Media release – 15 October 2012

TV campaign to promote the West Coast

The stunning scenery of the West Coast will be centre stage in October with the launch of a national television campaign to encourage Kiwis to experience all the Coast has to offer.

The campaign will highlight the wide variety of activities available on the Coast and will remind visitors that if they want more fun “just add water”, something the West Coast has in abundance.

Tourism West Coast CEO Jim Little says the campaign will specifically target domestic tourists and as well as highlighting iconic tourist spots like Punakaiki and the Glaciers will also focus on lesser known destinations and activities. “This will put the West Coast back on the radar as a holiday destination for Kiwis. So many New Zealanders don’t realise the incredible variety of activities that are available on the Coast and what a stunning part of the country it is,” he says.

The $100 thousand tourism campaign has been funded by Development West Coast (DWC). The television advertising will be complimented by an online presence, outdoor billboards in Christchurch and Wellington and a website upgrade.

DWC CEO John Chang says the campaign is positive news for the region. “Water isn’t just about rain, although it is very important. The campaign will show how much Coasters enjoy our water and what fun and enjoyment we get from it,” he says.

Like other regions in the South Island the global economic downturn and Christchurch earthquake has had an effect on visitor numbers to the Coast. Coupled with the Pike River disaster Dr Chang says it is a good time to embark on a campaign like this.

“While there have been recent set-backs we wanted to show our confidence in the Coast and the strength of its economy. This tourism initiative will remind the rest of the country we are still open for business and how wonderful and dynamic the West Coast is,” says Dr Chang.

The four-week campaign begins on TV One on 18 October. Viewers will be directed to a website www.visitwestcoast.co.nz which will have a number of offers and packages they can book.

ENDS

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