New Zealand launches a fresh tourism initiative due to slower post-pandemic travel.

WELLINGTON – 

New Zealand is introducing a fresh strategy to promote tourism, featuring the involvement of filmmaker and actor Taika Waititi, in hopes of reviving the industry following the impact of COVID-19 and travel restrictions.

On Wednesday, Tourism New Zealand will debut a 3-1/2 minute promotional video showcasing an Oscar-winning actor and his stunt double, who star in the HBO romantic comedy series “Our Flag Means Death” which was filmed in New Zealand.

According to Rene de Monchy, chief executive of Tourism New Zealand, visitors from the United States are a significant focus for the country. The movie, which was filmed in December 2022, will also be shared on various social media platforms in Australia, Germany, the UK, and select parts of Asia.

As the competition intensifies and the global economy faces challenges, it is crucial for us to continue being creative and remain at the forefront of people’s minds.

Before the COVID pandemic and the shutdown of New Zealand’s borders, the main source of foreign currency for the country was international tourism, making up approximately 5.5% of the overall gross domestic product.

The number of tourists has increased, however, the amount of international visitors in July was still 16% less than in July of the previous year.

The film, which cost NZ$689,000($409,890) to make, highlights activities like dolphin watching in Kaikoura on the South Island’s east coast and wine tasting in the country’s largest city Auckland. – Reuters