Tourism Central Otago (TCO) has just returned from another successful attendance at New Zealand's largest camping and outdoor show in Auckland at the weekend. The Covi motorhome, caravan and outdoor 'Supershow' was held at the ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane over three days from 12–15 March.
It was a massive weekend for Auckland, with accommodation fully booked due to a combination of major events taking place in the city – including the Eagles shows, Volvo Ocean Race, New Zealand Wine Awards, World Cup Cricket, Pacific Fest and Auckland Arts Festival as well as the Supershow. Alexandra Park, next door to the Supershow venue, hosted one of New Zealand's largest ever rallies for New Zealand Motor Caravan Association members.
Overall this meant there was a wide demographic and large visitor attendance at the event including everyone from professionals and young families to semi and fully retired people. The majority of show attendees were from the upper half of the North Island, however this year there were also some from as far away as Invercargill.
"Many people already had plans in place for a visit to the South Island within the next 12 months that included spending time in Central Otago. This meant there was significant opportunity to help them with planning their list of activities and places to visit in Central Otago, as well as the chance to clearly deliver the regions camping guidelines," said Pam Broadhead, TCO Marketing and Product Development Manager
"Cycling holidays, Central Otago's unique scenery, the chance to be close to but away from the main tourism destinations and exploring the regions wineries were top items of interest. Cycling the Otago Central Rail Trail was as popular as ever, and this year the Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold were particularly interesting new trails for those planning a return visit," Mrs Broadhead said.
As part of the stand, TCO ran a competition in association with Britz Campervans (official partner of Nga Haeranga New Zeland Cycle Trails) and local operators that was well received. The winner will be drawn later this week and the lucky person will win a six-day holiday exploring the best of the region.
The motorhome and caravan market are a key segment of the Central Otago visitor market. Research confirms they stay longer than the average visitor, with the average New Zealand Motor Caravan Association member spending 75 nights away from 'home' per annum. In Central Otago they also form part of our seasonal workforce.