New Zealand still open for business and travel

New Zealand is still "very much open" for tourism and business travel, despite the effects of the cargo ship MV Rena grounding off Tauranga, according to Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler.

Mr. Bowler today urged international visitors to continue with their New Zealand travel plans.

"While all New Zealanders are deeply saddened by the grounding of the Rena and the effects of the oil and cargo lost overboard, the size of the affected area is very small in the context of New Zealand's 15,000 kilometers of coastline and beaches," he said.

"The incident, while serious for Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty, is an isolated one, and confined to a small area of New Zealand. The country is still very much open for business and travel."

Mr. Bowler said that visitors to New Zealand could still enjoy a unique and invigorating experience as the country continued to offer the rich tapestry of landscapes, activities and adventures it was famous for.