Firms looking to lure Aucklanders

Rotorua businesses are working towards attracting more Aucklanders into the city.

Destination Rotorua's marketing spokesman, Oscar Nathan, confirmed at last Tuesday's forum a domestic campaign is being set up to tap into the Auckland market.

"With the recession, yes, things have been a little tougher internationally but there are huge opportunities for us by aiming for Auckland."

Managing director for the Polynesian Spa, Martin Lobb, recently upgraded his deluxe facility due to a depressed international market and is backing the campaign.

"Look, it's a fantastic idea as the domestic market has always been our biggest.

"We are a great choice for Aucklanders but need to promote ourselves and we [Rotorua] haven't done enough of that."

Mr Nathan said although it was in the early planning stage they were hoping to deliver packages to suit double income visitors.

"For instance if Dad comes down to do a marathon then the kids could come down and do a family programme."

Auckland graphic designer Graeme Crossling said this appealed to him as work commitments meant spending time in Rotorua away from family.

"I'm starting to travel to Rotorua more for work and last year it clashed with the motorbike championships.

"The kids were really keen to go and it would have been nice to have had them here but it wasn't feasible moneywise. A family deal would have been ideal."

Mr Lobb said there were lots of different markets Auckland offers.

"Potentially they [Aucklanders] would tell people about their stay and possibly take overseas friends with them on their visits.

"Mum can get the spa treatment while Dad comes down for sporting events or maybe it's a girls' pampering weekend," he said.

Mr Nathan said it was time for Rotorua to be seen as a centre for both business and pleasure.

"We need to make some noise as we are a great alternative for Aucklanders spending more to cross the ditch for the Sunshine Coast or even Fiji," Mr Lobb said.