M.P. criticises tourist guides

Press, 17 May 1984, Page 9

M.P. criticises tourist guides

Parliamentary reporter The Minister of Tourism. ■ Mr Talbot, has backed criticism by the Canterbury Promotion Council of poor quality tourist publications. Mr' Talbot yesterdaysingled out tourist directories and "murky, poorly

presented" pictures. as being particularly damaging. He was commenting on concerns expressed by the Promotion Council that some publishers were issuing booklets containing poor quality photographs as well as incorrect or incomplete information. He backed the council’s move to take an active role in assessing the value of various promotional publications for its members. ”'I have no quarrel with publications seeking advertising support." he said. "But if they purport to be comprehensive directories, then they must give a complete picture." Gaps in content were bad for the guide, and bad for business such as conventions. where New Zealand was rapidly developing a reputation. The same applied to murky, poorly presented photographs. They created a poor impression in New Zealand and could be damaging if they- fell into the hands of overseas tour operators. Mr Talbot said. Good presentation was part of the professional attitude which had to be seen in every part of the tourism industry, he said.