Ribbon cut on new information centre

OFFICIAL: Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett cuts the ribbon at the Feilding and District Information Centre Grand Opening.PHOTO: KARLA KARAITIANA

The new Feilding and District Information Centre was officially opened by Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett last Tuesday, as visitors' demand for local information continues to increase.

The Minister of Tourism and Climate Change said more tourists were wanting to connect with rural New Zealand, and every district in the country could make the most of these visitors.

"These are exciting times for tourism. More people are visiting New Zealand and staying longer.

"More and more they are wanting to travel around, visit our regions and have great experiences."

Ms Bennett said farming growth in the Feilding district was strong and the new information centre was testament to the region taking active steps to promoting their region as a destination.

"While the rest of the world is going bonkers, a lot of people are still coming to New Zealand and they want to see more places than just Auckland and Queenstown," she said. "Thanks for all the work that has gone in - it's wonderful to be here."

The information centre moved from its Manchester Square premises in May.

Feilding and District Promotion chairman Jason Smith has signed a five-year lease for the refurbished KiwiRail building at the Feilding Train Station.

Manawatu mayor Helen Worboys said the new information centre was well placed to provide an ongoing service and, show the unique attractions Feilding had to offer.

"The number of people who use the information centre has increased to include the amount of visitors too. We look forward to those visitor numbers continuing to grow and providing a place where they can get incredible information and service."