Tourism agency opens in India

Tourism New Zealand now has a presence in one of our smaller but fast-growing markets.

The government marketing agency opens an office in Mumbai, India, this week in an effort to tap into that country's growing enthusiasm for travel and leisure.

The number of Indian tourists visiting New Zealand has more than doubled over the past two years, from 8300 in 2000 to 17,300 last year.

The opening of Tourism New Zealand's Indian office coincides with a roadshow involving 19 New Zealand tourism businesses which are making presentations to the Indian travel industry.

"Targeting the affluent north Indian market fits perfectly with our strategy of attracting visitors who will stay longer, spend more and come again," said the chief executive of Tourism New Zealand, George Hickton.

"Our office in north India will allow us good access to the affluent markets in Delhi and Mumbai.

"This area is home to a wealthy population that is keen to travel."

Hickton said Indian tourists tended to fit the agency's "ideal visitor" profile.

They were high spenders who sought out natural attractions and scenic landscapes and enjoyed adventure activities.

"The groundwork has been laid and now is the time to commit more resources and let Indian travellers know about the diversity New Zealand offers," Hickton said.

"This will mean working with the Indian travel industry to educate them about our attractions."

That work will include offering training to the Indian travel industry and "familiarisation" trips to New Zealand.

Tourism New Zealand will also build relationships with Indian media and promote links between the New Zealand and Indian tourism industries.

About 4.4 million short and long-haul outbound travellers leave India each year and with strong economic growth forecast for the country over the next few years that number is expected to grow.

The Tourism New Zealand office will be headed by Kiran Nambiar, who previously worked for Kuoni India, a major outbound Indian travel wholesaler.

Tourism New Zealand already has offices or agents in Australia, China, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, Britain and the United States.