Bay of Plenty tourism operators weathering the storm

9 January 2012

Tourism Bay of Plenty chairman Paul Bowker is keen to stress Bay of Plenty is still a great option for holiday-goers this summer.  The break-up of the Rena yesterday has impacted on some Bay of Plenty marine tourism operators but most businesses are operating as normal. 

“While authorities don’t recommend swimming in the sea right now, we have every confidence this will only be a short-term measure and life will be back to normal in Bay of Plenty very shortly.  This is another blow to our region’s reputation but we can get through it – we went through worse when the Rena first grounded and we came out the other side very quickly.

“There are so many great things to do here away from the beach – adventure activities, great shopping, top restaurants and cafes, wineries and hiking, to name just a few,” says Mr Bowker.

Tourism businesses are urging holidaymakers to keep Bay of Plenty on their holiday itinerary after this latest development.

Beaches are still open but Maritime New Zealand and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council recommend people stay out of the water at present due to floating debris and containers.  The only exception is Waihi Beach, which Police closed this morning due to thefts from containers washed ashore.

“Marine operators such as fishing and sailing charters, surf schools and ocean kayak tours are unable to operate at present and are waiting on further advice from officials.  They’re obviously keen to operate and several are operating from other locations – or looking to doing so – so they can start running again,” says Mr Bowker.

Raewyn Ensor from Blue Ocean Charters explains her fishing charter business is hoping to continue to operating from Tauranga and is waiting on a directive from the Tauranga Harbourmaster; however they are still operating from Whangamata.  “This has been a blow for us but we’re working hard to keep bookings and provide our customers with a great experience, whatever the location,” says Raewyn.

No public health warnings have been issued but officials are asking people to use common sense and avoid swimming in affected areas with containers and debris, and avoid contact with oil.

The community response since the Rena ran aground has been nothing short of astounding, according to Mr Bowker.  “Tourism operators are so grateful to the thousands of people who’ve given their time and energy to clean up the beaches over the past three months.  With community support like this, we can be confident in another swift response to this situation.” 

“On behalf of tourism operators, I’d also like to thank the salvors who’ve done such a great job under very difficult conditions these past few months.  Their skill and personal bravery is much appreciated,” says Mr Bowker.

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