Get in Behind!

Monday, 20 September 2004, 9:42 am
Press Release: Tourism Industry Association

Get in Behind!

The tourism industry is urging operators to get in behind local government elections and find out which candidates will support the development of the country’s biggest export industry earner, and vote for them.

“Go to the meetings and ask the hard questions”. That’s the advice of Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIANZ) Chief Executive, John Moriarty. Mr Moriarty says the support of local governments is totally essential for the development of thousands of big and small tourism businesses around the country.

“Rates, water quality, sewer systems, roading - this is the stuff which tourism depends on and right now there’s not enough of it. Many iconic areas have failed to plan for growth and find themselves in a tough situation where they need to expand under pressure. This calls for leadership and concerted action from local government leaders. Operators need to get out there and find out who in their region has got the vision to build the future.” says Mr Moriarty.

In turn the Association is urging candidates to look at the regional benefits offered by tourism. These range from employment, improved amenities to front line conservation programmes. There is a strong body of research which clearly demonstrates the gains communities make from growing and supporting tourism.

“Take a break before the election to visit an operator in your region, find out what issues they face and meet that challenge.” says Mr Moriarty.

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