Learning about New Zealand on an immersive virtual fam

LOTS TO LEARN

Sarah Watson, director of independent agency Travel Impressions of Tring, knows New Zealand well, having lived there for seven years, and is a Gold Level New Zealand Specialist – yet she still learnt a great deal from the first virtual fam she joined.

“It was great as we effectively experienced it without being there. I really liked the [point-of-view] format and it certainly holds your interest. There was also a bit of news about the destination too, which was great.”

She says a highlight was the walk through the Waipoua Forest. “It was really interesting, learning about the Maori people and their different gods.

“People are more and more interested in getting those cultural experiences rather than just seeing the main sites – they want to get a lot more out of their trips now, especially after not being able to travel for so long.

“We always like to add one or two different, less touristy experiences to a trip, so it was very helpful to have been shown these on a virtual fam.”

The next two virtual fams are on 10 November at midday, exploring the Wairarapa and Akaroa; and on 1 December at midday, with a focus on the Wanaka and Fiordland.

By joining the virtual trips, agents will contribute to the protection of New Zealand’s unique biodiversity, with Tourism New Zealand planting one native tree along the virtual fam itinerary for every 10 live participants.

Agents can sign up to the remaining virtual fam trips by visiting traveltrade.newzealand.com