TRENZ in Ōtautahi Christchurch is building momentum for the tourism industry after a first summer of recovery, but it will take 2-3 years before it settles into a new regular pattern.
That’s TIA Chief Executive Rebecca Ingram's message during a presentation at TRENZ, the country’s most significant international business-to-business travel and trade event.
“Tourism is a vital contributor to New Zealand’s economic and social well-being, generating wealth and supporting jobs in communities around the country. It is one of our significant export earners and has the potential to contribute more as the recovery continues,” Ingram said.
Ingram explained that tourism connects many parts of New Zealand’s economy and communities. The return of international visitors has made a difference to many New Zealanders. It has breathed life into cities and regions and enabled tourism businesses to step back on the front foot.
However, the level of tourism recovery varies by region and business.
“It has been a good first summer for many and new ways of operating developed during COVID are now baked in with productivity gains and new products, or different products proving popular.”
Following the pandemic, Ingram shared that although it had been a good summer, the DNA of the industry had forever changed due to the last three years. Ingram stated that New Zealand was uniquely well positioned to deliver a new generation of tourism, tourism for good, with a net positive impact.
“To quote a recent Infometrics report: ‘Tourism is a crown jewel in New Zealand’s economy, fortifying various industries, including retail trade, accommodation, and recreation services.’”
Furthermore, Ingram shared that TRENZ was an important part of making that happen.
