AS part of consolidation efforts in South-east Asia by Tourism New Zealand (TNZ), the national tourism promotion agency has decided to close its Thailand office by end-2016.
It’s two employees located in Bangkok will also finish their term in December, stated TNZ.
Revealing the reason behind the move, chief executive of TNZ Kevin Bowler, said: “With this decision we will consolidate our focus in South and South-east Asia, with particular emphasis on generating value from the India market. We will continue to support Thai Airways but again, with greater focus on its connection into India.”
Over the coming months, staff will continue to deliver activity and plan ahead to ensure continuity is achieved in Thailand over the full financial year, added Bowler, who recently announced his departure from TNZ with effect from October 28.
“The limited investment we have been making in the market is making limited impact but stretching our resource and focus,” he further explained.
“We need to be sure that our investment is targeted toward the greatest opportunities available, and is delivering the best return possible which is the reason for this decision to close.”
According to TNZ figures, visitor arrivals from Thailand remain modest, having grown from 17,000 in 2006 to 24,000 in June 2016.
