International travel agents get taste of West Coast hospitality

The five famils – hosted around New Zealand’s premier tourism trade event, TRENZ – brought agents from key visitor markets including Germany, China, India, Japan, the UK, North America and Australia. Over 180 applications were received, with DWC selecting those best aligned to the Coast’s unique tourism offerings.

Development West Coast Destination and Tourism Manager, Andrew Aitken, said the programme helps position the region as a must-visit destination.

“By experiencing the region, these agents gain first-hand knowledge about the West Coast, which they then share with their networks, colleagues and customers,” he said.

The agents explored the region from Karamea to Haast, taking in everything from glacier heli-hikes and wilderness tours to cave rafting and thermal hot springs, and a range of local restaurants, cafés and accommodation providers.

Aitken said the famils also created valuable opportunities for West Coast operators to connect directly with the agents and get their products included in future travel itineraries.

DWC Tourism and Events Executive, Lara Thomas, said the impact of the experience went far beyond business.

“From strangers to lifelong friends – that’s the power of connection on a famil. For many of our international agents, this was their first time in New Zealand, and certainly their first visit to the West Coast.

“Together, we’ve left a lasting impression – each agent departed with a genuine piece of the West Coast in their hearts, and a piece of pounamu in their hands, symbolising a lasting connection to our people and place.”

According to Infometrics data for 2024, visitor spending on the West Coast rose by 8.4% to $531 million - more than double the national growth rate of 3.7%.