Warm welcome for Kiwi business delegates landing at the Sunny Coast.
The Sunshine Coast turned on the weather on Sunday with blue skies and a top of 27 degrees to welcome the first direct international flight of the season from New Zealand.
On the flight were plumbing and electrical industry delegates from New Zealand’s Laser Electrical & Plumbing Group.
They were greeted by offerings from the Curated Plate and MooloolaBARS, a koala, snake and possum from Wildlife HQ, and giveaways from Aussie World, presenting a small taste of what the region has to offer.
The Laser Group is holding its 2023 Annual conference, Lasercon, this week on the Sunshine Coast for more than 200 New Zealand delegates, alongside Head Office staff and multiple trade manufacturers and wholesale suppliers.
“New Zealand has huge potential as a business event market for the Sunshine Coast,” Visit Sunshine Coast Business & Leisure Events Manager Ali Thompson said:
“It’s fabulous to see that the new direct services by Air NZ are already being used by 250 business event delegates that have filled up the first two flights for a New Zealand Lasercon conference.
“Air NZ’s direct flights provide a huge opportunity for the Sunshine Coast. These new services make it easy for our Kiwi friends to be in Sunshine by Lunchtime.
“It’s clear New Zealand is a huge growth market for business events and, with demand rising, we hope this service could continue year-round,” she said.
The Laser Group will be on the Sunshine Coast for a full week, enjoying the sunshine, the beaches, the sights and scenery, nightlife and many food delights, said event producer and founder of 1E Group Garth Taylor.
“With evening events programmed in Maroochydore’s bustling Ocean Street, Your Mates Brewery and the Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort, there will be plenty of opportunity to see and enjoy the Sunshine Coast.
“PCO 1E Group Pty Ltd, which are based in Buderim, are delighted to be charged with producing an unforgettable experience for the delegates and staff attending the event,” Mr Taylor said.
“We really do have a remarkable truly Australian destination for business events.
“Now with a direct flight for the Kiwis from Auckland, it just makes it even more logistically viable. I am looking forward to the Sunny Coast showing off our wonderful food culture, sights and experiences.”
The seasonal service operates three times a week (Sunday, Wednesday, Friday) until 15 October, flying direct between Auckland and the Sunshine Coast.
