Although Korean market arrivals have had a disappointing ride
through much of 2011, optimism is growing in-market that new work
to promote the New Zealand summer will deliver a welcome
change.
Tourism New Zealand General Manager Asia Markets, Mark Frood
says the recent launch of co-ordinated partner activity illustrates
a growing confidence in the market.
"Korean Airlines has announced a 30 per cent increase in capacity
to New Zealand for the high season which is welcome news for the
tourism industry and provides strong opportunities for arrivals
growth.
"Forward bookings for December are already some 10 per cent higher
than December of last year.
"We have been working directly with the airline to support this
increase, launching a digital campaign in the Seoul market to
promote summer travel to New Zealand.
"In addition, we have worked with Korea's four leading travel
agents Hanatour, Modetour, Lotte tour and Hanjin travel to launch
an integrated New Zealand campaign promoting summer travel
deals.
Mr Frood says that in the wake of Rugby World Cup (RWC), Tourism
New Zealand and Air New Zealand supported an agent familiarisation
from Korea to enable travel agents and travel planners to
experience a range of New Zealand's products and experiences, first
hand.
Destinations included Christchurch, Mt. Cook and Queenstown
including Milford Sound and a popular trekking experience to
Routeburn.
"And more campaigns are under development," he says.
A range of targeted marketing activities are planned for free and
independent travelers, promoting campervan, trekking and honeymoon
segments from key partners including Hyecho Travel, Segero Travel,
Wannatour and NZ Tours.
Promotional activities include various online promotions
leveraging the newly launched nz.com plus trade and consumer
events.
For more information on in-market activity in Korea, visit
the market and stats pages of the website.