5 October 2018
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Royal visit
Inquiry
I'm writing a story today about the upcoming Royals visit next month now that the itinerary has been released.
May I please have some comment from Michelle Templer?
-How was the itinerary put together- who decided on what the Royal couple would do in Rotorua?
-Why do you think the attractions selected will be a good showcase of Rotorua?
-How will the Royal visit benefit Rotorua?
Response
From Rotorua Economic Development (Destination Rotorua) chief executive Michelle Templer:
We're looking forward to welcoming the Royal couple to Rotorua and showcasing our local manaakitanga on an international stage. It's also a wonderful opportunity to host the thousands of national and international visitors that will flock here to catch a glimpse of the couple at key points during the day.
The economic impact of a Royal visit is significant, ranging from the money that the visiting media and onlookers will spend in restaurants and cafes, as well as the media coverage that will be generated. Prince William's 2014 visit accumulated more than 86 million dollars in exposure for New Zealand and we expect Rotorua to feature strongly in the international coverage generated by Harry and Meghan's visit.
High profile visitors also create a long term halo effect from people wanting to visit a location to follow in their footsteps. The Royal couple's movements attract intense interest in both the UK and the US, both of which are key tourism markets for Rotorua. We're also aware that they are a popular couple in China, where they are admired for their contemporary style. Our Chinese trade partners are very interested in the Royals' itinerary and have been talking to us about replicating the Royal experience in their travel packages.
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Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Honouring the late Bea Yates
Inquiry
I'm working on a story where it has been suggested the Rotorua Library be renamed to honour the late Bea Yates.
We have had a few letters to the editor regarding this suggestion and I'd like some comment from the council please.
-Has council heard this suggestion?
-Is it a possibility to change the name to honour Bea Yates?
-What would the name be changed to if it does go ahead?
-Why would it be fitting to change the name if it were to go ahead?
Response
From Rotorua Library Director, Jane Gilbert:
This hasn't been put to or discussed by Council but we certainly acknowledge Aunty Bea's contributions to Rotorua and value the relationship we enjoyed with her over the years. The library really appreciated her participation in a number of children's programmes at the library as well as launching a number of te reo Māori books for children.
