Cook Island Tourism stimulating tourism through New Zealand Famil

Cook Islands Tourism Corporation New Zealand has recently hosted a VIP familiarisation tour of the destination from 18-22 March. The 15pax comprised of senior wholesale and marketing representatives as well as key New Zealand media from trade and mainstream publications.
New Zealand manager Chris Ingram says the sole aim was for both groups to see firsthand that Aitutaki is back after the devastation of Cyclone Pat and to assure visitors that its business as usual on Rarotonga and in the Cook Islands.
“These people are critical in getting the message to New Zealanders that there are no concerns about coming to the Cook Islands following on from the cyclone and particularly to Aitutaki.”
The VIP visit was timed in conjunction with a $1 incentive campaign where New Zealanders booking a holiday to the Rarotonga can fly to Aitutaki for $2 return. Mr Ingram says the uptake is hugely encouraging with a five night minimum stay on Rarotonga and three night stay on Aitutaki to take advantage of this deal.
“Our preferred suppliers have all got behind it with fantastic product in the market which the New Zealand consumer is lapping up. Forward bookings have been a concern for operators, particularly in Aitutaki so the VIP visit and the $1 campaign were positioned to change this and the great news is it is working.”
Mr Ingram says it was important that the trade and media guests gained a real and authentic experience of the strong product range offered in the Cook Islands. Consequently their programme included an overview of various tours, site visits and even some spa therapy.
“We also incorporated a one on one workshop between senior wholesalers and local operators on Rarotonga to discuss ways in which they could work together. Jo Kennedy from Air New Zealand presented Air New Zealand’s plans for the coming months and touched on how the airline is committed to its relationship with the Cook Islands. We also provided opportunities for our industry to host dinners with local operators on both islands for networking and to allow relationships to be formed.”
Mondo’s campaign leader, Angela Bartlam was one of the wholesale operators who attended. She says it was hugely beneficial in terms of increasing product knowledge and fostering relationships with suppliers.
“It was wonderful to experience the re-birth of Aitutaki post-cyclone and the general mood and positive attitude of the people after such a traumatic time – it was truly inspirational. Meeting suppliers over dinner in both Rarotonga and Aitutaki was hugely valuable. The Cook Islands really does offer something for everyone and I can’t wait to go back.”
Mr Ingram stressed that the VIP visits were not possible without the continued support from local operators.
“I cannot thank the local operators enough. Their generosity to accommodate our guests, provide tours and meals plus domestic airfares is significant. I am confident with the media coverage we will receive and the Aitutaki $1 campaigns that are now out in the marketplace they will benefit through increased bookings and New Zealanders will gain an awareness of the different experiences the Cook Islands offer its visitors.”
Tourism Corp Media Release

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