Tap into a niche market

‘Access Whangarei Map’ launch

Tiaho Trust has worked alongside the Whangarei District Council and CCS Disability Action Northland to develop a map identifying accessible public amenities, parking, restaurants, hotels and bars in Whangarei. 

One of the main objectives behind this map was not only to identify accessible buildings and services but to promote Whangarei as a desirable holiday destination for disabled people of all ages.

The rationale is to make accessibility not just a “nice to do” ethical issue but a business driven imperative. Jonny Wilkinson, CEO of Tiaho Trust says that “I think there is a real opportunity for Northland to become preferred destination for disabled tourists of all ages”. 

In times of a recession when the tourist market is shrinking, it makes sense to target a niche market.

The launch of Access Whangarei provides a perfect opportunity to introduce the concept.  Guest speakers at the launch will include Jonny Wilkinson (CEO Tiaho Trust), Jude Thompson (Whangarei District Council), Jeroen Jongejans (Dive Tutukaka) and Nineke Metz (Destination Northland). 

Accessible tourism in Europe is big nusiness, in Australia and New Zealand it is a relatively untapped market.  If you want to hear more about making your business and Northland a prefereed destination for disabled people come along to the launch of ‘Access Whangarei” being held at the Arts Promotion Trust on Monday 23rd at 4.30pm.