New Queenstown centre leads the way

New Queenstown centre leads the way in visitor experience

Queenstown - As dawn broke this morning, local group Kiwi Haka, led by Anaru Keogh, performed a stirring ceremony to inaugurate the In Touch Visitor Centre located on the corner of Shotover and Camp Streets.

The In Touch Visitor Centre is a joint venture between local tourism companies Kawarau Jet and Real Journeys. Their significant investment reflects continued confidence in the local tourism industry.

Real Journeys General Manager Sales, Tony McQuilkin says that both companies appreciated the many benefits that cooperating in a joint venture would bring. “We believe the centre sets a new standard for Queenstown. It is an attractive place and I’m sure that tourists and locals will enjoy visiting it”.

Visitors to the centre are in for a treat. The centrepiece of the contemporary 120 square metre space is an Oamaru stone sculpture of a symbolic waka huia or treasure basket. The magnificent carving by John Collins and Robin Lynes depicts a warrior holding a basket in his arms. Balanced in the basket is the touchstone, a spectacular piece of pounamu or greenstone. Visitors will be invited to touch the stone, to bestow friendship and receive its spiritual attributes.

In Touch Visitor Centre Manager, Steve Richens, said that the waka huia will anchor the centre and be a point of difference. “Our excursion range focuses on experiences that reflect the cultural, heritage and environmental aspects of the region,” he said.

The In Touch Centre will be open from 8.30am to 8.30pm seven days a week.

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