A report into the state of the NZ tourist market has emphasised the 'irrelevance' of NZ as a tourist market. Understandably so when you consider:
1. NZ just suffered an earthquake which destroyed most of the iconic infrastructure in the city. The implication being that it will be a construction zone for the next 4 years at least, and with a lack of basic services and attractions.
2. NZD is fairly high against most currencies because of strong commodity prices.
3. NZ is getting some bad press over issues like racism, high crime, death of tourists because of crimes against person, or negligent tourist operators.
4. NZ service is not the best in the world - far from it
5. The global consumer confidence is not very strong at the moment. Give tourists another 5 months and their sentiments will change, starting with Australians. Theie economy grew 4% last quarter.
It is not all bad news however. Perhaps the strongest aspect of local tourist trade is the local tourist tourist organisers who see the opportunity and are working to resolve issues. This is a source of hope. The other two favourable developments is the litany of MTB and walking trails under development in NZ. Finally, the last positive aspect is the potential to boost economic development in future by spending on earthquake restoration and the hope for a big oil strike to help fund future development.
Well, I'm hoping anyway. There are too many people suffering in NZ. The country needs a big oil strike to restore confidence and prosperity, and to stop the exodus of people. Until they have that strike, and NZ'ers become sheikhs; then people will be flowing the wrong way at Auckland airport.
------------------------------------
