4 February 2022
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: COVID border restrictions
Enquiry
I am working on a story about border restrictions. I have an 11am embargoed press release, which I can share with you in confidence. The PM says fully vaccinated Kiwis and other currently eligible travellers from Australia will be able to travel to New Zealand from 11:59pm Sunday 27 February, and instead of going into MIQ, will be able to self-isolate. In step 2, just two weeks later, fully vaccinated New Zealanders and other currently eligible travellers from the rest of the world will also be able to travel into New Zealand without going through MIQ. I have some questions and my deadline is 2pm today.
What will this mean for tourism in Rotorua?
Can you share any data on how much tourism spend is worth to Rotorua?
What feedback have you been receiving from operators, and in your view will they welcome this announcement and why?
Response
From Andrew Wilson, Chief Executive Rotorua Economic Development:
It’s great news to hear that we’ll soon be able to welcome home our friends and whānau from Australia without the requirement for them to stay in MIQ facilities.
The return of international students is also great step forward and for Rotorua will have significant impact.
Unfortunately however, there is unlikely to be any significant upside for our visitor economy until self-isolation requirements for international visitors are reviewed.
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Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Fundraiser for Tonga
Enquiry
I am doing a story about the fundraising event the Tongan community is having on Feb 26. I believe Steve Chadwick will be showing her support for the community at a photo we are taking for the Daily Post this afternoon.
- What contribution will the RLC be making to the fundraiser?
- What contribution will the RLC be making to the Tongan community based in Rotorua?
- Can you please explain what support will be given to the Tongan community both in Rotorua and their families based in Tonga?
- Any other comments are welcomed.
Response
Reporter was advised that the Mayor would be attending in order to understand the current need that the Tongan community has and would liaise with RLC to understand if/what support could be offered.
The reporter was advised that comment would be provided once more was known about Council’s potential contribution.