourism is urging locals and visitors alike to answer the call from Wellington Phoenix supporters club, Yellow Fever, for a ‘whiteout’ at Saturday’s historic All Whites match. Rated by New Zealand sports fans as the best venue in ... More >>
The Group (Singapore Airlines its subsidiary, joint venture and associated companies) recorded a net loss attributable to equity holders of SG$159 million (NZ$146.73 million) for the second quarter of the financial year. This was an improvement of $148 million ... More >>
Tourism operators will face substantial levy increases of between 30% and more than 100% if proposed changes to ACC go ahead, putting significant strain on an industry already trading through difficult times, says Tourism Industry Association Chief ... More >>
WASHINGTON – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced today the launch of a pilot program to automate the arrival/departure form (CBP Form I-94W) for Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers from Auckland, New Zealand to Los Angeles International ... More >>
Nov. 11 (BusinessWire) – Rising tourist numbers underpinned gains in New Zealand accommodation last month as the number of guest nights increased for all operators. More >>
International guest nights in short-term commercial accommodation were up 8 percent in September 2009 compared with September 2008, Statistics New Zealand said today. With domestic guest nights slightly higher than in the previous September, total ... More >>
LONDON: Pacific Resort Aitutaki, Cook Islands has been voted the ‘World’s Leading Boutique Island Resort”, for the second year running at the World Travel Awards 2009 grand finals held in London on Sunday. More >>
Whale Watch Kaikoura has been named among some of the world’s leading tourism operators as a finalist in the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2009. More >>
Gay and lesbian consumers have become an increasingly sought after consumer group. Now leading lesbian and gay marketing specialists, Out Now, have announced the expansion of its operations into many key strategic markets around the world - including Australia. More >>
A new flightseeing aircraft that delivers sustainable practice innovation and increased passenger comfort is the final purchase in a six-year fleet upgrade for a one of New Zealand’s largest scenic flight airlines. More >>
Two Small Fish, Tay Street Beach Café and Mount Bistro outshone some very strong competition to take out honours in the Food Bay of Plenty ‘Plenty of Flavour’ culinary competition. The results for the inaugural event were announced last night ... More >>
Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the 23rd Annual Shareholders’ Meeting of Tourism Holdings Limited. Before we move today’s business, for those that do not know me I am Keith Smith, Chairman of Tourism Holdings. I am joined by my fellow directors, ... More >>
Labour Leader Phil Goff has welcomed work beginning on the first cycleway project but questions why Prime Minister John Key is no longer proud of how many jobs the cycle routes will create. “In February John Key trumpeted that 3700 jobs would ... More >>
Nov. 10 (BusinessWire) – Infratil Ltd., the investment group in talks to buy Royal Dutch/Shell Group’s New Zealand assets, reaped $87.25 million selling its 3.87% stake in Auckland International Airport, saying it has better uses for the capital. More >>
The turning of the first sod in the New Zealand Cycle Trail project will hopefully mark a turning point for central government’s commitment to cycling in New Zealand, said Green Party Cycling spokesperson Kevin Hague today. “The Cycle Trail network ... More >>
If you’re looking for something different this Christmas, or fancy spending the silly season somewhere different, then a last minute Christmas break is the ideal way. More >>
Prime Minister John Key officially launched construction of the first New Zealand Cycle Trail project at Waipa Domain on the banks of the Waikato River today. The $3 million to complete these two sections of the Waikato River Trail will be funded ... More >>
Adventure tourism leader Dart River Jet Safaris revealed its community heart this weekend generating several thousand dollars toward a local community fundraising project. The company held a ‘Locals Day’ yesterday (Sunday November 8) to help ... More >>
A five course degustation dinner matched with Unison Vineyard wines – it doesn’t get much better than that! Except when you get to experience it in the exclusive surrounds of Peppers on the Point, Rotorua’s exclusive lakeside luxury lodge. On ... More >>
Selwyn Manning & Peter Godfrey on Govt Minister Rodney Hide apologising for 'casual use' of tax payers' money. Will it get him off the hook? Also, Maori Party MP Hone Harawira is in hot water after using racist slurs against white NZers in an email. ... More >>
Kāpiti Coast District Council’s newly refurbished website is making a real contribution to this weekend’s Arts Trail and shows how integrating a number of technologies can really enhance the website and Arts Trail experience, Mayor Jenny Rowan said ... More >>
New Zealand company MillenTech (Millennium Technology Ltd) and the Hospitality Association of New Zealand (HANZ) have entered into a 3 year partnership to support the HANZ 18+ card and other ID card documents for it's members "on and off license" ID Age ... More >>
Spending by international visitors reached $6.1 billion in the year to September 2009, up 1.2% on the previous year, according to data released today by the Ministry of Tourism. “This increase is a good result given the 1.8% decline in international ... More >>
The Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA), Airbus Express and Auckland Airport announced today that Airbus Express services would now be offered 24/7 to domestic and international travellers and visitors. ARTA’s General Manager Customer Services, ... More >>
An Adventure Tourism Forum held in Queenstown last night brought together several agencies and specialists to discuss emergency responses and to share information that could improve overall operating systems and safety. Facilitated by Tourism Industry ... More >>
Thursday 5 November 2009: Virgin Blue Group’s newest international airline, luxury carrier V Australia, is promoting sale fares in the New Zealand market to celebrate the launch of three new long haul services. More >>
Thursday, 05 November: Intrepid Travel has announced that another 500 different carbon trips will be available in 2010. More >>
The Qantas Group today responded to the New Zealand Government’s intention to amend current legislation that would result in Australian airlines operating domestic services in New Zealand paying an additional levy to the New Zealand Government. More >>
Queenstown’s five-star Millbrook Resort has opened a new covered driving range facility to complement its championship golf course and enhance its golf experience. The new driving range is housed in a restored original high country woolshed. Millbrook ... More >>
Tourism operators in central Otago should be very concerned at the possibility of the Crown Range Road being closed for long periods next winter because of the Government’s cuts to local road maintenance funding, Labour’s Transport spokesperson Darren ... More >>
Queenstown’s five-star Millbrook Resort has opened a new covered driving range facility to complement its championship golf course and enhance its golf experience. More >>
Not developing Queen’s Wharf would be a disaster for Auckland, says Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey. “Lack of vision is sending Queen’s Wharf into a black hole. “This World Cup is the greatest ad for this country of all time. The eyes of the ... More >>
i-SITE New Zealand is pooling the local knowledge of its 600 staff for a new campaign launching this week, which is designed to raise awareness of i-SITE among domestic travellers. The Visitor Information Network’s new website – www.i-site.org.nz ... More >>
Now I’ve returned from Europe, Werewolf will resume its usual monthly appearance with the full moon. Supposedly, journalism is meant to evaluate how power is being used and abused, and this issue contains a couple of interesting variations on that ... More >>
Sustainable development remains high on the international agenda, even as policy makers are distracted by the political and fiscal fall-out of the global financial crisis. Its continued prominence is illustrated by various countries’ use of fiscal ... More >>
Rotorua MP Todd McClay has today welcomed the announcement made by Prime Minister John Key, of a further $20 million in funding for tourism in 2009/2010. This brings the total annual spend on tourism marketing nationwide to $89 million. Mr. McClay ... More >>
The Government announcement that $5 million of the $20 million additional funding for international marketing is earmarked for RTO joint ventures with Tourism New Zealand and the private sector is fantastic news says Regional Tourism Organisations ... More >>
Additional funding of $20 million announced today by Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism John Key is expected to bring up to around 45,000 additional visitors to New Zealand through increased marketing efforts, Tourism New Zealand says. The ... More >>
The Westin Auckland Lighter Quay has been awarded the prestigious Qualmark Enviro Gold Award, New Zealand's highest level of achievement in relation to conservation and sustainable practices in tourism. More >>
One year on from opening, Auckland’s four star all-suite serviced apartments, Chifley Suites Auckland has been voted Best Serviced Apartment at the annual Corporate Events Guide People’s Choice Awards held at Ellerslie Events Centre on Friday evening. More >>
The New Zealand AIDS Foundation (NZAF) has warmly welcomed the decision of the Obama administration to lift a ban on people living with HIV from entering the USA. New Zealanders who have been barred from entering the US because they have HIV, will ... More >>
Nov. 3 (BusinessWire) – Air New Zealand is to replace its domestic Boeing Co. 737 aircraft with Airbus A320’s, taking advantage of the global airline slump to pick up planes at more favourable rates. More >>
Catering and hospitality icon, Rae Ah Chee has together with business partners and co-hosts Evelyn and Billy Chong, established the latest luxury accommodation and hospitality offering in the popular Pakiri region. Located just 80 minutes drive ... More >>
The New Zealand Government’s additional tourism funding announced today will enable the industry to significantly grow tourism numbers and win back market share from other destinations, many of which have had substantial increases in marketing spend. More >>
Additional funding of $20 million announced today by Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism John Key is expected to bring up to around 45,000 additional visitors to New Zealand through increased marketing efforts, Tourism New Zealand says. More >>
Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism John Key, has delivered on his promise to increase tourism funding – a move he has long said will help drive New Zealand’s recovery from the economic recession. More >>
Tomorrow evening at 5pm two nations will stop to watch and celebrate the running of the greatest 3200m race in the world, the Emirates Melbourne Cup. With numerous hospitality areas selling out well before the event, Ellerslie’s summer season ... More >>
he official groundbreaking ceremony for the Okareka/Blue Lake sewerage scheme is taking place on Thursday [5 November]. The $10.5 million sewerage scheme construction programme will help improve and preserve water quality in three of the district’s ... More >>
NZSki’s commitment to value people as the best way to deliver its company vision has been strongly endorsed at this year’s Equal Employment Opportunities Trust Work and Life awards. The company’s innovative NZSki-U development programme won ... More >>
Tomorrow morning sees the opening of Christchurch International Airport's (CIAL) first themed airbridge, which focuses on an Antarctic experience. Passengers will walk through an airbridge which has floor to ceiling images of Antarctica and Antarctic ... More >>
So, possums, I’ve been back in California for three weeks now and have finally returned to my normal US state of curmudgeonliness. (Yes, spellcheck, I know it’s not a word, but neither are you by your very own lights!) Of course, it’s debatable ... More >>
New Zealanders now have a new way to pay for a holiday - without getting into debt or racking up credit card bills - using a fixed price payment system, similar to the ‘layby’ way of paying for goods. More >>
Oct. 30 (BusinessWire) – Sky City Entertainment Group, New Zealand’s biggest casino company, said first-quarter revenue grew 4.7% on improved sales at its Auckland complex and in Australia, putting it on track for ‘double-digit’ earnings growth ... More >>
Working In, last night named for the third time in the Deloitte Fast 50, is hoping international students will attend New Zealand’s first ever International Student Expo in Auckland this weekend. More >>
New Zealand is getting huge interest from Japanese people a day after New Zealand’s giant rugby ball was opened in Tokyo. The opening of the rugby ball under the high profile Tokyo Tower site was covered by over 100 journalists from Japan’s eleven ... More >>
New Zealand is on it’s way to becoming a nation of iPhone addicts! With so many Kiwis becoming obsessed with iPhone technology, leading online accommodation provider Wotif.com has launched a new mobile phone interface in response to increasing demand ... More >>
Airline pilot training company, CTC Aviation Training, last evening was named one of New Zealand’s 50 Fastest Growing Companies in New Zealand, placing 23rd in the 2009 Deloitte Fast 50. More >>
The Contact Schools National Triathlon Championships have been confirmed for a return to Karapiro next year, with triathletes descending on the central Waikato town on the of 25th March 2010. More >>
Airline pilot training company, CTC Aviation Training, last evening was named one of New Zealand’s 50 Fastest Growing Companies in New Zealand, placing 23rd in the 2009 Deloitte Fast 50. The company, whose New Zealand operations are based in Hamilton, ... More >>
Oct. 29 (BusinessWire) – Auckland International Airport Ltd., the country’s major gateway to the world, has kept its earnings guidance amid small gains in total passenger volumes in the last quarter. More >>
Papamoa Beach Top 10 Holiday Resort has achieved the Qualmark New Zealand 5 Star Holiday Park rating, acknowledging its status as one of the country's leading providers of beachfront holiday accommodation. More >>
An African music legend, funky French punksters, an original member of the Buena Vista Social Club, eight horn-playing brothers and “the voice of the Sahara” are among the stellar line-up of artists heading to New Zealand for WOMAD New Zealand ... More >>
Auckland International Airport Limited (Auckland Airport) today announced an offer of up to NZ$125 million bonds to the public, offering interested investors another opportunity to invest in an iconic kiwi long-term infrastructure business. The offer ... More >>
New figures released today which show tourism expenditure increased by 1.1% to $21.7 billion in the year ended March 2009 are encouraging news for the industry and New Zealand, says Tourism Industry Association (TIA) Chief Executive Tim Cossar. More >>
Tourism expenditure surpassed $21.7 billion a year, according to new figures out today, says Bruce Bassett, Ministry of Tourism Research Manager. The Tourism Satellite Account: 2009, published today by Statistics New Zealand, shows tourism spend in ... More >>
Spending by international tourists in New Zealand decreased 0.9 percent ($87 million) in the year ended March 2009, Statistics New Zealand said today. The fall in international tourism expenditure, published today in the Tourism Satellite Account: 2009, is the ... More >>
The Riddet Institute has established “The Earle Food Research Fund,” a $1 million scholarship fund to support postgraduate students working on research which contributes to its Centre of Research Excellence (CoRE) Research Programme. More >>
Buyers at a forthcoming auction of Queen Charlotte Sounds properties could be spending their first summer in their new holiday homes with the timing of an auction planned to allow paper work to be done and dusted before Christmas. Eight properties in the ... More >>
Over the next month, foreign tourists and Kiwis all across the north island will get a taste of Paeroa. Last week, the official Tourism Paeroa promotional tour kicked off from Paeroa, as the official Tourism Paeroa van rolled out to promote the home ... More >>
In an industry first, Webjet - Australia’s leading online travel agency – is delighted to announce today the introduction of free SMS itinerary confirmations. Commenting, Webjet Chief Executive Officer, Richard Noon said: “Through the simple ... More >>
Air New Zealand and South African Airways (SAA) have signed a code share agreement, enabling the two carriers to offer a one-stop service between Auckland and Johannesburg via Perth. From 1 November Air New Zealand will code share on South African Airways’ ... More >>
Holiday Inn to Land in Auckland Auckland, 27 October 2009: Holiday Inn Auckland Airport is scheduled to land on Saturday 31 October when the Centra Auckland Airport Hotel transforms and reveals its new colours. “It’s out with the old and ‘inn’ ... More >>
Going to market in 2008 as the economy plunged should have spelt disaster for a boutique New Zealand wine brand committed to organic principles. Instead the recession has marked global success for Urlar Wines – through its perseverance, values and skillfully ... More >>
New Zealand’s representation at the FIA (International Motoring Federation) has been strengthened following the election of Jean Todt as president late last week. The FIA is the body that represents all motoring activities worldwide, and while ... More >>
Emirates On Take-Off For Luanda The start of Emirates' flights between Dubai and Luanda reflects the flurry of global interest in Africa's second biggest oil producer, according to an Angolan government minister. Emirates will start a three times a ... More >>
St Andrew is the Patron Saint of Scotland, and to help celebrate this national day on 30 November, VisitScotland, the national tourist organization, is calling all people with the equivalent name of Andrew to get in touch and have the chance to ... More >>
International passenger volumes showed growth of 4.5% in September 2009 compared to the prior year. Transit and transfers were down 17.1% resulting in a net 1.2% increase over September 2008. More >>
As part of the private pre-Olympic Pipe Camp the BAGJUMP has been set up at Cardrona Alpine Resort, the first time it has been used in New Zealand. The 15m x 15m multi-chambered airbag set up by the Japanese national team is being used by German, Canadian, American ... More >>
A huge image of New Zealand's kauri icon, Tane Mahuta, will be screened in the giant promotional 'rugby ball' at the Tokyo Bledisloe Cup. More >>
Breakfast's roving weather presenter Tamati Coffey kicks off the “Great Coffey Road Trip” of New Zealand in Invercargill this Tuesday (27th October). Tamati will be broadcasting Breakfast weather live from the Southland Museum, from 6.30am to ... More >>
Snapper - New Zealand's leading contactless ticketing and payment system - today announced an innovative partnership with East by West Ferries to trial its system on the harbour capital's iconic ferry service. The pilot will begin on 1st December ... More >>
Oct. 21 (BusinessWire) – New Zealand’s annual net migration posted the fastest growth since 2004, reflecting a decline in kiwis heading overseas, especially to Australia and underpinning confidence the domestic economy will recover from its ... More >>
Early signs of recovery are being seen for the New Zealand tourism industry, with a growth in September arrivals figures. More >>
Visitor arrivals in September 2009 (172,400) were up 14,700 (9 percent) compared with September 2008, Statistics New Zealand said today. This is the largest monthly percentage increase in visitor numbers since April 2006. Arrivals from Australia ... More >>
Jack’s Point Clubhouse Restaurant Launches Summer ‘Activity Dining.’ Jack’s Point is Queenstown’s ultimate playground, and The Clubhouse Restaurant which is its hub launches its summer evening “activity dining” programme on Friday (October ... More >>
Please see below/find attached a press release announcing the launch of a new ‘Harbour Discovery’ hop-on/hop-off cruise product. More >>
Last minute accommodation website Ezibed.com has described domestic Labour Weekend travel bookers as more ‘impulsive’ than previous years, as holiday makers choose to wait before deciding whether to travel this upcoming long weekend. The New ... More >>
The US flag atop the new drilling rig next to the road to my birthplace was in tatters by the time I left town a week later, shredded by the south wind that had brought unseasonal snowfalls early in the week of my visit and dressing my beloved mountain ... More >>
Auckland 20 October 2009 – Tourism Exchange New Zealand is revolutionising the way small- to medium-sized tourism operators do business in the Canterbury / Otago region, right at a time when a boost to their businesses is needed, without the capital ... More >>
New Zealand has turned in a winning performance in the UK, being voted favourite long-haul country by readers of the Guardian, the Observer and guardian.co.uk. More >>
Lonely Planet is among the first travel guide publishers to have products available for Amazon’s (AMZN) Kindle e-reader as it ships internationally this week. More >>
The central North Island town of Taihape is back on the railway map. Dropped from the train timetable in 2005 due to falling numbers, Taihape will be reinstated from the 23rd October, following renewed interest and growing passenger numbers on the ... More >>
The iconic Auckland ferry building is being transformed into an interactive light and sound experience on a scale never before seen in New Zealand. More >>
The Port Nelson Masked Parade on Friday night was a triumph of creativity and optimism, forging head amidst wet weather into a sunny evening where Nelson was at its best – children shone, music played and people danced in the street. Nelson City ... More >>
Ports of Auckland Managing Director Jens Madsen today welcomed news that P&O Cruises’ Pacific Pearl would be launched and based in Auckland for the 2010-2011 cruise season. More >>
Frequent Flyers on Air New Zealand’s regional services will from next week be able to spend up to 20 minutes less waiting around at airports. More >>
Air New Zealand is slashing its cheapest domestic airfares by up to 23%, while also simplifying its fare structures to two simple options. Effective Monday, airfares are being reduced by 10% on average to help further stimulate domestic travel. More >>
A Search & Rescue operation was launched at approximately 7.30pm on the 15th of October 2009 at Franz Josef after a tourist fell over a bluff in the Alex Knob area near the Franz Josef Glacier. Two men, both tourists, walked up the track to Alex Knob ... More >>
Continuing their winning streak, Christchurch International Airport Ltd (CIAL) has won the Airport of the Year award at the annual New Zealand Airports Association conference last night. This award is for any outstanding airport initiative, and ... More >>
Monday 19 October signals the start of the cruise ship season with the arrival of the Star Princess at the Lyttelton Port of Christchurch (LPC). In all, LPC has 51 cruise ships booked for the 2009 / 2010 season, the majority of which will come from ... More >>
Cruiseabout, a new dedicated cruise travel retailer, announces its plans to launch into the New Zealand market and is set to make waves in the industry. More >>
The arrival of the 2600 guest capacity Star Princess will kick off the 2009/10 cruise season in Wellington on Sunday. Positively Wellington Tourism (PWT) Chief Executive David Perks says cruise passenger and crew numbers in the capital surged 61% to 102,000 ... More >>
East Harbour Regional Park is proving to be a popular regional destination with visits topping 170,000 in the past year according to Greater Wellington’s recently released Regional Parks Annual Report for 2008/09. More >>
P&O Cruises today announced it will launch its next superliner, Pacific Pearl, in Auckland in an historic move which recognises the growing popularity of cruising in New Zealand. More >>
Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism John Key announced today that P&O Cruises will launch its next cruise liner in Auckland and said the ship will use Auckland as its base for the 2010-2011 summer cruising season. Mr Key made the announcement ... More >>
Three popular visitor lodgings around Wairarapa are set to hit the virtual super highway as they become available to book online making them more accessible for all. Located in Palliser Bay, Aorangi Forest Park and Tararua Forest Park the lodge accommodation ... More >>
Cathay Pacific Airways is offering Earlybird fares for 2010 to more than 100 destinations in the United Kingdom and Europe, which start from $2099 for return economy class travel, plus applicable Government/Airport taxes/charges. The Earlybird fares are ... More >>
Flight Centre is doing its bit to unravel the mysteries of plane etiquette, with a guide to the social tactics to pursue and avoid at 30,000-feet. More >>
Now is the time to take advantage of the lowest airfares and holiday packages seen for decades. With the high New Zealand dollar, Kiwis travelling to the United Kingdom, Europe and America and more can get great value for their money. More >>
The much anticipated funding process for Phase Two of the New Zealand Cycleway project was announced today by the Ministry of Tourism. General Manager, Ray Salter, says there are three stages to this process with consideration of the merits of each proposal ... More >>
Northland District Headquarters Walton Plaza, Whangarei Thursday October 15, 2009 Police are investigating the assault and robbery of two German tourists in Paihia. The incident happened in the early hours of this morning when the men, aged 19 and ... More >>
A nationwide search for future hospitality and adventure tourism stars has resulted in two high school students each winning a $25,000 scholarship to study in Queenstown. Seventeen-year-old Anthony Metcalve (correct) from St Andrew’s College in Christchurch ... More >>
Queenstown's five-star Millbrook Resort is inviting keen golfers to 'give it their best shot' to win $100,000 cash this Labour Weekend. The competition is part of celebrations for the launch of the new Millbrook Driving Range, where Millbrook members and visiting ... More >>
Labour Minister Kate Wilkinson today announced the terms of reference for a nation-wide review of the adventure tourism sector. The review of one of the cornerstones of New Zealand’s tourism industry will be led by the Department of Labour, and comes ... More >>
Mad Dog Riverboarding is today to resume operations for the 2009/10 season following a safety inspection carried out by Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) over two days last week, and the subsequent revision of its Safe Operational Plan (SOP). Mad Dog welcomed ... More >>
Interest in Hawke’s Bay red wines around the world continues to grow, as evidenced by recent blind tastings of leading local wines against internationally recognised big-names, and organisers of two national red wine events being held in Hastings ... More >>
In response to popular demand, Ports of Auckland is putting on two additional free bus tours of Auckland’s port this weekend. More >>
Auckland 14 October 2009 – Leading the online travel revolution is New Zealand’s own Tourism Exchange, the real-time, central marketplace for New Zealand tourism suppliers and distributors. The group today announces the securing of a wide range ... More >>
Kia Ora and welcome...the Hawke's Bay Opera House is offering more fun, music and laughter this month, starting with a unique music festival aimed at celebrating that most under-rated instrument...the ukulele. But don’t let the size of the instrument ... More >>
There seem to be two Rugby World Cups taking place in 2011. One is an absolutely splendid affair being overseen by RWC Minister Murray McCully that will pour $500 million into our national and local economies, and attract big spending visitors ... More >>
Star launches New Zealand cruise season The cruise ship Star Princess will launch New Zealand’s 2009/2010 cruise season when she calls at Ports of Auckland early on Friday morning (16 October). The 2,600 guest capacity ship will be the ... More >>
Full contact details on all these events are available on http:// http://www.northlandnz.com/events.php . MAJOR Events in November, December 2009 and January 2010 are listed below. More >>
Air New Zealand’s new blended winglets, which are being fitted to its fleet of Boeing 767-300ER aircraft, are delivering 19 per cent higher fuel savings than forecast. The airline’s original expectations were that more than six million litres of fuel ... More >>
No sooner had the 25th state been admitted to the Union in 1836 than controversy erupted over the spelling and pronunciation of its name. One of its US Senators demanded to be introduced as the Gentleman from AR-kan-SAW and the other wanted to be introduced ... More >>
LAKE WANAKA, New Zealand (October 13, 2009) – Wanaka Edge Apartments, one of the resort town’s most highly rated self-catering accommodation choices, is being given a fresh look by an experienced manager familiar to many in the New Zealand travel ... More >>
Emirates’ business and first class customers in New Zealand are in line for a major benefit through the airline’s new global hotel offer of complimentary hotel nights in Starwood group properties. More >>
Colorado, home to 26 unique ski resort areas and more than 300 inches of annual snowfall, announces Snow at First Sight (www.SnowatFirstSight.com), a social media campaign designed to reveal Colorado's legendary winter offerings through fresh eyes. More >>
The Hector's dolphin is as Kiwi as the Kiwi and a Canterbury Cruise and Wildlife company says it is fantastic news to see Hector's dolphins named in a drive to promote wildlife tourism and conservation In New Zealand. More >>
Nature Coast Enterprise, the regional tourism organisation for the Kapiti Coast and Horowhenua is today reminding locals of a couple of initiatives that are sure to make this summer on the Nature Coast long and hot. Catch Kapiti, the Kapiti Coast ... More >>
Jasons Travel Media recently asked Kiwis what they’re planning to do for the Christmas and summer holidays, just around the corner in less than three months time. A staggering 60% of respondents are changing their plans from the norm this summer – opting ... More >>
New Zealand’s 100% Pure image – crucial for our tourism, food and beverage exports -- could be under threat if we can’t demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability. Yet with the economic downturn, sustainability is at a crossroads as different interest ... More >>
Independent conservation organisation Forest & Bird has launched an appeal to raise funds to replace its Ruapehu lodge, which burnt down last October. The conservation charity was left with a $300,000 shortfall to rebuild the lodge after receiving an ... More >>
Orientation Bus Tour provides new migrants with a helpful tour of the city. Orientation Bus Tour on 17-10-09 from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Venue: Three Kings Centre – Auckland Regional Migrant Services Booking fee: $ 5 To register, phone 625-2440 or email: ... More >>
LAKE WANAKA, New Zealand (October 12, 2009) – Luxury accommodation provider Release Private Retreat has achieved Tourism New Zealand’s Qualmark Green rating for environmentally responsible tourism attaining an Enviro-Silver ranking. Co founder Nick Frame is ... More >>
Iceberg cruising proved to be a winner for the Mt Cook Mackenzie region at last night's South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards. More >>
Season extended into November making it the Southern Hemisphere’s longest season Mt Ruapehu has announced it is further extending its season beyond Labour Day into Snovember (8 November), officially making 2009 the longest season in the Southern ... More >>
The monthly Tourism Industry Monitor (TIM) confirms an upward trend in industry confidence. For the second month in a row, since the survey began in March, optimists have outweighed pessimists. Forty-nine percent of those surveyed expect demand for tourism products ... More >>
Wellington hotels are bucking the downward trend being reported around the rest of New Zealand, according to the latest New Zealand Hotel Council (NZHC) statistics released this week. The results from NZHC Wellington members, representing 19 of ... More >>
New Zealanders have enthusiastically embraced the recent initiative by Expedia® to temporarily waive flight booking fees on Expedia.co.nzTM – so much so that we’ve sent flight booking fees packing – for good. More >>
Christchurch/Southern New Zealand has been selected as the New Zealand representative on the prestigious Great Wine Capitals Global Network. More >>
For almost fifty years, the United States has prohibited the vast majority of its citizens from traveling to Cuba as a part of its economic embargo on the island. However, a flood of American tourists may soon be unleashed on this forbidden island ... More >>
Air New Zealand today announced the launch of the first new Airpoints Dollars™ banking partner in five years. One in five Kiwis currently benefit from Air New Zealand’s Airpoints programme, which rewards customers with special privileges and allows them ... More >>
Holiday Inn City Centre Christchurch has been awarded a Qualmark 4 Star Plus rating, following a significant refurbishment of the hotel. Holiday Inn City Centre Christchurch General Manager Brian Tinworth says he’s extremely proud of the hotel’s new Qualmark ... More >>
Sponsor of New Zealand’s inaugural e-tourism conference at Te Papa, ONZAMAP Ltd Co-Director John Jepson is no stranger to the social networking phenomenon. The strong link he established with AllWays Rental in Christchurch through Twitter is how he’s ... More >>
Three months into the new contract, Environment Bay of Plenty’s Bay Hopper bus service is continuing to record increases in passenger numbers with 108,936 passenger rides recorded for September 2009. More >>
Some 360 delegates from 112 countries are meeting under United Nations auspices in Astana, Kazakhstan, to determine how the tourism industry can surmount the decline brought on by the economic crisis while responding to the twin challenges of climate ... More >>
Water lovers and landlubbers alike will enjoy an action packed day of activities on and off the ocean at the Tasmania Seafarers Festival on 25 October. Held on the scenic Bellerive Boardwalk in Hobart, the Tasmania Seafarers Festival is a free family ... More >>
The cool little city has edged out the big little city, and has bloomed beyond the garden capital. More people would rather take the plunge by visiting the culture capital than by jumping off a bridge in Queenstown; and more Kiwis are keen for a ... More >>
The winners of this year’s Tourism Industry Awards include a Rotorua nature park, an entrepreneurial young leader and man who was involved in the transformation of tourism from a ‘bit player” in the New Zealand economy into one of its most valuable ... More >>
We get around, but not as much as we want to – according to the Fly Buys/ Colmar Brunton Mood of the New Zealand Traveller, a new quarterly survey released by the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA) and launched today by the Prime Minister ... More >>
Investment in international marketing remains one of the priorities for the tourism industry at present, according to the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA). More >>
Jasons recently conducted two surveys that examined both travellers’ expectations and the offerings of accommodation operators’ who advertise in Jasons Business Traveller New Zealand Accommodation Directory. More >>
The combined bus unions say NZ Bus/Infratil is deliberately trying to confuse the public in an attempt to disguise a very poor pay offer. More >>
Lake Wanaka brought a successful winter season to a close at the weekend with all four resorts, Treble Cone, Snow Park NZ, Cardrona Alpine Resort and Snow Farm, reporting excellent visitor numbers, great snow conditions throughout and many successful world-class ... More >>
Jasons recently conducted two surveys that examined both travellers’ expectations and the offerings of accommodation operators’ who advertise in Jasons Business Traveller New Zealand Accommodation Directory. The majority of advertisers overwhelmingly ... More >>
P&O Cruises has assisted the Red Cross in relief efforts for earthquake and tsunami victims in the South Pacific by donating 740 pillows with the promise of mattresses, more pillows and hundreds of light bulbs to come. More >>
Wanaka, New Zealand - October 4, 2009 – The cold temperatures coupled with over 20 cm of fresh snow created mid-season conditions for Treble Cone’s Closing Day. The low snow fall around Wanaka helped to motivate locals back up to the hill for ... More >>
New Zealand’s biggest city will again be the focus for one of New Zealand’s biggest international business events next year. TRENZ – the New Zealand tourism industry’s annual international showcase – will return to Auckland’s ASB Showgrounds, 24-27 ... More >>
The Government will consult with inbound tour operators over draft legislation clarifying that the facilitation fees they charge for tour packages for overseas visitors should attract GST at the standard rate of 12.5%, Revenue Minister Peter Dunne announced ... More >>
Oct 2 (BusinessWire) - SkyCity Entertainment Group Ltd, the casino, hotel and cinema operator, is targeting another year of double digit earnings growth, despite soft trading conditions for gaming machines and fears that smoking bans in the Australian ... More >>
Indie Travel Media Ltd, which enjoys an international standing for its long-running Indie Travel Podcast, is extending its services to offer a quarterly travel magazine. This is available on annual subscription in print format, with medium-resolution ... More >>
Air New Zealand is adding an additional flight between Auckland and Samoa to assist the tsunami relief effort on Saturday. More >>
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