101 Must-Do’s boost vital domestic travel

101 Must-Do’s boost vital domestic travel

While New Zealand’s scenic wonders are winning international attention as the setting for The Hobbit, it’s great to see New Zealanders also appreciate their own country, Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA) Chief Executive Martin Snedden says.

AA Tourism’s new 101 Must-Do’s for Kiwis highlights the huge range of activities and experiences New Zealanders can enjoy in their own backyard, Mr Snedden says. Kiwis’ enthusiastic support for the campaign – 283,000 votes split over 1600 attractions – shows they enjoy the recreation opportunities available close to home.

“I encourage every New Zealander to get out over summer and visit a new destination or try an activity they have never experienced. The 101 Must-Do’s list offers dozens of ideas and TIA’s 1500+ members look forward to giving visitors a fantastic time,” Mr Snedden says.

Domestic tourism adds $13.8 billion a year to New Zealand’s tourism industry, with New Zealanders travelling in their own country contributing $38 million in economic activity every day of the year.

“This is spending that is not being taken offshore and is helping support jobs in smaller centres like Te Anau, Paihia and Greytown where employment opportunities are limited,” Mr Snedden says. “Holidays at home help support local businesses and bring vibrancy to communities. It’s not only tourism businesses that benefit but supermarkets, petrol stations, bars, restaurants, other retailers and a wide variety of business services that support all these businesses.”

He congratulates AA Tourism for running the 101 Must-Do’s for Kiwis campaign and thanks them for supporting New Zealand’s tourism industry.

To see both the original and the new list of AA Tourism’s 101 Must-Do’s for Kiwis visit www.aatravel.co.nz/101

ENDS

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