In Box: Matchmakers

The NZ 2011 Office is recruiting members for its Business Club to host international visitors here for RWC 2011.
With over 85,000 visitors expected at RWC 2011, communications manager Anna Thomson says there are plenty of opportunities for local businesses to show off their talents and develop some long-term international relationships during the tournament.
The NZ 2011 Business Club aims to connect local business hosts with international business people while they’re in New Zealand for the tournament.
Thomson says international guests may be coming here to see some great rugby, but they’re also interested in experiencing more of New Zealand and what makes us tick.
“Hosting creates great environment for making new and enduring relationships, and means our visitors get personalised and unique experience of New Zealand. Developing international connections is also great for business.”
She adds that hosting can take many forms, from BBQ on the beach to attending an REAL New Zealand Showcase or REAL New Zealand Festival event together.
The Government has set up the NZ 2011 Office to help New Zealanders get involved in RWC 2011, and to create lasting benefits for industry, business and local communities. Its programmes include nationwide festival, sector showcase and business initiatives.
The Office is recruiting international business people through government and business connections, events, relationship marketing and its online Business Club tool.
The REAL New Zealand Festival (realnzfestival.com) and the REAL New Zealand Showcase (realnzshowcase.com) run alongside the tournament from 9 September to 24 October 2011.
Together, says Thomson, they make up the biggest celebration of our country ever staged and have rich and varied programme showcasing New Zealand’s arts, food and wine, heritage, cultures, entertainment, industries and businesses, experiences and lifestyle.
“2011 is New Zealand’s year. No matter where you live in the country, you’ll experience the excitement of being host of Rugby World Cup 2011.
“Hosting is more than putting on great event and making sure our visitors have fabulous time. It’s about showing the world what we’re made of and how unique we are.
“We can all play part in that, at time where the world is focused firmly on New Zealand.”
For more information visit:
• nz2011.govt.nz/business
• realnzfestival.com
• realnzshowcase.com