PRESS RELEASE

2 May 2012, Christchurch, New Zealand

New Tourism Venture Brings Out The Best in Canterbury

Whilst it is no secret that the last eighteen months have thrown many challenges at the city of Christchurch, a new tourism venture is showing the way forward.

Launched in late 2011, Canterbury Guiding Co. provides private day trips that showcase the very best Canterbury has to offer.

“The Canterbury region offers visitors some of the most diverse experiences available in New Zealand” says David Hiatt, General Manager of Canterbury Guiding Co. “And all within close proximity to Christchurch”.

“Where else can you view rare dolphins one day and then take a picnic in the mountains surrounded by glaciers the next?” he says.

With an eye on the premium tourism sector, Canterbury Guiding Co. is focussing their efforts on delivering intimate experiences for couples, families and small groups.

“We introduce our clients to amazing scenery, as well as genuine locals who are as much a part of the experience as the places.”

Cruising with dolphins at Akaroa, hiking in Arthurs Pass National Park and private wine tastings at Waipara Valley have been extremely popular, however Canterbury Guiding Co’s exclusive access to a selection of high country sheep stations (large farms) is proving to be a highlight after their first summer in operation.

“Having spent so much time on these high country properties myself over the years, I knew that visitors would be blown away by both the scale and beauty.”

“The success of this product was confirmed when we flew a group of locals by helicopter to the headwaters of the Rakaia River and around the Southern Alps followed by a picnic in the mountains.”

“Seeing locals amazed by what was on their back door step, I knew we had something very special to offer. The feedback from our international clients has reaffirmed this” says Hiatt.

Canterbury Guiding Co. establishes a plan for each day of guiding, however as David Hiatt says, “Our guides are brilliant at adapting the experience on the go. With our contacts throughout the region we are constantly able to ensure that our clients get the best day possible suited to their individual interests.”

“This is not a chauffeur service” says Hiatt, “This is about sharing with our visitors what makes Canterbury so special.”

Asked if the earthquakes have had an impact on this new venture, Hiatt says, “Everybody has been impacted, in particular tourism.”

“Our forefathers saw great long term opportunities in what Canterbury offered. As a fifth generation Cantabrian I firmly believes this remains true.”

Canterbury Guiding Co. is showcasing their product at New Zealand's largest tourism trade event, TRENZ, being held in Queenstown from 7-10 May.

-ENDS-

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