New Zealand’s leading tourism operators will virtually connect with nearly 300 travel buyers from around the world in a series of online events next month, organised by Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA).
Commencing 5 April, the three TRENZ Connect Online events will connect New Zealand tourism businesses with international travel trade buyers from the Americas, UK, Europe, Asia and Australia, offering a valuable opportunity for delegates to talk business and get the latest updates on New Zealand reconnecting with the world.
Featuring TIA’s new chief executive Rebecca Ingram as MC, the programme will see a mixture of business-to-business appointments and presentations on topical issues from industry players, including Tourism New Zealand, Air New Zealand and Tourism Minister Stuart Nash.
TIA communications manager Ann-Marie Johnson said the event was in perfect timing following the recent announcement that some of the country’s international borders will reopen sooner than expected.
“We can capitalise on the border news and make sure New Zealand is right up on the international travel trade radar as a destination that’s open for business and ready to welcome manuhiri,” Johnson said.
Despite New Zealand having had closed borders for around 730 days, Johnson said there had been a great response, with the Asia/Australia event attracting almost 400 registrations.
“While nothing beats face-to-face interaction, the pandemic has taught us that virtual events are also a great way for people to connect.”
The events are part of TRENZ Connect, a digital marketplace launched by TIA last September to connect international market-ready New Zealand tourism operators with the international travel trade, and while registrations for the April events have now closed, eligible businesses can still take part in future events as well as connect at any time with others who have posted their profiles on the TRENZ Connect platform.
“The beauty of the TRENZ Connect platform is that it’s ‘always on’. It allows the international travel trade to access the details of New Zealand tourism businesses 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, no matter what time zone they are in. Participants can start a conversation by sending a message at any time. So all is not lost if you can’t make these particular events.”
