Auckland Airport has opened applications for its sixth annual tourism development grants. The NZ$100,000 (US$70,000) grant is open to New Zealand-based tourism operators and organizations with strategies to stimulate year-round visitation to the country.
Every year, Auckland Airport brings travel and tourism leaders from throughout New Zealand together for an international travel summit, operating as a chance to contribute to a forum of topics that are important to the tourism sector.
In 2017, Auckland Airport awarded two grants of NZ$50,000 to Eat NZ and Haka Tours. This year, one grant of NZ$100,000 will be awarded to support the development of a strategy that uses ‘out of the ordinary’ thinking to promote New Zealand as a year-round visitor destination.
Scott Tasker, general manager – aeronautical commercial at Auckland Airport, said, “Six years into our tourism development grants program, we are pleased with the success of our past recipients and how each year the industry continues to respond eagerly to these grants.
“The ability of New Zealand operators to offer outstanding, year-round, country-wide travel experiences is key to the support, ongoing development and profitability of the New Zealand tourism industry, as well as the sustainability of airline operations that serve New Zealand.
“With tourism being New Zealand’s top export earner, we’re excited to support what is a growing, dynamic and important industry for our country. Encouraging travelers to explore more of New Zealand across the year brings economic benefits to communities around the country and we look forward to seeing what this year’s applicants have to offer to keep the momentum and build on the industry’s success.”
Applications are open until June 30 at www.travelsummit.co.nz
