Tourism Industry Forum begins

The tourism industry forum began on an upbeat note at the opening night function held at Crown Beach Resort in Arorangi on Monday evening.
Tourism Board Chairman, Tata Crocombe reiterated the good news that visitor numbers to the Cook Islands rose above 100,000 for the first time ever in 2009. Part of the success was due to the provision of the government stimulus package of $1million in 2009 which was put toward a marketing campaign to promote our country as a must-see destination. The other was the contribution by Air New Zealand and Pacific Blue in providing extra flights in order to cater for the increased numbers.
The Chairman praised Air New Zealand which provides 9,200 extra seats during the months of August-October 2009 (to cater for increased numbers for special events: our Constitution celebrations, World Youth Netball 2009, Pacific Mini Games 2009, Maori King visit).
He credited the Air New Zealand Los Angeles (LAX) route to be of great benefit to the country which would otherwise revert to a seven month tourist destination instead of all year round. Cook Islands could also capitalize on the visitor numbers expected for the Rugby World Cup 2011 to be held in NZ, some of whom could be enticed to visit Cook Islands as well.
Exciting developments are the direct Sydney-Raro flights by Air New Zealand which will begin on Sunday 4 July on a four month trial period. However, in order to work (in the long term) there will need to be a sustained campaign to promote the new service.
Upcoming infrastructure projects which will help stimulate tourism: alternative port in Arorangi for cruise ships; Punanga Nui market as a 6 days per week market; walkways to cater for ecotourism; lagoon management plans; and cycle ways integrated with those in NZ. No details provided on any of these concepts but the industry leaders are convinced these will assist in the continued growth of visitor numbers.
Other contributing factors are that economic downturn was much milder in our major markets of New Zealand and Australia compared to that experienced in the North American and European economies. China is an emerging market with the Minister of Tourism, Hon Robert Wigmore due to sign a memorandum of understanding next month.
The forum is aimed at promoting awareness within the industry of the opportunities and challenges in the tourism industry and how the operators can make the most of the opportunities individually and collectively. Group sessions are being held on Tuesday and Wednesday at the Titikaveka College with individual one on one sessions with overseas consultants on Thursday and Friday by appointment only with enquiries to the marketing division of CI Tourism Corporation.

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