Prime Minister John Key emphasises that tourism has to resume quickly for Kaikoura to succeed
Holidaymakers are being urged not to write off Kaikoura as a destination over the summer as the town battles back from last week's earthquake.
Destination Kaikoura general manager Glenn Ormsby says people in the region have been overwhelmed by the support they have received from across the country and theworld.
He has a message for those who have asked what they can do to help.
"I would like to urge them to lock in Kaikoura as a destination to come and visit in the months ahead when we are back and open for business," he said.
"Support us with your custom and allow us to give back through the world-famous hospitality and attractions we are renowned for."
While only a few businesses are operational, Orsmby is confident most will be welcoming customers again in the coming weeks as key infrastructure is repaired.
He said there were hopes the inland road from Christchurch would be open by next week, a route that would just add an hour to the previous journey along the quake-closed State Highway 1.
To help you plan a future journey, we've rounded up some of the best content from nzherald.co.nz's travel archive about Kaikoura and the surrounding area . . .
