Tourism Fiji progresses into Stage Two of its Market Re-entry Plan following ongoing ease of restrictions across Fiji's source markets

Tourism Fiji’s Chief Executive Officer, Matthew Stoeckel has confirmed that they have progressed into Stage Two of their Market Re-entry Plan following ongoing optimism and easing of restrictions across their source markets.

The Market Re-entry Plan was developed to coordinate an aligned return to market across all its international destinations in the wake of COVID-19.

Stoeckel says Stage One of the Market Re-entry Model focused on staying in the hearts and minds of consumers through its “Sota tale” messaging.

He says as the destination enters Stage Two the organisation’s marketing message has now changed to “Our Bula Spirit’ awaits you. Stoeckel says it is an optimistic message that will rebuild consumer confidence and anticipation of a holiday to Fiji.

Stoeckel says Stage One was all about inspiring consumers to dream about a trip to Fiji.

He says now, as they transition to Stage Two, it is all about giving reasons for visitors to choose Fiji for their next holiday and giving them the confidence to start planning for it.

He says Tourism Fiji is also working on a campaign to promote domestic tourism in Fiji.

Stoeckel says the Love the Locals campaign already has around 50 special offers ready to entice local travellers and Tourism Fiji will launch it in conjunction with the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport to local Fijians in the coming week.

Meanwhile, Australians may be allowed to travel to New Zealand and the Pacific from July 1st, and other countries deemed “safe” from September, according to a timetable produced by the Tourism Restart Taskforce.

7 News reports that the task force meets once a week to discuss and agree on a plan to reopen the tourism industry, with government representatives often in attendance.

At the last meeting, the task force approved the timetable covering domestic travel and events, and international travel.

It has submitted a plan for a “proof of concept flight” between Canberra and Wellington departing on July 1st.

According to the timetable, Pacific nations will be included in the proposed NZ bubble.

The Chair of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Tourism John Hart says they are saying that New Zealand travel will commence on July 1st and from 10th September they will consider whether other bubbles can commence.

The timetable is “aspirational” and the final decision will rest with the NZ and Australian governments but several key departments are now reportedly working towards these dates.

Hart said if approved, the first flight on July 1 will carry government officials, media, and business representatives.

Passengers will not need to go into mandatory 14-day quarantine and will be cleared to go home.