The coastal Bay of Plenty's tourism industry has received a $700,000 funding boost from central government for the post-COVID-19 economic rebuild.

The funding was granted as recognition of Tourism Bay of Plenty's destination management plan for the region.

Tourism Bay of Plenty will use the funding to increase the development and marketing of the tourism offering in the coastal Bay of Plenty.

Tauranga Mayor Tenby Powell has acknowledged Tourism Bay of Plenty's advocacy and destination management contribution to the region.

'I'm proud that central government has thrown its weight behind Tauranga and the coastal Bay of Plenty. Tourism Bay of Plenty's commitment to the long-term regeneration of the region has clearly been recognised."

Tourism Bay of Plenty Tumuaki | Chief Executive Kristin Dunne says she's delighted the region's vision and commitment to ensuring a regenerative tourism industry, post-COVID-19 and into the future, has the backing of central government.

'The team are thrilled by this news as it validates our strategic plan and the different approach that we were already taking to destination management pre-COVID-19."

Tourism Bay of Plenty officially launched its destination management plan, Te Hā Tāpoi | The Love of Tourism, just before lockdown following years of detailed planning and public consultation.

'With this funding, we can hit the ground running and amplify what we can offer the coastal Bay of Plenty's tourism industry," says Dunne.

"The additional $700,000 is going to fast-track our exposure and development opportunities.

'We already had a plan in place, and now we've got the funding to accelerate it when our industry most needs it.”