Good news for tourism in the North with Rugby World Cup

Less than 60 days remain before the first Rugby World Cup team arrives in the Far North!

Mayor Wayne Brown says the Far North is privileged to have won the right to host the teams. “Foreign teams visiting our part of the country are fairly rare.”

The district’s second largest industry could get a boost during September and October if the 14,500 overseas visitors expected to visit Northland during the tournament venture to the Far North.

“It’s good news for tourism. It’s coming at a time of the year when it’s a bit empty.” He asks people to think about what they can do to be good hosts.

“We want them to leave with a good impression so they come back and tell their mates to come and enjoy a summer here.”

Bay of Islands Motel Association chairwoman Suzi Jones says few motels in the bay are fully booked during the world cup. But she is confident that business will pick up nearer to the tournament. “These days, bookings are a lot more last minute with the internet. We’re positive that it is going to happen.”

Motels are getting behind the Paint it Red campaign and are looking forward to the world cup 2011 roadshow which visits Paihia on July 28.

Kiwi rockers The Feelers will up the town’s tempo when they headline at the “it!” Bay of Islands Festival the day before the cup final on October 23.

(Source: Article courtesy of stuff.co.nz)