One of Australia’s closest neighbour, New Caledonia, has launched its ‘Hello Neighbour’ campaign in an effort to continue growth in tourist numbers to the French nation.
Managing Director of New Caledonia Tourism, Jean Michel Foutrein, told Travel Weekly “New Caledonia has seen strong growth over the last 12 months with a 16 percent increase in inbound Aussie visitors throughout 2015, compared to 2014, setting a new record for the destination and securing Australia in second position behind France for visitation.”
Targeting the leisure market, Jean Michel Foutrein said “the addition of new properties from big hotel brands Hilton and Sheraton and increased air capacity has also encourage the visitation growth.”
“The Australian market is a priority for New Caledonia Tourism, with such a close proximity of just two and a half hours from Sydney, the country has a diverse offering for travellers.”
With the appointment of GTI Tourism, the new promotion ‘Hello Neighbour’ is phase two in a full integrated marketing plan including e-marketing.
Further cementing the destinations prosperous future within the Australian market, New Caledonia Tourism (NCTPS) together with Entire Travel Connection has launched a New Caledonia specialist operator – New Caledonia Travel Connection.
New Caledonia Travel Connection will join the likes of French Travel Connection; Spain & Portugal Travel Connection; and Tahiti Travel Connection, under the Entire Travel Connection banner.
The announcement was made during an event held in conjunction with the 2016 French Film Festival presented by the Alliance Francais last night, with over 80 agents in attendance. The evening also included a viewing of the French film The Brand New Testament.
NCTPS tourism director Jean-Michel Foutrein is absolutely thrilled that Entire Travel Connection has chosen New Caledonia for the next expansion of its business.
“We have no doubt that having a dedicated tour operator will be a huge win for the destination, and one with such a strong and established profile within the Australian market will be sure to enhance the destination’s appeal. We look forward to working together to showcase the beauty of New Caledonia and its islands,” Foutrein said.
Entire Travel Connection managing director, Brad McDonnell said New Caledonia with its French sophistication yet culturally diverse and rich atmosphere, not to mention it being located less than three hours from Australia, makes a very compelling proposition for the Australian traveller.
“We see huge potential with New Caledonia and we look forward to sharing our passion and invaluable tips to help agents create unique itineraries for their clients,” McDonnell said.
NCTPS, in conjunction with New Caledonia Travel Connection, Aircalin and GLP Hotels have launched an agent incentive, offering one lucky person the opportunity to win a five-night holiday in New Caledonia with return Aircalin airfares. To enter, book any New Caledonia Travel Connection package by 31 May, 2016. For further details visit www.newcaledoniatravel.com.au.
