Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) is banking on the lure of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 to boost inbound tourism from India.
It has streamlined visa processing for Indian travelers and partnered with several prominent travel partners in India to market Cricket World Cup packages.
TNZ is collaborating with Indian travel agencies such as Cutting Edge Events, Fanatic Sports, Sports Konnect and TUI-ICE, and is using Kiwi cricket captain Stephen Fleming to promote travel to the tournament in India.
TNZ forecast around 10,000-15,000 Indians will arrive Down Under to watch the action, which is jointly hosted with Australia.
Last week the agency announced the easing of visa rules for Indian business travelers and processing now takes only three days.
Expedited processing can be done when travelers apply at Indian travel agencies Thomas Cook India, Kuoni India, TUI-Le Passage to India, Cox & Kings, Zenith Leisure Holidays and Club7 Holidays.
"This effort will showcase New Zealand as a stand-alone destination rather than a combination with Australia, for MICE and events," said Naveen Rizvi, senior vice president, TUI-Le Passage to India.
This was echoed by David Craig of Tourism NZ, who said: "We expect high double-digit growth from India after the World Cup. We are looking to tap youth, family and MICE segments."
