Trenz to bring new products to the table in 2019

Katoa Lake Rotorua is one of the new products at Trenz 2019. Photo / Supplied

Touring a sacred island, stargazing in the world's darkest skies, taking on the exhilarating Nevis catapult, and controlled indoor freefalling are among the range of new products on offer at Trenz this year.

The tourism industry's annual trade event, Trenz 2019 takes place in Rotorua next month and will be attended by 386 buyers, the most influential in sending international visitors to New Zealand.

They will engage in four days of networking and meetings with about 300 of the country's leading tourism operators who will showcase their products and services.

A diverse range of new products will be on show, with 46 operators exhibiting at Trenz for the first time.

Among the new products is Katoa Lake Rotorua, the only company permitted to land on Mokoia Island.

The business offers visitors the experience of an authentic pōhiri upon arrival on the island, followed by a cultural performance.

"The power and raw emotion of the pōhiri, going back to a time when the ancient Māori customs and traditions were part of everyday life, is truly stunning to experience," Katoa Lake Rotorua owner/operator Fiona Kelly said.

"We're looking forward to showcasing the sacred cultural history of our Mokoia Island tours at Trenz."

Tourism Industry Aotearoa chief executive Chris Roberts said the new operators and products showcased their regions and played a role in shaping how international visitors experienced New Zealand.

"Having a diverse representation of sellers and visitor experiences from around New Zealand is a really positive thing and helps the industry encourage visitors to 'get off the beaten track'.

"New Zealand's tourism industry puts its best foot forward at Trenz, and the international buyers coming to Rotorua will be expecting to find the most exciting and unique tourism offerings and experiences that they can promote back in their home countries."

New operators also include AJ Hackett's new Nevis Catapult, iFLY Queenstown and Silver River Stargazing and Astrophotography, which offers experiences in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

Trenz host region Rotorua has ensured it is well represented with new sellers including FlexiToursNZ, Foris Eco-tours and Totally Tarawera showcasing the region's distinct landscape.

Trenz runs from May 13 to 16 and is expected to generate tens of millions of dollars worth of new tourism business for the New Zealand economy.