Bay nominated as best destination

The Bay of Plenty's worldwide appeal has seen Tourism Bay of Plenty nominated as Best Destination New Zealand in the 2016 Thomas Nationwide Transport's Golden Backpack Awards.

Local businesses Pacific Coast Lodge & Backpackers and Dolphin Seafaris have also been selected in the annual Australasian awards in the Best Accommodation New Zealand category and Best Tour/Activity New Zealand respectively.


Matt and Sarah Meadows from Pacific Coast Lodge & Backpackers.

The Golden Backpack Awards showcase the best in the adventure and backpacking sector across Australia and New Zealand.

Tourism Bay of Plenty head of marketing Kath Low says the award recognises the region's appeal for free independent travellers from around the world.

'Our natural attractions are some of the best in the country, and alongside this we have fantastic operators who are passionate about giving travellers an experience to remember,” says Kath.

Pacific Coast Lodge & Backpackers owner Sarah Meadows says it feels fantastic to be nominated for a third consecutive year in these prestigious awards, after winning the Best Accommodation New Zealand award in 2014, and becoming a finalist in 2015.

'We go out of our way to make their stay memorable, offering free surfboards and bikes, and working hard to find them a job so they can spend more of their tourism dollars locally and enjoy what the Bay has to offer,” says Sarah.

Dolphin Seafaris was also nominated last year for the Golden Backpack Awards. Manager Cameron Fines says it's great to have their experience recognised by their customers and the industry.

'We feel strongly that it is a privilege to take customers out with the wild dolphins and we do everything we can to make our tours fun, educational, and the experience of a lifetime.

'We love what we do and do what we love.”

Voting closes September 30. To vote, visit www.goldenbackpacks.tntdownunder.com and head to page four.

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