by Mathew Churchill

Since time began, Australia and New Zealand have been fierce rivals. We beat them at cricket, they beat us at rugby union, we send our possums to ruin their environment, they send themselves to ruin Bondi Beach.

But when it comes to tourism we could soon be working together in perfect harmony if the concept of joint marketing continues to gain momentum. Already the idea is being supported by many in the travel industry, according to a survey by Roy Morgan Research.  

Of the 234 respondents, consisting of delegates to next month’s Tourism Futures conference, 34% agreed that cooperative marketing between the two countries is a good idea.

Tourism Futures convenor Tony Charters said “Australia and New Zealand are complementary destinations rather than competitive destinations. Australia can’ t do glaciers and Fjord-lands, New Zealand can’t do deserts and outback experiences.”

With Australia and New Zealand so remote for the US, UK, and European markets, it seems to make sense that, by working together, we spruik the best the region has to offer being the best the world has to offer in one corner of the globe.