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YHA New Zealand Heads to China
YHA New Zealand Heads to China
A few years ago the tourism industry dismissed China as a potential source of backpacker and free independent travellers. Today the reality couldn't be farther off the mark with Chinese travellers ranking fifth in overall source markets for YHA New Zealand.
YHA New Zealand is visiting China this week to participate in the YHA China Managers’ Conference to share ideas around establishing environmental sustainability practices and, more importantly, to learn more about how YHA China services and markets to their large domestic market.
YHA China has nearly 300 Youth Hostels throughout China and benefits from a strong domestic market.
Simon Cartwright, YHA New Zealand’s Manager, Hostel Operations, is attending the Conference with a view to share New Zealand's operational processes. Brian Westwood, Manager, Marketing and Sales, will tour Beijing, Xi'an, Shenzhen and Hong Kong to visit hostels and meet Managers and staff.
YHA New Zealand recently undertook a significant research study with the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE) to better understand the behaviour and preferences of existing Chinese guests and the Chinese market. This visit gives YHA New Zealand an invaluable insight into how YHA China promotes similar products to their own people.
Mr Westwood says, “We are in the fortunate position to be part of a global network that opens doors to viewing how fellow YHA Associations operate. Being able to get a behind-the-scenes look, and the opportunity to really understand what works domestically for Chinese backpackers in their own market, will help identify what steps we need to take to improve their experiences in New Zealand.”
About YHA New Zealand
The Youth
Hostels Association of New Zealand, (YHA New Zealand) is a
not-for-profit association that was established in 1932 in
Canterbury. With a network of over 45 hostels in both
islands, YHA New Zealand provides high quality budget
accommodation to New Zealanders and international
travellers. YHA New Zealand is a committed advocate of
sustainable practices. For more information please visit: http://www.yha.co.nz.
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