LOTR success a great boost for tourism

3.00pm

Tourism is off to a great start this year and the Government is hoping the Lord of the Rings success will keep it that way.

Tourism Minister Mark Burton said today 2003 was a record year for visitors but in January this year arrivals were 11 per cent up at 244,300.

"Peter Jackson has been absolutely dedicated to making sure the international film industry knows that the Lord of the Rings was a wholly New Zealand project," he said.

"Only four short years ago New Zealand was not particularly well known as an international destination.

"Last night, the entire world saw the proof that New Zealand is one of the most exciting, innovative and creative nations in the world -- an invaluable boost to our entire tourism sector."

Mr Burton said Whale Rider had also given the world a glimpse of New Zealand's unique culture and heritage.

"On an entirely different scale, Niki Caro and her team have illustrated our talent at telling powerful, distinctly New Zealand stories that speak to people all over the world."

- NZPA

Herald Feature: Lord of the Rings