Bay of plenty picked to showcase NZ beauty (+video)

The view from Mauao overlooking Mount Maunganui as the sun sets. Photo/file

Bay of Plenty's magnificent scenery has proven to be one of the perfect stages to show the world what 360-degree filming can deliver.

Tourism New Zealand and Nikon Australia have today launched a new global partnership to deliver stunning travel experiences that showcase New Zealand's spectacular landscapes using Nikon's KeyMission 360-degree camera.

A screen grab from the 360 video shows the view from the top of Mauao, Mount Maunganui.

The videos focus on three areas: the pristine wilderness of Doubtful Sound, the Bay of Plenty coastline and Auckland's thriving multicultural hub, including Waiheke Island.

Tourism New Zealand general manager Australia Tony Saunders said it was not surprising New Zealand was chosen to showcase Nikon's new camera.

"Magnificent landscapes and scenery and world class action packed activities make it a photographer's paradise.

"We are thrilled to be the first national tourism board in the world to partner with Nikon Australia. This is one more important opportunity to demonstrate yet another unique aspect of New Zealand, adding depth and richness to what we offer."

The Nikon partnership announcement coincides with Tourism New Zealand's launch of a photography hub, New Zealand through a lens on newzealand.com.

The hub highlights some of the photographic hotspots in New Zealand and provides details of special photography tours, walks and workshops.

Tourism Bay of Plenty chief executive Kristin Dunne said its partnership with Tourism New Zealand gave the region the opportunity to be selected as one of three regions to showcase the new technology.

"This kind of immersive technology changes the way we can exhibit our region to the world, giving potential visitors a chance to live - or relive - the beauty of the Bay and hopefully motivate them to make the journey to see it in real life.

"Tourism and travel photography is an increasingly popular way to inspire, as exemplified through the growth of Instagram, and with this technology it will only go from strength to strength."