Destination Coromandel has launched a world-first alternative to not only raise visitor statistics to the area, and to choose the coastal route more regularly.
A driving lottery is being implemented for this Anzac long weekend, starting on Friday 21st of April until Tuesday the 25th of April.
The concept is simple; any car that drives the State Highway 25 Coromandel loop will be in the draw to win a range of prizes, including three nights at Hahei Beach Resort, boat trips, snorkel tours, and dozen of Coromandel oysters.
Thames and Coromandel Mayor, Len Salt, said that the initiative is what the area needs to boost tourism after the difficult start of the year.
“We wanted to do something that reminded Kiwis that the Coromandel region is open and we’re ready to host them. The Coromandel is still a fabulous destination to visit and we want to be back on the itinerary,” said Salt.
To randomly pick winners, cameras have been set up in mystery locations on State Highway 25 from Thames to Waihi. Vehicles will be photographed at computer-generated random times, and prizes will be allocated to those lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time.
Destination Hauraki Coromandel general manager Hadley Dryden said this world-first campaign will hopefully welcome back travel on the coastal route to the Coromandel.
“There’s still a perception that the Coromandel isn’t open and uncertainty about access, so we wanted to encourage visitation by doing something really fun. Not only can travellers win prizes, but they’ll also help out all the local businesses who have been affected by adverse weather this year,” added Dryden.
“Despite the coastal loop taking a tad longer than driving over the hill, travellers will also be rewarded with fantastic views and a diverse range of homegrown local experiences. As locals know, it’s worth taking your time and stopping off along the way.”
Director of Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours, Mike Grogan said that he was pleased to be a part of the effort, and even donated prizes.
“Anything we can do to get Kiwis coming back to see us more regularly is a good thing. And it’s cool to see it done in a fun and innovative, typically Coromandel way.”
State Highway 25 was closed in January after deep cracks, slips and flooding damage became an issue from former cyclone weather events.
