Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton had the opportunity to discuss the significance of central North Island tourism and the future of the Chateau Tongariro Hotel with Air New Zealand Chief Executive Greg Foran during this week’s Mayoral Forum in Auckland.

Mayor Kirton said Mr Foran discussed the critical role domestic tourism plays in Air New Zealand’s business and how destinations like Ruapehu are key to attracting both domestic and international visitors into the region.

“We also talked about the future of the Chateau with Greg commenting on its ability to act as a drawcard for visitors.

Greg clearly understood the value of the Chateau, not just as a building, but as a symbol of our region’s appeal with its restoration having wide-ranging benefits for tourism, employment, and the wider economy,” he said.

Mayor Kirton reiterated his call for public support of Council’s Parliamentary Petition urging Government to help secure a pathway for restoring the Chateau.

“With the right support, the Chateau can once again be a beacon for the region and a driver of economic prosperity,” he said.

“We’re doing everything we can to make that happen and community backing is crucial.

If you haven’t signed the petition, please do so and encourage your friends and whanau to do so also.”

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