Renowned travel guide Lonely Planet has once again ranked New Zealand in the top ten travel destinations in the world.
New Zealand was ranked the number two 'favourite destination' of travellers worldwide, according to new book Lonely Planet Bluelist 2007, following Australia, and ahead of Britain, Thailand, Greece, Italy and the US. A number of New Zealand locations and activities also gained a mention in the book, with Lonely Planet Bluelist 2007 devoting a double-page spread to New Zealand.
'This recognition for New Zealand is all the more important as it comes from the people who are experiencing it first-hand,' says George Hickton, Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive. 'The world is moving more and more towards listening to what those who are experiencing the product have to say - blogs, podcasts and web forums are becoming increasingly important in spreading the word about destinations. I am delighted that New Zealand has been ranked so highly.'
Lonely Planet Bluelist 2007 is an annual book capturing the hottest trends, destinations, journeys and experiences for the year ahead, as recommended by Lonely Planet staff, authors, and travellers themselves. The 'favourite destination' list was compiled from a worldwide poll of 32,000 travellers.
Wellington is listed as one of the world's top 10 'Cities on the Rise' and recommended as 'gaining in reputation as a place to be in the southern hemisphere'. Diving the Rainbow Warrior is listed as one of the top ten dive experiences in the world, while tramping the Milford Track is one of the best 'slow travel' adventures in the world.
Mr Hickton says the high ranking is the result of the collective efforts of the New Zealand tourism industry. 'Our industry works very hard to ensure the quality of the tourism experience in New Zealand is as high as possible. This award is another endorsement of this hard work'.
Further information:
Cas Carter
Corporate Communications
Tourism New Zealand
Phone +64 4 917 5410
New Zealand in Top Ten Travel Destinations
