A Government push to attract more international visitors into regional New Zealand and support tourism growth nationwide is a win for Marlborough.
Destination Marlborough General Manager Tracey Green said Marlborough was represented in five of the six initiatives announced by Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston this week.
“This is the best exposure achieved for Marlborough since the inception of Regional Tourism Boost funding. We were successful with three campaigns in Round One and two campaigns in Round Two so to be represented in five campaigns this time is a great result,” Ms Green said.
The Government’s $5 million investment will support collaborative regional campaigns designed to attract international visitors to travel, stay and dine during spring 2026 and early summer 2027, ahead of the peak tourism season.
These campaigns will encourage visitors from Australia, North America and China to stay longer, travel further and support local tourism and hospitality businesses.
Ms Green said Marlborough was included in campaigns targeting Australia, USA and Canada, and China markets led by regional tourism organisations (RTOS) in Auckland, Christchurch, Lake Taupo and Rotorua, Wellington and Hurunui.
“This round of Boost funding heavily focuses on elevating our food story as well as broadening the regional dispersal of travellers throughout Marlborough.
“We've put a lot of work into advocating for Marlborough's inclusion – it’s about getting Marlborough in the room, aligning with Tourism New Zealand’s strategy and working hard on relationships to earn our place,” she said.
For more information on the Regional Boost Funding and the specific initiatives go to: www.beehive.govt.nz/release/more-visitors-set-discover-regional-new-zealand
