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TRAVEL and tourism players are showing solidarity in light of the unfortunate attacks at two Christchurch mosques recently.
Air New Zealand has capped one-way domestic fares for flights directly to and from Christchurch at NZ$139 (US$94) to assist customers needing to travel there to support those affected by the shooting tragedy.
The airline has had compassionate fare assistance in place since Friday, offering free travel to immediate family of deceased as well as discounted compassionate fares to other affected friends and family with close to 100 bookings made so far, including a number of group bookings.
All Christchurch domestic bookings made with Air New Zealand after 15.00 on Friday, March 15, will be refunded back to the level of the reduced fares.
Beyond the measures Air New Zealand has introduced for customers affected by the shooting tragedy in Christchurch, it has also been working closely with the prime minister’s office to support the transport of key people to Christchurch including emergency services personnel.
The airline has transported more than 70 police officers from around New Zealand to Christchurch and various emergency support personnel, including eight specialist doctors from Auckland, Hamilton, New Plymouth, Wellington and Tauranga. The airline has also been working with the wider Muslim community to facilitate travel to Christchurch to assist with arrangements.
Meanwhile, G Adventures’ founder Bruce Poon Tip wrote a letter to partners in light of the tragedy, emphasising the purpose of tourism in fostering harmony.
“How do we confront the undercurrent of hate that fuelled the unspeakable and shocking tragedy that seems to be spreading across the globe? How can we each use our lives to promote peace, friendship and greater light? I believe that tourism, and the choices we make about how we use our time and resources, create a world that is more connected, empathetic, equitable and understanding,” he wrote. [TTG Asia/photo special]
