ROUNDUP

A morning roundup of the latest tourism news from around the country and further afield, updated every weekday morning. Click the link to go to the source.

Thursday, 17 August

Ex-owner of famous steam train dies The Kingston Flyer’s former owner has died. Mountain Scene

Rachel Hunter Auckland ambassador Model Rachel Hunter has a new role as the poster girl for Auckland. RNZ

Adventure Park chairlift cable arrives in Christchurch, ziplines come down A replacement chairlift cable is tantalisingly close for the Christchurch Adventure Park. The Press

How the people of Queenstown are seduced by Airbnb There is a mutual love affair going on between home owners and Airbnb. Timaru Herald

New addition to tramway a sign of confidence The streetcar’s introduction was a response to “steadily increasing” demand. The Press

Bryce Dallas Howard’s Guide to Her “Restorative Safe Haven”—New Zealand The island nation is her fantasy hometown made real. Vogue

Airbnb’s growth in New Zealand ‘helping’ with tourism boom Airbnb is taking off in in tourism hotspots, with one in 10 Queenstown houses now listed on the site. Newstalk ZB

Build Christchurch’s new stadium out of wood, Winston Peters says NZ First Leader Winston Peters wants Christchurch’s new stadium to be built out of New Zealand-grown timber. The Press

Government spends $8.5m buying motels for temporary accommodation The motels were purchased in Auckland, Gisborne, Hastings and Napier. 1 NEWS

Wednesday, 16 August

Top reasons tourists don’t like New Zealand A report into tourists’ impressions of New Zealand has found most of them had a good time, but what about those less than satisfied tourists? Newshub

Incomplete projects hurting Christchurch tourism – Hospitality NZ Hotel and motel owners will meet with Hospitality New Zealand today over concerns the post-earthquake city is being starved of tourists, but not all in the industry agree. RNZ

Airbnb’s ‘explosive growth’ gobbles Queenstown One in 10 dwellings in the Queenstown Lakes District are listed on Airbnb, with hosts earning more than double than their counterparts elsewhere in New Zealand. Stuff

Mercer, North Waikato: The next tourism destination? The North Waikato town is trying to be more than a blink-and-miss, food and gas pit stop. Waikato Times

Winston Aldworth: Celebrate the best You still have time to vote. Herald Travel is celebrating the best of the Kiwi tourism industry. NZ Herald

NZ is safe and scenic but our prices are too high, say some tourists New Zealand’s scenery and safety rated highly in a survey of international visitors, but there were gripes about high prices. Stuff

Asian dairy boom herds New Zealand tourism against agriculture New Zealand markets itself to international tourists as “100 per cent pure,” but a rapid expansion of its dairy industry is endangering its clean, green image. The Australian

Pamela Wade: Keeping local flavour Passion, knowledge, that’s what we want in our tourism service, writes Pamela Wade. NZ Herald

New Waiheke ferry calls at Napier A two-day visit by a ferry built in the biggest commercial boat-building contract in New Zealand sparked thoughts that Hawke Bay could become part of the wonderseas of the country’s biggest ferry and launch operator. Hawke’s Bay Today

New Zealanders have to pay extra at Bay of Plenty hostel The owner of a Bay of Plenty hostel has introduced a $50 bond just for Kiwis in the wake of “unruly” behaviour at the accommodation. Newshub

Tuesday, 15 August

Air New Zealand pushes Wellington in China with free domestic flight offer Air New Zealand is to offer up to 1000 free domestic flights to the capital in a bid to lure Chinese tourists beyond Auckland. Stuff

Hong Kong travel group pays $9m for Auckland site for Chinese tourist accommodation A Hong Kong-listed travel company has bought three parcels of land in Auckland for $9 million, where it plans to build accommodation units for Chinese tourists and to take advantage of the “critical housing shortage” in New Zealand’s biggest city. TVNZ

The World’s 25 Best Travel Experiences: New Ratings Just Announced If you were staying at Minaret Station, a luxury New Zealand lodge so remote you can only get to it by helicopter, your lunch might have begun with helicopter flightseeing over jaw dropping fjords before landing on a private beach. Forbes

Picton plays party planner for America’s Cup welcome It has been confirmed that Picton will enjoy an overnight tour of the Auld Mug with a parade, foreshore reception and evening event. Stuff

Winston Peters wants heavy rail to Auckland Airport Aucklanders are being offered the choice of driving, catching a bus, modern trams and going by train to the city’s airport by the political parties at the elections. NZ Herald

A movable feast of dance on its way Buses, cheese and cream are not things you usually associate with dance. Oamaru Mail

Southern services maintain ranking Tourism, along with the businesses providing services to the sector, were positive. ODT

Monday, 14 August

Tourism, business in focus as Timaru ward election nears Supporting business owners and leveraging off the district’s tourism opportunities have been identified as likely promoters of district growth as candidates vie for votes in a Timaru by-election. Timaru Herald

Nearly 5000 more people visit Northland in June Nearly 5000 extra visitors stayed in Northland’s short-term commercial accommodation in June, with the Lions rugby tour driving strong demand for rooms in the region. Northern Advocate

Heritage-based tourism studied Oamaru’s Victorian precinct has been the subject of a University of Otago Centre for Sustainability study into heritage-based tourism and the buildings themselves. Oamaru Mail 

Christchurch Adventure Park prepares to open in December The fire-ravaged Christchurch Adventure Park is aiming to reopen by December. Stuff

Christchurch airport spreads its wings past passengers and planes In a Shanghai hotel function room under a glittering forest of crystal chandeliers, smart young Mandarin-speaking tourism marketers talk up the South Island. Stuff

Jack Tame: Talking 100% Pure and water till the cows come home I played tour guide last week and showed a group of American mates around New Zealand. NZ Herald

German tourist loses teeth in crash, then faith in New Zealand justice system A German tourist is “disappointed” in New Zealand’s justice system after a crash left him with missing teeth and a bone visible through an open leg wound – and no one being held responsible. Stuff

Tourism boom gives hotels fuel to fight online booking commissions The tourism boom is spurring bigger hotel chains to get savvier about avoiding online travel agent commissions. Taranaki Daily News

Rotorua, city of two languages Popular tourism destination Rotorua hopes to attract even more international interest by becoming officially bilingual. RNZ

Graeme Simpson: Crankworx success down to great teamwork It’s never too early to write about Crankworx. Bay of Plenty Times

The most popular in-flight food and movies are revealed – and they might surprise you The top movies and meals from five major airlines flying to and from Australasia have been revealed, with surprising results. The Daily Mail

Insight: Turning the West Coast Around How can this beautiful but isolated stretch of New Zealand re-invent itself? RNZ

First-time skiing at the age of 50 I’ve never skied before and, like many of my generation, have lived with the notion that unless you start early, forget it, because it’ll take you an age to learn and you’ll probably end up injuring yourself, badly. Stuff

Glamp up your Kauri Coast holiday As much as I love escaping into the New Zealand bush, with just me and my tent, as I grow older I’ve grown to love the comforts of home. Stuff

New step in hotel’s design A revised design for Dunedin’s latest five-star hotel bid would result in a building that “stepped” down the hill. ODT

‘Bad few’ campers identified New data on Central Otago freedom campers challenges anecdotal wisdom and shows problems are caused by a “bad few”. ODT

Expect more Chinese visitors and ‘the best FTA’ Expect to see more Chinese tourists, students and even construction companies vying for large infrastructure projects in New Zealand. ODT

Friday, 11 August

Auckland considers new bylaw for freedom campers Auckland Council is considering a new bylaw to manage an onslaught of freedom campers in the city. Stuff

Beyond crisis to regeneration We are New Zealand’s newest city and that gives us some great opportunities. Stuff

Flight Centre releases even lower return fare to LA The airfare price war has heated up with Air New Zealand offering $749 return fares to Los Angeles through Flight Centre. NZ Herald

Future of fashion collection unknown The garments, collected by Naseby farmer Eden Hore, are regarded as the country’s largest private collection of 1970s and 1980s couture fashion. ODT

First Venice and Barcelona: now anti-tourism marches spread across Europe Demos in San Sebastián and crackdowns in Rome and Dubrovnik as locals vent frustration at city-breakers and cruise ships. The Guardian

Hotel in Tekapo awaits consent from Mackenzie District Council A new hotel in Tekapo could help ease accommodation shortfall in the tourist hot spot if its resource consent is approved, but the Tekapo Community Board has concerns about height limit breaches. Timaru Herald

$700m convention centre project and hotel emerges from ground After almost two years of site and foundation works, building structures at the $700 million NZ International Convention Centre are rising. NZ Herald

Gorge closure: ‘We can’t sustain the losses’ Calls are growing for an economic assistance package for businesses affected by the massive slip which has closed the Manawatu Gorge on State Highway 3. RNZ

Motel mayhem for struggling families in Marlborough Seven families living in a Blenheim motel are about to be turfed out for six nights because the motel is pre-booked for paying guests. Stuff

Tourism’s big swing to golf A recent story in US media posed the question: Who plays more golf – Donald Trump or Barack Obama? NBR (Subscription)

Kiwi slopes the perfect training ground for big name ski stars A small town ski field on a hill in the middle of the South Island is hosting some of the world’s biggest names in skiing.  Newshub

Thursday, 10 August

Simon Nixon: Affordable air travel vital to our economy Transport is a core contributor to economic well-being and, if Hawke’s Bay is to be competitive, we simply must have road, rail and air connections that are compatible to other centres. Hawke’s Bay Today

American compares Queenstown to Colorado home OPINION: I’ll be the first to admit I’m rubbish on the mountain. Stuff

Max Christoffersen: Search for summer bliss ends in the Tron OPINION: I’m holidaying in Hamilton this summer. In between, someone is going to have to explain this New Zealand tourism thing to me. Waikato Times

Remote state highway needs $8m upgrade, report says It is “essential” that one of New Zealand’s most remote, and most popular, tourist roads is fully sealed at a cost of millions of dollars, a consultants’ report has concluded. Stuff

‘The scale of some problems is huge’ – not all convinced by Government’s clean water pledge The Government has promised a $44 million injection to clean-up 1000 kilometres of toxic waterways throughout the country, but some say it will have little impact. TVNZ

Terrified tourists on luxury cruise feared pirate attack, made to switch off lights and music Terrified holidaymakers were ordered to turn off all lights and music on a luxury cruise liner for 10 days because of the risk of a pirate attack. NZ Herald

New Zealand’s eeriest spots Believe in ghost stories or not, you don’t have to travel far in New Zealand to find places where spirits are said to linger. Stuff

Paradise Valley Rd repair months from completion Paradise Valley Rd residents will have to wait at least three more months for their road to be repaired, but one major tourism operator says the work – expected to cost around $1.2 million – needs to start now. Rotorua Daily Post

Whitebaiters lose great spot to stay A West Coast holiday park popular with whitebaiters will remain closed over the whitebaiting season while work is carried out to repair damage caused by a 60cm deep flood in February. ODT

Wednesday, 9 August

Blight or boon? Town split on expanding free camping A Southland town that welcomed hundreds of freedom campers into its main domain is split on whether to expand the area. RNZ

Tourism New Zealand and Emirates Airline to offer exclusive deal for agents to do a “self famil” in New Zealand For only Ј300 per person return, Emirates is offering UK travel agents and their spouses flights from the UK to New Zealand. ITCM

Editorial: Light rail to the airport raises several practical questions Suddenly, every Labour Party proposal has to be taken very seriously. NZ Herald

Power to the Regions! If the government won’t do something about housing, then Queenstown mayor Jim Boult will – or at least, that’s the plan. The Spinoff

Mt Tarawera ‘Great Walk’ has potential A new “Great Walk” around Lake Tarawera has the potential to become an iconic trail, as long as it’s done right, say local commentators. Rotorua Daily Post

Here’s a NZ rental cars riddle: Which vehicle is tops? The Toyota Corolla is New Zealand’s biggest-selling passenger car – but is it our most popular car? Stuff

Motel business operating across road from Basin Reserve on the market A motel business with “grandstand views” over New Zealand’s oldest and most revered test cricketing venues is up for sale. Stuff

$60m hotel consent to be publicly notified Developers of a $60 million hotel, proposed for a prime site in Queenstown, will publicly notify the resource consent application. ODT

25 Best Tourism Board Websites in the World in 2017 Whether it’s from the “Lord of the Rings” or other movies, New Zealand has been basking in the film tourism industry for many years. Skift

Platitudes on skill shortages Finally, the Government has acknowledged what business has been saying for years – there is a deep and serious skill shortage in New Zealand. ODT

Tunnel could help Queenstown and Wanaka play nicely A road tunnel under the mountains between Wanaka and Queenstown could help draw the two communities together and boost the district’s economy. Stuff

Tuesday, 8 August

Consumer NZ study finds duty-free goods aren’t always cheaper Don’t buy your chocolates and sweets at duty-free stores – they aren’t guaranteed to be cheaper than supermarkets. Newshub

Seal colony provides ‘special encounter’ for Kapiti Island tour A Kapiti Island tour guide says the sight of young seals visiting the bay his family’s owned for nearly two centuries was “extra special”. Newshub

Airlines get together to fight airport charges Airlines are stepping up their fight against airport charges, with a new Australasian group flexing its muscle. NZ Herald

Hotel hinges on ‘unbundling’ The fate of Dunedin’s latest five-star hotel bid could hinge on a rare argument for the ‘unbundling’ of planning rules. ODT

Napier’s Pacifica named New Zealand’s restaurant of the year A Napier restaurant has knocked over the heavyweights of the Auckland restaurant industry to claim the supreme honour at this year’s Cuisine Good Food Awards. Stuff

No Christchurch Town Hall shows until 2019 as construction ‘challenges’ push out completion date The city council has confirmed completion of the project will be delayed and part of the building will not be finished until 2019. It was once hoped the Town Hall would reopen in June 2018. The Press

Tourism a key concern for Waiheke locals The Waiheke Local Board is investigating a visitor levy as part of its draft annual board plan. Stuff

Waikato’s finalists at Tourism Awards One of Angus Stubbs’ earliest caving memories is of being lowered down a hole as a five-year-old. Waikato Times

Destination Marlborough’s Jacqui Lloyd After eight years, Destination Marlborough has a new general manager. Stuff

Monday, 7 August

Incorrect steel delays Christchurch airport hotel opening A mistake with steel for Christchurch airport’s new 200-room hotel has delayed its opening by several months. Stuff

Feasibility study for Tarawera ‘Great Walk’ to begin A study has been approved to look into the potential of a trail up Mt Tarawera and the surrounding area that could see it become one of the next national “Great Walks”. Rotorua Daily Post

Only governments can stem the tide of tourism sweeping the globe Tourism, like all globalised trends, can be a force for good, but can also wreak immense localised damage The Guardian

Why are tourists shunning China? Visitors from China may have become the biggest contributors to the global tourism market, but the Asian giant with a 5,000-year history apparently is not that attractive to foreign travellers. NZ Herald

Rotorua hotels and firms join Fast Track to get people off benefit Local hotels and businesses are coming together to help get people in Rotorua off the benefit and into employment. Rotorua Daily Post

Business retreat competition winners revealed From the get-go, Fiordland Outdoors Company embraced innovation. Stuff

Africa or Auckland? South African council uses photo of City of Sails in advertising A South African council has been caught out using a photo of the City of Sails in an online advertisement. Stuff

Hotel market running hot but past peak Hotels occupancy may have peaked a few months ago although hotels are still enjoying some of their best returns in a decade. Stuff

There’s more to New Zealand than the South island While it may boast Queenstown, Milford Sound and Marlborough, its northern counterpart has just as much to offer. The Daily Telegraph

National announces $267 million investment to improve commuter rail services National has unveiled plans to invest $267 million to improve commuter rail services in Wellington and Auckland if it is re-elected. TVNZ

Mudtopia festival could lose $575k in first year Rotorua’s Mudtopia festival could stand to lose more than $500,000 in its first year, it has been revealed. Rotorua Daily Post

Friday, 4 August

Air New Zealand boosts domestic flights, cuts prices Hawke’s Bay Airport passenger numbers have increased by 15 per cent in the year to June and look set to climb further with Air New Zealand announcing more flights, many discounted. Hawke’s Bay Today

Hotel needed for tourism growth, chamber says The battle for hearts and minds hit top gear yesterday as two views of Dunedin’s latest five-star hotel bid collided head-on. ODT

Solving the mystery of the Kaikōura bubbles Eight months after mysterious sheets of bubbles appeared rising from the seabed off the Kaikōura coast, scientists have made a surprising discovery about their origins. RNZ

Ngāi Tahu and Surfbreak appeal Lyttelton Port dredging plan Lyttelton Port of Christchurch says it is unlikely it will have a cruise ship berth available in 2019 because of appeals against resource consents granted to dredge the harbour. Stuff

Sir Peter Jackson’s replica vintage plane company suspends sales during investigation A manufacturer of replica vintage planes owned by filmmaker Sir Peter Jackson has suspended all sales pending an internal investigation. Stuff

Ngāi Tahu, Surfbreak appeal Lyttelton Port plan Lyttelton Port says it is now unlikely it will have a cruise ship berth available in 2019. Stuff

Tourism boom under threat: Citi downgrades Mantra The group manages almost 130 hotels in Australia, New Zealand, Bali and Hawaii. AFR

Queenstown families hosting 100 plus seasonal workers makes ‘big difference’ Queenstown homeowners have answered NZSki’s plea. Stuff

Thursday, 3 August

EV future-proofed central city rental car hub One of the features of a new $10m rental car terminal in Christchurch is electric charging stations. Stuff

Northland lodge rated best A leading US travel magazine has named Northland’s Kauri Cliffs the best resort hotel in Australasia. Northern Advocate

Watch: ‘Oh my god, awesome!’ Rare blue whale sighting amazes tourists in Hauraki Gulf. TVNZ

Air Chathams in for the long haul In one year Air Chathams has become so much a part of the Whanganui community it now pays rates. NZ Herald

Invercargill’s sister city staff exchange to be completed Four Councillors and two Council staff members will be travelling to Suqian, China to complete a staff exchange programme and to strengthen relationships for business and tourism opportunities. Voxy

The Great Escape: Air links from NZ to Angola on the radar Flights between New Zealand and China are set to significantly increase this year with the signing of new air services deals. NZ Herald

Traffic problems at hotel Plans for a five-star hotel tower in Dunedin are ”fatally flawed” because of traffic problems on the site, a resource consent hearing has been told. ODT

Taking the train through beautiful country Alexander Bisley rides the rail from Auckland to Wellington and absorbs our spectacular scenery. NZ Herald

What’s next for Mt Crawford as LINZ moves ahead with disposal of prison site? LINZ is currently working with DOC and the council to create a heritage and recreational reserve on former Defence Force land on the peninsula. Stuff

New Zealand’s tallest building turns 20 years old New Zealand’s tallest building, the Sky Tower, is celebrating it’s 20th birthday after welcoming nearly 15 million guests through it’s doors. Stuff

Wednesday, 2 August

Fishing for fun under pressure, ‘needs to change’ urges NZ Initiative think tank and Fish & Game Recreational fishermen are being urged to embrace a licensing fee, to protect the pass-time New Zealanders love. NZ Herald

Rival’s challenge over hotel A lawyer acting for a rival hotel has challenged the developers pushing for a five-star hotel in Dunedin as the second day of a resource consent hearing began today. ODT

The Great Escape: How to bag yourself a cheap airfare Getting a cheap air fare can be a combination of good luck, timing and good management. NZ Herald

Matariki tourism plan takes flight A YEAR after the launch of the Hawke’s Bay economic development action plan (Matariki), the people behind it say Gisborne will benefit from Wairoa’s location, straddling two regional action plan areas. Gisborne Herald

Quest Apartment Hotels continue to invest in sustainability and growth Quest Apartment Hotels in New Zealand has had its 52nd consecutive month of revenue growth and now operates with a base of network revenue in excess of $65 million. NZ Business

Rod Oram on tourism and immigration records Rod Oram talks to Kathryn Ryan about the immigration and tourism set records in the latest month and the World Bank launches the first NZ$ denominated green bond. RNZ

Alan Duff: Spain got a Guggenheim, we just got Te Papa NZ needs a Guggenheim Museum like the one here in Bilbao, Spain. NZ Herald

Christchurch’s ‘broken city’ hurting tourism Ongoing issues such as the Cathedral and the roads give the city a bad reputation. Newstalk ZB

Dominance acknowledged The team behind Dunedin’s latest five-star hotel bid admit the 17-storey tower will dominate its surroundings. ODT

Tuesday, 1 August

Creative Norsewood hub is tourist drawcard The Selfe family are relatively new arrivals in Norsewood and brought their wide artistic talents with them, turning lower Norsewood into a special creative hub. Hawke’s Bay Today

Timaru businesses proactive in getting ‘cruise ready’ With six cruise ship visits set for Timaru next year, businesses from across the region have been learning how benefit from the ‘high-end’ customers they bring in. Stuff

Come fly with us – word of Kapiti Coast Airport may spread into other districts Kapiti Coast Airport has been hampered by inconsistent flights and its geographical location, but the region’s mayor says advertising out of the district could be a way of increasing users. Stuff

Northland airports an ‘endangered species’ Northland’s three airports are an “endangered species” facing a funding crisis caused mainly by years of government neglect. Northern Advocate

Lumsden: A town divided over freedom campers Lumsden is making a name for itself as a hub again, but in 2017 it is tourists, not trains, being drawn to the town. Stuff

Michael Fowler: Napier glowingly endorsed Hastings tourist puller Hastings has had a long history of creating parks and regenerating and beautifying them. NZ Herald

Gold award for Amity Court Motel A Stratford motel has been given top marks by Tourism New Zealand. Stratford Press

Skyline Rotorua’s new general manager is a local Skyline Rotorua has appointed a new general manager. Rotorua Daily Post

Hotel ‘new life’ for city The man behind Dunedin’s latest five-star hotel proposal says the city needs his project. ODT

New Zealand? Give it a try! It’s got jaw-dropping scenery, wonderful wine and of course, the All Blacks. Daily Mail

Monday, 31 July

Uber’s most popular drop-off spots for tourists Tourists to New Zealand’s main centres like the nightlife, they like to boogie, and they can’t seem to get enough of sports grounds, either. Stuff

Lions supporters spend up large on visit to Manawatu More tourist dollars are flowing into the region, with Lions rugby supporters providing a welcome boon. Manawatu Standard

Travellers report record airport queues and traffic as Australia ups security after terror raids New Zealanders affected by the increased security measures at Australian airports following last night’s Sydney terror raids are reporting record queues and airport traffic. NZ Herald

Mayor unhappy with Prime Minister’s response to tourist tax A South Canterbury mayor is unhappy with the response he received after asking the Prime Minister why he could not introduce a road toll, to cope with growing pressure tourists are placing on infrastructure.  Timaru Herald

Tourism NZ’s Stephen England-Hall: The new man who’s selling the country Self-described computer geek Stephen England-Hall says heading Tourism New Zealand was never part of his original long-term plan. NZ Herald

Lions’ fans boost Northland business coffers Rugby fans from the United Kingdom not only roared into Northland but also contributed the lion’s share of nearly $2 million through visitor spending from that part of the world. NZ Herald

Riding the slippery slope to a tourism icon When the Wigley men started New Zealand’s first commercial skifield at Queenstown’s Coronet Peak it’s a fair bet they didn’t anticipate what would follow. Mountain Scene

W&I referring thieves for housekeeping jobs Hotels are using migrant workers instead of candidates sent to them by Work and Income. Stuff

Hotel and carpark proposed for Ports land Ports of Auckland is drawing up plans for a carpark with a hotel on top. NZ Herald

Marlborough ranks last in monthly tourism spend estimates The closure of SH1 continues to hit Marlborough’s visitor economy. Stuff

Friday, 28 July

Another mishap three months later Three months after six passengers and a pilot were injured in a crash at Tyndall Glacier, another of The Helicopter Line’s Squirrels rolled near Mt Cook. ODT

Blenheim bemoans unfair fares as Air NZ fronts up at meeting Marlborough residents feeling short-changed by the cost of air fares have vented their frustration at Air New Zealand. Stuff

Dream comes true for those crossing the ditch Air New Zealand brings it Dreamliner to Adelaide for the first time. The Advertiser

Sounds Air investigates larger planes between Blenheim and Christchurch Marlborough airline Sounds Air is considering a “quantum leap” to larger aircraft on a route Air New Zealand ditched last year due to a lack of demand, its chief executive says. Stuff

Australasian aviation lobby group appoints new boss Pharmaceutical Society of Australia executive director of policy, advocacy and innovation Alison Roberts has been named the first boss of Airlines for Australia and New Zealand (A4ANZ). Stuff

Assistance for small airports could benefit Gisborne plans “The demand for tourism has been increasing, the bigger planes have arrived and definitely we need some support.” Gisborne Herald

Bay tourism spending hits $1.8 billion Tourism spending in the Bay of Plenty is estimated to be $1.8 billion for the year to June – up 6 per cent compared with the year to June 2016. Bay of Plenty Times

Visitors disturb threatened birds in wildlife refuge Tourists have been disturbing populations of one of NZ’s most threatened bird species. NZ Herald

Cause of dramatic helicopter crash left unexplained The cause of the accident that left six tourists and a pilot injured cannot be determined. RNZ

Auckland Airport gets board seat An Auckland Airport manager has been quietly added to Queenstown Airport’s board. ODT

Thursday, 27 July

‘Little evidence’ of environmental payoff for tourism concessions Promised conservation benefits are not being realised, says research. RNZ

Editorial: Time for Canterbury to swing in behind Coastal Pacific Trail Canterbury needs to take notice of the cycle trail from Marlborough. Stuff

Dozens of pilots overcome alcoholism About 50 pilots and other aviation professionals have been successfully rehabilitated. RNZ

Timaru’s Richard Pearse Airport not struggling, despite airport association report Timaru’s Richard Pearse Airport has appeared on a list of 12 regional airports needing Government support –  and the district’s mayor says he is unhappy with the implication it is struggling. Stuff

A fond farewell to the Gisborne Wine and Food Festival It was a sometimes wild ride with crazy costumes and lots of fun that made Gisborne and Labour Weekend synonymous for thousands of young and young-at-heart New Zealanders, but the Gisborne Wine and Food Festival is no more. Gisborne Herald

Full-steam tourism planning for Labour Day Gisborne’s wineries are finalising plans for Labour Weekend festivities as Activate Tairawhiti, prepares to market a series of package holiday deals involving wine and train excursions, Rolls Royces and the 2018 national surfing championships. Gisborne Herald

Small New Zealand towns that deserve more of your time Take a little more time on your road trip to explore the small towns en route and you’re bound to come away with a renewed appreciation of what an exceptional – and at times eccentric – country we live in. Stuff

Border tax versus returning GST to regions to pay for tourism infrastructure Councils around the country have voted to lobby the government to return a portion of GST back to the region it was earned in to pay for new tourism infrastructure. Stuff

Deal signed for new $200m Auckland hotel aimed at healthy travellers A deal to bring a new hotel brand to New Zealand was signed in Sydney yesterday, and a 200-room EVEN hotel is now planned for Auckland’s central business district. NZ Herald

Successful launch for new Auckland ferry Torea in Whanganui New Auckland to Waiheke Fullers ferry, Torea, has been launched in Whanganui. Wanganui Chronicle

NZ Women’s Open part of bumper year for Auckland Auckland is in for a bumper year of events, with the inaugural New Zealand Women’s Open and an equestrian showcase coming to the City of Sails for the first time. NZ Herald

Wednesday, 26 July

Maori performing arts in demand on global stages New Zealand Māori Tourism is calling for more funding for Māori performing arts. Māori Television

Spectacular South Hokianga boulder park on the market A natural oddity that has been turned into a popular Northland tourist attraction by its long-time owners is up for sale. NZ Herald

Ministers spend $5.5m on international flights Air New Zealand was the most popular with 1732 flight bookings from the Beehive over that period – around 52 percent overall. Newshub

Christchurch man ups sticks to call Kaikoura accommodation village home Mark von Huben normally wears a tour guide’s hat while working in Kaikoura, nowadays he is behind the wheel of a dump truck. Stuff

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson unveils war memorial in Wellington British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has unveiled a striking new Weta Workshop-designed war memorial in Wellington. NZ Herald

Track closure prompts apology A retirement village developer has apologised for failing to tell the Queenstown Trails Trust it was temporarily closing two public tracks in Lake Hayes Estate. Mountain Scene

Regional airports seek $32m to avert funding crisis The NZ Airports Association claims up to 12 smaller airports face a funding crisis. Stuff

New Kaikoura i-Site website becomes district’s shop window The Kaikoura i-Site visitor centre website has had a makeover, providing a new shop window for Kaikoura. Marlborough Express

IHG announces new Auckland EVEN Hotel InterContinental has announced a new hotel offering a “holistic wellness experience”. Stuff

Study of earning trends vital for investors Auckland Airport, a cornerstone of many portfolios, has been a stunning performer in recent years. NZ Herald

Tuesday, 25 July

Rotorua operators finalists in NZ Tourism Awards Two Rotorua operators are among finalists for the awards. Rotorua Daily Post

Waikato-Tainui nearly doubles annual profit The business owns and manages three hotels which performed very well. NZ Herald

Dropout delays bridge rebuild A dropout has delayed work to build a new $400,000 bridge to one of this region’s top tourist attractions. Gisborne Herald

New Zealand’s national brand appeals to Asians The success of Tourism New Zealand’s global “100% Pure New Zealand” campaign, which helped to reinforce perceptions of the country as a source of high quality products. WARC

UK Foreign Minister Boris Johnson to thank Kaikōura for helping British tourists. RNZ

Himatangi Beach Holiday Park up for national hospitality award It’s one of five holiday parks vying for top honours in the 2017 Spirit of Hospitality Awards to be announced in Dunedin in August. Manawatu Standard

Department of Conservation signs memorandum with Invercargill i-Site Future visitors to Invercargill need only to stop by the i-Site at the museum for all the advice they need to venture into the wilderness. Southland Times

Monday, 24 July

World Famous in New Zealand: Shotover Jet, Queenstown Dodging rocks while hurtling 85kmh through narrow canyons is a thrill-a-minute experience. Stuff

Finding freedom in Rotorua’s forests Flying over the rainforest, I started flapping my arms like wings and crowing like a rooster. Stuff

The Christchurch convention centre’s rocky road: still the talk of missed opportunities After three years of delay, a deal to build Christchurch a new convention centre should be about to be signed. But why do some still think it is misconceived? The Press

ILT hotel facing potential delays The Invercargill Licensing Trust has unearthed some speed bumps in its plans to build a new inner city hotel. Southland Times

Zealandia plans bush classroom in expansion of education programme Wellington’s eco sanctuary is forging ahead with plans for  a new bush classroom. Dominion Post

The Landing, Bay of Islands: In search of winter sun I was told to expect something special. Stuff

Wellington bars snub offer of licence fee waiver if they make outdoor dining smokefree Attempts to entice Wellington cafe owners to ban outdoor smoking by cutting their licence fees appear to have gone up in smoke. Dominion Post

Qatar Airways says world’s longest flight from Auckland not hit by blockade Qatar Airways says the blockade imposed by some of its neighbours has not dented performance of its non-stop Auckland-Doha service. NZ Herald

Insight: Is mountain biking the next golf? The surge of interest in mountain biking is proving a boon. RNZ

Nothing to do in Tauranga, tour operator rues A tour operator says the city is missing out on valuable tourism dollars. Bay of Plenty Times

Do no harm: The social cost of global tourism Look after the world as you enjoy it, writes Leila George. NZ Herald

Friday, 21 July

Graeme Lay: Airport upgrade logical A Friday afternoon at Auckland International Airport, the day the schools break up for the holidays. NZ Herald

One million travellers through Nelson Airport in 12 months Abby Nalder was stunned when she walked through the terminal door at Nelson Airport. Nelson Mail

Far North sights key in new campaign Several Far North sights are being used to lure Australians to come here on road trips. The Northland Age

State owned Airways spent $11,417 on farewell book State owned company Airways has apologised for “excessive and unacceptable” spending after it paid $11,471 for a farewell book for its outgoing chief executive. RNZ

Revealed: Auckland Airport’s new runway The airport has revealed new plans for a second runway. NZ Herald

Christchurch backpacker industry unites to fight dive in custom Christchurch operators are hatching a plan to win back young travellers. Stuff

Public meeting on air services to Marlborough to be held Residents will be able to put their concerns to carriers. Marlborough Express

Thursday, 20 July

How to cope with booming tourism Are we set up to cope with the influx of visitors? RNZ

Hakarimata summit stairs in Ngaruawahia still closed When word spread the Hakarimata Summit steps were back in action, people rejoiced. Waikato Times

Kaikoura workers heading to road works jobs for higher pay, leaving businesses struggling for staff Businesses struggling to find – and keep – staff as locals and tourists find better pay on highway rebuild. The Press

Kaikoura urged to plan for return of tourists Under normal circumstances, Kaikoura should be experiencing its annual lull. Marlborough Express

NZSki reviews power at Remarks While southern skifields surged with visitors, the ski field was struck by its third major power cut. Mountain Scene

Tunnel vision Auckland may be sitting on an underground benefit for transport and tourism. Newshub

Coromandel publican sells up after on-going Thames Coast Rd closures Tapu publican Bruce Efford has sold his business after on-going Thames Coast Rd closures cost him about $80,000 in earnings. Stuff

The Chatham Islands: Look to the East Helen van Berkel discovers the windswept treasures of our islands off to the side. NZ Herald

Whanganui fast becoming tourist destination of choice All signs show Whanganui is now a desirable destination for a growing number of tourists. NZ Herald

Mountainbiking could bring Gore tourism opportunities A group from the Gore-based Hokonui Bikers have just spent a week in Rotorua riding the trails there, and they’ve come home even more enthused to get the Hokonui Water Race Trail at Croydon Bush finished. Southland Times

‘The ecology of the Sounds is in dire straits’ A Marlborough eco-tourism operator is backing the Department of Conservation’s move to ban new marine wildlife viewing permits. RNZ

Stephen Jones to depart Air NZ for budget Hungarian carrier Wizz Air Air New Zealand’s chief of strategy networks and alliances Stephen Jones has quit to take up a top job at Hungarian budget carrier Wizz Air. NZ Herald

Wednesday, 19 July

Wellingtonians are coolest people I’ve ever seen, says Hollywood star Hollywood star Bryce Dallas Howard made herself at home in Wellington, and is now telling the world about her “favourite city” in a new tourism campaign. Dominion Post

The billions airlines are making by charging you for extras Airline revenue from frequent flier schemes, charging for bags and food has grown more than 10 times in the past decade to nearly $40 billion. Newstalk ZB

Skifield’s power cut again While most southern skifields surged with visitors yesterday, the Remarkables was struck by its third major power cut in five weeks. ODT

Auckland taxi fares double Sydney’s Auckland taxi prices are some of the most expensive in the world according to a new report. RNZ

NZTA: ‘It’s important we get the tourists back into Kaikōura for Christmas’ NZTA says it’s on track to re-open both road and rail before Xmas. Newshub

Survey shows Chinese tourists less likely to shop till they drop Chinese tourists are shopping less and lashing out more on dining and sightseeing. Stuff

New Zealand: fight for ‘sacred mountain’ after discovery of significant gold seam Fears for Karangahake Gorge after mining company find 8,500kg of high quality gold in the North Island conservation area. The Guardian

Q&A: Francesca Voza, Wanaka restaurateur Francesca Voza started business in Wanaka with a food truck. Southland Times

Tuesday, 18 July

Elderly man trapped in campervan for three days An elderly man spent days trapped in his camper van after falling and becoming stuck. Stuff

Report finds safety testing flaws before tuk-tuk crash that injured six people in Wellington A report into a tuk-tuk crash in Wellington late last year has revealed safety testing flaws put passengers at risk, and probably led to the injuries suffered by six people on board. Stuff

Jetstar flight to Nelson diverted to Wellington due to fog, after 2 hours of circling A Jetstar flight from Wellington circled Nelson in the air for two hours as fog closed in on the airport. Stuff

Wildwire in Wanaka: New Zealand’s newest adventure offering is not for amateurs Off the side of a cliff outside of Wanaka, I’m hanging from a thread of wire and a couple of karabiners. Stuff

New marketing campaign 100% Pure NZ puffery OPINION: The “100% Pure New Zealand” campaign has been running for a long time. The Press

Pure deception? The 100% Pure tourism campaign is again being criticised after using a picture of a woman drinking stright from a stream. RNZ

Pilots slam CAA over red-flagged inspector who investigated fatal tourist helicopter crash. Stuff

Plan ready to make Caroline Bay, council-funded events go smokefree Caroline Bay looks set to become the first smokefree beach in the South Island – and council-supported events may soon have to declare themselves smokefree. Timaru Herald

Nelson boutique hostel seeks new owners A boutique backpackers in Nelson has been put on the market. Stuff

Grabaseat glitch exposes passenger details The website hit turbulence when it was overwhelmed with visitors, causing an error which exposed some passenger information to other visitors logging into the website. Newshub

Woman ‘ragdolled’ by jet blast warns of dangers A Christchurch woman says she was lucky she wasn’t killed after being “thrown like a ragdoll” by a plane’s jet blast in Rarotonga. Stuff

Seasonal factors behind index drop The Otago-Southland services sector performance eased during June, eroded by the transitional tourism shoulder season between summer and winter. ODT

Monday, 17 July

Fears for ‘community heart’ on the road to change The Queenstown town centre masterplan signals the beginning of a  redevelopment aimed at ensuring the resort’s CBD remains fit for purpose  as a tourism drawcard. ODT

Cadogan reply to Barclay Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan and Clutha-Southland MP Todd Barclay have had a “heart to heart” following  comments made about the Clutha District Council’s lack of action in applying for funding. ODT

Insight: Tacking towards the next America’s Cup As the America’s Cup celebration parades end, the planning for the next race is getting under way. Where will the next challenge be held and what form will it take? RNZ

Māori artist Cliff Whiting dies aged 81 In 2000, he was appointed kaumātua to Tourism New Zealand, to ensure Māori culture was correctly portrayed in tourism marketing. RNZ

Putting Gisborne on the tourism radar A $1.5 million marketing campaign is well on track to pay back community faith, with the region’s economic development agency reporting a $4 million increase in economic activity in Gisborne. Gisborne Herald

Christchurch restaurant owner lashes out at customers A Christchurch restaurant owner has vented his frustration about customers who, he says, cost him up to $2000 of lost revenue on Saturday night. The Press

Foreign ownership of Air NZ soars after govt sell-down Overseas investment in Air New Zealand has soared since the government sold off part of the airline but the listed power companies remain tightly held by Kiwi investors. NZ Herald

Jack Tame: Auckland Airport rail link desperately needed Does New Zealand have any infrastructure project as glaringly, desperately overdue as Auckland’s airport rail link? NZ Herald

New ‘100% Pure’ campaign shows tourist drinking river water The latest “100% Pure” campaign, released last week, shows a tourist drinking water from a river, something that would be dangerous in parts of the country. Stuff

How do we keep Chinese tourists them coming? Our scenery attracts them here but we can’t take their custom for granted. Stuff

Wellington sees biggest Lions increase The All Blacks v Lions in the city saw 245% more people visiting the capital. NZ Herald

Two days a tourist Following reports of tourists skipping Christchurch, we spent two days taking in the sights of the Garden City. Stuff

Friday, 14 July

Passengers evacuated after Milford Wanderer cruise ship hits rocks near Stewart Island About 30 passengers were evacuated from a cruise ship in Port Pegasus, Stewart Island, after it became stuck on rocks. The Press

Winter storm disruption in central North Island The wintry blast that has swept the country over the past three days is set to bring more snow, rain and gales. RNZ

Taranaki’s 30th garden festival launched The Powerco Taranaki Garden Spectacular runs from October 27 to November 5. Taranaki Daily News

Watch: Plane passenger captures hair raising descent in blustery conditions into Wellington Airport Not the smoothest destination to land even on a typical day, passengers on board an Air New Zealand flight into Wellington this morning endured a bumpy descent amid cyclone strength winds. TVNZ

What Chinese tourists want Chinese tourists are increasingly travelling for the experience, not for shopping. NZ Herald

NZ eyes double-digit growth in visitors from India NZ is undertaking initiatives such as trade show ‘Kiwi Link India’. Financial Express

The world’s best places for a destination wedding If cozy and intimate is the vibe you’re after, you can’t beat Helena Bay Lodge in NZ. CNN

Thursday, 13 July

New Zealand destinations and support on show at AFNC 2017 New Zealand representatives are set to share their diverse destinations and warm hospitality with delegates at the Associations Forum National Conference (AFNC) in Sydney next week. CMW

Tourist did ‘everything wrong’ An ill-equipped Welshman who went on a solo tramp above the snowline near Fox Glacier on Tuesday wearing sneakers and jeans is lucky to be alive. NZ Herald

Boutique New Plymouth hotel ready to charge luxury car owners In the carpark underneath a luxury boutique hotel in New Plymouth lies the future of driving. Stuff

Canterbury guest nights up but Christchurch city still suffering Canterbury accommodation topped the country by recording an extra 25,000 guest nights in May, but Christchurch city is still scrambling to fill beds. Stuff

Kauri Cliffs named number one The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs has been named the number one hotel in Australia and New Zealand, by Travel and Leisure readers in the publication’s World’s Best Awards 2017. Stuff

Tourists huddle for warmth after crash A group of 10 Chinese tourists including their Chinese driver waited for up to an hour in freezing temperatures after the 20 seater bus they were travelling in lost control in snow and ploughed up a bank. ODT

Hamilton Hotel revealed as new theatre location Roll out the red carpet – Waikato’s new marquee theatre promises to be something special. Stuff

“More ideas” needed for Queenstown’s housing woes Tourism is booming in Queenstown, but that’s putting the strain on the resort town’s workers. RNZ

Gisborne missing from an Australian tourism map Tourism NZ says Gisborne excluded because region did not contribute funds. Gisborne Herald

A fierce new acquirer of hotels, resorts and related tourism businesses in Australia and NZ has raised a A$1bn fund. AFR

Six-star hotel to take over Chch’s Harley Chambers One of the council’s “dirty 30” buildings is set to make way for a six-star, 150-room hotel. The Press

Wednesday, 12 July

NZ’s tourism sector attracting a large number of investors The tourism sector has caught the attention of international investors. Radio NZ

Shiver me timbers! Cantabrians are preparing to pack sleety streets in central Christchurch to welcome home the America’s Cup. The Press

Tourism dept among best The University of Otago’s department of tourism has been ranked among the top performing in NZ. ODT

Lions tour $23m boost for hospitality industry The Lions’ tour helped Kiwi businesses earn a quality “draw” at the tills in June. Taranaki Daily News

Tuesday, 11 July

New design for 36-room hotel to help it ‘blend in’ Small changes made to the design of a proposed three-storey lakefront hotel in Wanaka will help it blend into the surrounding environment, a resource consent planner says. ODT

Humans, climate change risk killing New Zealand’s unique alpine plants Some of New Zealand’s alpine plants risk extinction due to the increasing popularity of New Zealand’s mountains with tourists, skiers and mountain bikers. Stuff

Room to grow Tauranga conference sector, say industry leaders Tauranga’s conference sector has huge potential with massive spinoffs for the economy but the city is being held back by a lack of accommodation, local leaders say. Bay of Plenty Times

New Zealand shares dropped, led by Fletcher Building and Auckland International Airport down while Air New Zealand reached a 16-year high. Sharechat

Cost of toilets could skyrocket If the Waitaki District Council installs all of the toilet facilities it may need over the next few years due to increased tourist demand, that may increase servicing and maintenance costs to $750,000 annually, Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher says. Oamaru Mail

Overseas investors target Tauranga opportunities Overseas investors will travel to Tauranga later this year to target investment opportunities in the region. Bay of Plenty Times

Progress on quake-damaged rail line There’s about 10km of rail line between Picton and Christchurch still needing repairs. Newshub

Hospo and tourism providers expect $26m from Lions Accommodation, restaurant and tourism operators are clapping their hands with glee. Radio NZ

Hotel developer still confident Dunedin’s latest five-star hotel bid will “not be viable” if the developer is forced to reduce the building’s height. ODT

Taranaki to feature in Air NZ’s new safety video Mt Taranaki is to feature in Air NZ’s new safety video released this week. Taranaki Daily News

Monday, 10 July

Lions tour a $26m win for Auckland business It may not have ended in a win for the All Blacks, but the British and Irish Lions tour has been labelled a success by Auckland businesses. Radio NZ

Rice ban a winner for Kiwi’s Chinese restaurant Former Southlander Aaron Mckenzie was told he’d go broke if he didn’t serve rice at his Guangzhou, China restaurant and bar Social & Co. Stuff

World famous in New Zealand: Tawhiti Museum, Hawera This private museum of local South Taranaki history has a touch of Disney to it. Stuff

Cambridge restaurant included in country’s Top 100 eateries Fiona Massey’s phone woke her from a deep sleep with a heap of messages containing good news for the Cambridge restauranteur. Waikato Times

CuriousCity: Behind the predator proof fence at Zealandia Neil Anderson walks with a spring in his step, whistling as he goes, oblivious to the mud squelching under his feet.  Dominion Post

Reject hotel bid: planner A planner has recommended rejecting Dunedin’s latest five-star hotel bid. ODT

Gault puts the heat on Govt over immigration rules The chef says changes pose a huge threat to the restaurant industry’s future. NZ Herald

The North Island has plenty to offer tourists and adventurers Carlson: Some of my favourite places are actually up north. Stuff

Sailing business hopes next America’s Cup comes back to Auckland As the country speculates the next host of the America’s Cup, a sailing business that was founded on the back of the last cup held in Auckland is looking forward to the exposure and developments the tournament will bring. Stuff

Fourteen Kiwi projects on the World Architecture Festival short-list The seven commercial projects include a brewery in Dunedin, a chapel in Auckland and an extension to Wellington Airport terminal. Stuff

Earth and Sky headquarter details released for Tekapo development Tekapo will be one of only a few places in the world to house historical astronomical equipment come 2018. Stuff

Lions tour investment ‘well worth it’ Auckland’s publicans will be laughing all the way to the bank today, with one industry group saying the British and Irish Lions tour is as big an event as has ever been seen in this country. Radio NZ

Big Read: Restaurants Enjoying the taste of success Another day, another restaurant opening – the hospitality trade is booming, and America’s Cup victory is tipped to put more wind in the sector’s sails. NZ Herald

Fighting fog delays at our airports: what is the answer? There are ways to fight the fog and keep runways open – but it means paying higher ticket prices. Stuff

Ritual watery blessing for Wanaka Marina Apartments Construction of stage one of the five star luxury accommodation complex, now worth about $100 million, starts on July 17. Stuff

Migrating Kiwis touchdown to start sunny winter Kiwis have become airborne and started their seasonal migration to the Sunshine Coast. Sunshine Coast Daily

Martinborough a fan-favourite Early indications suggest the visiting British and Irish Lions fans had a significant positive effect on the Wairarapa region. Wairarapa Times-Age

Friday, 7 July

Port safety work may see cruise ship visits cancelled The installation of new protective features for cruise ships at Timaru’s port  may see the coming season’s two planned cruise ship visits cancelled. Timaru Herald

Grieving mother asks for stricter rules on foreign drivers The grieving parents of a man killed in an accident with a foreign driver have told a select committee the Government could do more to keep accidents from happening. Dominion Post

Auckland CBD, beaches and al fresco dining areas to become smokefree Smoking will be banned in Auckland’s CBD as Auckland Council ramps up its goal of becoming a smokefree city. The Press

Historic pub and hotel The Adelphi bowled on Kaikoura’s main street A historic pub and hotel on Kaikoura’s main street has been demolished. The Press

Hauraki Rail Trail receives grants for improvements and repairs More than $120,000 is to be spent on problem sections of the Hauraki Rail Trail. Waikato Times

Fans ensure a roaring trade Queenstown publicans have been forced to stock up as British and Irish Lions fans pour into the resort’s pubs. Mountain Scene

Government trail funding boosts Otago, omits Southland The Government’s allocation of an additional $528,000 towards the country’s cycle trails this week would have no bearing on plans for Southland District Council’s controversial Around the Mountains trail, the council has said. Southland Times

An $8m vote of confidence in region’s tourism Creating a five-star accommodation facility is a major vote of confidence. Gisborne Herald

Concerns raised about infrastructure build on Linz land Ratepayer money being used to build infrastructure on Linz land. Timaru Herald

‘Not technically impossible’ – Greens say Auckland Airport light rail link can be built for next America’s Cup. TVNZ

Thursday, 6 July

Museum to redevelop science zone The Otago Museum yesterday revealed plans to complete a $2.5million redevelopment of its Discovery World and Tropical Forest. ODT

National park push begins A Wairarapa environmentalist is masterminding a push to recognise Rimutaka Forest Park as a national park. Wairarapa Times-Age

Inclusive hotel earns Olivier Lacoua an Arts Access Accolade Lacoua oversees CQ Hotels Wellington and was awarded the 2017 Arts Access Accolade last night by advocate group Arts Access Aotearoa for his commitment to inclusive hotel services. Dominion Post

DQ sticks to four-day fest Reducing the festival’s duration from 10 days to four this year proved the right decision, Destination Queenstown boss Graham Budd says. Mountain Scene

New grants bring trail goals closer Government grants have spurred on projects on some Otago cycle trails, but the task of connecting them all together is proving a long process. ODT

Mourning passenger bumped from overbooked Air New Zealand flight A Nelson businesswoman was left stranded late at night at Auckland airport after being bumped off her Air New Zealand flight which had been overbooked. NZ Herald

Tourist driver ‘just hit me head on’ A couple who survived a horrific collision with an American tourist in Waikato have added their voice to calls for compulsory driving tests and better driver education for visitors to New Zealand. Radio NZ

Dannevirke’s historic Managatera Hotel up for sale Denice Speedy didn’t realise she had a connection with an old hotel in southern Hawke’s Bay before she and her husband bought it. Stuff

Greens pledge to fast-track airport rail line The Green Party is pledging to fast track a light rail link from Auckland Airport to the city’s CBD. Newstalk ZB

Christchurch Arts Centre plans boutique hotel The Arts Centre is planning to use one of its heritage buildings for a 32 room art-themed hotel. Stuff

Status quo certainly offers freedom, but at what cost? It benefits locals and tourists alike if we keep NZ pristine and pleasant to visit. ODT

Improvements sought for Church of the Good Shepherd There are concerns about heavy visitor flows, safety, and rubbish. Timaru Herald

Wednesday, 5 July

Australian airlines Jetstar and Qantas ban kids’ travel accessories All those whacky travel accessories that claim to help kids sleep on long-haul flights may become a thing of the past after airlines added them to their list of dangerous goods. Stuff

Rotorua’s tourism industry opportunities ‘untapped’ The local Property Council has met as part of a drive to bring commercial and industrial property investors to Rotorua. Rotorua Daily Post

Kiwi Experience founder spearheading hotel development Andrew McIntosh is behind a prefabricated luxury hotel destined for Wanaka. Stuff

New $70m hotel revealed as third Ramada property The hotel near Auckland’s Sky Tower is slated to be complete in late 2018. NZ Herald

Auckland could be set for a boom year in 2021 with the possible hosting of the America’s Cup on top of the APEC conference. NZ Herald

Return fares to New York from New Zealand drop below $900 Travellers can celebrate the Fourth of July with cheap fares to the United States, including New York return for $899. NZ Herald

Brian Rudman: Aucklanders have paid their share of America’s Cup improvements Mayor Phil Goff was smart to jump in before all the welcome home Emirates Team New Zealand hysteria breaks out tomorrow and warn that Auckland Council was in no position to pour large amounts of cash into creating a venue for the 2021 rematch. NZ Herald

Riding the West Coast Wilderness Trail is naturally beautiful On a fine morning in Hokitika, Mt Cook and Mt Tasman seem to hover like glass figurines at the end of the streets. Stuff

Peters promises more tourist dollars for Whanganui Whanganui will receive more tourist dollars if New Zealand First is part of the next government, according to New Zealand First leader Winston Peters. Wanganui Chronicle

Tuesday, 4 July

Cas Carter: Wellington is a tourism marketing success story OPINION: In 1995 I was part of a small group employed by the first Tourism Wellington organisation. Stuff

Five-star park makeover Start made on $8m lift for Waikanae Beach Top 10 Holiday Park. The Gisborne Herald

Accommodation booked out ahead of Geraldine Ukefest A festival celebrating the ukulele is music to the ears of Geraldine businesses, as the annual event gears up for its biggest turnout yet. The Timaru Herald

Winter tourism spending up Gisborne enjoys a $1.3m spending spike. The Gisborne Herald

Events, adventure and mountainbiking form backbone of Manawatu tourism plan Large-scale events and linking  with a national network of mountainbike trails are  key points of a plan to keep growing the tourism industry Manawatu and Whanganui. Manawatu Standard

Qantas begins after-dark flights into resort Australia’s national carrier has rounded out a quartet of airlines flying to Queenstown after dark. ODT

Hotel vacancies in Christchurch ‘highest since the earthquakes’ Christchurch hoteliers have experienced a winter of discontent. Stuff

Luxury 5-star apartments among Rotorua’s new accommodation Rotorua will get a much-needed boost in accommodation. Rotorua Daily Post

From Hobbiton to the Waitomo Caves, all in one day: What tourists are doing. Stuff

Monday, 3 July

Tourist goods retailer buys key Cathedral Square site The last unaccounted for vacant space in Christchurch’s Cathedral Square has been sold and will be developed. The Press

Couple angry at ‘menial punishment’ for tourist crash driver It had been three weeks since the June 12 crash near Matamata and Teresa said the person responsible, an American tourist, was issued a “menial punishment”. Stuff

Strong growth in NZ business travel The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced full-year global passenger traffic results. NZ Business

Tourism spending in Rotorua rises The Lions tour has brought with it a boost of visitors and international media to Rotorua, according to a local tourism leader. Rotorua Daily Post

Details of the America’s Cup victory parade The team which won the America’s Cup earlier this week is due to be paraded throughout downtown Auckland on Thursday. Radio Sport

Tourist spend in Bay of Plenty nears $1.8 billion The Bay of Plenty is riding a tourism high, according to new estimates. NZ Herald

Auckland bed tax battle highlights search for tourism funding Other councils tipped to follow Auckland’s lead. Stuff

Peter Calder: Bed and bored Why hotels need to put dining back into their restaurants. NZ Herald

Kevin Milne: Hotel industry might have cost country Lions riches It would be a tragedy if hotel prices cost the rest of the tourist industry. Newstalk ZB

Friday, 30 June

More investment for Maori tourism Funding for Maori Tourism will help Maori tourism operators on East Coast to expand their businesses. Gisborne Herald

Confidence in Rotorua economy growing, says Westpac survey In a new survey local business leaders say Rotorua’s economy is booming, but not all retailers agree. Rotorua Daily Post

More bomb threat screening for US-bound passengers from Auckland Millions of passengers heading to the United States every week, including those from Auckland Airport, face extra screening. NZ Herald

Lions tour: Kiwi hospitality in full swing at Johnsonville RFC for Lions supporters Kiwi hospitality is part and parcel of rugby culture, just ask the Johnsonville Rugby Football Club. Stuff

Northland well placed for slice of America’s Cup pie Northland’s economic body is already working on bringing as much benefit as possible to the region from the next America’s Cup. Northland Advocate

Thursday, 29 June

Skifield possums return For the second time in a fortnight, the Remarkables ski area was unable to open yesterday because of a power cut possibly caused by possums. ODT

On safari for the commonly spotted Lions fan British and Irish Lions fans are – relatively speaking – easy to find at 11am on a Wednesday. Radio NZ

Lions visitors fillip for Waitangi after national welcome wows The Waitangi grounds, which played host to the official welcome, is proving a hit with the team’s supporters. Radio NZ

Tourists’ $200 car park fine A campervan couple here for the Lions rugby tour have been fined for parking in the wrong spot in a near-empty carpark. Radio NZ

Industry president calls on Government to back cup defence Q-West director Myles Fothergill is urging the Government to financially back an America’s Cup defence in Auckland. Wanganui Chronicle

Jetstar cuts back frequency of New Plymouth flights over winter period Budget airline Jetstar has temporarily cut back the number of flights between Auckland and New Plymouth, citing a lack of customer demand. Stuff

Student baristas ready to give it their best shot at coffee contest Ahead of the New Zealand Hospitality Championships in Auckland, year 12 student Jason Peng and year 13 student Robbie Cookson are training hard for the competition that will showcase their skills on July 28. Nelson Mail

Deadly crash between bus and 4WD in Central Otago A collision between a bus and a 4WD in Central Otago has killed one person and left several people injured. Radio NZ

Can Auckland handle hosting the next America’s Cup? Aucklanders caught up in the excitement of this week’s sailing glory will be hopeful their city will soon be confirmed as the hosts of the next regatta. Stuff

Multi-millionaire Earl Hagaman’s will requests revealed The children of dead multi-millionaire Earl Hagaman will not receive anything from his will until a fight with his ex-wife is settled. NZ Herald

Wellington charges Lions fans 4x the going rate The fee is more than four times the normal $30 cost to park for 24 hours. Dominion Post

Christchurch’s new Crowne Plaza hotel to open this weekend after ‘long haul’ Christchurch’s tourism scene is about to get a major boost. The Press

Raybon Kan: Four cheers for the America’s Cup! Think of the tourists in four years! NZ Herald

Wednesday, 28 June

Hospitality industry set for ‘good times’ New Zealand’s hospitality industry is set for “good times ahead” following the America’s Cup win according to industry bosses. NZ Herald

Billion-dollar territory? Big gain for NZ from America’s Cup hosting, city chief predicts New Zealand stands to enjoy big economic gains if it hosted the next America’s Cup, an Auckland city boss said this morning, predicting it could be in the billion-dollar territory. NZ Herald

Minister praises Kiwi innovation and tourism potential at Balclutha talk What have rockets and tourism got in common? They’ve got sky-high potential to earn big bucks. Manawatu Standard

Four-star hotel planned for Queenstown A 260-room four-star hotel is planned at Queenstown’s Kawarau Village at Kelvin Heights. ODT

Train drivers need freedom to override tunnel rules – KiwiRail KiwiRail is seeking an urgent transport rule change to ensure passenger trains don’t get stuck in tunnels if the engine catches fire. Radio NZ

Nelson’s Trailways Hotel achieves rare Qualmark Gold Award A Nelson hotel has been recognised as one of the most sustainable tourism businesses in New Zealand. Nelson Mail

Samoans preparing for jobs in NZ tourism and fisheries Efforts are underway to extend seasonal work for Samoans in New Zealand’s tourism and fisheries industries. Radio NZ

Cheers! New Zealand’s most famous pub could be yours One of the country’s most famous pubs could be yours. The Press

Hosting the America’s Cup would bring profile and visitors to NZ Imagine another 50 superyachts sailing into New Zealand. Stuff

Tourism industry expecting America’s Cup payoff Tourism chiefs say the international focus on New Zealand will help their sector. NZ Herald

Luxury tourism sector a big winner The sector will get a big boost from the super-wealthy attracted to an America’s Cup regatta. NZ Herald

A warning to Tongariro tourists Local hapū says the exploitative attitude towards the use of the dual heritage park is about to end. Māori Television

Tuesday, 27 June

A 260-room hotel proposed for Queenstown’s Kawarau Village A 260-room hotel development is proposed above the Hilton Queenstown Resort and Spa. Stuff

Hotel staff put on colourful display for cancer charity Staff at a Marlborough hotel have put their heads together to come up with an eye-catching way to help a cancer charity. Marlborough Express

NZ should close borders in a major pandemic to save lives, study shows If New Zealand were to be hit by an extreme pandemic, we should shut the borders to trade and tourism to save lives, Wellington researchers say. Stuff

Burger-gate over – bureaucrats burned to a crisp over new rules Burger-gate is over – the threat to medium-rare burger patties is gone. NZ Herald

Giant tiki to be painted on Auckland hotel Accor Hotels has commissioned internationally renowned artist Owen Dippie to design a piece of artwork on its 25m wall on Custom Lane in downtown Auckland. NZ Herald

Stewart Island/Rakiura Visitor Levy Fund to disburse record sum The Stewart Island/Rakiura Visitor Levy Fund is expecting to disburse a record sum to beneficiaries later this week. Southland Times

Tourism a threat to Kaikōura’s crayfish Fishers are warning Kaikōura’s famous crayfish are under threat and they’re blaming tourists. Radio NZ

Mayors want help with operational costs Tourists could be causing an unfair strain on smaller districts’ facilities. ODT

CAP aiming for summer reopening The fire-damaged Christchurch Adventure Park should reopen by summer. The Press

Monday, 26 June

A Team New Zealand win could put a $500m wind in our economic sails An America’s Cup win would put New Zealand on the map for wealthy investors and make the country a fashionable place to be for more than $500 million in benefits. Stuff

$30m Lion’s share for Wellington’s economy from rugby double-header British and Irish Lions fans set to converge on Wellington are expected to inject $30 million into the regional economy during their week-long stay. Stuff

American Airlines’ next move in New Zealand American Airlines says it will come back stronger after a two month break in flights between Los Angeles and Auckland. NZ Herald

Quality versus quantity – tourism shares dairy’s challenge Head of an international marketing company says that going for quality over quantity is the real challenge for New Zealand tourism. Stuff

The rise and rise of Auckland Airport For long-term owners of Auckland International Airport shares, it has been a dream run. Newsroom

U-turn on freedom camping The Dunedin City Council has made a U-turn over its proposal to develop three new freedom camping sites in Dunedin. ODT

Tourism is breaking its social contract No one can argue with the concept of Tourism. Nelson Mail

Tourism: a brilliant career or a job for dummies? Tourism faces major challenge recruitment challenges. Stuff

If Kiwis want an overseas holiday, visit Queenstown In June I took a flight to Queenstown and landed in what felt like another country. Newshub

Abel Tasman conservation plan may provide blueprint A successful conservation plan used in the Abel Tasman National Park that draws on partners to fund and deliver is now being considered for New Zealand’s historic Molesworth high country station. Radio NZ

Man has year-old Lions test hotel booking cancelled at the last minute A Kiwi rugby fan living in London had a longstanding accommodation booking for Saturday night’s test cancelled at the last minute by the provider. NZ Herald

Sun rises on new resort venue Queenstown’s next vibrant venue will change its focus with the passage of the sun.  Mountain Scene

Friday, 23 June

Three locations named in big NZ hotel expansion The company planning a new 37-level $200m hotel for Auckland wants to expand in NZ. NZ Herald

Hagaman vs Andrew Little continues Hotelier Lani Hagaman wants to pursue the defamation case against Labour leader Andrew Little. Radio NZ

$100m luxury hotel proposed An American developer plans a $100m luxury hotel in Queenstown. Mountain Scene

Ceremonies begin with a karanga Two waka glided into a candle-lit beach to open the 43rd Queenstown Winter Festival yesterday. ODT

They’re barking mad on Coronet They came in tutus, bandannas and butterfly wings, just to clear their throats in front of 200 onlookers in Queenstown’s Earnslaw Park. ODT

Thursday, 22 June

Keep ’em coming: Off The Beaten Track accommodation growing Thousands of people have signed up to Off the Beaten Track since it launched in April, with around 80 listings registered throughout New Zealand. Stuff

Lions hotel swept for BUGS by security as fears grow of spies in camp ahead of first New Zealand test Security experts conduct regular operations searching for electronic listening devices to prevent leaks of tactics and calls. The Sun

German tourists robbed of passports Three German tourists have lost most of their belongings, including their passports, after their rental car was broken into. SunLive

Vital now to gain confidence of tourism industry The decision last week by Tourism Eastland members to gift to the council the community-fundraised i-Site building on public reserve land in Grey Street, along with associated contracts, was a wrench for many. Gisborne Herald

‘Ripped off’ over skydives Queenstown-based online booking company Bookme is helping two Chinese tourists ”ripped off” by a credit card fraudster. ODT

Resort enters festive mode Queenstown’s unofficial forecast for the next four days shows partying, hilarity, mayhem and madness, courtesy of the 2017 Queenstown Winter Festival. ODT

Nothing to see here – Milford on selldown of Tourism Holdings shares Milford Asset Management is warning against reading too much into its sell down of some Tourism Holdings shares. NBR

Naive to think people will just keep coming here Air NZ chief Christopher Luxon says tourism was not driven by macroeconomic factors. Stuff

Chinese tourists’ crime concerns rising, guide says A tour guide is fielding more questions about whether New Zealand is safe to visit. Radio NZ

$200m 37-level hotel planned A 37-level $200m 490-room Holiday Inn Express and Even hotel tower is planned in Auckland’s heart. NZ Herald

Wednesday, 21 June

Regional co-operation key to a prosperous Wellington As an agency, we’re focussed on the work; on driving growth and attracting revenue to the region, as we’ve done successfully throughout amalgamation, and ever since. Manawatu Standard

Auckland Nines may be shelved next year due to Rugby League World Cup The Auckland Nines could be missing from the calendar next year as the event’s promoters and the NRL wrestle with how to fit it into an off-season schedule that includes the World Cup. Sydney Morning Herald

Pilots want tighter rules around drones Airline pilots are increasingly worried about drones and want tighter regulations around their use. NZ Herald

Is the Kiwi dream the new American dream? NBC broadcaster Keith Morrison set out to find why New Zealand is the “it country” for its Sunday Night programme hosted by Megyn Kelly in an clip titled The Americans Are Coming: The Obsession With New Zealand. Stuff

Head to Rainbow Ski Area to enjoy some fun in the snow With the ski field set to open again for the season on July 8, Admire talks to some of the people who love Rainbow. Stuff

Tourist levy unlikely as government fears losing out to Australia, Canada The government remains unconvinced on the merits of a tourist levy. NBR

Cost of training pilots bite A shortage in the supply of pilots is worsening because of the cost of training and worldwide demand. NZ Herald

Tourists to spend $1.24b a year in Northland by 2023 International arrivals forecast to grow by 52%. The Northern Advocate

Tuesday, 20 June

The world’s most expensive beach – and the cheapest Four New Zealand beaches surveyed came around a third up the list with Hahei at place 91 the most expensive. NZ Herald

Kiwi killed in crash with tourists about to become first-time father Mother wants to start a petition to hire Kiwi drivers for all foreign tourists. NZ Herald

Tourists lured with fake Facebook profile, trapped and threatened Three young female tourists were lured by a man using a fake Facebook profile. Stuff

Wellington lays in wait for red army Wellington is gearing up to host the biggest party it has seen in years. Stuff

Film set in Otago screens at festival Otago film buffs can see a feature film shot in the Queenstown area when the New Zealand International Film Festival rolls into Dunedin in August. ODT

Monday, 19 June

The freedom camping goldmine NZ’s 29,500 motorhome owners New Zealand’s growing motorhome fleet is an economic force to be reckoned with. Stuff

MarginFuel adviser hopes to get wheels turning A company which takes the price of a rental car from being “finger in the air” to one which can fuel growth is thinking about how much capital it will need to shift up a gear. Stuff

Amateur sleuth cracks theft case When tourists nicked surfing gear from Mount Backpackers, it wasn’t money motivating business owner Jo Veale to track them down. Bay of Plenty Times

Three of four dead in Waikato crash thought to be French tourists  A rural Waikato resident says the two survivors he helped at the scene of a fatal crash on Saturday evening were French tourists who had only been in the country for a day.  Stuff

Locals jump to adopt Lions fans Rotorua residents are jumping at the chance to show some good old-fashioned Kiwi hospitality by opening their homes to Lions fans needing a place to sleep. Rotorua Daily Post

New twist in red-hot airline competition on the Tasman The transtasman aviation market is in for a shake-up next month as Emirates takes off a superjumbo and partner airline Qantas replaces it with more frequent flights with a new plane between Auckland and Sydney. NZ Herald

A Hunting We Will Go Trophy hunters from around the world as well as local hunters visit the High Peak Game Estate to shoot red stag, fallow bucks, wild goat, feral sheep and wild boar. Radio NZ

Sledding on Mt Ruapehu is set to get a whole lot more expensive Locals are furious that the company which runs the Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields is proposing to charge $59 for adults and $35 for children to access the Happy Valley and Alpine Meadow areas which were previously free. Stuff

Sit back and sip the best New Zealand vineyards have to offer The way I see it, there are two types of wineries in this world. Stuff

Transition to new approach needs to be as speedy as possible Major changes are taking place in the way our district organises and promotes itself for economic development, tourism and the growth of higher-paying jobs. Gisborne Herald

David Slack: Freedom campers, it has been a pleasure doing business with you OPINION: So, farewell then, freedom camper. Stuff

DOC earns $17m from concession fees DOC is promising closer scrutiny of payment dodgers. Sunday Star Times

Sprucing up the luxury tourism market – Heletranz Sofia Ambler and her husband bought the helicopter business Heletranz in 2012. NZ Herald

Friday, 16 June

‘Landlocked’ Marlborough Airport reliant on NZDF space to grow Business leaders are adamant Marlborough Airport needs to expand for the region to reach its full potential, but finding the land to grow is proving troublesome. Marlborough Express

NZ aids Niue tourism, communications and solar power New Zealand Prime Minister Bill English has opened new tourism facilities and unveiled plans to improve services for Niue households during a brief stopover today. Radio NZ

Stock Takes: Air NZ flies higher Air New Zealand’s strong share performance this month builds on gains in May when the airline’s stock price rise outstripped healthy increases throughout the airline industry. NZ Herald

Trust wants lease extended, no rates The trust that  runs the Snow Farm ski field on the Pisa Range is seeking an extension to its  lease with the Queenstown Lakes District Council. ODT

Top artist wants Queenstown public gallery Grahame Sydney, best known for his landscapes of Central Otago, says it’s a glaring omission in Queenstown’s calling card. Mountain Scene

Spotlight on Waikato: Tourism is the jewel in Waikato’s crown After decades of its economy focused on the farm gate, New Zealand’s biggest export earner now through the country’s airports’ arrivals gate. NBR (subscription)

Adapting to New Zealand’s popularity: more tourists or better tourists? Consider Ireland, a small island nation of about four million people. Stuff

Tourism changes are out of order After 30 years our council has decreed to end Tourism Eastland’s contract to run the i-Site. Gisborne Herald

Tourist tent accommodation sparks interest at Fieldays Farmers looking to utilise their land as an alternative income.  Stuff

Thursday, 15 June

Australian Court Declines Air Cargo Appeal The High Court of Australia today dismissed Air New Zealand’s appeal of the Full Court’s 2016 decision that the airline had breached Australian law in applying fuel and security charges to cargo. NZX

Air New Zealand to start new widebody fleet study in 4Q17 Air New Zealand (NZ, Auckland Int’l) will begin studies involving its future widebody requirements towards the end of this year airline Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Christopher Luxon has said. ch-aviation

How Trump’s trouble is hitting greenback, making holidays cheaper for Kiwis The kiwi dollar is forecast to keep tracking well over US70c for the next 12 months. NZ Herald

He Tangata: John Barrett of Kapiti Island Nature Tours I’m a Kapiti Coast boy and have lived around here for around 50 of my 70 years. NZ Herald

Parking plan opposition grows The Otago Farmers Market is the latest business to come out in opposition to changes that would replace car parks directly outside the market with a cycleway. ODT

How Hamilton transforms itself for Fieldays City locals have been plenty busy too, transforming Hamilton, the accommodation hub for the event, into party central. Stuff

Guards patrol entrance to wildlife sanctuary Security guards are patrolling the entrance of Sanctuary Mountain as a stoush over access to Maungatautari sees unauthorised staff, contractors and volunteers kept from one part of the wildlife refuge. Waikato Times

Shares rise, Air NZ up despite appeal loss New Zealand shares rose on Wednesday, led by Air New Zealand, Heartland Bank and A2 Milk Co. Newsie

Tourism body says staff ‘number one priority’ ACTIVATE Tairawhiti and Tourism Eastland were today both looking to the future. Gisborne Herald

Visitors to begin pouring into Rotorua for Lions match with Maori All Blacks More than 20,000 people are expected to visit the city. NZ Herald

Auckland Airport among best airports in the world The airport has landed a top spot on an international ranking that compares airports. Stuff

Wednesday, 14 June

Mayors’ tourism levy call knocked back The Government has knocked-back a multi-mayor approach to impose a levy on tourists. Timaru Herald

Ferry hits object in Waitemata Harbour terrifying passengers on board morning city sailing Terrified passengers were prepared to jump into the harbour moments after an Auckland ferry hit a submerged object in the Waitemata Harbour this morning. NZ Herald

Hamilton City Council says no to campervans at Hamilton Old Boys A Hamilton rugby club has been told it can’t host Lions’ fans in campervans even though its clubrooms are next door to the stadium. Rugby Heaven

Air Chathams carries Ranfurly Shield challengers Whanganui’s ‘Butcher Boys’ will fly direct to Christchurch for their Ranfurly Shield match next week courtesy of one of their sponsors – Air Chathams. Wanganui Chronicle

What’s behind the ‘golden age’ of travel? The formula behind this “golden age” of travel was pretty simple: more airlines flying to and from New Zealand has increased competition which has lowered ticket prices. Stuff

New loos for Whangarei hot tourist spots Northland will receive $160,000 in Government funding to help build new public toilet blocks  at Parihaka and the Abbey Caves  in Whangarei. Whangarei Leader

Green light for major investments in Ashburton The mid-Canterbury town of Ashburton is enjoying a commercial property boom with confirmation of a new Scenic Hotel Group four-star hotel, and a nearby office and retail commercial building. Stuff

Wintry blast for south, ferries cancelled A southerly blast sweeping up the South Island is due to bring severe gales and has forced the cancellation of  Interislander ferry sailings. Radio NZ

Council ‘working as hard as they can to destroy tourism’ A southern hospitality chairman says he has had enough. Stuff

‘Panda Route’ to Chengdu opens up as newest airline from China touches down Sichuan Airlines’ first flight has arrived in NZ. NZ Herald

Hamilton’s Waikato River Explorer is back for Fieldays after a turbulent start of the year. NZ Farmer

Tuesday, 13 June

Deputy PM and Minister for Tourism to open Cruise New Zealand 2017 Paula Bennett, deputy prime minister and minister for tourism, will officially open Cruise New Zealand 2017 at the Auckland Museum on August 29. Seatrade

Latest airline from China due to touch down in Auckland Sichuan Airlines, the latest of a growing list of Chinese carriers flying into Auckland, is due to arrive in Auckland. NZ Herald

Visiting a forgotten world Kiwi ingenuity and sheer determination has unleashed new life on the panoramic old railway line from King Country to Taranaki, writes Mike Yardley. ODT

Mayor calls for more tourism infrastructure support A South Island mayor is urging the government to spend more on tourism. Radio NZ

Chris Roberts: Tourist boom is manageable It’s no secret that New Zealand has been seeing an unprecedented boom in visitors to our shores. Stuff

Lost natural wonder in New Zealand may be found, say researchers Diaries give clue to location of pink and white terraces. The Guardian

Monday, 12 June

Accommodation providers call for tourism levy expansion in Marlborough Marlborough is behind the 8-ball in New Zealand’s visitor boom and must expand its tourism levy to keep up with the rest of the country, the council has heard. Marlborough Express

Exclusive interview: Simona Turin on Air New Zealand’s digital transformation Simona Turin is the general manager, digital strategy and capabilities, for Air New Zealand. IT Brief

Air NZ accused of racism over questioning of Tongan mum at check-in Air NZ has been accused of racism after a woman said her mother was racially profiled while trying to use Premium Check-in for a flight. NZ Herald

Taranaki Pouakai Crossing and tarns named one of best and most beautiful by Tourism New Zealand Stuff

Funds for coastal tourist facilities Tourists on the East Coast will no longer be caught short on their way to East Cape lighthouse, after the Government allocated a new relief fund to build more toilets. The Gisborne Herald

Anger in the air: what’s fuelling the rise in unruly passenger behaviour NZ Herald

Auckland Airport’s planned $2.1b spend-up ‘overdue’ The airport spent about $400million in the past five years and plans to spend the $2.1billion during the next five. ODT

Luxury hotel shortlisted A luxury boutique Queenstown hotel is shortlisted for one of the world’s top interior design awards. Mountain Scene

The World Bar birthday shenanigans It’s been an eventful 21 years for The World Bar blokes. Mountain Scene

We must avoid the privatisation by stealth of our wilderness How to nurture the adolescent tourism industry into seemly adulthood. The Press

Airlines face fight to save service reputations Global airlines need to work harder to link customer service with commercial success. Stuff

Audio: Kiwis opening their homes to Lions fans Adopt a Lions Fan 2017 organiser Adam Gilshnan on the massive response by NZ. Newstalk ZB

Friday, 9 June

New tracks to grow Tongariro tourism The Ohākune area could get thousands of extra visitors if a community group makes some improvements to the Mountains to Sea cycle trail. Wanganui Chronicle

Kai, wai – it’s ka pai For the first time, a special cultural opening ceremony will be held during Queenstown Winter Festival. Mountain Scene

New coalition forms to tackle freshwater quality A cross-sector group says successive governments’ inaction on degraded waterways has spurred them to come together to forge a new plan for freshwater. Radio NZ

Wellington to bring the party to the Lions show Wellington is set to bring the party to the fans for the British and Irish Lions’ visit to the capital. Stuff

Capital accommodation shortage forces Lions fans to leave town in dead of night. Stuff

The tourism industry has criticised the Government for what it says is a lack of action over New Zealand’s fresh waterways. Newshub

Hamilton motel gets more than $200,000 from taxpayer Government-funded emergency housing is core business for some motels. Waikato Times

Thursday, 8 June

Brighter Future? Even the Catlins feel pressures of increasing tourism Visitor numbers to the Catlins, which is nestled between Dunedin and Invercargill, have jumped 15% in the past year and by at least a third since 2008. Radio NZ

NZ not keen on in-flight laptop ban, airline industry fights surprise move by US and UK An airline industry group wants to ensure the laptop ban on some flights to the United States and United Kingdom does not extend to New Zealand. Stuff

Rachel Stewart: Doomsday clock ticking for birds It’s that time of year, when gongs are given out willy-nilly, when I like to award a gong too. A gong for a nong, you might say. NZ Herald

Themed hotel still possible: Lund A chocolate-themed hotel could still be built at Dunedin’s Cadbury factory site. ODT

Wairoa aims for stars in aerospace law Plans are afoot to make Wairoa the 21st century equivalent of The Hague in the Netherlands and the first port of call for settling commercial aerospace disputes. Gisborne Herald

Motel owner ticked off with daily dunny misdirection A beautified pumping station in Taupo is tricking tourists into thinking it’s a toilet. Waikato Times

Plan to protect Dog Island established by trust The trust is to enable the restoration, conservation and management of Dog Island as a sustainable conservation and tourism destination in Southland. The Southland Times

Aviation provides the lubrication for tourism industry growth Tourism is tipped to surpass $15b a year by 2023. Stuff

Two skifields plan to open on Saturday Skifields are hoping for a good opening day for Cardrona and the learners’ area at the Remarkables. ODT

Robot hotel company is new owner of Cathedral Square site The owners of the world’s first robot hotel are the buyers of the old Press site. Stuff

Wednesday, 7 June

NZ ill-equipped for 5 million overseas visitors Tourism is the rock star of the New Zealand economy but there is some nervousness about how we will cope with almost five million visitors annually by 2023. Stuff

NZ approach to laptop ban more balanced says airline group New Zealand, Australia and Canada are members of the Five Eyes spy group with the US and Britain but have not imposed a ban on large electronic devices in cabins of planes travelling from up to 10 airports in the Middle East and North Africa. NZ Herald

Lawrence prepares to be “business ready” for cycleway tourism The proposed Clutha Gold Trail extension from Lawrence to Waihola highlights that the Clutha district needs to prepare itself for the level of tourism a new cycleway will bring. The Southland Times

Southern Light Show crowds stun The size of crowds thronging Queenstown Gardens for the resort’s annual light festival have gobsmacked organisers. ODT

Pristine splendor on sailing through New Zealand’s Doubtful Sound It’s a brisk early morning in mid-May, and I am cruising through stunning Doubtful Sound. Travel Weekly

Air New Zealand to go shopping for new ultra-long range planes Air New Zealand will go shopping for their next wide body planes from the end of the year as it eyes ultra long range routes into the North or South America. NZ Herald

Our love hate relationship with tourists – NZ’s visitor fatigue Back in the 1970s locals in the deep south referred to tourists as “loopies”. Stuff

Does tourism trump taonga? In a country marketed for its sparsely-populated landscapes, some destinations are now bursting at the seams. Radio NZ

Chinese ‘influencers’ promote NZ A new campaign aims to lure Chinese visitors to the Wellington, Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough regions. Stuff

Tuesday, 6 June

Bell Rose Flower Gardens could become hotel and conference centre Bell Rose Flower Gardens was once home to a rose garden business is for sale with a pending resource consent to transform the grounds into a hotel and convention centre. Stuff

Key part of global air route needs overhaul says airline group A key part of a global aviation route that New Zealand could be the critical hub of is growing fast but needs an infrastructure overhaul, an airline industry group says. NZ Herald

Queen’s Birthday Honours: Craig Emeny Air Chathams aviation pioneer Craig Emeny flew to the Chatham Islands in the early 1980s and has been based there since. NZ Herald

Shamubeel Eaqub: Bed tax reveals local government flaws The costs of growth are heaped on local government; the benefits largely accrue to workers, businesses and central government. Stuff

Small Business: Zorb, Ogo and putting tourism on the map Zorb inventor Andrew Akers talks about operating his business from a tourism hub. NZ Herald

Fiordland conservationist Ken Bradley receives QSM in 2017 Honours The recently retired DOC senior ranger for Fiordland said he was “surprised and humbled” to have received the award. The Southland Times

Brakes applied over parking Parking looms as a potential judder bar for a 227-room hotel planned for central Queenstown. Mountain Scene

Skyline O’Connell’s revamp Queenstown tourism giant Skyline Enterprises has plans for a huge overhaul of O’Connell’s Shopping Centre. Mountain Scene

Small Auckland motels get raw deal with city’s new bed tax The new bed tax unfairly disadvantages small motels, says an Auckland motel owner who can’t afford to take legal action. Radio NZ

Court decision muddies waters on shark-cage tourism A court has ruled DOC does not have the authority to grant shark-cage diving permits. Radio NZ

Legal risks in hosting fans Homeowners hoping for an Airbnb windfall by hosting fans of the Lions are being urged to consider the legal risks. ODT

Waitomo Glowworm Caves and DOC form partnership The new partnership will improve conservation outcomes across the district. Stuff

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Queen’s Birthday Weekend

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Friday, 2 June

Flight prices cheaper than ever as New Zealand air travel cost falls It’s cheaper than ever for Kiwis to fly, with air travel prices coming down – but it’d be even more affordable if you lived elsewhere. Stuff

Air New Zealand mocks Qantas with new ‘Lions’ ad New Zealand’s national carrier has taken a potshot at trans-Tasman rivals Qantas after the British and Irish Lions chose to fly here on the Australian airline. Newshub

Chinese investment offer a win-win, says councillor A billion dollar investment offer from a Chinese company is nothing to get anxious about, a Far North councillor says. Radio NZ

Chart of the day: Bedding down in Nelson-Tasman. Stuff

Air NZ lifts full-year guidance on lower jet-fuel prices The airline has lifted its full-year guidance as it benefits from lower jet fuel prices. NZ Herald

Te Puia ownership to be transferred to iwi An agreement has been initialled that will transfer ownership from the Crown to iwi. Rotorua Daily Post

Dunedin praised as conference venue The city has captured the heart of an academic who heads an international organisation studying religion. ODT

Thursday, 1 June

Brand Slam: Easyjet vs Air New Zealand We pitch the experiential marketing strategies of airlines Easyjet and Air New Zealand. Event Magazine

The logistics of transporting the British and Irish Lions to New Zealand A lot of work has gone into preparing the British and Irish Lions to take on the All Blacks in their New Zealand tour and only a portion of it has been done on the rugby field. Stuff

Construction begins on $36 million Rydges hotel at Wellington Airport The four-star, 134-bedroom hotel, expected to open late next year, will be adjoined to the main terminal building and accessible directly from the passenger lounge. Stuff

Emirates axes Auckland-Sydney superjumbo flight Emirates is ditching its daily A380 superjumbo flight between Auckland and Sydney as part of a revamp of services. NZ Herald

Phil Goff’s ‘bed tax’ coming down to the wire A controversial “bed tax” on hotels and motels goes to the vote today. NZ Herald

Editorial: Stop grizzling and welcome the visitors The council should not be too quick to discard the idea of a targeted rate. NZ Herald

New tourism app offered to Kaikoura business free Kaikoura’s warm hospitality is being pitched to kick-off a new tourism app. Stuff

These are some of the places that are openly hostile to tourists Constant bad behaviour by tourists, issues of overcrowding and even environmental concerns have prompted some of the world’s most beloved tourist destinations to turn a cold shoulder to tourists. News.com.au

Wednesday, 31 May

Grant Webster: A ‘bed tax’ would harm hotels just now recovering from the last downturn. NZ Herald

Expert: Tax on tourists for medical costs not a good idea despite millions being spent on treatment. TVNZ

Wellington region looks set to get 10,000-seater indoor arena The Wellington Regional Strategy Committee will advance the plans. Stuff

Here come the Lions – and their 4 tonnes of luggage Qantas is doing the heavy lifting for the British and Irish Lions who are bringing four tonnes of bags and gear. NZ Herald

Moteliers ask for level playing field The Otago Motel Association is lobbying the Dunedin City Council to crack down on the ”booming” alternative accommodation available in the city. ODT

Otago is in desperate need of large scale investment in infrastructure if the region’s tourism industry is to continue thriving. ODT

George Hickton: Auckland’s bed tax debate should not lose sight of Ateed’s value New Zealand’s tourism industry, our single largest export earner, is at a crossroads that could define its medium and long-term future. NZ Herald

Government hints at KiwiRail overhaul as company under review Treasury and the Ministry of Transport will carry out the review, which Transport Minister Simon Bridges says is aimed at looking at the long-term role of rail in New Zealand and how to make sustainable. Newshub

New staff members ready to start the season on Mount Ruapehu Mount Ruapehu’s slopes will open to snow bunnies this weekend – the first ski field in the country to do so this winter. Stuff

Tuesday, 30 May

Phil Goff denies bed tax for accomm providers is illegal Auckland Council is getting set this week to vote on a plan for a so-called bed tax in the city for hotels and motels. Radio NZ

Iwi queries exclusion from $1bn investment offer Far North mayor John Carter should have consulted Māori before signing the district up to a billion-dollar investment offer by a Chinese company. Radio NZ

Standby for biggest influx of Lions fans in 12 years Hawke’s Bay is gearing up for its biggest influx of British and Irish rugby fans in 12 years. Hawke’s Bay Today

Chinese investment in Northland should be mutually beneficial So Chinese interests are keen to invest $1 billion in Northland. The Northern Advocate

Freedom camping overflows Three new freedom-camping sites are proposed for Dunedin, as the two already provided by the Dunedin City Council have reached capacity. ODT

Second chance for dryslope park Queenstown’s indoor ski park is re-opening under new owners and management. Mountain Scene

Fullers has been ordered to pay nearly $100,000 to victims of a ferry crash and fined $40,000 after one of its faulty vessels slammed into a pier. NZ Herald

Jim Boult: Tackling freedom camping rule flouters Readers of this column know that I have been critical of freedom campers. Mountain Scene

Hapu claims it doesn’t want to stop Hole in the Rock tourism Hapu which have made claims on the coastline want consultation. The Northern Advocate

Monday, 29 May

Aucklanders have plenty to say for and against world-first plans to light up the Harbour Bridge. NZ Herald

Thousands of Kiwis could be caught in British Airways flights disruption Thousands of Kiwis could be caught by a computer glitch that has grounded British Airways flights through London. AAP

A Chinese company is offering to invest up to $1bn in the Far North in everything from cultural tourism to energy. The Northern Advocate

Ziptrek breaches on Bob’s Peak alleged The council is to investigate Ziptrek over alleged breaches of its resource consent. ODT

Why Christchurch needs a multi-purpose arena downtown A new multi-purpose arena would be a long-term win for the city. The Press

Overseas tourists call on Colac Bay weaver Owning a weaving business on the Southern Scenic Route brings Isobel Bates in contact with many tourists. Southland Times

Overseas visitors’ giant-sized health bill puts DHBs under pressure Taxpayers are forking out tens of millions of dollars a year treating sick foreign visitors. Sunday Star Times

We will wow them with Dunedin chic(k) Lavish bacchanalian indulgence Trenz is coming to Dunedin next year, and the city’s tourism industry — in fact the city itself — has a chance to really impress foreigners both from New Zealand and overseas. ODT

Aurora lights up the South Island The South Island was treated to a spectacular Aurora Australis display Sunday night. Newshub

Native American and Indigenous Studies Conference coming to Waikato University of Waikato has secured hosting rights for a meeting of the world’s largest group of indigenous experts. Waikato Times

Fiordland leads Southland’s tourism growth Southland’s tourism sector is one of the fastest growing in the country, due in no small part to the increase of visitors to Te Anau and Fiordland. Southland Times

Friday, 26 May

High-profile hotel magnate Earl Hagaman dies The hotelier, who recently sued Labour Party leader Andrew Little, has died, aged 92. Stuff

Budget 2017: Hits & misses Chief executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa Chris Roberts gives his verdict on the Budget. NZ Herald

A new service is hoping to offer attract private landowners who are happy to host tourists on their farms, vineyards and orchards. Radio NZ

Timaru council encourages locals to contribute to tourism site A new $100,000 website promoting the Timaru District is up and running after a long delay. Timaru Herald

Kaikoura roading and rail to benefit in $4 billion New Zealand infrastructure boost in Budget. TVNZ

Video: Tourism Minister predicts another million tourists by 2022. The South Today

Movie’s benefits extolled The money from a $6million to $8million movie planned for filming in Maniototo will filter through the community and the movie will publicise the region. ODT

Tourism in Otago continuing to boom The latest monthly regional tourism estimates show the industry continues to boom in Otago. ODT

Bungi Backpacker ‘family’ forced to move out for new Queenstown hotel A dozen long-term Queenstown backpacker residents are being “forced to leave home” as their hostel is getting demolished next month. The Southland Times

Thursday, 25 May

Owner ordered to secure ‘dangerous’ hotel The owner of the derelict Revingtons Hotel has been ordered to secure the building. ODT

Councillors have been exposed to a range of views about locals renting their homes out for short-term stays. Rotorua Daily Post

Proposed immigration changes hit hospitality A Mt Eden artisan bakery and cafe wants customers to write to the Immigration Minister. NZ Herald

Passenger on Air NZ flight arrested for assault, reportedly abusive to staff. TVNZ

Tourism Minister Paula Bennett has promised Queenstown special access to Government funding and resources to cope with the overwhelming costs of tourism due to its “exceptional circumstances.” Southland Times

To tip or not to tip, that isn’t the question The problem is that a culture of tipping creates a different, and entirely inequitable economy The Press West Coast

Waipu Cove accommodation and camping facility to become 50-plus lifestyle village The Northern Advocate

NZ cities prepare for the dollars and excitement of another Lions Tour Whangarei is humming. When the Lions kick off their New Zealand tour by playing the Provincial Barbarians there on June 3, the town’s cafes and pubs are expected to be packed. Stuff

Govt could fund special projects The Government will pay for special Queenstown projects if the district makes a strong case for them. Mountain Scene

Wednesday, 24 May

The Hundertwasser Art Centre fundraising project is heading down to the wire with little over a month left to find $1.25 million to reach its pass-go funding target. The Northern Advocate

Barry Soper: Paula Bennett’s latest crusade reaches tipping point Newstalk ZB

Light rail route needs to be locked in now if Wellington wants it in its future. Stuff

Bay of Plenty tourism agency’s promotional plan could cost ratepayers an extra $1.9m a year. Bay of Plenty Times

Gore businessman launching Thai jet boat venture Thai holidaymakers will soon be rubbing their eyes in disbelief as a supercharged sea monster from Gore hits a popular Phuket beach. The Southland Times

Wellington looks to fill ‘big hole’ in events calendar after sevens move to Hamilton. The Dominion Post

Multicultural food festival proves a big hit Organisers are pleased with the amount of support shown by the Clutha community for this year’s multicultural food festival. ODT

Queenstown may be in line for special tourism funding The Government may stump up with special funding for Queenstown.  Stuff

To tip or not to tip – Restaurants Association supports Bennett The RA says the Tourism Minister’s idea should be encouraged. Radio NZ

NZ’s largest hotel operator, AccorHotels, has announced that a new five-star Pullman hotel will open in Rotorua in late 2018/early 2019. NZ Herald

 

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TECHNICAL BREAK 

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Friday, 19 May

Flights around the world now cheaper than ever Flights from every competitor in the sky have fallen in recent times, offering passengers various cheap choices in who they can fly with. Newshub

Air NZ CEO: Emirates’ trans-Tasman A380 flights ‘not a big threat’ Air New Zealand is confident of holding onto its half of the trans-Tasman travel pie, despite the presence of Emirates’ Airbus A380 superjumbos. Australian Business Traveller

Infratil says there is ‘no chance’ Wellington will lose jet services in runway challenge Wellington Airport’s majority owner remains optimistic about its proposed extension, predicting a solution will be found to a court challenge to its runway safety are. Stuff

Temporary accommodation for Edgecumbe Temporary homes are going to be moved onto the Whakatane Holiday Park. Sun Live

Qantas brings in new measures to make trans-Tasman travel easier Qantas has introduced mobile check-in and digital boarding passes for passengers flying between Australia and New Zealand. NZ Herald

No extending Bluff Oyster & Food Festival despite demand Three Airbus A320 charter flights carrying about 500 passengers will arrive in Invercargill on Saturday for the Bluff Oyster & Food Festival. The Country

Cruise berth benefits well beyond tourism Christchurch needs to attract more smart, skilled people to ensure our future prosperity. The Press

Air NZ plane lands on one engine The plane was making an “ominous” creaking sound before the pilot shut one of its engines down. NZ Herald

Building work on an ambitious trail between the Marlborough Sounds and Christchurch could soon be under way. The Marlborough Express

Thursday, 18 May

Couple save historic Kaikohe building with plans for hotel, backpackers A Kaikohe-raised couple who feared the town’s only heritage building would fall into ruin are transforming it into a boutique hotel, backpackers and café. The Northern Advocate

Wanted: Nearly 20,000 service workers in Christchurch Christchurch’s service sector might need to consider hiring sickness beneficiaries, with almost 20,000 new jobs expected over the next three years. Radio NZ

Bed squeeze: Airline cabin crew putting extra pressure on Auckland hotels The influx of new airlines to Auckland means its not only passengers putting the squeeze on hotels but hundreds of extra crew who need top-quality accommodation. NZ Herald

Top hotel managers behind Rotorua’s first five-star development Rotorua should be celebrating the announcement that the city’s first five-star hotel will be managed by top hotel chain AccorHotels, according to industry officials and a local developer. Rotorua Daily Post

AccorHotels to manage proposed Rotorua five-star hotel Rotorua’s newest five-star hotel development will be run by AccorHotels. Stuff

Push for rail trail study about being prepared if opportunity arises Mayor Meng Foon will tomorrow seek councillor support for a feasibility study on an extended Gisborne-Napier cycleway “rail trail”. Gisborne Herald

A Southland mayor has apologised for spending more than $1m in ratepayer money towards a cycle trail court case it has now dropped. Radio NZ

Government help for the badly damaged Christchurch Adventure Park is not likely, says Tourism Minister Paula Bennett. Stuff

Rising tourism numbers have prompted big changes to The Langham Auckland on Symonds St, re-branded as Cordis. NZ Herald

Paula Bennett: Funding for the future of regional tourism. Radio Live

Oyster fest waiting list 1000 Three Airbus A320 charter flights carrying about 500 passengers will arrive in Invercargill on Saturday for the Bluff Oyster & Food Festival. ODT

Special licences for shows Dunedin bars opening on Good Friday and Easter Sunday will be able to serve wine instead of water, thanks to Ed Sheeran. ODT

Wednesday, 17 May

Who should pay to keep NZ pure? Is it time for the companies that benefit from our clean-green image to start chipping in to protect it? Stuff

Tourism: a credible career Tourism and hospitality careers are under-valued, despite being the country’s largest export earner. Radio NZ

Quantity over quality will turn round to bite tourism What is it about NZ’s mentality that is so stupidly drawn to boom and bust? Bay of Plenty Times

Council calls for extra investment in tourism infrastructure The Government’s pledge to pump $25 million a year into tourism was “not even close” to what was needed. Marlborough Express

Taupo to benefit from latest tourism funding The $178m Tourism Infrastructure Fund announced by the Government last week will boost facilities in the Taupo area. Waikato Times

Air NZ “most successful airline in the world”: CEO Air New Zealand’s CEO Chris Luxon has put it out there and claimed his airline is the best in the world. Travel Weekly

Pacific tourism growing in step with global trend Visitor arrivals to the Pacific region grew by 3.7 per cent last year compared with 2015. Radio NZ

Tuesday, 16 May 2017

Marathon boost for Hawke’s Bay tourism The Air New Zealand Hawke’s Bay International Marathon boosted the region’s tourism over the weekend. Hawke’s Bay Today

New Zealand’s North Island: An Insider’s View I always tell people to plan as much time as you can when touring New Zealand. Napa Valley Register

Channelling the golden age of riverboats Tourism on the Whanganui River could be greatly boosted if a navigable channel could be created in the upper reaches. Wanganui Chronicle

Tourist levy needed to help struggling councils The tourism industry and local govt have been piling unprecedented the pressure on the Govt. Stuff

How NZ air travel is changing forever With new aircraft, new routes and new stopovers to consider, the options for Kiwi travellers are endless. Stuff

NZ slashes Chinese tourism forecast, denting outlook NZ has slashed its forecast for Chinese tourist spending over the next six years. Bloomberg

The Soap Box: Bennett a bit like a soap opera actor Paula Bennett is a bit like a soap opera actor. Not quite up there with the Kardashians. More like a member of the Osbourne family. Newstalk ZB

Jetstar to charge up to $50 for parents carrying babies on laps Jetstar has brought in a new charge for parents travelling domestically with babies on their laps. news.com.au

Monday, 15 May 2017

KiwiRail wants quake-resilient facilities for ferries KiwiRail wants new, earthquake-resilient facilities for the Cook Strait ferries, even if it has to share them with its rival, Bluebridge. Radio NZ

Bookabach looks to booming international tourism market HomeAway planned to take one of the “crown jewels” of its portfolio global. Stuff

Timaru and Tekapo named among top emerging tourist draws of 2017 Tourism bookings website Trivago ranked Lake Tekapo Village third and Timaru seventh among 11 “up-and-coming” hotspots. Timaru Herald 

New Zealand tourism benefiting from volatility in the United States New Zealand is increasingly being seen as an “escape” for United States travellers in the wake of the election of Donald Trump, a tourism boss says. NZ Herald

Auckland missing out on new tourism fund – ATEED An Auckland tourism group says it’s missing out on the government’s new tourism fund even though the city has had a record number of visitors this past summer. Radio NZ

Renewed funding push for tourism-generating Aoraki/Mt Cook There will be a push for more money to be spent in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park as the conservation estate meets new tourism demands. Timaru Herald

The world has fallen in love with this Mother’s Day video by Air New Zealand Air New Zealand have released a new promotional video just in time for Mother’s Day which is proving to be a hit around the world. TVNZ

Australia flights ‘a struggle’ for Dunedin Dunedin’s only international flight, to Brisbane, will continue, but travellers should not hold their breath waiting for more transtasman flights. ODT

Little promises tourist levy under Labour in first term Labour leader Andrew Little says he is personally in favour of a tourism levy on visitors to New Zealand. Newshub

Maori feast awaits Lions fans amid fears for impact on islands NZ is bracing for the arrival of 20,000 rugby fans next month. The Guardian

Editorial: Tourism’s rapid growth requires careful stewardship It has been a big week for tourism. NZ Herald

Proposed hotel is about promoting city The developer behind the scheme, says why he believes Dunedin people should get in behind the project. ODT

Friday, 12 May 2017

Tourism boost welcomed but ‘proof will be in the pudding’ says Mackenzie mayor A funding boost of $178m for tourism has been welcomed by South Canterbury mayors. Timaru Herald Think tourism, MPs urged New tourism figures broken down by electorate show the extent of spending in an industry worth more than $4.5 billion a year to the lower South Island. ODT Global warning after fatal cruise ship blast The world’s maritime industry is being warned of the deadly risk posed by corroded nitrogen cylinders used for launching lifeboats after a worker was killed in Dunedi. ODT Helicopter crew who saved two tourists recognised Getting winched out of a helicopter 65 metres in the air – in the middle of a storm – is all just part of the job for Corporal Aeron Mellish. Manawatu Standard $300m Government boost for international and New Zealand movies More Hollywood blockbusters could be made in New Zealand as the screen sector receives a $300 million boost from the upcoming Budget. Stuff ‘Not fair to put the burden on ratepayers in small towns’ Tourism funding boost set to help local communities. TVNZ Air NZ flight from Christchurch to Palmerston North turned around after ‘engineering issue’ Passengers were delayed almost five hours after a flight from Christchurch to Palmerston North was turned back an hour into the flight because of an “engineering issue”. The Press Tourists will happily pay more for attractions: Air NZ CEO Tourists from overseas are happy to pay more than locals for some attractions. Radio NZ The tourism boom is destroying our best destinations Can anything be done to fix it? It’s survival of the fittest in the NZ tourism industry. The Spinoff Public slam proposed hotel The Dunedin City Council has been flooded with submissions opposing Dunedin’s proposed five-star hotel. ODT Thursday, 11 May 2017 Air New Zealand upgrades Houston service, adds another flight to Argentina Air New Zealand will fly a new configuration Dreamliner between Auckland and Houston from later this year as it targets more of the premium market. NZ Herald Dunedin accommodation sold-out for Ed Sheeran Tickets haven’t gone on sale yet but accommodation is already booked up in Dunedin for Ed Sheeran’s March concert. Newshub Prime Minister responds to tourist levy plea from southern mayors The Prime Minister plans to engage further with the six southern mayors who wrote to him appealing for more help to deal with “irresponsible” campers. Stuff New Zealand’s popularity causing tourist problems International travel agents say New Zealand is becoming harder to sell. Newshub The new head of Tourism New Zealand is enthusiastic about the 100% Pure marketing message. NZ Herald Tourism industry urged to tap Indian ‘sleeping giant’ Indian visitor numbers have grown 80 per cent over the last five years Stuff Wednesday, 10 May 2017 Akl hotel rate hike legality queried The legality of a proposed doubling of rates on central Auckland hotels is being questioned by a former regional council chief. Radio NZ Ed Sheeran ‘massive’ coup for Dunedin Pop sensation Ed Sheeran is set to perform Dunedin’s biggest concert at Forsyth Barr Stadium. ODT Concerns over use of island Questions are being asked about the apparent increase in the number of tourists visiting Ruby Island on Lake Wanaka. ODT Why is a tourist levy such a big deal? How disappointing it was to read that Paula Bennett does not consider a tourist levy necessary. Timaru Herald Queenstown, New Zealand, is being loved to death We’d just arrived back in Queenstown after walking the Routeburn Track. news.com.au Helping farmers cash in on agri-tourism opportunities Farmers are being actively encouraged to cash-in on Taranaki’s soaring popularity. NZ Farmer Tuesday, 9 May 2017 Jetstar adds six more seats to Airbus A320 Jetstar is squeezing more seats onto its Airbus A320, the aircraft that regularly fly between New Zealand and Australia, but says leg room will not be compromised. Stuff New bus service links Coromandel to Rotorua A new bus service from the Coromandel to Rotorua and back has been introduced, giving locals and tourists a direct link between the regions. Rotorua Daily Post Hotel design: back to the future is where it’s at When it comes to hotel design, Dunedin can learn from Hobart. ODT Opinion: No tourist attractions a missed opportunity Tourists are spending more money than ever before, yet we’re missing out. Bay of Plenty Times Racecourses to host campervans of Lions fans Two Auckland race courses will be hosting hundreds of campervans full of Lions rugby fans. Radio NZ A proposed $18 million levy on hotels to attract visitors and big events to Auckland is unlikely to survive a legal challenge, says expert. NZ Herald Monday, 8 May 2017 KiwiRail may spend up to $50m on new carriages for its scenic network as the scenic tour operator rides the tourism boom. NZ Herald A serious crash involving a former Rotorua family near Whakatane has prompted a gesture from a local tourist attraction. Rotorua Daily Post ASB: Booming population growth will keep economy growing for the next two years, despite a slowdown in tourism and construction. Stuff Council issues dozens of fines to Christchurch freedom campers Six freedom campers a week are being stung with fines by Christchurch council officials since the city completely banned the practice. Radio NZ How orcs and All Blacks are attracting the megarich to New Zealand Mega-rich tourists are flocking to enjoy luxury experiences only New Zealand can offer, reports Grant Bradley. NZ Herald Friday, 5 May 2017 Editorial: Care needed to prevent tarnishing tourism’s golden age From any perspective tourism is on a roll. NZ Herald Mayors ask English for tourist levy Southern mayors have taken their concerns about irresponsible camping to the Prime Minister. ODT Phil Goff waters down hotel bed tax Auckland Mayor Phil Goff is set to water down his bed tax, nearly halving the $28 million targeted rate. NZ Herald Air New Zealand Hobbit plane among the ‘ugliest planes that have ever flown’ One of the iconic themed jets has been singled out in a list of the “ugliest planes that have ever flown” NZ Herald Pillow fight: Ateed boss says its tourism funding base should be widened The head of Auckland’s tourism and events promotion organisation says he would like to see a wider range of those in the industry fund its work beyond the accommodation sector which is facing a massive increase in rates. NZ Herald Tourism Minister advises ‘sense of humour’ over Mt Taranaki nude photo Tourism Minister Paula Bennett was not offended by a young woman’s nude photoshoot on Mt Taranaki, but says she will not be stripping down herself. Radio NZ South Canterbury mayors support plans to lobby government for tourism funding This follows an appeal to the Prime Minister, made by six Southern Mayors in a letter, to reconsider the Government’s stance on a tourist levy. Timaru Herald Opposition to proposed hotel grows Public opposition to Dunedin’s proposed Moray Pl hotel is mounting, but only slowly, as submissions trickle in to the Dunedin City Council. ODT Council, tourism body to keep nagging Air New Zealand Blenheim people travelling to Nelson to dodge high airfares is an ongoing issue, and the council says only Air New Zealand can change that. Marlborough Express Same-sex couples flocking to New Zealand to tie the knot Charity Turner and Phoebe Cox had been together for three years and wanted to get married but Australian laws wouldn’t allow it, so they jumped the ditch. Stuff Thursday, 4 May 2017 It’s raining hotels A second landmark hotel is to be built by the main road into downtown Queenstown, amidst the resort’s visitor accommodation shortage. Mountain Scene Tourism and construction growth drives unemployment below 5% The unemployment rate fell to 4.9 percent in the first three months of the year as the economy created 29,000 new jobs. Radio NZ Watch: Behind the scenes video shows relaxed John Key joking about his new Air NZ gig, offers revealing insight into election. 1 News Now Tourism growth opens up opportunities Growth in visitor numbers to Southland is opening up opportunities for tourism businesses. Southland Times Tourism businesses should pay more to hold staff If wages were higher more young New Zealanders would be attracted to the sector. NZ Herald Chinese magazine coverage seen as coup for the South A prominent story about Dunedin and the South in a major Chinese magazine is expected to be read by the sort of tourists who would travel beyond traditional tourist centres. ODT Playmate Mt Taranaki nude photo deemed disrespectful A Playboy playmate’s decision to pose nude on the top of Mt Taranaki  will upset local Maori, an academic says. Stuff Hamilton couple launch Off The Beaten Track, matching holidaymakers with farms A Hamilton couple have launched a website to take holidaymakers off the beaten track and into rural accommodation. Stuff New glass accommodation latest to join astro-tourism industry A new venture aims to tap into the booming astro-tourism market. Timaru Herald AVANI Hotels & Resorts set to launch in NZ AVANI Hotels & Resorts has announced the acquisition of Metro Suites in Auckland. Hospitality Net Tourism NZ in pact with 2 airlines to tap tourists Tourism NZ and two airlines have come together to promote NZ to Indian travellers. DNA India Wednesday, 3 May 2017 Editorial: ‘Pre-feasibility’ report on Christchurch stadium could speed city’s revivial. The Press Private backers needed for commercial passenger flights into Alexandra Rapid growth in the use of Alexandra Airport and recent upgrades are unlikely to translate into passenger flights without the help of the private sector, airport officials say. Stuff The Great Tourism Squeeze: Cleaning the loos and shifting the human waste from scenic walks eats into the budget. NZ Herald 250 Queenstown ski field workers out in the cold Hundreds of Queenstown ski field employees are still without accommodation with less than two months to go before the ski season starts. Radio NZ Ohakune Mardi Gras cancelled A $77,000 loss at last year’s event and conflict with the upcoming Lions’ Tour are behind a decision to cancel this year’s Ohakune Mardi Gras event. Stuff UN survey: Migration and tourism supporting NZ economy The United Nations is upbeat over the New Zealand economy. Newshub Air NZ’s Christopher Luxon on success Zigging when others zag is Christopher Luxon’s key to making Air New Zealand a top global airline. Stuff Warnings over drone use by tourists at Franz Josef Helicopter trips to Franz Josef’s Glacier are being put in danger by the use of drones. Radio NZ Tuesday, 2 May 2017 Southern Mayors prepare to lobby Government for tourism funding as situation ‘dire’ A tourist tax could help smaller councils cover the cost of more tourism infrastructure, Mackenzie District Mayor Graham Smith says. Timaru Herald Tourism continues to boost local economy New estimates suggest further increase in off-peak tourism. Gisborne Herald World Masters Games a success for NZ’s tourism sector Auckland’s tourism agency says the World Masters Games will continue giving to the sector. Newstalk ZB Chinese tourists love NZ’s fresh air but not our hotel charges Chinese travel experts say the market will continue to grow strongly. NZ Herald Planning a Trip to New Zealand? An Insider’s View In case NZ is on your bucket list, this is the first of a three-part series. Napa Valley Register Tourism pressure may see ‘erosion of goodwill’ Tourism is officially NZ’s biggest export earner, but it’s putting a squeeze on infrastructure. Newstalk ZB Matt Heath: My revenge on United Airlines Sadly, last week after a fantastic Air New Zealand international flight I was forced to deal with United Airlines. NZ Herald Seminar emphasises strengthening Pacific tourism An emphasis on strengthening tourism in the Pacific has been made at a Pacific Futures Seminar in Auckland. Radio NZ Tourists spend up big in BOP Tourists spent an estimated $1.7 billion in the Bay of Plenty in the year to March 2017, according to MBIE figures. SunLive Rachel Smalley: Can’t welcome tourists and not provide the infrastructure Our tourism industry is now officially our number one top export earner. Newstalk ZB Monday, 1 May 2017 Tourism intended for prison Dunedin’s old prison has four new trustees including a new tenant with the tourism market in mind. ODT The Great Tourism Squeeze The Government is under increasing pressure to come up with solutions to ease the squeeze from record growth. NZ Herald Tunnel cycleway success Dunedin is one step closer to being joined to the Otago Central Rail Trail. ODT How military technology helped fuel NZ’s tourism boom New Zealand’s current tourism boom can in part be traced to aerospace technology dating back to the late 1950s. NZ Herald Jetstar slammed as Air New Zealand bizarrely named ‘Australia’s best’ Budget airline Jetstar has ranked stone cold last in a survey of international airlines. The New Daily Hotel squeeze forces business travellers into Airbnb One of the country’s biggest corporate travel managers says pressure on Auckland hotels has forced it to use Airbnb for some of its clients. NZ Herald Top restaurants fear government immigration changes will starve them of staff The country’s taste buds could take a hit if changes immigration rules make it harder to hire staff from overseas, restaurant owners say. Radio NZ Cruise ships lining up to visit Gisborne A day after the season closes half a dozen visit confirmed for the next one. Gisborne Herald No support for bed tax The keeper of the Government’s purse has hammered another nail in Queenstown’s bed-tax coffin. ODT International, domestic tourism spend holds up in post-quake market Strong international spend is a heartening sign for post-quake tourism figures, Destination Marlborough says. Marlborough Express Bowen Cottages site sold A central Queenstown site earmarked for a failed affordable housing complex has been sold and could be used for a new hotel. Mountain Scene Friday, 28 April 2017 Tourist attacked by shark A surf instructor says the rescue of a French tourist attacked by a shark at a Southland beach was a textbook operation. Radio NZ Megaship boss: Hurry up and build facilities or risk losing visits Auckland should build facilities for massive vessels or risk losing visits. NZ Herald Mayor asks Air NZ to reconsider direct Blenheim-Christchurch flights Air NZ has been asked to reconsider direct flights. The Marlborough Express A champion is crowned: Air New Zealand vs United Airlines Madeleine Chapman flew to Los Angeles on United Airlines and flew back on Air New Zealand. One was better. The Spinoff Climbing community ‘rocked to core’ Queenstown’s climbing community is in shock after two tragic accidents within a few days. Mountain Scene Multi-million Packard display for 2018 Warbirds Over Wanaka Wanaka Airport will host a multi-million dollar line up of 50 classic Packard motor vehicles at next year’s Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow. Southland Times Johnny Moore: Hospitality a ‘ruthless’ game OPINION: I seem to have become a go-to for every enthusiastic person wanting to open a bar or cafe in Christchurch. The Press Wellington rated the best city in New Zealand to drink beer Wellington has been rated the best city in New Zealand and one of Oceania’s top three towns for drinking beer. Stuff Waikato Museum recognised for tourism excellence Waikato Museum is among the first visitor attractions in the country to be awarded Qualmark’s highest level of quality assurance, under new Tourism New Zealand guidelines. Voxy Thursday, 27 April 2017 Attacks on tourists could damage Northland’s reputation Tourism leaders in Northland have warned frequent attacks on visitors would have a damaging effect on the tourism industry in the region. The Northern Advocate Lonely Planet highlights Wellington as best destination for beer tourists Wellington is the best place in New Zealand for tourists to have a pint, according to a new Lonely Planet guide written specifically for beer-lovers. The NZ Herald Taupo events proving to be big business Hosting large scale events has boosted Taupo’s economy to the tune of $32.7 million over the last 12 months. Waikato Times Tourist arrival numbers could be subsiding Tourist numbers have dropped for the first time in almost three years. Stuff Gisborne bus crash driver appears in court The driver of a bus that crashed on Christmas Eve, killing three people, has appeared in court. Radio NZ CDLHT’s net property income grows 6.4% to $35.9m Thanks to the strong contributions from the New Zealand Hotel. Singapore Business Review Queenstown has no snow but keen skiers were queuing from 4am to buy gear About 200 of people were in the queue for the Salvation Army’s annual ski sale when it opened at 9am on Wednesday. Stuff Fierce competition fails to scare off Christchurch hospo stalwarts Despite some high profile closures, several old hospitality hands are forging ahead with plans for new premises. The Press Plans to close two Wellington streets to prevent alcohol pre-loading Excessive drinking is causing so much concern for people’s welfare and damage to cars that Wellington City Council wants to close Blair and Allen streets to vehicles from 10pm, on Friday and Saturday nights. Dominion Post Wednesday, 26 April 2017 Qatar Airways could drop New Zealand route if laptops banned Qatar Airways would consider cancelling flights to Auckland if New Zealand follows the United States in banning laptops and other large electronic devices on Middle East flights. Stuff Airports warn Transport Minister: Change the law or services will be shut down Jet services could end to some regions if a court ruling forces the aviation watchdog to change its decision making, New Zealand’s airports are warning. Stuff Air New Zealand tops corporate reputation table both sides of ditch Air New Zealand has beaten its Aussie rivals to have the best corporate reputation on both sides of the Tasman. NZ Herald Goff’s half year looms with big fiscal hopes still alive An extra rate on commercial accommodation remain big ticket items. Radio NZ Rents, road works play havoc with hospitality businesses Rents, road works, competition leading to financial trouble for hospitality outlets. The Press Guest rankings drive hotel bookings Smaller hotels and motels dominated a list of Loved By Guests Awards compiled by Hotels.com. Stuff The latest trendy pop-up restaurant is dishing up airline food to diners Punters are flocking to This Is How We Fly in Soho to sample Air New Zealand’s in-flight menu. The Mirror Wanaka aviation champions acknowledged by Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Wanaka aircraft maintenance business owner Callum Smith has been acknowledged as the best maintenance shop of the year by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. Stuff ‘Map missing, Australia wannabe’: World lines up to roast New Zealand Aotearoa is being roasted on a Reddit thread called “How bad can you roast New Zealand?” and the insults have poured in thick and fast. NZ Herald ANZAC Day, 25 April 2017 Monday, 24 April 2017 Tighter security for flights from Middle East flights to New Zealand possible Extra security measures will be considered on flights from certain Middle Eastern countries to New Zealand, says Transport Minister Simon Bridges. 1 News Alibaba deal aims to bring more Chinese tourism to South Island Christchurch Airport is partnering with Alibaba, the world’s largest retail commerce company, to connect small and regional New Zealand businesses with Chinese visitors before, during and after their visit. Radio NZ New $3m plan for Dunedin’s Cadbury plant Mondelez International has unveiled its concepts for the $3 million redevelopment of Cadbury World in Dunedin. NZ Herald Residents will fight height of proposed luxury hotel Owners of nearby apartments are set to fight the planned hotel. Herald on Sunday $53m Kiwi pavilion for World Expo 2020 makes ‘clear economic sense’, govt says The govt will spend $53m building a pavilion to promote NZ. Stuff Inside Waiheke Island’s bus scrap Too big, too ugly, too dangerous, they said. The Herald gave Phil Taylor a ticket to ride. NZ Herald Emirates swoops in drive to attract Kiwi pilots Emirates is coming to New Zealand with open days for pilots its Kiwi recruitment head Craig Mitchell says is part of a plan to recruit as many pilots as possible. NZ Herald Kerikeri culinary school back in the kitchen A Northland cooking school which closed down suddenly last year has reopened after a Queenstown education provider came to the rescue. Northern Advocate Southern Lights delight New Zealand for the second night in a row Stargazers in different parts of the country had a rare treat at the weekend, spotting the Aurora Australis lighting up the night sky on two consecutive nights. Stuff Friday, 21 April 2017 Skifields scramble for staff housing A Queenstown skifield operator is taking ads in school newsletters in a bid to house its staff this winter. Mountain Scene South Island getting into China, the e-commerce way Christchurch International Airport CEO Malcolm Johns is on a roll as he outlines his plans to put innovation and disruption at the centre of the company’s growth strategies. NZ Herald Rental fiasco: Is Airbnb pricing out long-term renters? Accommodation company Airbnb is on the rise, but is it the reason why so many renters are struggling to find a property? NZ Herald Future tourists may go on waiting lists to visit national parks An outgoing DOC ranger believes waiting lists may become a reality. Southland Times A Very, Very Important Person’s guide to Queenstown Queenstown has some special systems and facilities to cope with billionaires. The Spinoff No quick fix for quake-damaged Hurunui Hotel The owners of the earthquake-damaged Hurunui Hotel are at their wits end. Stuff Migration ‘tweaks’ hit hoteliers hard Restaurant and hotel operators in Auckland and Queenstown are warning that ‘tweaks’ to the rules around temporary work visas are already hampering the tourist industry’s efforts to welcome in an extra one million tourists over the next five years. Newsroom World’s top spies meet in Queenstown It is believed officials from the world’s largest spy network, including heads of the heads of the FBI and CIA are heading for a Government-hosted conference in Arrowtown. Newshub Queenstown locals and visitors react to new immigration laws The South Today asked people on the streets of Queenstown if they agree with tougher rules on immigration. The South Today Thursday, 20 April 2017 The freedom to camp? NZ’s push for more tourists is putting the spotlight on some of our greatest scenery, but not always for the right reasons. ODT Time to throw Wicked Campers on the barbie? The vehicle rental company is making a mockery of attempts to curb the use of its offensive slogans. Stuff Auckland tourist attraction is in Christchurch It seems someone at Malaysia Airlines doesn’t have the best grasp of NZ geography. 1 News Now it’s easier to live the dream New Zealand represents a ”dream life” for couple Frankie Chan and Vivian Pan. ODT Tourism operator praises new immigration rules One change means foreigners working in jobs like outdoor adventure guides will be eligible for residence for the first time, making it easier to employ foreign workers. Radio NZ Councillors unaware of hotel bid When Buddy Mikaere went along to Tauranga City Council to ask what was happening to the hotel bid he and partners are making on the 82-98 Devonport road block, he was shocked to discover many councillors were unaware there is even a bid on the table. SunLive Raising your glass in celebration of change Wine tourism, both for domestic and overseas travellers is a growth industry, with Tourism New Zealand reporting that 20% of overseas visitors take part in a wine experience’. ODT Wednesday, 19 April 2017 Easter Sunday trading a victory in part One day you are breaking the law, the next you are not. ODT Hawke’s Bay stands out in tourism stats Hawke’s Bay had the second-greatest increase in visitors for New Zealand in February according to Statistics New Zealand’s Commercial Accommodation Monitor. Hawke’s Bay Today Advertising Standards Authority raises concerns over Wicked Campers non-compliance The boss of Wicked Campers is silently refusing to comply with rulings against its offensive slogans. Stuff Ratepayers against proposed $50,000 boost to events ‘fad industry’ City events could receive an extra $50,000 from rates – but some ratepayers believe it’s the council buying in to a fad industry. Southland Times Buoyant February for Northland accommodation businesses Latest data from Statistics New Zealand shows Northland is leading the country in commercial guest night growth and annual guest nights in the region are fast approaching two million. Stuff Waikato Museum hosting exhibitions on the art of war – and tourism Tourism and warfare usually make uncomfortable bedfellows, but in the Waikato Museum they compliment each other well. Stuff Editorial: Easter in Northland …snore Good Friday and Easter Sunday continue to confuse me. Northern Advocate Work starts on Christchurch red zone walk-run-bike trail Work building a riverside trail through the red zone has begun. The Press Cashing in on tourism Wairarapa is riding a tourist dollar wave, but one district is missing out. Wairarapa Times-Age Malaysia to expand collaboration with NZ in tourism sector Malaysia looks forward to expanding its collaboration with NZ industries. Malaysian Digest Tuesday, 18 April 2017 Stewart Island ‘under selling‘ tourist activities Tourism operators have enjoyed a busy summer season, despite the weather. Southland Times Auckland hospo gears up for World Masters Games Auckland’s hospitality sector is gearing up for a busy fortnight. NZ Herald Small towns should reap benefits of Easter tourists  Wanaka is thriving under new Easter laws but not all tourist towns are benefiting. Newstalk ZB Dining wars: Out of the frying pan … Kiwis spend more than $9 billion eating out each year. That is igniting a boom in new restaurants and dining precincts — and a cut-throat battle for your dining dollar. NZ Herald First legal Easter trading for Wanaka “restored normality”, businesses say Wanaka businesses are open lawfully for the first time after illegally trading on Easter Sunday for over a decade. Stuff Hamilton Airport welcomes increased passenger numbers Hamilton Airport’s passenger numbers are soaring, reversing the previous trend of passenger decline with growing Auckland congestion playing a part. Stuff Hotel developer Fu Wah International hits out at costs The Chinese developer behind a luxury five-star hotel being built on Auckland’s waterfront wants major action to stop rising construction costs which are fast making investment in vital tourism infrastructure uneconomic. NZ Herald A third of overseas visitors are ‘ping pong’ tourists who have been at least once before Once is not enough for many “ping pong” tourists who repeatedly return to holiday in New Zealand. Sunday Star Times Easter Holiday Thursday, 13 April 2017 Lyttelton awaits cruise ship report, lodges reclamation consent Funding options for a Lyttelton cruise ship berth might soon be revealed. Stuff United Airlines boss sorry for ‘horrific’ incident The CEO of United Airlines has apologised for the ‘truly horrific’ removal of a passenger. Radio NZ Lani Hagaman to push ahead with retrial in defamation case Hotelier will continue to pursue a defamation case against Andrew Little. The NZ Herald Christchurch Airport considers multimillion-dollar runway extension Christchurch International Airport (CIAL) is considering a $12 million extension to one of its runways. The Press Fiordland buzzing this Easter From eclectic art to a festival of tartan Te Anau is turning it on for visitors this Easter. Southland Times Cyclone Cook: Worst is yet to come Cyclone Cook’s fury will be unleashed on much of the country today with conditions similar to those that sank the Wahine 49 years ago. Newstalk ZB Sunday sorted but… Wanaka shop owners are looking forward to trading on Easter Sunday without fear of prosecution, but still plan to open on Good Friday. ODT Mike Hosking: Lot of fuss over Waiheke bus There has always been a tension about Waiheke. The NZ Herald Flights delayed, cancelled out of Auckland There’s disruption for flights in and out of Auckland airport on Wednesday evening as wild weather bears down on the country, with one plane bound for Kerikeri forced to turn around in the air. Stuff Aucklanders told to prepare for cancelled bus and ferry services as extreme weather predicted Auckland Transport says disruption to public transport tomorrow seems inevitable, with extreme weather predicted. 1 News Port Marlborough and harbourmaster fear salmon farms and ferries could be on collision course Putting a salmon farm near a major shipping channel could cause serious accidents, with floating debris threatening boats, Marlborough’s port company says. Stuff Wednesday, 12 April 2017 United flight overbooking: Flight or fight? United’s ‘re-accommodation’ of passenger a colossal mistake. Chicago Tribune via Stuff Five-star hotel: up, up or away? The battle lines are well and truly drawn in the latest bid for a five-star hotel in Dunedin. ODT Consent sought at Opua for barge dock, railway station A group is hoping to build a new railway station and offer steam train rides. Northen Advocate What airlines in New Zealand do for passengers bumped from flights New Zealand airlines overbook some flights but more conservatively than in the United States. The NZ Herald Ministers shun Jetstar despite cheaper pricing NZ First leader Winston Peters has slammed Government ministers for refusing to fly Jetstar despite forcing public servants to do so. Newshub Auckland receptionist takes silver in world champs An Auckland hotel worker has claimed silver in the 2017 receptionist world championships. Stuff Consent sought at Opua for barge dock, railway station A group hoping to build a new railway station and offer steam train rides from Kawakawa to Opua will have to wait at least until next month to find out if it has been given the green light. Northen Advocate Little ‘very pleased’ no damages awarded in defamation case A jury has cleared Labour leader Andrew Little of defaming Lani Hagaman and has been unable to reach a decision over Earl Hagaman’s claims. Radio NZ Airport land battle keeps going The battle over 16ha of land at Frankton, known as Lot 6, may not yet be over. ODT Muse on Allen director being chased by liquidators over payments Liquidators of a former fine dining restaurant in Wellington are pursuing the former director over payments he says went to creditors. Dominion Post Where to go when you want to give work emails and Facebook friends a miss Try and get a mobile signal at the East Taranaki town of Whangamomona and you’re out of luck. Stuff Tuesday, 11 April 2017 NZ’s inbound tourism sector could have a new player Flight Centre is expanding as an on-the-ground travel operator. The NZ Herald Regional hospitality booming thanks to Chinese market A new breed of Chinese tourists is driving a spending boom in regional New Zealand. Stuff Little v Hagamans: Jury hung on most claims Labour’s Andrew Little could face another trial on claims brought by hotelier Earl Hagaman. The NZ Herald Remote rural town divided on whether to move into the 21st century Residents of one of the country’s smallest and most isolated towns appear to be torn between moving into the modern world or staying as they are. Taranaki Daily News Airline tells allergy sufferer to bring her own food A Whangarei woman says she was anxious about flying with Air New Zealand after the airline could not fit her meal requirements into their “diet box”. Northern Advocate Extra flights for Hawke’s Bay Marathon Air New Zealand will put on nearly 1000 additional seats to help transport competitors and supporters to the Hawke’s Bay region for the Air New Zealand Hawke’s Bay International Marathon on May 13. Voxy Lions tour, World Masters Games predicted to push families out of emergency motel housing The squeeze on accommodation across the country is putting more pressure on those already homeless. TVNZ Easter trading to boost economy, draw visitors to Napier Giving Napier stores the option to remain open for business on Easter could boost the local economy, and bring more visitors to the region, local proponents say. Hawke’s Bay Today Monday, 10 April 2017 ‘A number will end up in cars’ – fears for the homeless as accommodation books out for Lions tour There are concerns for those relying on Auckland motels for emergency housing as two big sporting events are set to kick-off in the city. 1 NEWS Paul Little: This isn’t the end of the world The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Climate Change Issues, Police, State Services, Tourism and Women is not in favour of supplementing the existing border tax with new levies on tourists. NZ Herald Warrington inundated with freedom campers As the Dunedin City Council looks at opening up new areas for freedom camping, to ease the pressure on Warrington Domain, some local residents are begging for relief. ODT Invercargill breaks ground on digger-based theme park As well as excavators, ticket-holders will also be able to try their hand at driving bulldozers, skid steers, and other heavy machinery. Southland Times Andrew Little defamation case: Jury to resume deliberations A jury is due to resume deliberating in the trial of Labour leader Andrew Little for alleged defamation. NewsHub Waiheke bus protesters make tourists get out and walk Around 150 protesters blocked tourists on Waiheke Island from travelling by bus. Newshub Flights cancelled at Palmerston North airport after emergency landing Dozens of passengers packed the airport after a forced landing. Newstalk Auckland Airport launches Strata Club to reward frequent fliers The airport has launched its own loyalty scheme that rewards frequent travellers. NBR Why tiny electric planes and $25 tickets could be the future of regional air travel But what if you could show up at an airport, bypass security checkpoints, board a small hybrid-electric plane with luggage in hand, and be on the ground at your destination in about an hour – all for US$25 each way? The Washington Post Friday, 7 April 2017 Air New Zealand adds new jet service between Auckland and Dunedin Air New Zealand is adding a new return jet service between Dunedin and Auckland from July. The Press Labour leader Andrew Little had ‘moral obligation’ to scrutinise Niue hotel deal Labour leader Andrew Little says his comments about a Niue hotel deal at the heart of a defamation case were part of his “moral obligation” to hold the Government to account. Stuff South Korean luge celebrated Queenstown tourism operator Skyline Enterprises has been formally congratulated by South Korean government officials at the opening ceremony for its $20 million luge investment in Tongyeong City. ODT New app helps property owners pimp their driveways to motorhome travellers Rather than risk fines for illegal freedom camping, motorhome travellers will be able to stay the night beside a chook run, a vineyard, or even in the car park of a fancy resort. Stuff Airports face new landing restrictions after court decision, aviation regulator warns Airports across New Zealand may have to extend runways or face new restrictions on the type of planes which can operate there, the aviation regulator is warning. Dominion Post  Charge tourists to pay for free swimming Tourists should be charged entry to museums and art galleries to pay for swimming lessons. Southland Times Accommodation registrations still coming in Council threats are flushing out Queenstown’s unregistered holiday let owners. ODT Air NZ named marketing team of the year Air NZ has won marketing team of the year at Mumbrella’s Travel Marketing Awards. Mumbrella How Air NZ unleashes digital transformation At the recent CIO100 breakfast in Auckland, Air New Zealand’s first chief digital officer talks about customer experience, finding 10X talent and predicting the future. CIO The slow journey to greener air travel Over the past decade, planes have been powered by fuel squeezed from plant seeds, wood chips, nicotine-free tobacco, algae and recycled oil from deep fryers. NZ Herald Thursday, 6 April 2017 Frustrated travellers queue at Wellington Airport after flights cancelled A long line of frustrated customers formed at Wellington Airport, as customers tried to rebook their flights after planes were grounded. NZ Herald Five adventure activities everyone should try in New Zealand Where else in the world can you float through underground caverns, fly high above a forest and tumble down hills in inflatable balls? Stuff Gisborne shares boom in tourism Visitors staying at holiday parks in the Gisborne-East Cape region last year pumped a whopping $20.9 million into the community. Gisborne Herald Kingston Flyer may yet ride West Coast rails The Kingston Flyer may yet ride West Coast rails after Development West Coast confirmed it is still investigating the option to buy the historic steam train in its entirety. Greymouth Star Andrew Little will pay any defamation costs from his own pocket The wife of Scenic Hotel founder Earl Hagaman says Labour leader Andrew Little could have avoided a multimillion-dollar defamation suit by making one phone call. Newshub Ngati Awa buys White Island Tours The iwi has announced it is buying iconic Whakatane tour operator White Island Tours. Rotorua Daily Post Consent in for five-star hotel Consent for the 17-storey shimmering glass tower in the heart of the city has been lodged. ODT Air NZ unveils new economy seat design It’s never fun being cramped in the middle seat on an airplane but relief may be on the way. Stuff Wednesday, 5 April 2017 Taruheru Cycleway and Walkway costed at $6.8m A new report has found that a proposal to build a joint cycle and walkway between Bright Street and Campion College will cost $6.8 million. Gisborne Herald Kihikihi walk, cycle route decided Waipa will soon welcome another great trail to the district with the Te Awamutu to Kihikihi trail route confirmed. Te Awamutu Courier Editorial: Northland now brimming with festivals and events It wasn’t that long ago that Northland was a festival backwater. The Northern Advocate Retailers hit by fall in Chinese tourists A drop-off in Chinese visitors to New Zealand and their increasing rejection of group tours is impacting the country’s retailers. NBR (subscription) Airbnb boom: 20,000 listings and counting in New Zealand Airbnb New Zealand manager Sam McDonagh said the number of property listings in New Zealand had reached more than 20,000. Stuff Fog disruption shows airline communication can still improve – Cas Carter New Zealand has weather – lots of it. And most of us probably have a story of how its disrupted our travel. Stuff Jesse Mulligan: We should be embarrassed about how DoC is treated Saturday was the 30th birthday of the Department of Conservation (DoC). Newshub Paradigm paralysis in paradise The tourism boom is an invitation not an invasion, Vaughn Crowther writes. ODT Gareth Morgan stirs up twit-storm over freedom campers The Opportunities Party’s Gareth Morgan is defending his Twitter style. Radio NZ State of emergency amid major flood fears Dozens of people have had to leave their homes in Whanganui and Rangitikei. Radio NZ Tuesday, 4 April 2017 Preparing for China An area of caution will be the 2019 China-New Zealand Year of Tourism. ODT Real estate and tourism hits stride on Coromandel Peninsula Tourists and new residents are flooding into the Coromandel, but there’s a price to pay for the economic boom. Stuff Gareth Morgan goes on Twitter tirade, rages against tourists and PC culture When economist Gareth Morgan launched his bid for Parliament last year, he compared himself to Donald Trump because of his anti-establishment approach. NZ Herald Tourism industry, Paula Bennett don’t want Goff’s levy A tourism lobby group says taxing international visitors is not the direction New Zealand should head. Newshub Campervan company regrets Lions ‘tour surcharge’ A campervan hire company regrets describing a price hike as a Lions tour surcharge. Radio NZ Chinese developers to build $20 million hotel on Dominion Rd A resource consent has been lodged for a 60-room hotel. NZ Herald Air NZ admits airfare mistake with flights to Honolulu A flight to Hawaii for less than $500 return has to be a mistake, right? Stuff Monday, 3 April 2017 Gateway to Fiordland becoming a deathtrap for tourist drivers “Welcome to Smash Palace,” says Mobil owner Mark Dowling. Sunday Star Times Accommodation prices soar up to seven times the usual rate during Lions’ tour NZ-bound Lions fans are facing huge price surges. NZ Herald Now I know why everyone loves awesome New Zealand I never once encounter any unpleasantness, any rudeness of any kind. Daily Mail Labour leader Andrew Little calls for tourist tax Paula Bennett says NZ could be seen as a rip-off. NZ Herald NZ already too costly for tourist tax – Bennett Tourism minister and Deputy PM Paula Bennett does not support taxing tourists to pay for infrastructure, she says. Radio NZ Airport parking costs: Are travellers being charged fairly? A new report into airport car parking has questioned whether travellers are being fairly charged. NZ Herald Tourism brings $63m more into the Bay The Bay of Plenty’s latest figures in tourism showed a $63 million increase in year-to-year spend. BOP Times April fools! Zipline ride from One Tree Hill a flight of fancy If you thought a half-price deal to zipline 800m off the peak of One Tree Hill was too good to be true – well, you were right. NZ Herald Potential in tourists’ taste for wine The potential of wine tourism in Central Otago is “massive” and will be a core plank in the Central Otago Wine Association’s (COWA) new wine strategy, its president Angus Bradshaw says. ODT Bus driver charged after Tongariro crash A 68-year-old man has been charged with careless driving causing injury in relation to a crash that injured 14 tourists. ODT  No plans for stricter security on flights from Middle East – CAA The Civil Aviation Authority has no plans at this stage to follow Australian authorities in ramping up security checks on flights from some Middle Eastern countries. Radio NZ Lions surcharge shock: $780 for camper, now $2100 Businesses are being warned against price gouging during the Lions Tour, with one vehicle rental company hiking prices by up to 200 per cent. NZ Herald Mayors and iwi working the road On State Highway 38 shines the jewel of the North Island, pristine Lake Waikaremoana and Te Urewera National Park. Hawke’s Bay Today Watch NZH Local Focus: Record summer season at Waikaremoana Waikaremoana Holiday Park Manager Petrina Brenchley says it’s been a “record summer season”. NZ Herald Discussions on museum Alexandra’s Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery is to hold a series of public meetings to gather feedback about a proposed revamp of the facility. ODT Too few beds for two events Wanaka accommodation providers and Lake Wanaka Tourism are predicting there will be an accommodation crisis in March next year due to the Wanaka A&P Show and the Motatapu race both being held on the second weekend that month. ODT New festival in the Bay celebrates traditional waka ama A new waka ama regatta in the Far North will start small but could grow into one of the sport’s biggest events in the country, organisers say. Northern Advocate Central Otago summer luge track helped by $30,000 grant A summer luge track in Central Otago is a step closer with a $30,000 grant awarded to project facilitators. The Press Friday, 31 March 2017 Te Awa Cycleway gets boost from Waikato motelliers The Te Awa Great NZ River Ride hopes to boost Hamilton’s tourism numbers, and local motelliers are backing the track. Waikato Times Queenstown first in New Zealand to have Airbnb Experience Airbnb has launched it’s first New Zealand Experience destination as the company diversifies its offerings. Stuff Freedom camping turns feral Freedom campers have been snapped sleeping under trees in Queenstown. Mountain Scene Nightmare day of travel as flights delayed around the country Passengers in airports around NZ faced a nightmare day of travel. The NZ Herald Chinese hoteliers on Goff’s new rates rise: ‘If only we’d known …’ If Fu Wah International Group had known its Park Hyatt Auckland hotel would be treated as responsible for 10% of the Auckland visitor economy, it would never have agreed to invest here. NBR (subscription) Does Auckland’s tourism trumpet need muting? Auckland is filled to the brim so why is it still being promoted as a destination? Radio NZ Air New Zealand’s Boeing 767 makes its final journey Air New Zealand’s last Boeing 767 will make its last commercial flight on Friday, March 31. Stuff Air New Zealand cancellation figures ‘pretty good’ despite concerns An aviation analyst says the number of Air New Zealand flights canceled in and out of Timaru is “pretty good”, despite concerns from some residents and members of the business community.  The Timaru Herald Terminal anger: ‘We will have been here 30 hours’ The fog is slowly starting to lift in Wellington, and tired travellers who slept rough in the terminal while “rap music” played at 3am are starting to move on. Radio NZ He Tangata: A chat with Napier City Council’s manager of visitor experiences Sally Jackson Each week Elisabeth Easther gets the story of people in the Kiwi tourism industry. This week, Napier City Council’s manager of visitor experiences, Sally Jackson. The NZ Herald Tourists spent $1.7b in Bay of Plenty in last year Tourists to the Bay of Plenty spent $1.7 billion in the last 12 months to February – up 5 per cent on the previous year. Rotorua Daily Post Flight chaos as fog persists in Dunedin Low-lying fog is affecting air travel around the country, with flights delayed and cancelled at several airports, including Dunedin and Invercargill. ODT Thursday, 30 March 2017 Air NZ suspends Wellington flights as fog lingers Air NZ  suspended operations at Wellington as fog and low cloud grounded flights. 1 News Now Dunedin’s Baldwin Street so popular it’s a safety concern The world’s steepest street has become so popular with tourists, it is a safety risk. Radio NZ Kiwis to billet Lions fans struggling to find hotels When A Greymouth rugby fan has set up a Facebook page asking locals to host tourists. Stuff Tekapo’s new public toilets example of ‘infrastructure that pays for itself A mix of new pay-per-entry and free toilets will pay for itself. Timaru Herald Blenheim business looks to Nelson for cheaper air fares and more flights Expensive fares and a shortage of flights are forcing a Blenheim business to reconsider hiring locally. The Marlborough Express Why New Zealand is the perfect spring break or vacation destination A mix of tropical and European influences with a dash of Asian and Indigenous cultures, New Zealand’s cities and landscapes offer a large variety to see. USA Today College Fears for Queensland tourism industry after Cyclone Debbie Industry operators fear for the state of an Australian icon after Cyclone Debbie lashed Far North Queensland and parts of the Great Barrier Reef. News.com.au Wednesday, 29 March 2017 Freedom camping bylaw to be revisited The Waitaki District Council’s freedom camping bylaw could become more ”local friendly” after a review this winter. ODT Rachel Smalley: Auckland needs a second airport I saw the Prime Minister speak to a business audience last night – the Business North Harbour Association had a ‘meet the prime minister’ evening. Newstalk ZB Government wants Chinese tourists off tour buses and travelling themselves Chinese tourists are worth nearly $2 billion a year and the importance of that was conveyed during the Chinese premier’s trip to NZ. 1 News Tourism group’s warning over visitor growth TEC warns infrastructure is already creaking under the pressure of record growth. Newshub NZ tourism toll Travel executive Chris Adams discusses the tourism boom that’s busting our infrastructure. Radio NZ Direct flights prove big boost to tourism Chinese tourists are spreading to more parts of NZ and spending more, writes Bill Bennett. The NZ Herald Resources essential as tourist numbers grow The pressure on New Zealand’s tourism infrastructure needs careful managing to maintain the unique experience visitors are seeking. ODT He Tangata: A chat with Katie Farman, from Destination Wairarapa Each week Elisabeth Easther gets the story of people in the Kiwi tourism industry. This week, she speaks to Katie Farman, from Destination Wairarapa. The NZ Herald New Zealand Works Towards Open Skies With China NZ government says 20 per cent lift in Chinese flights can be expanded. Asia Cruiser News Pillow tax: Tourism industry wants to know more about where Ateed spends its money Commercial accommodation providers targeted by Auckland Council to pay for promoting the city are concerned about a lack of information on the agency they are being asked to fund. The NZ Herald Adopt-a-Lion: New Zealand rugby fans offer to host British and Irish free of charge Most hotel rooms sold out during tour, so rugby fan Adam Gilshnan set up Facebook page linking Lions supporters with generous locals. The Guardian Tuesday, 28 March 2017 Motels given millions to house homeless Five Auckland motels have received more than $1.3 million of taxpayer money in just three months to house homeless people. Radio NZ Catlins centre seeks tourism operators The heritage visitor centre being developed in the Catlins is set to open in October and those behind it are on the hunt for operators to take on its associated tourism operations. ODT Electric bike use growing on trails The use of electric bikes is up in Central Otago and there is nothing lazy or untoward about it, cycle trail operators say. ODT Editorial: Air NZ and Qantas form new transtasman airline bond Air NZ and Qantas have put aside their cut-throat commercial rivalry. The NZ Herald Package for Chinese tourism welcomed by industry A tourism group has welcomed a package of measures to boost the Chinese market. The NZ Herald New leader for country’s biggest aviation union E tu has a new leader at the helm of its aviation division with the appointment of Marja Lubeck. Voxy Chinese tourism to stretch capacity New Zealand’s tourism infrastructure will remain stretched it seems after the Government yesterday announced 2019 will be the China-New Zealand year of tourism. ODT Ateed turns to private sector to help capture Auckland’s growth Auckland’s economy is growing at a fast clip but not fast enough to bridge an alarming infrastructure funding shortfall. NBR (subscription) MP Winston Peters questions China link with Northland road and rail construction plans Northland MP and New Zealand First leader Winston Peters says the region is being handed a “truck-load of bulldust” concerning who might build a local link to Northport at Marsden Pt. Northern Advocate Digital talent takes flight with Air New Zealand Air New Zealand is on track to becoming a world-leading digital airline thanks to the best and brightest from a whole new generation of talent. Stuff (sponsored) Monday, 27 March 2017 Ferry operator looking at a service between Petone and Wellington A ferry service between Petone and Wellington is being promoted as a way of reducing peak-hour traffic. Dominion Post Te Puke accommodation bursting at the seams Accommodation providers in Te Puke are already packed to capacity with the beginning of the 2017 kiwifruit season kicking off. Bay of Plenty Times Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean hints May budget may have freedom camping solution Middle East tourism police might carry guns but managing problematic freedom campers in New Zealand will not require such strong measures, Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean says. Timaru Herald Passengers on flight delayed for 42 hours have nowhere to stay – because Auckland is booked out for Adele Passengers on a Malaysia Airlines flight delayed by more than 42 hours due to a mechanical fault are stranded at Auckland Airport because all nearby accommodation is booked out for Adele. The NZ Herald Multi-million dollar hotel touted for Napier CBD A multi-million hotel development on the site of the Napier City Council building in the city’s CBD has been touted as a possibility. Hawke’s Bay Today Deadly Te Anau bus crash: Victims believed to have been German tourists Police have confirmed the two men who died in the fiery crash near Te Anau on Tuesday are believed to have been tourists from Germany. The NZ Herald New Zealand-India direct flights: How long will be the wait? How long will be the wait for a direct flight between New Zealand and India, given that the first anniversary of the signing of the code-share agreement between New Zealand and India is fast approaching Indian Weekender Air NZ is country’s most respected company Air NZ has won the accolade for the third year in a row, according to Colmar Brunton. CIO  Search on for Auckland City hotel sites International hotel investors are looking to buy but there are not enough properties. True Commercial Goff backs airport light rail sooner The Auckland mayor is urging the government to push ahead with light rail to the airport. Radio NZ Friday, 24 March 2017 Hui plans to promote Maori tourism More than 50 people, including tourism operators and representatives from 11 iwi from across the East Coast, including Wairoa and Mahia, attended a hui on how the region could benefit from cultural tourism. Gisborne Herald Cruise bonanza for city Dunedin’s next cruise ship season is going to be a major step up on this year’s record-setting one. ODT Singapore Airlines announces additional flights to and from Christchurch Singapore Airlines has announced it will increase its flights to and from Christchurch next summer. Stuff Resort tracks caked in cack Queenstown council’s parks boss Clare Tomkins says her team come across human poo almost daily. Mountain Scene Opening planned for May Whitestone City will open in Oamaru this May, Tourism Waitaki general manager Jason Gaskill has confirmed. ODT Two people dead in fiery Te Anau tourist bus and car crash Two people are dead after a fiery crash between a rental car and a bus carrying 16 tourists on the Te Anau-Milford Highway in Southland yesterday. Newstalk ZB Aucklanders to have their say on Easter trading Aucklanders will get to have their say on whether businesses should open on Easter Sunday. Newstalk ZB Levy on visitors rejected A visitor levy to pay for Queenstown infrastructure looks to be a non-starter. ODT Superliners set course for Auckland The superliner Pacific Jewel will become a regular fixture on Auckland’s skyline next year. The NZ Herald Design changes delay $12m hotel Ignore the rumours. Work is “definitely” about to begin on a $12m four-star hotel. Stuff Thursday, 23 March 2017 TranzAlpine reopens after ‘tough year’ for KiwiRail Some of the best scenery in the South Island is back on display as passenger rail services between Christchurch and Greymouth resume. Stuff SH1 south of Kaikōura to close for eight days State Highway 1 south of Kaikōura will close for eight days from Sunday so contractors can reinforce areas at risk of slips. Radio NZ Airport security clampdown ‘the biggest in 10 years’ New Zealand travellers are caught in the middle, as what’s being called the biggest security change in 10 years is introduced to airports in Britain and the US. The NZ Herald Tourists flock to West Coast Tourist numbers on the West Coast exploded last month, including a new record at Franz Josef Glacier despite the six-week rail closure that resulted in 17,000 cancellations on the Tranz Alpine train. ODT Once the queen of the skies, the Boeing 747 will soon be just a flying truck The wide-bodied Boeing 747 was once known as the queen of the skies, an instantly recognisable behemoth revered for its luxury and spaciousness. Stuff Tourism New Zealand deny funding request from Duco Events for Joseph Parker fight Duco Events has failed to get backing from Tourism NZ. Stuff New Sheraton planned for Auckland’s Queen St After many years without a Sheraton hotel, Auckland is about to get the brand back. The NZ Herald Remarkables set to install high-tech new ski lift ahead of new season The Remarkables skifield will open a pioneering conveyor lift. Stuff Wednesday, 22 March 2017 Wellington Airport runway dispute to go to Supreme Court The airport is asking the Supreme Court to clarify the regulatory requirements around the length of safety areas, which must be between 90 and 240 metres. Radio NZ Tourism continues to drive region’s service sector Otago-Southland’s performance in the service sector index is tracking above the 2016 average, buoyed by tourism operators, cafes and their suppliers. ODT New Zealand Is Running Out of Hotel Rooms for All Its Tourists New Zealand is getting so popular with tourists, it’s running out of hotel rooms. Travel + Leisure Visitor numbers at record levels Visitors continued to flock to New Zealand at a record-equalling level in the February 2017 year and the month of February. ODT Tourism peaks and troughs a challenge for disaster planning On tourism’s busiest day visitor in 2016 visitor numbers almost equalled the population of Christchurch. Stuff New Zealand’s ‘green’ image under threat: OECD New Zealand’s strong economic growth is placing strains on the environment. Daily Mail Former PM and Tourism Minister John Key bows out with no regrets There was no scandal behind his decision to quit as PM, says Key. Radio NZ Tuesday, 21 March 2017 Auckland accommodation rate plan ‘like the Chinese poll tax’ One veteran of the hotel sector says the proposed Auckland City targeted rate on the accommodation sector was a blunt weapon like the Chinese poll tax. The NZ Herald Crankworx promises big economic boost Organisers of the upcoming Crankworx mountain biking festival hope it will crack the $10 million mark for money injected into the country’s economy. The NZ Herald Cadbury site a ‘huge opportunity’ Informal suggestions about the future of the sprawling Cadbury site range from “hospitals to hotels”, Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull says. ODT Tom O’Connor: Kiwi ratepayers caught in tourism trap Like a persistent sponging relative no one wants to offend, the tourism industry is again asking for massive amounts of money from taxpayers and ratepayers. Waikato Times Flourishing airport challenged to think carbon neutral Additional parking spaces, a valet service and a much larger regional lounge are in the works for Palmerston North Airport as business booms. Stuff Airport soars above budget predictions Hawke’s Bay Airport has seen a 20 per cent spike in passenger numbers on this time last year, Hawke’s Bay Airport Limited chairman Tony Porter reports. News Collective Staying at the Novotel Auckland Airport Linda Thompson checks into the Novotel Auckland Airport. The NZ Herald Chinese tourism surge on agenda A marketing drive by Northland promotional groups and Air New Zealand could see many more visitors fly here from the land of the sleeping giant. The Northern Advocate Auckland waterfront plans: Wharf extension for superyachts likely to draw criticism The Auckland Council is dusting off plans for the city’s waterfront that include new cruise ship facilities, berths for superyachts and a park on Wynyard Pt. The NZ Herald Monday, 20 March 2017 Multi-lingual solution for tourists confused by earthquake routes A multi-lingual publication is on its way to prevent out-of-date GPS devices leading tourists down the quake-stricken highway. The Marlborough Express Tourists’ risky high road stops Safer stopping places are needed along Highcliff Rd, Otago Peninsula Community Board chairman Paul Pope says. ODT Hundreds criticise Auckland Airport for shooting security dog Auckland Airport is acknowledging the public outcry after 10-month-old trainee security dog Grizz was shot dead and is promising its own investigation. Newstalk ZB From ‘Lord Of The Rings’ to ‘Game Of Thrones’: the rise of film tourism The Lord Of The Rings trilogy is largely credited with a 40% jump in New Zealand tourism between 2000 and 2006. Screen Daily Shamubeel Eaqub: Questions in economic entrails Both the increase in tourism and dairy in the past decade, begs a huge question of environmental sustainability. Stuff Meet DJ Olivier, the high-flying Airbnb owner When French-Canadian flight attendant David Jack Olivier bought his first central-Auckland apartment in 2013, he decided to use Airbnb to make a bigger dent in his mortgage. Stuff Tourism may be too much of a good thing for overwhelmed New Zealand When their flight home to the U.S. from Auckland was delayed last month, a group of 53 elderly American tourists was put up in a traditional Maori meeting house for the night because all the city’s hotels were full. The NZ Herald Auckland accommodation businesses on the warpath over planned rates hikes Auckland commercial accommodation businesses are squaring up for a fight over paying for city tourism promotion. Stuff Friday, 17 March 2017 $10m hotel build Consent’s been lodged for a new Queenstown hotel, which will cost up to $10m. Mountain Scene Road closures expected as Auckland Airport motorway upgrades continue Passengers can expect a lot of changes on their journeys to and from Auckland Airport in the coming months. Stuff Road, rail, cycle link with Hawke’s Bay on agenda Gisborne Mayor Meng Foon says he is working with two Hawke’s Bay mayors and the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council to assess a $100 million combined road, rail and cycle trail proposal to link Gisborne and Napier airports. Gisborne Herald Hundertwasser Art Centre costs escalate Increased construction costs and a higher standard of earthquake proofing have driven up the cost of Whangarei’s Hundertwasser Art Centre by $4.7 million, bringing the total cost of the project to $20.9m. Northern Advocate Tourism industry wants more money despite boost for infrastructure fund CEO of Tourism Industry Aotearoa, Chris Roberts says the fund needs a much bigger increase and is one option to help fund visitor levies. TVNZ New facilities, parks for SH6 tourists Car parking is to be extended and toilets provided for visitors at the Blue Pools tourist stop on State Highway 6 near Makarora. Otago Daily Times New home for freedom campers near Blenheim A Marlborough man has come up with an innovative way to keep freedom campers and their waste off the streets. Radio NZ Otago’s growth restrained by capacity Otago’s quarterly ranking of economic performance has slipped from top province in the country to almost middle of the pack, but only because it is at full capacity from strength in the tourism and construction sectors. Otago Daily Times Thursday, 16 March 2017 New Zealand strains under tourist loads Tourism is booming like never before. Visitor numbers rose by 11 percent in 2016 to a record 3.5 million. It looks great on paper but the reality is we’re not coping. Newshub NZ current account deficit narrows as tourism bolsters services inflow The current account deficit narrowed in the fourth quarter, partly bolstered by a larger services balance surplus as tourism continues to boom. National Business Review First look at Christchurch Adventure Park damage after devastating fires Last month’s Port Hills fires have left significant damage at Christchurch Adventure Park, a walk-through of the multi-million dollar facility has revealed. 1 News Now New attempt to tackle easily avoidable fuel woes in planes Official figures show forty percent of engine failures in light planes and helicopters are caused by pilots using contaminated or stale fuel, or because they simply ran out. Radio NZ Hotel staff reveal their strangest experiences working in hospitality Working in a hotel is bound to bring with it some quirks, whether that’s demanding guests or curious requests. The NZ Herald A great track record in tourism I have watched with interest the long, convoluted debate regarding the future of Tourism Eastland and wish to make a few constructive comments. Gisborne Herald Qantas boss says streamlining transtasman border will benefit both countries Qantas chief Alan Joyce has called for smoother border arrangements between New Zealand and Australia and taken a swipe at government taxes which are “killing the goose that lays the golden egg.” The NZ Herald Embassy wades into ‘poo’ controversy Police are still searching for the Frenchwoman who defecated in a Dunedin street, prompting the French Embassy to ask tourists to “display good manners”. The NZ Herald Tills ringing for Northland’s tourism sector The tills have not stopped ringing for Northland’s tourism sector with news the region’s growth in visitor spending is greater than the national average. Northern Advocate New cruise ship reimagines what it means to be outdoors Richard Fain, the chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises, is willing to bet $5 billion that he can take everything you know about cruising and flip it upside down. Or at least outside in. The NZ Herald Fox Glacier body belonged to helicopter crash victim Police have identified remains found in a Fox Glacier crevasse two weeks ago as those of 2015 helicopter crash victim Cynthia Charlton. Radio NZ Old stalwart to return to skies A former workhorse of Queenstown’s skies will touch down in the resort next month for a get-together of airline pioneers. Otago Daily Times Wednesday, 15 March 2017 Is Airbnb doing its bit? Airbnb talks bed tax, disruption and whether it’s a threat to NZ rental stock. Radio NZ Tax the tourists, share proceeds It’s time we developed a new strategy to better cope with booming tourism. Otago Daily Times Leading car rentals abandon Whanganui after Air NZ pulls out Two top car rental franchises have abandoned Whanganui. The NZ Herald Earthquake forces Chow brothers to change hotel plan Millionaire property tycoons the Chow brothers have scrapped plans to transform their head office into a hotel. Stuff Work is underway to bring a commercial airline back to Wairarapa Discussions have been ongoing between Masterton District Council and leading New Zealand airlines, with a registration of interest to go out in the next few weeks. Wairarapa Times-Age New faces at Tairawhiti Museum Madeleine Jones appointed collections manager and Iona Maxwell museum educator. Gisborne Herald Grey District votes to allow Easter trading The Grey District Council has voted to allow Easter Sunday trading after putting it to a conscience vote last night. The NZ Herald Visit to South Island high country like trip back in time The rich Maori and farming histories of the Molesworth and Rainbow stations will be on show for the public during a Marlborough Historical Society trip this weekend. Stuff Minister O’Donovan Helping to Boost Tourism from New Zealand Tourism Minister Patrick O’Donovan has travelled to New Zealand, as part of a Promote Ireland programme around St Patrick’s Day. FFT.ie Tuesday, 14 March 2017 Waikato River tourism potential ready and waiting Big strides are being taken to turn the river into the centre of tourists’ attention. Waikato Times Tourism, construction driving Nelson-Tasman’s boom The regions have taken out the two top spots as New Zealand’s best-performing. Stuff NZ’s newest trail: Creatives lure travellers south with scones Three creatives are tempting travellers south using the humble scone. Stuff New Pullman for Auckland Airport The first image has been released of the 250-room Pullman Hotel to be built beside the Novotel at Auckland International Airport. The NZ Herald Many foreign tourists say they’re afraid to visit the US after Trump travel ban The fallout from President Donald Trump’s executive orders limiting travel from some Middle Eastern and African countries is having far-reaching implications for US tourism. Stuff PM ‘on edge’ at Wanaka attraction More precisely he was on the edge of local tourism attraction the waterfall climb at Wildwire Wanaka. Otago Daily Times Spike in number of people searching for holidays as rain battered the country Kiwis dreaming of a sunny escape from the weekend’s wild weather saw a 103 per cent increase in searches for overseas holidays last weekend. NewstalkZB Queenstown Airport warned ongoing growth could start driving people out of Queenstown The Queenstown Airport Corporation has been warned not to kill the golden goose with its ongoing expansion. Stuff Queenstown and Wanaka Airports to complement each other if working together Queenstown Airport Corporation representatives see the operation of the Wanaka and Queenstown Airports as complimenting each other, if they are granted governance of Wanaka. Stuff Monday, 13 March 2017 A ‘fair go’ from taxes? A visitor levy is not the answer to Queenstown’s lagging infrastructure, NZ First leader Winston Peters says. Otago Daily Times Southlanders choose holiday parks instead of houses More and more Southlanders are choosing to live in camping grounds instead of renting or buying houses. Southland Times Tourists head back to Europe, and investors follow Tourists are heading back to Europe, and the recovery is showing up in everything from rising hotel bookings to tax-free shopping. Reuters New Zealand tourist operators in Berlin at world’s biggest travel trade show A group of New Zealand tourist businesses have been targeting key European markets at the biggest travel expo in the world during the past five days. The NZ Herald Rotorua economy growing from strength to strength It’s a positive outlook for Rotorua, with a “bumper” 2016 for the tourism sector, Rotorua GDP up by 3.9 per cent and more people choosing to call the district home. Rotorua Daily Post Autumn getaways: Go where the sun still shines Feeling ripped off by summer? These autumn getaways near and far will help bring more sunshine into your life, writes Eli Orzessek. The NZ Herald Watch: Aerial footage showcases 65km new Great Walk on West Coast in memory of Pike River Mine victims A new Great Walk has been approved by the Government today, with the green light given to a track through the Paparoa National Park in memory to the victims of the Pike River Mine tragedy. One News Now Friday, 10 March 2017 Phil Goff: Bed tax should pay for Auckland’s promotion Ratepayers have shouldered the burden of growth for too long and it is time to look for new solutions from those who benefit the most. The NZ Herald Air NZ boss pushes case in front of high-level US officials Chris Luxon has gained rare access to a high-level member of US President Donald Trump’s cabinet. Stuff How govt is killing NZ’s small towns – and Hollywood is helping Residents of rural towns are facing astronomical bills to support basic infrastructure. The Spinoff World Masters Games to bring wealthy tourists, organisers say With over 27,000 well-off athletes set to converge on Auckland for the World Masters Games, organisers expect it to give a significant economic boost. The NZ Herald $350,000 set aside to ensure Taranaki makes most of Lonely Planet exposure A $350,000 marketing campaign has been launched to capitalise on Lonely Planet’s rating of Taranaki as the second best region in the world to visit. Taranaki Daily News Delayed Harbour St project nears completion The finishing touches are being made to a long-awaited $600,000 Victorian-themed Harbour St tourist attraction. Otago Daily Times Wellington’s rental squeeze could worsen as homeowners choose Airbnb over renting Airbnb’s growing popularity could see the already scarce number of rental properties in Wellington diminish even further over the next five years, an industry insider says. Stuff Thursday, 9 March 2017 Guards put up in hotels for three more prisons The Department of Corrections is paying for guards from three more prisons to stay in hotels as a stopgap to cope with growing inmate numbers. Radio NZ Mangaweka residents searching for new publican to reopen hotel Ever wanted to be the life of a small country settlement? Residents of Mangaweka are looking for a new owner for their much-loved pub. Stuff German schoolmates loving freedom camping life Three schoolmates from Frankfurt in Germany are travelling through New Zealand in their camper van. Wanganui Chronicle Airbnb: open to bed tax here, already collecting in Europe, USA Airbnb would not be caught by Auckland mayor Phil Goff’s hotel levy proposal but it says it is open to paying bed taxes here. The NZ Herald Hotel rates and revenue rising as occupancy hits a 10 year high The average daily rate for NZ hotel rooms rose $15 last year and occupancy nationally was at its highest level in more than a decade. Stuff Threat to night sky view Astronomer Ian Griffin has warned Dunedin’s chances of developing lucrative dark skies tourism will be harmed by approving subdivision development. Otago Daily Times Wednesday, 8 March 2017 Accommodation sector boom in Hawke’s Bay Tourists are overnighting in Hawke’s Bay in rising numbers, according to Statistics New Zealand data. Hawke’s Bay Today Growing tourism lets businesses flourish Flourishing tourism has been helping create and grow businesses in Tuatapere. Southland Times Tourists flash plastic in $38.7m February spend Spending in Gisborne was up 3.7% last month compared with the same time last year and much of the increase was attributed to tourists. Gisborne Herald Tourist boom pushing up room rates The booming tourism sector has helped drive Auckland’s average hotel room rate to $197 per night, up 9% on the previous year. The NZ Herald A cruise from other side of railing Cabin fever and a longing for local cuisine motivate passengers to get off cruise ships. I know — I travelled around NZ last month as a passenger on the Emerald Princess. Gisborne Herald Tourism is a vulnerable thing for a country to rely on – just ask Egypt Tourism became Egypt’s largest source of foreign currency but there are moves to make the country less reliant on the industry. The Washington Post Tuesday, 7 March 2017 Kaikoura guest nights down 80% in December The number of people staying in Kaikoura plummeted by 80% after the devastating earthquake in November. The NZ Herald Midland Railway Line to reopen between Greymouth and Christchurch The Midland Railway Line between Christchurch and Greymouth will reopen earlier than expected. The Press Resort restaurateur heads to beach Forty years after first coming to Queenstown, the resort’s longest-serving restaurateur is upping sticks. Mountain Scene Tourist boom pushing up room rates Index shows Auckland nightly cost up 9% and picks strong year ahead. The NZ Herald Christchurch cycleway blamed for businesses near closure A Christchurch dairy owner says his livelihood is under threat by a new cycleway. The Press Renters made $1568 from Airbnb deal, pinged $1300 for breaching rental agreement Planning to make a quick buck renting your place to Adele fans this month? Or visiting rugby crowds later in the year? Think again. Stuff Restaurant review: Waihi Beach Hotel The Waihi Beach Hotel and beach pub is a local treasure that has been a landmark of the beach town for years, but has become a real foodie destination since it underwent extensive refurbishment three years ago. Bay of Plenty Times The captive audience film festival: Top 10 safety videos of all time Airlines take our safety seriously, as they keep telling us, which might explain why they make such awful safety films. Most of them traditionally confuse being serious with being dull. That’s why they make you do up the seat belt, to stop you walking out. Stuff New Zealand couple sell South American eco-lodge in $41 dollar raffle A New Zealand woman and her husband are selling an eco-lodge in Ecuador in a $41-a-ticket raffle. Stuff Monday, 6 March 2017 Hotels go into battle with Auckland’s mayor Phil Goff over new rate to pay for promoting the city Auckland hotel and motel owners are on a collision course with the city’s mayor Phil Goff over a targeted rate they say will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. The NZ Herald Taupo caravan design being built by German company Dethleff for holidaymakers If you can’t buy it, build it. That’s Brent Thurlow’s attitude and now his caravan design has been picked up by a European motorhome manufacturer. Stuff Carry on: Emirates’ 1m passengers, Virgin’s Mid-East pullback and more Emirates says it has carried more than one million passengers to and from New Zealand during 2016, citing the success of its daily non-stop service between Auckland and Dubai. NBR Northland: On the wild side Breath-taking views are reward for a punishing hike, writes Stephanie Holmes. The NZ Herald Electric rental cars hit the road as the hire business heats up The tourism boom has attracted the world’s largest rental car company to New Zealand and electric rental vehicles are on their way. Stuff Entry fee proposed for Hamilton Gardens Hamilton’s Mayor is proposing that everyone but local ratepayers pays a $25 entry fee to see the city’s themed gardens. Waikato Times Retiring rail boss chuffed by growth Retiring Dunedin Railways chief executive Murray Bond talks about his efforts to develop Taieri Gorge Railway and his confidence in the future of Dunedin tourism. Otago Daily Times Queensland tourism: Bed tax on agenda as visitor numbers surge Fresh moves are under way to slug hotel guests with a bed tax in Queensland to fund a major overhaul of the state’s tourism industry. The Courier Mail Friday, 3 March 2017 Emirates credits superjumbo for success of mega flight from Auckland to Dubai Emirates has carried around 200,000 passengers on its non-stop service between Auckland and Dubai and says the success of the route was based on upgrading to the A380 superjumbo. The NZ Herald Big farewell planned for local tourism trailblazer The family of a Rotorua tourism pioneer are coming to terms with a tragic loss, but his wife says she will forever remember the great times they enjoyed together. Rotorua Daily Post Auckland Council freedom camping pilot splits opinion Auckland Council’s freedom camping pilot has divided public opinion in the Rodney District. Rodney Times Kiwi couple return to find Mangakino holiday home in ashes A Kiwi couple have returned to total destruction after a blaze left their holiday home near Taupo in ashes. The NZ Herald A glimpse of another world As I stepped into the boutique 690-passenger Azamara Journey cruise ship, the sight of rusted containers and Port Otago machinery was replaced by marble floors, golden banisters and a concierge clad in black. Otago Daily Times Thursday, 2 March 2017 $20m redevelopment programme for Walter Peak Queenstown tourism firm Real Journeys is investing $20 million in farm tourism at Walter Peak, on Lake Wakatipu. Otago Daily Times Rotorua environmental tourism leader dies

 Rotorua environmental tourism leader and owner of Waimangu Thermal Valley, Harvey James, has died. Rotorua Daily Post Tribal trust’s case for share of Auckland islands tourism thrown out by High Court Court throws out judicial review challenging the decision to grant a five-year concession to Fullers was unlawful. NBR (subscription) Govt lays out plan for Gisborne region Tourism, forestry and the primary industries have emerged as the initial winners in a new government plan to boost the regional economy. Gisborne Herald Hallelujah moment sparks new idea Computer science engineer Kawana Wallace has borrowed an idea from New York’s Central Park and developed a QR Code app’ that travellers can use to explore the area. Waikato Times Pilots push for delay to Wellington Airport runway extension hearing Airline pilots want to delay a planning hearing regarding the extension on Wellington Airport’s runway. NZ Herald Chalet Romantica wins top rating A Bay of Islands accommodation provider has been named the “best of the best” bed and breakfast facility in the land. NZ Herald Wednesday, 1 March 2017 SpaceX Plans to Send 2 Tourists Around Moon in 2018 SpaceX, the ambitious rocket company headed by Elon Musk, wants to send a couple of tourists around the moon and back to Earth before the end of next year. New York Times Auckland Mayor Phil Goff promises crackdown after 43 per cent jump in Ateed staff travel costs Auckland Mayor Phil Goff has revealed details about a crackdown on travel, hospitality and gifts after the council’s promotion agency reported a 43 per cent jump in travel costs to more than $900,000 over two years. The NZ Herald Marlborough to launch tourism offensive in Nelson and the North Island Tourism funding for Marlborough will be used to attract tourists from further up the country, offsetting a slump in Cantabrian visitors post-quake. Stuff Air New Zealand and Cathay Pacific extend alliance Air New Zealand and Cathay Pacific have extended their strategic alliance partnership on services between New Zealand and Hong Kong for a further five years through until 2022. Scoop Chinese tourist missing from Auckland contacts family A Chinese tourist who has been missing for six days has contacted her family to say she is all right, say police. Radio NZ Rotorua retailers to open on Easter Sunday An Easter Sunday Shop Trading Policy which will enable retailers to trade on Easter Sunday if they wish has been adopted by the council. Rotorua Lakes Council Tuesday, 28 February 2017 Government counts homeless in tourism stats Statistics Minister Mark Mitchell has confirmed the Statistics New Zealand Accommodation Survey includes people who are being put into hostels or motels through emergency housing special needs grants. Newshub ‘Sick of some tourists trashing New Zealand’ – travel blogger vents at freedom camper frustration online An American travel blogger with a huge following who has made Wanaka her home is concerned with freedom campers and tourists “trashing New Zealand”. One News Now Chinese tourist missing after leaving Auckland hotel room A Chinese tourist is missing after she left her Auckland hotel room on Wednesday and has not been seen since. Stuff Support package extended for Kaikōura businesses The government has extended for a second time its support package for businesses hit by last year’s Kaikōura earthquake – although, this time, those based in the Wellington or Hutt areas will no longer be eligible. Radio NZ Auckland full: Tourists bed down at marae About 50 elderly American tourists had to bed down at a marae because their flight was cancelled and there were no beds available anywhere else in Auckland. The NZ Herald Seeing New Zealand through the eyes of a tourist The highway south of Westport was littered with furry bodies. The night before had clearly been carnage for opossums but a win for gratis pest control. Stuff Tributes flow of Maori tourism leader Doug Tamaki Mr Tamaki died in Turanga Hospital on Saturday after suffering a heart attack on Thursday. The NZ Herald Monday, 27 February 2017 Cruise ship passenger levy of $5 proposed to help build Akaroa Health Hub A group fundraising to build the Akaroa Health Hub in Banks Peninsula want cruise ship passengers to help pick up the tab. Stuff Tributes flow of Maori tourism leader Doug Tamaki Mr Tamaki died in Turanga Hospital on Saturday after suffering a heart attack on Thursday. The NZ Herald Off the Beaten Track Dairy farmers and their business linking holidaymakers with farms. Radio NZ Carry on: Xiamen for Auckland, Cathay for Christchurch, Virgin for HK and more Carry On understands another Chinese airline, XiamenAir, will launch a service from mid-December. NBR Kaikoura quake: Seabed life wiped out after ‘catastrophic’ mudslides While the dramatic changes to Kaikōura’s landscape were immediately clear after November’s 7.8 quake, what happened below sea level has been as clear as mud – until now. Newshub David Kennedy: Creating a social licence to defecate OPINION: It’s been interesting watching the ongoing debate over freedom camping ebb and flow over the last few months. Mountain Scene Friday, 24 February 2017 Cruise passengers unruffled The troubled cruise ship Celebrity Solstice was in Dunedin yesterday after a bus transporting 31 Celebrity Solstice passengers collided with a car near Akaroa on Wednesday. Otago Daily Times Emotions flow over Kingston Flyer sale There was a round of applause at long-time Flyer driver and manager Russell Glendinning’s funeral in Lumsden, while Flyer advocate Karl Barkley, who set up a Givealittle page to buy the trains, shed tears after learning it had finally been sold. Mountain Scene TripAdvisor names best beaches in New Zealand and the world For the third year in a row, TripAdvisor has named Mt Maunganui’s main beach as the best in New Zealand. Stuff Auckland Council rates plan could push up visitor accommodation prices Auckland commercial accommodation providers are crying foul over a new targeted council rate that would push up room prices. Stuff Water quality measure ‘less stringent’ The government has weakened the threshold for what qualifies as the best quality waterway to swim in as part of its target to make 90% of NZ’s rivers swimmable by 2040, say critics. Radio NZ Qantas reports slide in first-half earnings, Jetstar fares better Qantas reported a slide in first-half profit but its Jetstar Group, which includes NZ domestic and regional routes, did better. NBR Thursday, 23 February 2017 Tourist bus slides off road near Akaroa A group of passers-by helped dozens of tourists escape a wrecked bus and climb out of steep bush after a crash near Christchurch. The Press Air New Zealand profits expected to fall Increased competition and rising costs are expected to bite into the carrier’s interim results due today. The NZ Herald Accommodation chocka as tens of thousands of kapa haka fans hit the Bay for Te Matatini Hawke’s Bay accommodation providers are “bulging at the seams” with Te Matatini kicking off yesterday. Hawke’s Bay Today Hotel development in danger of halting with 150% council rates increases Several hotel feasibility studies and projects in Auckland are likely to be scrapped if the council imposes rates increases of 150%-plus on the accommodation sector to fund Ateed. NBR (subscription) Napier open for business on Easter Sunday Napier will be open for business on Easter Sunday, a change decided by a close vote in a Napier City Council meeting. Hawke’s Bay Today Hundreds of Queenstown holiday homes still unregistered The Queenstown Lakes District Council is chasing up 300 property owners who have not heeded its call to register their holiday homes. Radio NZ Rumours actors’ NZ love was a deal Reese Witherspoon, Oprah Winfrey and Mindy Kaling have captured our hearts with their glowing reviews of NZ – but was it a deal done with tourism bosses? Otago Daily Times Air NZ joins government’s cross-agency panel for air travel Air New Zealand has joined the panel of carriers providing air services in the government’s cross-agency contract designed to get the best deal for the taxpayer. NBR Wednesday, 22 February 2017 Visitors will keep coming if national park fees introduced – TIA Charging the thousands of tourists who visit New Zealand’s national parks each year won’t keep people away, according to Tourism Industry Aotearoa. Newshub Historic hotel sold to local family trust A historic Napier investment property built in the Art Deco era was sold to a local family trust for $7.1 million. Hawkes Bay Today Electric campervan trial coming for Tourism Holdings A trial of all-electric campervans is on the agenda this year for THL. Stuff Sichuan Airlines joins the surge in Chinese carriers heading for New Zealand Sichuan Airlines will begin three direct flights per week between Auckland and Chengdu in southwest China from June. The NZ Herald ‘The entirety of New Zealand is a national park’: the case for implementing a border fee As visitor arrivals reach unprecedented levels, Don Rowe argues that it’s time tourists paid their fair share. The Spinoff Signs that Cathay Pacific will extend its NZ operations to Christchurch Speculation is growing that Cathay Pacific will announce a seasonal service between Hong Kong and Christchurch. The NZ Herald New Cambridge accommodation on track to open New accommodation to help bring relief to the region is due to open. Waikato Times Death of Russell Glendinning (Mr Kingston Flyer) Russell Glendinning, the man who made the Kingston Flyer a world-renowned attraction, died today, aged 80. Scoop Tuesday, 21 February 2017 Dark Skies tourism project investigated Astro-tourism is being investigated as a tourism product in Southland. Stuff NZ services sector sees growth Activity in NZ’s services sector rose last month to a near-record, with ongoing strength in wholesale, retail and hospitality. The NZ Herald Skyline’s latest luge development opens Skyline has opened its $20m development in South Korea, just 15 months after construction began. Otago Daily Times Living wage rises, amid call to do away with minimum A leading budget adviser says New Zealand should scrap the minimum wage because it encourages employers to pay staff less than they are worth. Stuff Chart of the day: When did visitor numbers to NZ take off? It might seem a recent phenomenon, but NZ’s boom in overseas visitors began decades ago. Stuff Cruise ship tourism grows in the south The cruise ship industry is the fastest growing tourism sector in the country and Southland needs to take advantage of it to grow its economy. Southland Times Freedom campers park up at unoccupied holiday homes Police are cracking down on freedom campers who are parking their caravans at holiday homes while the owners are out of town. Bay of Plenty Times Services sector performs well Tourism, cafes and restaurants underpinned a strong January showing for Otago Southland’s services sector performance index, well up on January last year and continuing December’s positive run. Otago Daily Times Monday, 20 February 2017 Editorial: Pressure on national parks needs action By 2022, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment forecasts that one million more tourists will enter New Zealand, and tip $16 billion into the economy. The NZ Herald Tourism and property lifts Millennium & Copthorne profit The upcoming Lions tour this winter and New Zealand’s ongoing tourism boom are expected to herald more good times for Millennium & Copthorne Hotels NZ. Stuff Auckland rammed with visitors after four cruise ships arrive in port For the first time four cruise ships are in Auckland harbour at the same time. One News Now Auckland Airport’s profit grows The country’s biggest airport has reported a solid lift in its first half profit on the back of the tourism boom and record immigration. Radio NZ Timaru Airport’s $1.3 million upgrade could attract tourism opportunities Timaru’s airport might soon have the facilities to take advantage of increasing tourism opportunities, as work continues on the airport’s $1.3 million upgrade. Timaru Herald Waihi holiday park owner to bid farewell The award-winning owner of the country’s oldest holiday park in Waihi Beach is selling up after more than two decades – but says it’s not the end of his involvement in the region. Bay of Plenty Times Friday, 17 February 2017 Chinese tourists discover NZ’s best-kept secret: motels A new breed of more independent Chinese tourists is helping drive an explosion in the number of international visitors staying in New Zealand motels. NBR More investment needed to improve Hamilton’s tourism offering Hamilton can play a major part in the fortunes of increasing tourism into heartland Waikato. Waikato Times South Korea gets a taste of NZ tourism with luge One of New Zealand’s most popular tourism ventures has arrived in South Korea. The NZ Herald Jucy’s tourism map leaves out whole Gisborne region A Gisborne man has been left asking why this region has missed out “again” after the city, the East Coast and the entire eastern corner of the island were left off a wall map erected at a hostel at Christchurch Airport. Gisborne Herald Christchurch Adventure Park threatened by fire commits to reopening With a raging wild fire surrounding the Christchurch Adventure Park, the fledgling business has reassured people it will reopen. The NZ Herald Coastal Pacific Trail: The time is now The window of opportunity to build a dedicated Coastal Pacific Trail cycleway from Marlborough to Canterbury is once-in-a-lifetime. Stuff Canterbury employers must be flexible: Chamber of Commerce Employers need to be flexible and allow staff to tend to their families and properties in the wake of the Port Hills fire, the Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce says. The NZ Herald Qantas offers streaming services Foxtel, Netflix and Spotify on domestic flights for free Passengers on board Qantas domestic flights will now be able to stream television shows and music via Netflix, Foxtel and Spotify. traveller.com.au Thursday, 16 February 2017 Port Hills wildfires: Adventure park damaged An adventure park in the path of the destructive Port Hills wildfire has been damaged by fire but key buildings and its chairlift remain unscathed. The NZ Herald Wicked Campers put ‘on notice’, Queensland government says New legislation has been introduced in the Australian state of Queensland aiming to ban offensive slogans from rental company Wicked Campers. Stuff Tourism sector asked to stump up $1m for Mount i-Site Bay tourism operators will need to find up to $1 million to secure the iconic version of a new gateway visitor information centre at Mount Maunganui. Bay of Plenty Times Wednesday, 15 February 2017 PM responds to critics of Jetstar contract The Prime Minister is hitting back at allegations he’s not supporting New Zealand business by giving Jetstar a Government contract. Newstalk ZB Should foreign drivers be forced to sit NZ driving tests? TIA’s Chis Roberts says forcing foreign drivers to sit a test to drive on New Zealand roads isn’t the answer to preventing road deaths. One News Now NZ aircraft maker aims to ride Thai skydiving tourism boom NZ-based Pacific Aerospace has entered the Thai aviation market by delivering its first aircraft to Freefall Thailand to cash in on the boom in skydiving tourism. The Nation Scientists flock to Queenstown for biggest conference in the Southern Hemisphere Queenstown is hosting more than 500 scientists from all around the world, for the biggest Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology conference in the Southern Hemisphere. Mountain Scene Green light for $5m Mount Maunganui information centre Tauranga City Councillors have agreed ratepayers will help foot the bill for a $5 million information centre for Mount Maunganui. Bay of Plenty Times Labour supports tests for tourists – but at odds over how A driving test for longer-staying tourists is “impractical”, but an online test could do the trick to curb foreign driver crashes,  Labour leader Andrew Little says. Newshub Tuesday, 14 February 2017 Hobbiton movie set could continue to attract new generations of tourists Central Waikato’s Hobbiton Movie Set has the potential to draw in tourists for another half century – or more. Stuff Record tourism lifts outlook in Northland A record year for tourism in Northland in 2016 is a sign of more to come from the booming sector, industry leaders say. Northern Advocate Helium balloon nearly ready for lift-off One of Rotorua’s newest tourist attractions has struck technical difficulties, but hopes to be be up and running by the end of the month. Rotorua Daily Post Mulvey calls for action to promote city Invercargill must decide on an action plan to promote the city and get on with it. Southland Times Tourism Eastland says it meets targets Tourism Eastland is meeting its key performance targets, says a six-monthly report presented to Gisborne District Council’s community development and services committee. Gisborne Herald The Walking Access Commission: what has it achieved? While there are many conservation areas for people to enjoy in New Zealand’s natural recreation resources there is often pressure to expand access, particularly with booming tourism numbers putting pressure on existing routes to rivers, lakes and sea. Radio NZ Monday, 13 February 2017 No decision on possible prosecution It will be some time before a decision is made over whether to prosecute in relation to the death of a Filipino crewman on Emerald Princess, Maritime New Zealand says. The Otago Daily Times Tax warning for holiday rentals New Zealand’s tourism boom means it can be lucrative to rent out property but owners need to do their homework or could get stung. The NZ Herald New Christchurch tourism and economic development entity operational in July A new tourism, events and economic development entity designed to boost visitor numbers is expected to be operational by July. The Press Vendor of hotel site revealed The owner of an Auckland CBD property sold last year for a hotel development can be revealed after negotiations were finalised last week. NBR (subscription) Call to focus on clean water Today’s tourists are environmentally aware, and clean water is an essential aspect for New Zealand’s tourism future, the Tourism Export Council says. The Otago Daily Times Building’s neighbourly label Tourism company Skyline Enterprises’ striking new $8 million-plus Queenstown lakefront building is being officially named Eichardt’s. Mountain Scene Spot checks educating visiting drivers Vehicle spot checks near Te Anau this Chinese New Year served as an opportunity to educate international visitors on how to stay safe on New Zealand’s roads. Tourism New Zealand Positive outlook for Kaikoura tourism Around ninety per cent of tourism activity providers and more than seventy-five per cent of accommodation providers in Kaikoura are back operating following the November earthquake. Tourism New Zealand Minister wants over-budget Southland cycle trail completed The government put $4.5 million towards a Southland council’s now over-budget and unfinished cycle trail on the condition it would be completed, the Minister of Tourism says. Radio NZ New boss for rail trail The Otago Rail Trail may be this country’s best known cycle way, but the Hauraki Rail Trail is right on its back wheel. Sun Live Air New Zealand executive reveals why his chatbot is the start of a travel revolution When Avi Golan got a call from Air New Zealand boss Christopher Luxon about a job, he was puzzled but curious. The NZ Herald Air NZ defends use of turboprops on main trunk routes Air New Zealand has defended its decision to run mostly turboprop aircraft on some of its main trunk routes, despite customer complaints. Stuff Cruise ship damage after collision in Timaru port Passengers will spend the night on a luxury cruise ship that crashed into another boat this afternoon. Radio NZ Norwegian Star passengers disappointed to miss out on NZ Tug boats towed the Norwegian Star to Melbourne’s Station Pier early Sunday morning after the ship lost power at sea. Stuff TAIC launches second inquiry into French cruise ship The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) has launched its second investigation this year into a luxury French cruise ship, after it hit rocks in the Milford Sound yesterday. Radio NZ Friday, 10 February 2017 Blast kills crewman A passenger aboard a cruise ship on which a crew member died  has recounted the harrowing scenes which followed the horrific incident. The Otago Daily Times Record 6 million passengers forecast to fly the windy skies over Wellington A record six million passengers are set to pour through Wellington Airport this year, as the region greets everyone from British and Irish rugby players to ageing rock stars. Stuff Rotorua looks likely to approve Easter commerce Rotorua retailers look set to be able to open their doors this Easter Sunday, a move that has delighted the city’s mayor. The NZ Herald The World is not enough: Nelson looks to increase number of cruise ships coming to the port Nelson may soon welcome 20 cruise ships a year as work continues to increase the city’s potential as a destination. Stuff Impact of half-billion dollar cruise ship industry on economy to be explored by government The government is making changes to evaluate the full size and scale of the cruise ship sector and its impact on New Zealand. 1 News Now Tourism industry debating impact of Trump travel ban President Donald Trump’s travel ban is not only being debated in the courts, it’s also being debated by the travel industry. The NZ Herald Thursday, 9 February 2017 17,000 Tranz Alpine bookings affected after fire damage closes Midland Line to West Coast KiwiRail says 17,000 Tranz Alpine bookings to the West Coast are affected by the closure of the Midland Line after bridges were badly damaged in a scrub fire at the weekend. The NZ Herald Infratil says hearings on Wellington runway likely delayed to June A shortage of court space in Wellington due to the November earthquake means hearings on Wellington International Airport’s bid to extend the runway to make room for long-haul flights will likely be pushed out to June. Scoop MP stokes campaign to relocate historic Kingston Flyer train to West Coast West Coast-Tasman MP Damien O’Connor has stoked the campaign to relocate the historic steam train the Kingston Flyer to the West Coast. The NZ Herald Tourism boss casts doubt over passenger train plan The head of Timaru’s tourism organisation has cast doubt on the viability of a passenger train service between Christchurch and Dunedin. Timaru Herald Trade minister says Qatar Airways and Air NZ should sort out differences over canned deal Trade Minister Todd McClay has urged Air New Zealand and Qatar Airways to settle their differences over a cancelled commercial agreement. The NZ Herald Could Banks Peninsula become NZ’s first Geo-Park? Banks Peninsular could soon sit alongside places such as the Grand Canyon and the Great Barrier Reef as a place of special geological interest. Radio NZ Increase in spending in January for Gisborne Consumers spent more than $45 million in Gisborne last month and some city-centre retailers and business-owners have benefited from record takings. Gisborne Herald Spending up 8.9% on last January Spending continues to ”accelerate” across Otago, new figures show. Otago Daily Times Opinion: Family’s fight for law change Tuesday marked the first anniversary of the tragic death of Rhys Middleton, who was killed when a tourist veered into his path on a highway. Wednesday, 8 February 2017 Tourist driver petition to be presented to Parliament next week A grieving mother will take a petition to Parliament calling for tourists to have to sit a licence test before they can drive in New Zealand. Radio NZ Kaikōura harbour will not be fixed until mid-year Restoration work of the quake-damaged Kaikōura harbour will not be completed until the middle of the year, the government says. Radio NZ Qatar boss fires shots at Air New Zealand over cancelled deal Qatar Airways chief executive Akbar al Baker has blasted Air New Zealand for ending an airline agreement which he says could harm travel to and from this country. The NZ Herald Airport numbers swell to 600,000 passengers Airline passengers are flying in and out of Palmerston North in record numbers, with 600,000 arriving or departing from the regional airport in the past year. Manawatu Standard Spending up 8.9% on last January More New Zealanders, migrants and tourists were deciding ”to live, work and play” in Otago and were spending money. Otago Daily times New Zealand tops Australia as best accommodation provider on Booking.com The results of this year’s annual Booking.com Guest Review Awards are in and 13 properties in New Zealand have received honours. The NZ Herald Lantern festival ready to light up Auckland Domain to celebrate Year of the Rooster The Lantern Festival traditionally marks the end of Chinese New Year festivities and is celebrated on the 15th day of the first Chinese lunar month. The NZ Herald Tuesday, 7 February 2017 NZ’s biggest tourist resort planned in Far North A Chinese real estate company is planning to spend close to $1 billion building a huge tourist resort on Northland’s Karikari Peninsula. The Northern Advocate Glacier gondola route rechecked The company investigating a gondola at Franz Josef Glacier organised a flight over the area again last week to recheck the possible route. The Otago Daily Times Levy for council use tipped Alleviating the pressure on ratepayers of smaller districts  is a key part of Labour’s plan to help regions and cities build  tourism and the systems needed to support that growth. The Otago Daily Times Growing pains for tourism owner operators as visitor numbers boom The tourism boom has encouraged former potato farmer Michael Oakley to grow his Canterbury Ballooning business but it has been a steep learning curve. Sunday Star Times ‘Coastal Pacific Rail Trail’ supporters call on Government for cycleway funds Supporters of an east coast cycleway are calling on the Government to back the project before the window of opportunity presented by the earthquake closes. Stuff Chinese make record trips for New Year China registered a record 6.15 million overseas trips during the Lunar New Year holiday, according to official data released on Friday, confirming earlier estimates by travel agencies. The NZ Herald Editorial: Sea-borne visitors to be valued While researching facts and figures for Saturday’s Insight feature about the cruise ship industry and its overall tourism industry footprint I was startled by some of the figures which emerged…but not really too surprised. Monday, 6 February 2017 Waitangi Day Friday, 3 February 2017 Worry over Chinese turn-off An unexpected drop in Chinese New Year visitors is worrying Queenstown’s tourism boss. Mountain Scene Auckland explores novel solution to berth mega cruise ships A novel solution is being explored to berth giant cruise ships like Ovation of the Seas at Queens Wharf in Auckland. The NZ Herald Winston Peters: So where’s the infrastructure? The reaction of many Northlanders to the news that our region is to be promoted in Melbourne to attract tourists here was no doubt enthusiastic – initially. The Country Earthquake damage closes Rotorua Museum for at least two years Rotorua Museum will be closed for at least the next two years and is losing up to $300,000 a month after it was damaged in November’s earthquake. Rotorua Daily Post Chinese visitor numbers dive on too-high prices but not in Wanaka Queenstown may be experiencing an unexpected drop in Chinese New Year visitors this year, but Wanaka appears to still be attracting as many visitors from China as ever. Otago Daily Times It’s not easy being beautiful: New Zealand tourism boom comes at a cost, Kiwis say New Zealand’s special brand of beauty is a double-edged sword to many, with one in five Kiwis saying they are worried that the country’s magnetism to tourists is ruining what sets it apart. Manawatu Standard Piano Flat, a New Zealand gem that tourists have yet to discover Tucked up in the mountains of Southland’s far north, Piano Flat strikes a chord with Southlanders as an archetypal summer holiday camping destination. Stuff Jetstar check-ins down across country A fault that caused issues with Jetstar’s check-in system across New Zealand has been fixed. Stuff KiwiRail tackle big fixes on Kaikoura line KiwiRail is gearing up to tackle the big problems on the Blenheim-Christchurch railway line that was badly damaged in the Kaikoura earthquake. Newshub Options, like tourist tax, being ‘explored’ as NZ’s tourism boom faces backlash New Zealand’s 100% Pure marketing campaign has been a huge success, promoting the almost magical scenery that featured prominently in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie trilogies. news.com.au Thursday, 2 February 2017 Tourists flock to New Zealand, Kiwis flock overseas Tourists and migrants flocked to New Zealand in record numbers in 2016, while more Kiwis than ever also set off on overseas trips. The NZ Herald Accommodation booked out in Mackenzie during Chinese New Year Groups wanting accommodation in the Mackenzie over summer are being urged to book six months in advance as tourists pour into the district for Chinese New Year. Stuff International visitors behind Gisborne tourism boost A $4m increase in spending by foreign tourists is a reason for 2015 being a bumper year for the region’s $135m-a-year tourism industry. Foreign tourists pump extra $4 million into local coffers. The Gisborne Herald More passengers than ever using Auckland Airport Close to one million international passengers passed through Auckland Airport in December last year, a record for the company. The NZ Herald Tourist driving test petition before Parliament A petition asking the Government to pass legislation requiring tourists to sit a New Zealand drivers licence if they are staying in the country longer than three months will be presented to Parliament next week. Stuff New Mount visitor centre designs considered Tauranga city councillors looked at concept design ideas for a proposed visitor information centre in Mount Maunganui today. Bay of Plenty Times Wednesday, 1 February 2017 West Coast police target slow rental car drivers Police have been dealing with complaints about slow drivers causing traffic backlogs as Chinese New Year brings an influx of tourists to New Zealand. Stuff Freedom camping expansion being studied More areas of Dunedin could be opened up to freedom camping, as the Dunedin City Council mulls further changes to its approach. The Otago Daily Times Western Bay’s $802m tourist spending spree Tourism spending in the Bay of Plenty has increased a huge 44 per cent in just five years, hitting $802 million last year. Bay of Plenty Times NZ tourism, immigration hit fresh records in calendar 2016 New Zealand saw record numbers of tourists and immigrants in 2016 with more migrants coming in on work visas and more holidaymakers than ever before, and economists expect migrant inflows to keep rising. The NZ Herald New record for Cooks Islands tourism A record number of tourists visited the Cook Islands in 2016 with visitor numbers increasing by 17 percent on the year before. Radio New Zealand Protesters in Barcelona want to claim city back from tourists A Spanish city is hoping to curb tourism numbers by introducing a new law that would limit the number of hotels being built. Stuff Tuesday, 31 January 2017 Police urge patience on West Coast roads as Chinese New Year boosts self-drive visitor numbers Police urged motorists to be patient with the earlier Chinese New Year expected to compound booming visitor numbers. The NZ Herald NZONE: Queenstown skydivers’ crash not affecting business Business was operating as usual today at Queenstown skydiving company NZONE, despite a crash affecting two employees. Stuff Air New Zealand to increase Nelson flights on back of busiest month for airport The airport recorded 93,557 passengers flying in and out during December – up 17 per cent on the same time last year. Stuff New $193k toilet block for Taipa Taipa is set to get a flash new $193,000 flusher as visitor numbers soar in the Doubtless Bay settlement. The NZ Herald Air New Zealand, Tourism New Zealand and Singapore Airlines Conduct Trade Training Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines and Tourism New Zealand have recently held a trade training session in Mumbai designed to assist the agents in becoming New Zealand specialists. NewsNow, India Tasmania: The little city that could and did The capital of Tasmania may have been given a terrific boost by the Museum of Old and New but Hobarthas picked up the challenge and run with it,writes Judy Skatssoon. The NZ Herald Monday, 30 January 2017 Northland scenes on show in Melbourne Melbournians stuck in commuter traffic this morning will get to see a slice of Northland as a major tourism campaign kicks off. The Northern Advocate Skydiving low turn queried A “dangerous” manoeuvre which led to two Queenstown skydivers being seriously injured on Saturday was probably unintentional, an industry safety expert says. The Otago Daily Times Chinese New Year tourism likely consistent The number of visitors spending their Chinese New Year holiday in Queenstown is expected to be on a par with last year after several years of double-digit growth. The Otago Daily Times Kaikōura’s tourism changes tack in quake aftermath Kaikōura tourist operators are working to rebrand in the aftermath of the November earthquake. Radio New Zealand Visitor transport ‘top of the list’ for Timaru’s tourism agency A bus service which transports visitors and tourists around some of South Canterbury’s best spots is a great idea, but will require an individual or company to take the first jump to make it happen, Timaru’s tourism agency says. The Timaru Herald Tourism that helps bring back the birds in Matukituki Valley As I see more of the country, I’ve become very aware of the effort behind the beauty, and especially the work that’s involved in bringing back our rare native wildlife. Stuff Weekender: Matakauri Lodge, Queenstown – it’s all plush comfort and faultless service Perched on the banks of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Matakauri Lodge’s position is exquisite. Stuff Barcelona marches to curb negative effects of tourism boom Community groups join forces to protest over soaring level of rents fuelled by a big rise in visitor numbers. The Guardian, UK Revelaed: The secret places most tourists do not know about New Zealand’s Waitomo Glowworm caves and watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of a glass igloo are just two of the places around the world most tourists are unaware of. The Daily Express, UK Friday, 27 January 2017 Analysts lower Air NZ’s share price target on damp earnings expectations Craigs have downgraded the share price target for Air New Zealand and warned earnings could come in at the lower end of expectations. Scoop Experts say Christchurch to Dunedin rail route would aim for high-end tourists South Islanders clamouring for a competitively-priced train trip from Christchurch to Dunedin shouldn’t hold their breath. Stuff Backed up: New Zealand’s public toilets not coping with tourist influx Friction between ‘freedom campers’ and local people as visitor numbers surge and infrastructure can’t keep up. The Guardian Discovering low impact tourism on Ulva Island Acknowledged by Tourism NZ as a Best Practice operator, Ulva’s Guided Walks on Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary believes in low-impact tourism. Stuff MBIE boss quits (subscription) Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) chief executive David Smol won’t be seeking reappointment when his five-year term ends in June. NBR Thursday, 26 January 2017 Air New Zealand’s passenger revenue falls Passenger revenue in the first six months of Air New Zealand’s financial year has fallen sharply. Waitomo Caves shut ‘five times’ due to high CO2 One of New Zealand’s most popular tourist attractions had to shut a number of times over summer because of excessive CO2. Moving summer holidays to February could cause chaos, tourism industry warns This summer’s big wet is prompting calls to move the official school holiday break into February and March when the weather is hotter. Te Anau growing ‘sensibly’ in the face of tourism A Te Anau stalwart says it’s time visitor numbers to Milford are capped. Booming building and tourism trumping migration gains to cut unemployment The job market was led by demand from the construction sector as well as tourism, despite the impact of the November earthquake in Kaikoura. $12m for tourism infrastructure like a ‘damp tea towel on a bonfire’ – farmers Federated Farmers is fed up with local government, saying it is not doing enough to control freedom camping. Air New Zealand will open its first-ever airport lounge in Perth Air New Zealand will open its first-ever airport lounge in Perth later this year as part of the airline’s $100 million lounge development program. Wednesday, 25 January 2017 Federated Farmers backs call for increased tourism funding Tourists camping illegally on farms are “disempowering” farmers, says Federated Farmers. Minimum wage to rise 
The government is to raise the minimum wage by 50c to $15.75 an hour from April 1. Chinese New Year growth expected to moderate in 2017 Arrival growth during the Chinese New Year break is expected to be moderate compared to the big visitor increases in recent years. Traditional renting model shows poor returns compared to Airbnb (subscription) Investors could take up to 32 years to recover the purchase price from a traditional long term let compared to 23 years if leased through Airbnb. Welcome to Paekakariki campground – no visitors allowed A Kapiti Coast campground has banned visitors from calling in to see friends staying there. Road access to Molesworth Station from Blenheim reopens Road trips can once again be made through historic Molesworth Station between Blenheim and Hanmer with the reopening of the Awatere Valley Road. SPTO to measure sustainability of Pacific tourism Pacific tourism operations will be the subject of a survey by the South Pacific Tourism Organisation to determine how sustainable the region’s tourism industry really is. Tuesday, 24 January 2017 Queenstown to Te Anau commercial flights to boost tourism A new scheduled return flight could enhance Te Anau’s growing tourism. Hotel chain QT transforms Wellington’s Museum Art Hotel Wellington’s former Museum Art Hotel launches today as the country’s first QT Hotel & Resort. Hapu chains off Graveyards surf spot from freedom campers A freedom camping site in Taranaki near a Maori cemetery has been chained off to stop it being trashed. International cyber security conference heads to Hamilton Cyber security experts from the United States’ National Security Agency and Interpol will descend upon the city for a conference this April. New Warbirds Over Wanaka launches new site Warbirds Over Wanaka has launched a new website hoping to encourage more visitors to attend the biennial event. Palau tourism aims for five-star resorts only New legislation aimed at turning Palau into a luxury destination is to be put before the new congress which came into power on Friday. Monday, 23 January 2017 Hotels in short supply for Lions’ rugby tour of New Zealand Travelling fans could face accommodation and transport shortages for the Lions’ tour. More Chinese visitors abandoning tour buses and going it alone Chinese tourists are increasingly bypassing organised tours and t it alone.ravelling independently. New Zealanders more confident about the economy Kiwis are feeling much more confident about the economy in part because of booming tourism. Growing pains as resort booms Wanaka is busier than ever with traffic jams, queues, parking issues and people everywhere – is the town is in danger of becoming a victim of its own success? Friday, 20 January 2017 Revised design for Dunedin hotel A shimmering glass tower has been revealed as the new look for Dunedin’s proposed five-star Filleul St hotel. Stormy weather puts stop to guides’ fishing plans The owner of a luxury fishing lodge near Murchison says last night’s storm has turned the rivers “50 shades of brown”. Hundreds delayed as weather affects flights Winds gusting up to nearly 140km/h forced the cancellation, delay and diversion of dozens of flights around the country. Truck drivers and tourists wait for slips to be cleared A slip big enough to fill eight Olympic swimming pools which has cut off two settlements in the Southern Alps is unlikely to be cleared today. Golden week expected for Chinese New Year All the signs are pointing to another “golden week” for Wanaka tourism operators as Chinese tourists pack into the town for Chinese New Year. Freight ships not on the horizon but Kaikoura tourism staying afloat When asked about the possibility of shipping freight to ease the burden on the road and rail, Paula Bennett said a lot of consideration had gone into it. Creating a new destination for cruise ships in Bluff Bluff could become a new port of call for cruise ships but taking advantage of the tourism industry is dependent on growth and infrastructure in the south. Offensive Wicked Campers ‘disappear’ following censor ban Almost a year on from a nationwide furore that saw the Chief Censor ban a handful of its vans from the road, the feeling is that the company has been somewhat tamed. Thirty feared dead in Italian hotel hit by avalanche Up to thirty people are missing under snow and rubble at a mountain hotel in the central Italian region of Abruzzo hit by an avalanche. Fed up with severe smog, Chinese tourists swarming to countries with ‘clean air’ Fed up with severe smog, Chinese tourists are swarming abroad to countries with “clean air” on their latest travel trend: “lung cleansing” tours.