What you did: Christchurch & Canterbury Convention Bureau (CCCB) and Emirates were delighted to give six Australian incentive agents an insight into a variety of unique experiences and the incentive travel potential of the region.
Day One: The group began its trip in style on business class with Emirates across the Tasman, and on arrival enjoyed a stretch limousine transfer to the Air Force Museum. All aboard for a classic City Loop Tour on one of the historic Christchurch Trams provided a great introduction to the CBD and overview of centrally located venues, with commentary by the Tram Driver.
A short stroll from the Millennium Hotel, and the group arrived for dinner at the Octagon Restaurant with gothic church architecture, nightly live jazz and warm welcome from proprietor and mien-host Alan Slade.
Before the welcome night ended the guests had the opportunity to visit the stylish end of town with drinks at Christchurch’s newest “hot spot”, SOL square.
Day Two: A room-service breakfast helped the early start as the group left the urban base of Christchurch, and in a private carriage aboard the TranzAlpine train, they travelled into the heart of the South Island alpine region. Hasslefree Tours welcomed the group as they disembarked at Arthur’s Pass and brought them by road past ancient beech forests, ravines and lakes which demonstrated the terrain ideal for 4WD activity and explanations of how group activity is for upwards of 300 participants. A leisurely lunch at Springfield Café was in contrast to adrenalin surges on the Waimakariri River, jet-boating with Alpine Jet and Garden City Helicopter’s spectacular helicopter chase in this remote region.
Dinner was on stage at the James Hay Theatre, theatrically themed by ThemePro, with entertainment from local artists from Southern Opera.
Day Three: The agents began their final day at the International Antarctic Centre, with a private breakfast in the Encounter penguin enclosure, courtesy of Continental catering. Back in town, guests had time to explore the Garden City through the Arts Centre markets and cultural precinct before punting leisurely on the Avon River followed by alfresco lunch at Liquidity on the banks of the Avon. A leisurely bike ride from Cathedral Square brought the group through the Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park Golf Course to Mona Vale Homestead, for farewell high tea.
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