TRENZ Connect Online kicks off this week
NZ tourism reconnecting with the world in innovative online event
Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) new chief executive, Rebecca Ingram will MC the first of four TRENZ Connect Online sessions which, connecting leading New Zealand tourism operators with almost 300 travel buyers from around the world, will start on April 5.
The two-day online events, running from April 5-6 and agbain from April 13-14, will connect New Zealand tourism businesses with international travel trade buyers from the Americas, UK/Europe and Asia/Australia.
TIA communications manager, Ann-Marie Johnson said 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.
“The three TRENZ Connect Online events are a valuable opportunity for participants to talk business and get the latest updates on New Zealand reconnecting with the world,” Ms Johnson said.
“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.
“While nothing beats face-to-face interaction, the pandemic has taught us that virtual events are also a great way for people to connect.
The program offers a mix of B2B appointments and presentations on topical issues, and along with CEO Ingram, speakers will include Tourism Minister, Stuart Nash and Tourism New Zealand and Air New Zealand representatives.
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.
“The beauty of the TRENZ Connect platform is that it’s ‘always on’,”Ms Johnson said.
“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.”
Mike Parker-Brown is a UK-trained and qualified journalist and an award-winning travel communicator with more than 30 years experience.
Since 2002, Mike has worked as a freelance writer and PR consultant providing his services to major organisations in Australia and internationally in the tourism, aviation, hospitality, recruitment and export marketing sectors.
