TRENZ Connect Online events reconnects New Zealand tourism with global markets

New Zealand tourism industry is set to reconnecting with the world in a series of online events which will virtually connect leading tourism operators with almost 300 travel buyers from around the world.

Organised by Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), next month’s three TRENZ Connect Online events are, according to TIA Communications Manager Ann-Marie Johnson, a valuable opportunity for participants to talk business and get the latest updates on New Zealand reconnecting with the world.

Johnson explains “with the recent announcement that some of our international borders will reopen sooner than expected, the timing is perfect. We can capitalise on the border news and make sure New Zealand is right up on the international travel trade radar as a destination that’s open for business and ready to welcome manuhiri.”

Featuring TIA’s new Chief Executive Rebecca Ingram as MC, the programme is a mixture of business-to-business appointments and presentations on topical issues from industry players, including Tourism New Zealand, Air New Zealand and New Zealand Tourism Minister Stuart Nash.

The three online events start on 5th April and will connect New Zealand tourism businesses with international travel trade buyers from the Americas, UK/Europe and Asia/Australia.

Johnson says despite New Zealand having had closed borders for around 730 days, there has been a great response, with the Asia/Australia event attracting almost 400 registrations, noting “while nothing beats face-to-face interaction, the pandemic has taught us that virtual events are also a great way for people to connect.”

Registrations for the April events have now closed but eligible businesses who missed out this time will be able to take part in future events.

They can also connect at any time with others who have posted their profiles on TRENZ Connect.

Johnson concludes “the beauty of the TRENZ Connect platform is that it’s ‘always on’. It allows the international travel trade to access the details of New Zealand tourism businesses 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, no matter what time zone they are in. Participants can start a conversation by sending a message at any time. So all is not lost if you can’t make these particular events.”

The events are part of TRENZ Connect, a digital marketplace launched by TIA last September to connect international market-ready New Zealand tourism operators with the international travel trade.

For more information go to www.trenzconnect.co.nz 

Image: Visitors at Waitomo Caves.