Maheshika Rathnayake, deputy general manager – Australia & New Zealand with Aitken Spence Travels, says the company is focusing on Australasia with clients from the region tending to stay longer and immerse themselves in the destination’s culture more than many other markets. Aitken Spence took part in recent roadshow events in Christchurch and Auckland and also hosted a famil group from Travel Advocates in September.
‘Singapore Airlines is an important partner of ours and has strong, established connections out of New Zealand,’ Rathnayake adds.
‘Experiences like having a meal with a local resident, taking part in a turtle hatching conservation project or being hands-on in a pottery workshop are all popular with the New Zealand market. We can also incorporate learning how to bake different breads in a village or with hotel partners, or visiting a weaving centre or trying batik dyeing. It is about moving beyond the commercialised offerings.’
She says rail tours are an important part of Sri Lanka’s travel industry. A cyclone late last year closed a number of tracks but these are expected to reopen soon.
Golf is another sector that has potential for the Kiwi market, says Rathnayake.
‘We have six main golf courses that can be incorporated into a golf itinerary. Green fees are reasonable and the courses can be matched with four or five star hotel accommodation. We can also combine golf with a safari and other experiences.’