Kick-start cash called for
Northland’s struggling tourism and hospitality businesses need more support to recover from Covid disruptions a delegation of regional leaders have told the Government.
Far North mayor John Carter, Northland Inc chairperson Nicole Anderson, and industry leader Riki Kinnaird represented a regionally united front when they presented a support request in a meeting with ministers Stuart Nash and Kelvin Davis.
Northland Inc wants the $49 million Tourism Kick-start Fund, which was given to five South Island regions, extended to all regions throughout the country, including hard-hit Taitokerau Northland.
The fund was announced in May 2021, and recently activated with the announcements of international borders opening.
Northland Inc chairperson Nicole Anderson says: ‘‘The disruption to business operation due to border closures was felt across the country and this type of support would be well received anywhere, especially by our Taitokerau tourism and hospitality whānau.
“This fund is consistent with the request we had tabled with ministers – our businesses need help, your help, to get through to next season.”
Northland is also calling for innovative partnership activity that could create legacy learning outcomes for the region and government.
The Duke of Marlborough owner and destination management plan leadership advisory group member Riki Kinnaird says this is about problemsolving now and for the future.
“The Taitokerau Northland Education Programme designed by industry, trade, Queenstown Resort College and supported by Ministry of Education and Northland Inc, is a professional development course focused on dual heritage and partnership themes that is delivered in-region during the off-season, allowing locals to bring those stories alive at place.
“We are inviting all central and local government staff to take part in this experience that we believe will not only support our businesses but set us up for a better future as a nation.”
Like much of the country, domestic visitors travelling during school and public holidays have kept the Taitokerau Northland tourism and hospitality businesses operating to a certain degree and the international border opening announcements have been well received.
Carter says now is not the time to become complacent regarding the reality for businesses. He says some support is still necessary while visitor flows settle in over the coming months.
“While we are moving in the right direction in terms of access to market, we don’t expect to see a sudden influx of international visitors that will plug the gap for businesses. We want to continue to work together to support our industries to keep operating until trade stabilises in the coming years. Partnership is a strength in our region, and we will keep strengthening these ties.”