Lake Wanaka Tourism (LWT) is among New Zealand’s 31 regional tourism organisations (RTOs) which have been granted a combined $20.2M to support the tourism industry’s recovery. 

Tourism minister Kelvin Davis made the announcement, which includes $700,000 for LWT, earlier today (Tuesday July 28).

“The funding will allow RTOs to support their local communities and tourism operators, stimulate regional demand, leverage Tourism New Zealand’s national marketing campaign and increase the industry’s capability,” Kelvin said. 

Nearby RTOs have also received grants: Central Otago District Council ($700,000), Destination Queenstown ($1M), Destination Fiordland ($400,000) Clutha Development ($400,000) and Great South ($700,000).

“Lake Wanaka Tourism is delighted with the outcome…” LWT media advisor Gizelle Regan told the Wanaka App.

“The funding will be used to assist with domestic marketing, industry capability building, and destination management.”

LWT has received $700,000 from the government for tourism recovery. PHOTO: Supplied

“LWT will also work alongside Destination Queenstown (DQ) and the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) to create a district wide plan, which will guide and inform the future of tourism in our wider region,” she said.

Kelvin said he was pleased the full $20.2M available had been allotted. 

“Our country’s 31 RTOs do a great job contributing to their regional economies and play an important role in supporting the tourism system,” he said.

”..the investment will enable RTOs to support the recovery and rebuilding of our tourism sector and encourage more people to explore our regions and discover their own backyard.”