A partnership between Christchurch Airport and Tourism New Zealand is set to boost visitors to the southern city.
A nonstop service from Christchurch to San Francisco announced recently with United Airlines has confirmed the airport as being a desirable location for international tourists, and the new three-year deal with Tourism New Zealand will not only support the new air-route but will also grow future promotion of airline routes to other cities as well.
Chief executive of Christchurch Airport, Justin Watson, said that the airport is the largest tourism business in the South Island, and is a great gateway for overseas visitors too.
“Statistics show international visitors arriving in this country through Christchurch Airport visit more regions, stay longer and spend more than if they arrive through another entry point,” he said.
“This creates a significant economic upside for Christchurch, especially for visitors wanting to experience our revitalised city and its new infrastructure. People, businesses and sporting organisations see our city as a great place for their next visit or gathering.
According to Watson, new venues like the Te Pae convention centre, and attractions like the Riverside Market, alongside a strong concert and event line-up, make Christchurch a key destination for visitors. Te Pae has hosted more than 70 conference events since it opened, with future bookings promising many more visitors.
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy said that high-quality tourism is an important contributor to New Zealand’s economy.
“Visitors flying direct from San Francisco to Christchurch over the coming summer will play an important role in achieving this, alongside the ongoing scheduled international services connecting Christchurch to dozens of destinations across the world,” he added.
New airline routes can offer significant benefits to not just Christchurch, but all New Zealanders according to de Monchy. He added that other perks would be more travel options, trade and import exchanges, and the export of produce. Tourism New Zealand said that high-quality visitors will contribute positively to the country’s nature, culture, society, and economy.
Watson added that Tourism New Zealand and Christchurch Airport’s commitment will have a positive effect on the overseas visitor market travelling to New Zealand, with a focus on Christchurch and the South Island in particular.
