Tourism industry driving change for the future

Media Release

Tourism industry driving change for the future

14 May 2007

New Zealand’s tourism industry is committed to protecting and enhancing the natural surroundings which draw visitors from all over the world, Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA) Chief Executive Fiona Luhrs says.

Today’s announcement that InterCity Group plans to become the world’s first carbon neutral national public transport operator reflects that commitment, Ms Luhrs says.

“The tourism industry has a responsibility to protect New Zealand’s environment and ensure we fulfil the ‘100% pure’ international marketing promise,” she says.

“Tourism operators around the country already support conservation efforts in a variety of ways. The growing international focus on climate change is requiring that individual tourism businesses make plans to minimise, manage and mitigate their carbon emissions. I applaud InterCity for its comprehensive approach to reducing and offsetting its emissions, and encourage all tourism operators to follow its example. This will set a benchmark for operators.”

Climate change issues are expected to be of significant interest to many of the 350 international Buyers of travel and tourism products attending TRENZ 2007 in Rotorua next week. TRENZ (Tourism Rendezvous New Zealand) is New Zealand’s biggest annual international business event.

The Buyers, from 28 countries, will meet a similar number of New Zealand tourism businesses over four days (21-24 May) to purchase accommodation, transport, activities and experiences at wholesale rates and include them in holiday brochures and itineraries for forthcoming seasons.

For more information, visit www.trenz.co.nz

ENDS

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