The Restaurant Association has welcomed the Government’s investment in attracting more international business events to New Zealand.
“Business visitors are exactly the kind of high-value tourists our hospitality sector needs, spending significantly more per day than the average visitor and often travelling during the quieter seasons,” said Restaurant Association CEO Marisa Bidois.
“With hospitality businesses facing ongoing challenges due to reduced consumer spending and the rising cost of living, this funding is a timely boost for the industry. Increased business tourism will help drive much-needed revenue into our restaurants, cafes, and bars, supporting hospitality businesses across the country.”
Bidois added that by leveraging New Zealand’s world-class venues, dining experiences, and service culture, the industry can strengthen its reputation as a premium destination for business tourism.
“We look forward to working alongside industry partners to ensure visiting delegates experience the best of New Zealand hospitality while they are here.”
The announcement was made by the Minister for Hospitality and Tourism, Hon Louise Upston.
“This funding will allow Tourism New Zealand to increase their annual conference bid development from 90 to 110 bids, attract high-value incentive programmes, and enhance New Zealand’s presence at key international trade events,” she said.
The additional activity aims to secure business events for New Zealand that will deliver more than NZD 30 million in incremental spend to the economy.
“This is a chance to showcase our new conference facilities, fantastic hotels, and experiences, and pitch New Zealand as a world-class location for business events,” she added.
“To boost conference visitor numbers, it makes sense to supercharge the Conference Assistance Programme work that is already happening in Tourism New Zealand.”
The funding is available to any organisation, including universities, to bid to host an international conference in New Zealand. Support is also available to attract high-value incentive businesses to New Zealand.
This funding is part of the Tourism Boost package, developed by the Government in partnership with the industry to support immediate growth in visitor numbers, drive export activity and deliver economic growth.
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