Christchurch Criticised As Travel Conference Venue

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28896, 16 May 1959, Page 14

Christchurch Criticised As Travel Conference Venue

iNew Zeaiana Press Association)

DUNEDIN. May 15. Allegations that a grave disservice was being done to New Zealand in selecting Christchurch as the venue of the Pacific Area Travel Association conference next year were made by a Dunedin travel agent, Mr I. A. Mitchell. today W Mitchell contended that the Minister in charge of Tourist and Health Resorts (Mr Mathison) was favouring his electorate in “forcing the issue” to have the conference in Christchurch. He said that at a meeting of New Zealand members of the association it was decided to hold the conference at Wairakei, but the Minister disagreed. The association was not in the position to disagree, as it felt Government support might be withdrawn if this happened. Mr Mitchell said every opportunity should be made to impress the 200 delegates who would be representing many large tourist agencies and shipping and airlines. “Christchurch is a beautiful city, but if the conference, is held there, delegates will be entitled to believe that this is the best we can offer,” he said. In Christchurch, the delegates

will be split among hotels whereas in Wairakei, Mr Mitchell said, they could nearly al] be accommodated together.