'More tourists needed' to help Christchurch

8:07 pm on 23 May 2011

Some tourism operators in Christchurch have lost 75% of their turnover as the full effects of the earthquake disaster on the region's tourism industry become clear.

The operators are among 1000 delegates attending this year's TRENZ trade show in Queenstown in which tourism operators sell their products to international travel buyers and the media.

About 95% of tourism operators in Christchurch are up and running again, and Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism chief executive Tim Hunter says all the city needs now is more tourists.

Mr Hunter says accommodation has been severely hit, with the number of beds being halved to just over 7000, but there are still plenty of motel rooms available.

The message is to come and see the city, have a look at what is going on and enjoy the suburban cafes, bars and shopping, he says.

Tough time for industry

Tourism Industry Association chief executive Tim Cossar says this year's event is seen as critical, with the local industry facing one of its toughest for years.

Mr Cossar says while natural disasters and the global financial crisis make the future look uncertain, the New Zealand industry is robust.

The next year will be a big test for New Zealand, but he is confident the industry will endure in good shape.