Visit Ruapehu boosts local economy

Visit Ruapehu launched its first-ever TVC campaign last weekend to drive interest in the region’s two cycle trails which form part of the Government’s national cycleway network.

The Ruapehu region is home to two of the 19 Great Trail Rides that make up the New Zealand Cycle Trail network, and Visit Ruapehu is the country’s first regional tourism operator to launch such a high profile campaign to drive domestic traffic to the region to explore the historic cycle trails.

The TVC represents the first time the RTO has invested significantly in television advertising.
The 30 second TVC was filmed and produced by a local team, and encourages Kiwis to swap the intense city ‘rat-race’ for a change of pace, and a more relaxing mode of transport through visually stunning imagery of Ruapehu trails such as the Bridge to Nowhere, Fishers Track, and Ohakune Old Coach Road.

Visit Ruapehu Trust General Manager, Mike Smith says investing in a new TVC campaign reinforces the organisation’s commitment to raising awareness of the local trails that form part of the Government’s wider network.

“The Government has made developing the national cycle trail network a priority and we’re pleased to be the first to develop such a high profile campaign to generate awareness of our trails,” says Mr Smith.   “We’ve created a TVC campaign which demonstrates that the Ruapehu region is a destination that offers the perfect escape with cycling being one of the best ways to enjoy it.”

“As well as profiling the longer trail options we want to communicate that there are shorter half-day trail alternatives such as the Ohakune Old Coach Road and Fisher’s Track, perfect for those looking for short-break options.”

“The next few months are perfect to discover mountain biking in and around the Ruapehu region and we encourage all North Islanders to escape the city and spend a few days with us.”

Ruapehu’s Two Great Trail Rides include the Mountains to the Sea and the Timber Trail. All but one of the trails making up the 317km Mountains to Sea Trail are completed and are ready to ride, with the last trail (Kaiwhakauka) opening in April this year.  The Timber Trail through the Pureora Forest Park from Pureroa and Ongarue will have a partial opening in spring this year.

Visit www.visitruapehu.com for more information on the two cycle trails, accommodation, and bike transport options.