Tourism New Zealand began administering the ADS programme in
2007. Since that date, the quality of experiences offered to
Chinese visitors has increased and so too has Chinese visitor
satisfaction.
While it is good to see these improvements in the China visitor
tourism experience in New Zealand, TNZ acknowledges that more work
is needed to continue to improve the experience for Chinese
visitors travelling with ADS tours and to ensure that sustainable
growth from this market continues.
Visitor satisfaction
According to Tourism New Zealand's Visitor Experience Monitor research,
satisfaction levels for visitors from China have steadily increased
over the past four years. In 2008 satisfaction was 8.2 out of 10.
In 2011, satisfaction was 8.8 out of 10.
Accommodation
For the majority of ADS tours Qualmark endorsed 4-star or higher rated
hotels are used to accommodation ADS tour groups.
Activities
All ADS tours include visits to at least two Qualmark endorsed
tourism activities or attractions venues.
Transportation
Qualmark endorsed transport providers are used for ADS tours and
all tour coaches must hold a minimum Bus and Coach
Association star rating of 3 stars or higher. Today,
newer vehicles and more 4-star or higher rated coaches are being
used more frequently to transport ADS tour groups.
The NZ Transport Agency works with Tourism NZ and tourism
operators to help them be successful and compliant, and to provide
a safe journey and enjoyable experience for visitors to New
Zealand.
A spokesperson from the NZ Transport Agency reports that
this cooperative approach has been successful and has contributed
to improved vehicle safety.
Tour guides
There are now 185 ADS accredited tour guides as of 31 August
2012. All of these guides have completed tour guide and first
aid training and meet minimum English language standards.