Four Queenstown Lakes’ tourism and hospitality businesses will go through a technology bootcamp over the next six months to streamline their operations and inspire others to do the same.

Wānaka Lavender Farm, Absoloot Hostel, Atlas Beer Café and Kinross Winery will be supported by local technology suppliers to put new software solutions in place.

The Digital Catalyst project was launched by the Economic Futures team at Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and had received more than 40 applicants.

QLDC destination management advisor James Mulcahy said the project will create “real-world examples” that other tourism and hospitality operators can benefit from.

“While it’s encouraging that 87 percent of applicants plan to use AI in the next year, many mentioned they’re nervous about how to go about implementing new technology,” he said.

“Using these four businesses as case studies will help demystify technology and demonstrate how to get the best from it”.

Each business will work with either Queenstown IT, Both Brains, or HeadQuarters to assess their current systems and add technology that will make the biggest difference.

Both Brains general manager Jenni Powell said the company is looking forward to helping. 

“At Both Brains, we believe technology should feel like a helping hand, not a hurdle,” she said.

“The Digital Catalyst project is a brilliant opportunity to show how even small digital tweaks can unlock big wins - whether that’s saving time, reducing stress, or simply making it easier to run a great business.”

“We’re excited to support these local businesses and help them thrive.”

Lessons and experiences from the bootcamp will be shared with the district’s broader sector and used to help inform future business capability initiatives, James said.

PHOTO: Wānaka Lavender Farm