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Bumper business for i-SITEs over rugby period

Tourism New Zealand

Thursday 6 October 2011, 5:47PM

By Tourism New Zealand

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i-SITE network staff across the country have been well prepared for increased business during Rugby World Cup 2011.
i-SITE network staff across the country have been well prepared for increased business during Rugby World Cup 2011. Credit: Tourism New Zealand

Increased visitor numbers and attendance in many i-SITES across the country is thanks to those visiting New Zealand for Rugby World Cup 2011 and additional preparation of i-SITE staff.

For the week ending 18 September, Dunedin i-SITE increased visitor numbers by 47 percent on the same period last year, with income up 49 percent. This included a sharp increase in the number of accommodation and airport shuttle bookings. They also saw an increase in local tour bookings.

It's taken one, sometimes two staff at the Dunedin i-SITE to manage accommodation bookings alone. Training and Administration Officer Manager Peter Campbell says they've been able to coordinate accommodation for all those who requested it, even though demand outgrew supply in some types of accommodation.

"We've had some Dunedin folk ring up and say they'd like to help out where they can and have offered rooms. So we've passed their details on to visitors requesting that style of accommodation. It's great to see."

Repeat business also increased. "We had people coming here for the first game wanting accommodation, then coming back a second and third time for the other games to find out about activities like wildlife and city tours - it doesn't always happen that way as people move on. So we've been instrumental in ensuring visitors make the most of their stay."

Taupo i-SITE visitor numbers were up approximately 30 percent for September, on the same period last year, with income up 115 percent. Visitors from Ireland take the top ranking in terms of numbers, with Canada and South Africa also showing increases. Adventure activities like bungy, tandem sky diving, jet boating and white water rafting were the most asked for.

i-SITE Executive Manager Paul Yeo says while not all i-SITES have seen a sharp increase in turnover, generally it's been a pretty good time for both i-SITE staff and visitors.

"Overall i-SITE staff have found those here for RWC 2011 happy, easy going, and have commented on the value of i-SITE staff and information."

Additional training for i-SITE staff leading up to RWC 2011 included REAL NZ Festival collateral, training special volunteers, specific training of Maori tourism products, and the establishment of the concept i-SITE based in The Cloud on Auckland's waterfront.

i-SITEs are part of a national network of over 80 centres and 500 full-time staff who provide expert, local knowledge from well trained staff.

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