New Zealand is a country known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. But beyond the natural beauty and cultural offerings, New Zealand is also a hotbed of innovation and entrepreneurship. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at one of New Zealand’s most innovative cities, Queenstown, and how it’s become a hub for tourism tech.
Queenstown: A Thriving Hub of Innovation
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown is a small town with a big reputation. Dubbed the “Adventure Capital of the World”, it’s no surprise that Queenstown is the location of interest for innovation in the tourism industry. From bungee jumping to skydiving to skiing, Queenstown is a playground for adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers alike.
But beyond the thrills and spills, Queenstown is also home to a thriving community of entrepreneurs and innovators. With an urban population of under 20.000, the town may be small, but it’s mighty when it comes to innovation.
Tourism Tech: Queenstown’s Claim to Fame
One area in which Queenstown has really made a name for itself is tourism tech. With its stunning landscapes and plethora of adventure activities, Queenstown attracts millions of visitors each year. But to keep up with the demand and provide the best possible experience for tourists, local businesses have had to get creative.
Enter tourism tech. Queenstown’s tourism industry is at the forefront of technological innovation. By embracing technology, local businesses are able to provide a seamless and immersive experience for visitors, making Queenstown a destination that’s both thrilling and cutting-edge.
One such innovation is the use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to enhance the tourism experience. For example, AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand, the world’s first commercial bungee jumping operation, has developed a VR experience that allows customers to preview the bungee jump before they take the plunge. Similarly, the Skyline Queenstown gondola has incorporated AR into their experience, allowing visitors to use their smartphones to scan QR codes and access information about the surrounding landscape.
Another example of Queenstown’s tourism tech innovation is the adoption of mobile booking platforms. By using mobile apps, visitors can easily book activities and accommodation, making their trip planning much more convenient. For example, Bookme, a Queenstown-based company, offers discounted activities and experiences that can be booked through their app.
Lastly, the use of drones is yet another innovative strategy that has been adopted in Queenstown. Several companies offer drone tours that provide a unique perspective of the stunning landscapes, including the Remarkables mountain range and the Shotover River. In addition, drones are being used for surveying and mapping in the construction and infrastructure industries.
The Benefits of Innovation for Queenstown
By fostering a culture of innovation, Queenstown has not only become a hub for tourism tech, but it’s also attracting top talent from around the world. Entrepreneurs and innovators are drawn to the town’s supportive business environment and its vibrant community of like-minded individuals.
But innovation isn’t just good for entrepreneurs – it’s also good for the local economy. By investing in innovation, Queenstown is able to create jobs, boost tourism, and attract investment, helping to support the town’s long-term growth and prosperity.
Conclusion
Queenstown may be a small town, but it’s mighty when it comes to innovation. By embracing technology and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, Queenstown has become a hub for tourism tech, attracting top talent from around the world and creating jobs and opportunities for locals. So, the next time you’re in New Zealand, be sure to pay a visit to Queenstown and see for yourself why it’s the hidden gem of innovation.