Taupo District on itinerary for 1000 Chinese tourists

27 May 2016

A tourist initiative launched by Taupo District Mayor David Trewavas during a visit to the Chinese city of Shaoxing will see at least 1000 people from the friendship city visit here over the next 12 months.

Mr Trewavas is currently leading an 18 person trade delegation to China, profiling the Taupo District and exploring opportunities that exist with New Zealand's second largest trading partner.

The initiative was announced this week as part of the first Shaoxing Friendship City Conference, attended by representatives from 17 different countries which have existing friendship city relationships with the city. The Taupo District initiative was arranged by the Shaoxing New Zealand Association and will bring with it a number of economic benefits.

Mr Trewavas said that he was excited the district would be able to host more visitors, and showcase it to the world. Tourism remains a key component of our district's economy, and with initiatives like this, we can continue to grow our presence as a destination for this growing Chinese market.

Hopefully, if we can show these 1000 tourists some good Taupo District hospitality, they will tell their friends and family what a wonderful place Taupo is, and we can grow further from there".

Mayor David Trewavas gave a keynote presentation during the opening ceremony of the conference. The Taupo District formed a friendship city relationship with Shaoxing to foster economic ties in 2014.

ENDS

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lisa Nairne Communications Manager 07 376 0762 027 839 8410

Vicki Waterhouse Communications Advisor 07 376 0718 027 484 2549

Taupō District Council

www.taupo.govt.nz