Auckland Airport has opened applications for its fifth round of Tourism Development Grants, totaling NZ$100,000 (US$70,770).
The fund will support initiatives that provide seasonal products targeting New Zealand’s international tourism markets. This year’s investment consists of two NZ$50,000 grants that are to be awarded to support the creation and development of tourism experiences that will attract visitors all year round.
Scott Tasker, acting general manager of aeronautical commercial at Auckland Airport, said, “Five years into this tourism grants program, we are pleased with how the industry continues to respond so enthusiastically to it.
“Tourism is clearly a vibrant and vital industry for New Zealand, offering huge economic benefits to the wider community and with recent data showing how tourism has now become New Zealand’s top export earner, we’re excited to see this year’s innovative proposals and how they will build on this success.
“What we hope to do is fund tourism initiatives that seasonally package products and help create demand across the year, but especially in our low and shoulder seasons.”
The airport has a particular interest in applications that demonstrate a ‘clustering’ of tourism products that bring together a group of operators to offer a product or experience, enabling travelers to explore more of New Zealand.
Previous grant recipients include NZ Wine, TIME Unlimited, Explore Group, Ngati Whatua Orakei, YHA, Sachie’s Kitchen, Bularangi Motorbikes and Xtreme Destinations Ltd.
The application period for this year’s grants close on June 30.
