Tourism New Zealand is aiming to boost the number of Australian visitors in the off-peak season, and drum up interest in some of New Zealand's more remote tourist attractions.
The view towards Tamihau Island from Ulva Island, off the coast of Stewart Island. Photo: 123RF
The government agency has joined Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia to take 400 of Australia's top travel agents on five-day treks around the country, which include touring, cycling and skiing itineraries.
The agents have been split into groups, and are visiting almost every region, from Northland to Stewart Island.
Tourism New Zealand director René de Monchy said the aim was to help the Australian agents increase off-peak season sales to New Zealand and increase traffic to lesser-known tourist attractions.
The Tourism Industry Association aims to almost double tourism earnings to $41 billion a year by 2020.