Tourism New Zealand will kick off its campaign to promote NZ as the complete cycling destination at the Cycling Australia and SBS Bike and Lifestyle Show from 19 – 20 October.

The branded exhibition stand will feature a 3D map giving consumers a visual representation of New Zealand’s 23 diverse cycle trails that stretch over 2,500kms.

Cyclists enjoying the flats in Hawkes Bay

Tourism New Zealand’s General Manager Australia, Tim Burgess said the show presents a fantastic opportunity for Tourism New Zealand to engage directly with the Australian cycling community.

Burgess said, “Cycling is the fastest-growing participation sport in Australia and New Zealand ticks all the boxes when it comes to diversity, proximity and accessibility. It’s a chance to bring the New Zealand cycleway offering to life and inspire people to put New Zealand at the top of their cycling holiday list.”

The show aligns with the Spring Cycle and Sydney Olympic Park Festival of Cycling and has been timed to optimise exposure and engagement opportunities for New Zealand.

Exhibitors include Hawke’s Bay Tourism, Cycle Journeys, Skyline Queenstown, Tourism Central Otago, Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, PureTrails, Positively Wellington Tourism, Takaro Trails Cycle Tours and Pedaltours.

Burgess said, “Our research has shown that those participating in special interest activities, including cycling, spend more and stay longer than average visitors.”

In conjunction with the show, TNZ has also released a cycling video on YouTube showcasing one of its many unique trails – The Hauraki Rail Trail in the North Island.

This news follows the New Zealand Government’s commitment to develop New Zealand Cycle Trails by investing $50 million into providing healthy and enjoyable ways for visitors to see the country.

Tourism New Zealand was recently named Australasia’s Leading Tourist Board for the fourth consecutive year at the 2013 World Travel Awards. For more information visit newzealand.com.