New impetus for Buy Far North campaign

Far North businesses have responded well to the Buy Far North campaign launched by the Far North District Council in December last year.

"The campaign has already encouraged a 20% increase in the number of businesses registered on the buyfarnorthnz.com website with over 300 now involved in the campaign," Community Development Manager James Bews-Hair said today.

A further promotion involving radio advertising has now been launched to add value to the print media campaign last year. The second phase campaign is designed to reinforce the message and to target the Auckland market in anticipation of an Easter influx of visitors.

The campaign includes a monthly draw for businesses registered with a prize which provides a $500 radio advertising package through More FM.

"Based on the feedback received and the demand for car-bumper stickers and window promotions, we are confident the message is starting to get through to consumers," he said.

In difficult economic times, the campaign was a cost-effective way for the council to show support for the business community. The Mediaworks network was providing additional free advertising slots as part of the company's commitment to support the Buy Far North campaign.

"After Easter we will review progress to date and look to further ways to get the buy local message across," he said.