Air New Zealand gains naming rights for Queenstown International Marathon

Air New Zealand has been announced as the naming rights sponsor for one of the New Zealand's newest and most anticipated international sporting events the Queenstown International Marathon.

The inaugural marathon, set to take place on 22nd November, aims to encourage both domestic and international tourism to the region by highlighting one of New Zealand's most picturesque landscapes.

Air New Zealand Chief Commercial and Sales Officer Cam Wallace says the three year sponsorship agreement with marathon organisers Lagardère Unlimited Oceania will boost participation in this annual event, benefiting the Queenstown economy and promoting one of Air New Zealand's fastest growing destinations.

Wallace explained "we realise the significant potential this event has to put the region firmly on the 'must do' marathon map and are committed to working with our key stakeholders in Queenstown to ensure it will be a great success."

The airline will also provide marketing support through a range of communication channels.

Lagardère Unlimited Oceania Chief Executive Dave Beeche says the partnership will provide a great up-front promotional boost which will help to accelerate the growth of the event.

Beeche added "Air New Zealand really understands what this type of sporting event can bring to a region, and we are looking forward to working with them to deliver a great race for participants and the subsequent commercial benefits to Queenstown and New Zealand."

Set between the backdrop of the Crown and Remarkable Mountain Ranges, the course track is 60% hard packed smooth trail and 40% road and will start at Millbrook Resort in Arrowtown before weaving through a number of iconic visitor sites and finishing in the Queenstown Recreation Grounds.

The event encourages participation by people of all ages and ability by also having 21 kilometre, 10 kilometre and 3 kilometre options.

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