STAPP

Three of the operator’s tourism businesses will be brought out of hibernation.

Tourism minister Kelvin Davis has defended the Government’s support for AJ Hackett Bungy NZ under questioning in Parliament.

The Govt’s exclusion of ITOs from receiving STAPP grants is devastating and will slow recovery, say operators.

The minister justifies his STAPP decisions and says those who missed out must assess their “long-term viability”.

It was “not a suitable fit”, says one of the country’s top visitor attractions.

From large aquariums to cycle rentals, both well-known and relatively obscure businesses have secured STAPP support.

The Govt also unveiled a $20m loan facility for ITOs and a $50m events fund.

Dunedin City Holdings has applied to the Government’s Strategic Tourism Assets Protection Programme for assets including the Taieri Gorge line.

The funding consists of a $5m grant in the first year followed by a $5m loan, if required.

Prime minister Jacinda Ardern and tourism minister Kelvin Davis are visiting Queenstown on Friday.

More than 300 businesses have applied for support from the Government’s Strategic Tourism Assets Protection Programme.

Operators have until 5pm today to get their applications in for support from the Strategic Tourism Assets Protection Programme.

Around 60 operators are now expected to be helped by the Government’s Strategic Tourism Assets Protection Programme, says Kelvin Davis.

The funding follows the $4m announced for Tourism Holdings’ Discover Waitomo.