Tourism industry rallies after quake

Tourism operators around the country are rallying to help Christchurch and Canterbury recover from the earthquakes that have struck the region.

New Zealand’s major tourism organisations are urging Kiwi travellers to help Christchurch and Canterbury get back to normal as quickly as possible, by visiting the region and helping keep local tourism operators in business.

At the same time, the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA) has set up a Quake Break Facebook page [www.facebook.com search for Quake Break] where tourism operators from around the country can post special offers to Christchurch and Canterbury residents seeking a break.

“Nearly all accommodation, transport, activities and attractions in Christchurch and Canterbury are open for business and ready to look after visitors. The last thing they need is for people to cancel or change their travel plans,” TIA Chief Executive Tim Cossar says.

“Most operators are back to ‘business as usual’. We want them to remain operating and keep their staff employed, and suppliers in business.”

Holiday Accommodation Parks Association of New Zealand (HAPNZ) Chief Executive Fergus Brown says the safety of travellers is the industry’s priority. But large parts of the Canterbury region were not damaged by the earthquake, and services and infrastructure are operating normally.

All holiday parks in the region are fully functional and able to host visitors.

Motel Association of New Zealand (MANZ) Chief Executive Michael Baines says travellers should contact their accommodation provider or travel agent if they have concerns about planned travel to the region. Up-to-date information is also available from Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism www.christchurchnz.com

“Christchurch is definitely open for business and visitors will be able to find a bed,” Mr Baines says.

Garrick Emms of Lodges of New Zealand says business is proceeding as normal in all except one of the region’s lodges.

“Visitors can be assured of warm hospitality and no interruption to normal service levels,” Mr Emms says.

Inbound Tour Operators Council Chief Executive Paul says that despite what has happened it’s important that tourism and travel continues as normal.

“I know my members are committed and able to provide the best available service to visitors in the coming weeks and months. There is certainly no good reason why anyone should be concerned about their forthcoming holiday and we look forward to welcoming them as usual.”

Special offers for Christchurch & Canterbury residents
Recognising that many Christchurch and Canterbury residents will be seeking some ‘time out’ to recover from the earthquake, tourism operators around the country are offering opportunities for them to get away.

A number of accommodation, transport and activity providers have already made special offers to people from the region hit by the earthquakes.

Tim Cossar says TIA has today set up a Quake Break Facebook page where any operator or members of the public are welcome to post offers.

“We understand that many people are exhausted and traumatised by the events of this week, so we want to do all we can to help them recover from their ordeal. A short break could help them face up to the recovery with new energy.”

New Zealand Hotel Council chair Jennie Langley is sure operators will get behind the initiative.

“This is one way that the wider tourism industry can offer concrete assistance to Christchurch and Canterbury people. The sooner we can help them get back to normal, the better.”

Visit www.facebook.com/pages/Quake-Break/148688668499095?ref=ts

ENDS

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