Future secure for regional tourism

Media Release: 28 August 2014

Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council today separately resolved to alter the shareholding in Nelson Tasman Tourism (NTT).

NTT is a council controlled organisation, previously jointly owned by both councils, which supports the economy through regional marketing, tourism development and visitor information services. Tasman District Council will transfer its shares to Nelson City Council at no cost.

Nelson Mayor Rachel Reese says the transfer will ensure that the services provided by Nelson Tasman Tourism can continue to be delivered, in a cost effective manner.

“Tourism currently brings over $500 million to the Nelson Tasman economy. Nelson City Council is committed to continue investing in the sector through tourism development activities and the i-Site. This is an opportunity to use closer ties with NTT to leverage major events and our regional facilities in a way that adds value to ratepayers.

“Much like our arrangement with the Nelson Region Economic Development Agency (EDA), sole ownership provides the company and stakeholders with certainty about future direction and clarity around reporting lines and obligations.

“Together with Tasman District Council, the local tourism industry and NTT, we are now in a position to consider the best model for delivering tourism services within the existing Nelson Tasman Tourism brand.

“There is no question that the development of tourism delivered by NTT is vital for the region to retain and grow market share in the competitive tourism industry. The next step is considering options for being more effective and adding value for ratepayers wherever possible.”

Tasman District Deputy Mayor Tim King says Tasman District Council’s agreement to the share transfer recognises the value of the tourism sector to the region and opens the way for greater flexibility in the way support is provided to meet the future needs of the industry.

“We will continue to work with Nelson City and industry leaders to develop the best model and how to fund it.”

Nelson Tasman Tourism Chair Phil Taylor says the NTT Board welcomes the decision.

“The tourism sector is going through rapid change and Nelson Tasman Tourism needs to change with it to remain competitive and make the best use of our ratepayer funding and the investments the private sector makes in our company.

“Having one owner will simplify the process of making the necessary changes, to provide a productive platform for the coming years.”

Funding is secure for NTT until 30 June 2015. Funding beyond that will be considered by both Councils through their respective Long Term Plans.

ENDS

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