Finalists introduced in New Zealand tourism awards

July 12, 2021

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Some of the best tourism in the country will compete in the 100% Pure New Zealand Experience Awards.

The awards, organized by Qualmark, Tourism New Zealand and Air New Zealand, announced 47 finalists, recognizing outstanding tourism companies across the country.

The popular attraction on the theme of Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set is among the finalists.

BROOK SABIN / stuff

The popular attraction on the theme of Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set is among the finalists.

Finalists include well-known experiences such as Waiheke Island EcoZip adventure, Hobbiton movie set Tours, Hanmer Springs Resort & Spa, and Queenstowns Shotover jet.

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Many finalists have been recognized for the positive impact they have had on their communities, especially during Covid-19.

Canterbury-based GCH Helicopters continued to offer their air rescue and Flying Doctor services during the lockdown, while Carino Wildlife Cruises took advantage of the decline in attendance as an opportunity to focus on their local community and take in children who had not yet witnessed it was the water.

Others have been praised for their focus on sustainability, such as Ruapehus Nightsky Cottagethat encourages guests to immerse themselves in the zero waste life.

Nightsky Cottage is a retreat surrounded by native bush.

Brook Sabin / stuff

Nightsky Cottage is a retreat surrounded by native bush.

The awards were presented for the first time in 2019. They couldn’t be awarded in 2020 due to Covid-19, which added extra meaning to this year’s awards, said Sue Parcell, chief financial officer of Tourism New Zealand, chair of the panel jury.

“We know our drivers have had an extremely challenging year, so it’s especially important to recognize their hard work at this point.”

To qualify for the awards, operators had to hold Qualmark Gold status, which recognizes the best sustainable tourism companies in New Zealand.

Waiheke Island's EcoZip Adventures were also named finalists.

Delivered

Waiheke Island’s EcoZip Adventures were also named finalists.

The operators also had to show how they recognize the core values of the tourism industry, Manaakitanga (showing Aroha to the people and the community), Tiaki (duty of care for people and places) and Wānau (maintaining connections, maintaining obligations and taking care of your own people). .

Winners will be announced on July 28th at a ceremony at the Christchurch Arts Center hosted by former All Blacks captain and current Tourism New Zealand ambassador, Richie McCaw.