Some say the New Zealand is the perfect country for HDR photography because of it’s dramatic landscapes and calming cityscape – you be the judge in our roundup of some beautiful HDR pictures from all over New Zealand.
Video: The Kiwi Accent – Dissecting the New Zealand Accent
One News report on how the New Zealand accent has changed noticeably over the last 30 years.
Whimsical Video Captures the First Snow in Wellington Since the 1930′s
It hasn’t snowed in Wellington, New Zealand since the 1930′s. That changed recently and a videographer captured the scenes in central Wellington of people enjoying the fluke of weather.
Snow on Cuba Mall in central Wellington (HD) from Ro Tierney on Vimeo.
New Zealand Man Builds Working Jetpack – Video
To demonstrate flight high above the ground and the concept of the ballistic parachute as an emergency safety system, the Martin Jetpack was flown to around 1500m (5000ft), brought down from this height and an off-the-shelf ballistic parachute was deployed.The aircraft was flown by James via radio control in a chasing helicopter – also demonstrating the ability of the technology to apply to UAV applications. Jetson, Martin Aircraft Company’s weighted dummy was on board, and the parachute was placed out front for visibility and weight balancing.The video features inventor Glenn Martin and RC pilot James Bowker. The jetpack ascended initially at 4m/s (800ft/min) and the climb took about 6 minutes. The parachute was deployed at around 3000ft above ground level. The aircraft sustained some damage on impact, but we would expect that it is likely a pilot would have walked away from this emergency landing. The total flight was just under 10 minutes.
Air New Zealand Hires Richard Simmons for New Safety Video
This video leaves me speechless. Not sure whether I’m horrified or amused – but this video is kind of awesome.
Nice to see Richard Simmons is still kicking!
New York Yankee Curtis Granderson shares the fun of 100% Pure New Zealand
Visit PureNZ to find out how to experience a trip for 100% you – just like Curtis Granderson of the New York Yankees.
New Zealand is Open for Business
I thought this was definitely worth sharing.
A message from Tourism New Zealand CE Kevin Bowler
Today marks 14 days since the tragic earthquake in Christchurch. Media coverage in New Zealand continues to be significant, and although international coverage is not at the level it was, the earthquake is still making headlines, principally in Australia and throughout the Asian region.
You will have seen from the updates we have been putting out and the joint statement we released with TSG and TIA last week that the situation is continually evolving.
On Thursday the rescue efforts changed to one of recovery, and over the last few days there has been discussion in the media and elsewhere about the impact of the earthquake, not only on Christchurch, but on New Zealand. Yesterday, we were informed the National Crisis Management Centre is no longer advising against non-essential travel to Christchurch city.
This means we are in a position to strengthen the message that, while Christchurch city needs time to recover, New Zealand tourism is absolutely open and operating.
To date our role in providing information to media and trade has been to outline what is happening on the ground so that travel advisories, accommodation stock and alternate planning could quickly be referenced both in New Zealand and offshore.
In Australia we have issued 11 separate travel trade and media updates. We’ve been working directly with Australia-based tour operators to help quickly change itineraries for tours that were in the South Island, when the earthquake struck or soon after.
Up until now, the media coverage in Australia has dramatically covered the tragedy with vivid stories and pictures. Much of the media focus is now turning to economic and RWC impact, length of recovery for the region, and in some cases how Australians can support the recovery effort. We are also using this change in focus to align our new messaging.
I am conscious that in paying our respect we must also keep in front of those who are planning to visit, or considering a visit. This is why we adjusted our current marketing campaigns immediately after the earthquake. The needs of future travellers are still recognised and we have been preparing PR and campaign responses.
We are planning subsequent campaign activity with a strong destination message delivered across a wide variety of media channels. The window of opportunity for this communication is being worked through. We are also intending to strengthen all of the New Zealand 100% Pure You activity being undertaken in Australia and this will include stage two of the ski campaigns (stage one included earlybird ski offers).
While our approach in Australia is important, we are equally focussed on our activity in our other offshore markets. Our New Zealand 100% Pure You campaign launched globally and is building momentum in each of the main visitor markets and airline developments provide great opportunities.
I recognise there is more to do. I am acutely aware of the challenges the tourism sector – not just in Christchurch – is experiencing throughout the country as a consequence of the earthquake and we are focussed on doing everything we can, as quickly as we can, and as sensitively as we can to support the industry.
Kevin Bowler, CE Tourism New Zealand
Doctor Who Christmas Special Finally Get an Airdate in New Zealand
According to various sources – the Kiwi’s are going to finally get to see the Doctor Who Christmas special, which already aired in Australia, Britain and America on January 29th.
Doctor Who: A Christmas Carol will air January 29th on Prime TV at 20:30.
New Commercial: New Zealand – 100% Pure You – Horse Riding
Here’s the third commercial in the new Tourism New Zealand campaign – 100% Pure You. Check it out below.
New Commercial: New Zealand – 100% Pure You – Bridge Walk
Here’s the second commercial from Tourism New Zealand in their new 100% Pure You campaign.