Ngai Tahu Tourism Enters Partnership

Press release from Ngai Tahu Tourism
Wednesday 27 February 2008

Ngai Tahu Tourism partners with Franz Josef Hukawai Glacier Centre

Ngai Tahu Tourism announced today (27 February) that it has entered into a management contract with Franz Josef’s Hukawai Glacier Centre in an innovative industry partnership.

The management agreement will take effect from 3 March 2008, expanding Ngai Tahu Tourism’s family of businesses on the West Coast to three, including Franz Josef Glacier Guides and Glacier Hot Pools (opening November 2008).

The $6.5million Hukawai Glacier Centre opened in March 2007 and is home to the enthralling and interactive Glacier Experience, the Southern Hemisphere’s only indoor ice climbing wall – suitable for visitors of almost any age and ability – and a café bar.

Hukawai Glacier Centre founding directors Jennie O’Loughlin and Roberta Giacon will retain ownership of the centre, while day-to-day operations, marketing and sales will be handled by Ngai Tahu Tourism management and staff.

“Assuming management of the Hukawai Glacier Centre is an exciting development for Ngai Tahu Tourism. It’s a reflection of our commitment to offering visitors even more reason to come and stay with us on the West Coast and our passion for growing tourism in the region,” said Fraser Leddie, General Manager - West Coast Region, Ngai Tahu Tourism.

“This is a fantastic facility and a huge asset for Franz Josef. We’re looking forward to using our expertise to evolve what’s on offer in the centre for first-time climbers, people who would love to learn a little about ice climbing in a fun and safe environment, and families keen to learn more about the region’s cultural history and the evolution of a glacier.

“It will also be good for visitors doing a glacier walk to know more about how glaciers work and the environment they’re in before they get out there.”

Over the coming months a series of new initiatives are in the pipeline for the Hukawai Glacier Centre, including evening events, exhibitions, family offers for the Glacier Experience and new cutting-edge interactive technology.

“We’ll be reviewing the customer experience and pricing, so we can deliver value that’s appealing to families and travellers. There’s also significant potential to raise awareness of Hukawai further, enticing visitors from further afield.”

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