Media release

17 August 2012

Auckland tourism industry supports tsunami survivors

Seven Japanese school students from the Tohoku region are in Auckland this week to relieve the stress of the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami and benefit from some Kiwi hospitality.

Thanks to the generous support of the Auckland tourism industry the students have experienced a range of great Auckland activities. They have seen a real Kiwi at Auckland Zoo, been up the iconic Sky Tower, enjoyed a Dolphin and Whale Safari with ExploreNZ and a Fullers ferry trip to Rangitoto Island.

ATEED Acting General Manager Destination Jason Hill says it is fantastic to see the Auckland tourism industry get in behind this worthy cause.

“It’s great to be able to offer these students some amazing experiences that they cannot have in Japan. Last year’s earthquake and tsunami devastated normal life for so many people and it’s heartening to see Auckland tourism operators doing their part to alleviate this,” says Mr Hill.

The students – who are being hosted by families at Mount Albert Grammar School – have been overwhelmed by the kindness of people in Auckland and amazed by the beautiful New Zealand environment.

New Zealand Educational Services Director Mia Evans organised this trip and has been associated with previous projects enabling Japanese students to enjoy Kiwi hospitality.

“Without the generosity of everyone who has contributed so much, it would not have been possible to give this group a well deserved break in New Zealand,” she says.

Japan remains an important visitor market for Auckland with around 55,000 Japanese people experiencing our city last year.

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