I-Site shuts up shop

‘‘Access to information online has revolutionised the way people book their travel ’’

Porirua’s i-Site is closing at the end of the week.

Euan Dempsey, acting chief operating officer for Porirua City Council said two permanent jobs and two fixed term contract roles will be lost when the i-Site shuts its doors.

‘‘With the demolition of the i-Site building due to start next month, we took the opportunity to rethink the purpose and the need for an i-Site in Porirua,’’ he said.

Dempsey said declining revenue and visitor numbers coupled with the significant cost to maintain an accredited i-Site meant a change was needed.

‘‘Among other things, access to information online has revolutionised the way people book their travel with bookings now mostly done via the internet.’’

An information centre is going to be set up in Pataka with plans for one permanent staff member.

Dempsey said the centre will initially be a Monday to Friday service, providing general information about tourism and events.

Bookings are being welcomed at the AA Centre in the CBD, which provides bookings at no cost for InterCity buses, the Interislander Cook Strait Ferry, Tranz Scenic trains, accommodation and rental cars. No fees apply.

The demolition of the earthquakeprone i-Site building and the old public toilets in Lyttelton Ave will take place this month.