Rotorua and the Coromandel are already well known as tourist destinations among overseas visitors so imagine how much we could have coming into the local economy if we could capture more of that market.
That's exactly what Tourism Bay of Plenty is aiming for.
The organisation is aiming to grow our tourism industry to become worth $1 billion in the next 15 years.
That is exactly the ambition and forward planning we need in our city. We have so much to offer already which makes me optimistic we can reach that ambitious goal.
A bit more marketing of the unique activities we have to offer, like trying out a Blokart, could go a long way to attracting overseas visitors to spend time here.
Not only will it be a huge boost to the economy and local businesses but it will benefit residents as well.
Encouragement and support to get new ventures off the ground will offer even more things to do in and around Tauranga - particularly in the quieter winter months when the beach is not so appealing.
The benefits do not stop there.
More attractions will create more jobs.
More attractions and more jobs will only help encourage people to move to the region.
Tauranga is already growing, and, whether we like it or not, will continue to grow.
We need to embrace it and make it a vibrant, fun and successful city which is attractive to tourists and those considering making the move.
Tourism Bay of Plenty has the right idea by planning ahead and aiming high.
