Tourism New Zealand reports that January holiday arrivals have led to a recovery to 60 pc of pre-Covid levels in terms of international visitors and has lined up several initiatives for the year. India remains a key focus market and the board organised a training session for 200 sellers in Mumbai and New Delhi.

Tourism to New Zealand shows positive signs of recovery as visitor numbers continue to grow. According to a press statement by Tourism New Zealand, January holiday arrivals have recovered to 60 pc of pre-COVID levels. New Zealand as a destination remains on top of travellers’ choice with researches exhibiting that preference for New Zealand as a destination is at an all-time high of 44.6 pc.

The statement adds that by encouraging travellers to contribute to the culture, environment, society, and economy, Tourism New Zealand is committed to continuing to assist the sector and New Zealand’s recovery. TNZ is significantly promoting travel since it will play a significant role in the nation’s rehabilitation, says the board.

New research about those actively considering visiting Aotearoa New Zealand, shows the beautiful landscapes of the Pacific island nation remain a key driver for choosing to visit. It identifies which attributes, such as the spectacular landscapes and unique culture, those actively considering visiting find most appealing about New Zealand as their most preferred destination. This allows a tailored experience for the visitors. Tourism New Zealand further lists some of the upcoming industry hui, which is a large social or ceremonial gathering, to look forward to.

The board says that TNZ Engagement Hui will hold discussions over Tourism New Zealand’s strategy and activity for the year ahead. TNZ also intends to drive visitation for the full New Zealand winter season, with the global If You Seek campaign. “The activity highlights New Zealand’s famed ski slopes but also a diversity of winter experiences including Canterbury Hot Tubs, Ruapehu Waterfalls, Queenstown Hikes, 4WD and stargazing,” says Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy.

The tourism board says that a 20-member delegation of New Zealand operators participated in the frontline training with 200 travel sellers across Mumbai and Delhi. The latest destination information and experiences in New Zealand were shared with travel sellers as India approaches its peak travel season which coincides with New Zealand’s autumn and winter. India is an important market with over 10 million people actively considering visiting New Zealand, says Tourism New Zealand.