Agents around the North Island have had their knowledge of the USA tested (in a fun way) this week while also hearing more about Brand USA’s Ambassador programme and gaining an insight into some key locations.
Brand USA hosted trivia quiz events in Auckland and Hamilton, plus a breakfast club get-together in Tauranga this week.
Lexie Miliatis, trade manager ANZ for Brand USA says the response to all three functions was enthusiastic.
‘The World Cup has been great and it gave people the chance to see some of the authentic and special experiences that the US can provide. We’ve had a lot of positive vibes out of that.’
Miliatis emphasised the Get Facts Get Going resource that trade can use to provide accurate and up to date information about entering the United States to the their clients.
‘I think there are clear opportunities when it comes to rebuilding visitation to the USA from New Zealand. Of course the dollar (exchange rate) will be a challenge but the US delivers for clients in so many ways and there are special life-changing experiences to be had.’
Four of New Zealand’s eight new Brand USA Ambassadors were at the Auckland trivia event on Wednesday as were Kiwi representatives from Anaheim, Memphis, Hawaii, Grapevine, Washington DC and Utah as well as Qantas.
New Brand USA Ambassador Swapnil Bhate, Flight Centre LynnMall; Koby Jonas, Qantas; Marilo Harpley, Flight Centre LynnMall; Aaron Brako, Flight Centre St Lukes
Darragh Walshe, Hawaii Tourism; Peri McCardle, Destination DC/Grapevine Texas; Lexie Miliatis, Brand USA
Jessica Oswald, Holly Cliff, Zoe Faldo, all House of Travel Auckland City
Karen McCardle, representing Utah; Brand USA Ambassador Kimberley McCormick, House of Travel Botany Junction
