China Year of Tourism: China is the second largest source of visitors to New Zealand

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New Zealand is preparing for an extra influx of tourists from China over the next twelve months, after 2019 was declared the China-New Zealand Year of Tourism. China is one of the largest sources of visitors to the South Pacific nation, second only to Australia. It's hoped the Year of Tourism will enhance New Zealand's reputation in China and foster stronger economic and cultural relationships.

Tourism is big business in New Zealand. As the country's biggest export earner, it employs 15 per cent of the population.

China is a key part of the tourism success story, and the Xiyangyang Travel Expo is an important lead up to the Year of Tourism because it targets Chinese New Zealanders who will hopefully share their holiday experiences with friends and family in China.

KELVIN DAVIS NEW ZEALAND'S MINISTER OF TOURISM "We really do value and welcome the Chinese visitors to New Zealand. We hope that they, we give them a warm Kiwi welcome, and that they feel valued."

Maori culture has always played a unique role in the New Zealand tourism experience and Maori Tourism welcomes the opportunity to deepen relationships with China.

SIMON PHILLIPS DIRECTOR OF REGIONS, NEW ZEALAND MAORI TOURISM "It's about establishing a relationship first before we talk about a transaction, and that is about getting to know the people who are in front of you."

And the Year of Tourism cultural exchange has already started, with Maori singing in Chinese. And what about a Chinese travel executive speaking Maori?

OWEN POLAND AUCKLAND "According to official forecasts, the number of Chinese visiting New Zealand over the next six years is expected to grow by almost 80 per cent to reach 800,000 people and they're expected to inject more than three billion dollars into the local economy."

The booming tourism industry has also provided an added attraction for Chinese investors.

XU ERWEN CHINESE CONSUL GENERAL FOR NEW ZEALAND "The rising demand for accommodation and related facilities in tourist hot-spots of New Zealand provides enormous opportunities for Chinese investors."

The New Zealand Government says the Year of Tourism is also an ideal opportunity to raise the quality of service for Chinese visitors.

KELVIN DAVIS NEW ZEALAND'S MINISTER OF TOURISM "Let's use the Year of Tourism to truly roll out the welcome mat to our Chinese visitors and showcase our unique people and culture."

And it seems that a new generation of Chinese tourists have already packed their bags. Owen Poland, CGTN, Auckland.