eXplore Central North Island, the collaboration of the eight regional tourism organisations in New Zealand’s central North Island, has appointed SLC Representation as its first representation agency in the UK.
SLC Representation will promote Central North Island to the UK travel trade, positioning the regions as must-visit destinations on any itinerary to New Zealand and the iconic driving routes: Pacific Coast Highway, Thermal Explorer Highway and the Volcanic Loop.
The agency will be responsible for increasing Central North Island trade exposure, training agents and attending trade shows.
New Zealand has experienced significant growth from the UK showing a 24 per cent growth in international holiday visitors for the year ending Jan 2018 versus the prior year.
Currently UK visitors collectively spend $189 million across the eight regions in the North Island.
Tourism New Zealand have pledged inclusive growth for the regions for 2019, with the aim of achieving $1 billion growth per annum from 2023 to ensure the growth is sustainable.
Jason Dawson, chairperson for eXplore Central North Island said collectively the eight regions of New Zealand present a compelling itinerary for UK travellers which include some of New Zealand’s must-do attractions, as well as a vast array of emerging, off-the-beaten-track experiences.
“Your Central North Island journey begins just 60 minutes south of Auckland Airport including some of the most iconic and popular east coast beaches, the spiritual home of surf on the west coast, the heart of geothermal and volcanic activity in New Zealand, the home of the Maori King and Maori culture, the northern ski resort, the country’s largest lake, popular short walks and cycling trails, the first place in the world to see the sun and the iconic award-winning region of wine,” said Dawson.
eXplore Central North Island is SLC’s second client in New Zealand, joining a portfolio of over 20 clients ranging from Australian destinations, to Thai hotel groups, cruise lines and destination management companies.