Regional Tourism Highlights: Jan 2019

Stewart Island made headlines this month when it was named one of the only five International Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the world.
At the end of each month, we bring you regional tourism highlights so you can stay up-to-date with airline, travel, and tourism news from around New Zealand.
Welcome to the first Regional Tourism News Update of the year. As expected, 2019 has got off to a busy start, with plenty happening all around the country.
Here are some of the top regional tourism headlines for the month.
Rise in DOC spending aimed at educating tourists
The Department of Conservation is investing more money in educating tourists in the hope they will not harm New Zealand’s environment over summer.
Stewart Island tourism ready to capitalise on dark sky status
Stewart Island has been recognised as one of only five International Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the world; a recognition that’s expected to help drive local tourism.
The best NZ regions to visit in 2019
Did your region make this list from Stuff.co.nz?
Hobbiton applies to increase tourist numbers
Matamata could see even more tourists coming through town if Hobbiton’s bid to increase tourist numbers is successful.
The numbers stack up on Wellington runway extension
In this opinion article, Stuff.co.nz columnist provides an update on the latest happenings (or non-happenings) of the proposed Wellington Airport runway extension.
Cycleway for Manawatu-Hawkes Bay highway a step closer
Transport officials are considering a cycleway as part of the Manawatu Gorge replacement road.
Ambitious changes planned for Milford Sound
Changes could be afoot for tourists visiting Milford Sound, according to Newsroom journalist David Williams. Could tourists have to pay more to visit this attraction in the near future?
How art tourism could put Whanganui on the map
The art scene in Whanganui could help drive more ‘arty tourists’ to the city.
That’s all for this month. We’ll be back at the end of February with more updates. If you want to stay up-to-date in real time, please subscribe to our Industry News Bulletin.
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