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KIA ORA
Visiting delegates would all agree that a business trip to New Zealand is well worth the 24+ hours it takes to get there, writes Cora Lydon DESTINATION
DON’T LET the long flight be a barrier to experiencing one of the most magical places on earth – instead think of the travel as part of the experience. Treat the boss or delegates to first class if you can, so they arrive in comfort. Once they arrive, the sweeping panoramas, stunning landscapes and alfresco lifestyle can make a business trip to New Zealand a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. On the most part, the climate is pretty mild and you can expect the weather to be kinder than it is in the UK. The North Island has a sub-tropical climate with warm temperatures, while the South Island tends to be cooler. Most of the rainfall occurs in winter and spring – which is the summer and autumn in the UK due to seasonal differences. There’s also the chance to thoroughly immerse delegates in the culture of the country. In New Zealand, Maori is firmly embed42
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ded in the way of life. Around 15 per cent of the total population is Maori and so their customs, heritage and language are practiced in parliament and business, as well as in day-to-day living. Locals are renowned for the warm welcome they extend to visitors. The unique Kiwi way of making people feel welcome and comfortable – known as manaakitanga – means you can relax in the knowledge that delegates you’re hosting in the country will be well looked after and supported.
SAFETY Despite concerns over natural disasters, international visitor numbers are still growing; up by 11 per cent in 2016. By the year 2022, the total number of visitors to the country is expected to reach 4.5 million. But, as New Zealand sits on the notorious ‘Ring