Terrorism incidents in Europe make New Zealand a safer choice: agents

Astrid Soeseno

New Zealand is an attractive destination not just because of its scenery and activities but because it is a safer choice than Europe, opined agents attending last week’s MEETINGS 2017 in Auckland.

“My customers are avoiding Europe now,” said Astrid Soeseno, president director of Rotama Tour in Indonesia.

Astrid Soeseno

 “Europe has often been the more popular choice because of the perceived value for money. But recently, a lot of things have happened (there) and there’s been a lot of bombings, so people are more likely to consider New Zealand or Australia,” Soeseno explained.

Soeseno was one of 29 international hosted buyers who experienced New Zealand’s offerings in a fam trip organised by Tourism New Zealand in conjunction with MEETINGS 2017. Programmes included sailing on an America’s Cup yacht, visiting picturesque vineyards, skydiving and bungy jumping.

“I think New Zealand definitely has a lot to offer,” said Jessie Heng, managing director of events company Crystal Edge Singapore. “The only thing is visitors won’t have enough time to cover so much goodness. But it’s a good problem to have.”

For Chinese delegates however, there are a few things that would hold back an enthusiastic endorsement of the country for business events.

“New Zealand is good for meetings,” said Linda Tsai, vice general manager of MICE for Apple Tour in Shanghai and Taiwan. “But we need more airline capacity from China, large convention centres as well as restaurant food for Asian diets.”

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