Expo ’86

Press, 30 July 1986, Page 20

Expo ’86

Sir, —I have recently returned from a visit to the World’s Exposition in Vancouver and, to my dismay, I found that New Zealand was not represented. *

For six months, from May until October, Expo ’B6 is the grandstand for the world to witness the culture and activities of over 55 countries with the background theme of transportation and communication in the eighties. With attendance expected to be over 20 million visits by the time the fair has finished, 'what a brilliant opportunity New Zealand has passed over to advertise to the world its scenery, its people and its uniqueness. Most of the Expo visitors are from the Pacific Rim countries and New Zealand is conspicuously absent from this important economic circle. Meanwhile, the Australian Pavilion, which despite its large size, left a lot to be desired, was one of the most popular with crowds queueing for hours in the heat. The absence of a New Zealand pavilion may cost in the future many more times than the cost of setting up camp in Vancouver for six months to tell the world that New Zealand is still alive and well. — Yours,f etc., STEPHEN J. FAULKNER. Duncan, British Columbia, June 30, 1986.

[Mr Moore, Minister of Overseas Trade, replies: “I can assure you that the decision not to participate in this fair was one made by exporters, not the Government. On coming to office I asked for a full review of the previous Government’s decision not to participate. All exporters and tourism operators likely to be interested were canvassed and the reply was generally negative. It simply did not fit in with their marketing strategies. We are, however, participating in some Expo-related events, notably Food Pacific ’B6, which will be held in Vancouver from August 29 to September 2. We will definitely be making our presence felt at this specialist food and beverages fair. Our promotion will be of a very high standard. Nor will it be confined to static food displays. We haye contracted Stephen Yan, the Canadian television personality and cookery show host, to demonstrate New Zealand products in a variety of cooking styles on all five days of the show. His presence will give our stand flair and aroma and be a great drawcard. With the introduction of new air links, Canadian visitors to New Zealand have increased by more than 30 per cent over the previous-year and there are many export opportunities being developed, particularly in the chilled meat, cut flowers and fruit and vegetable sectors. Canadians certainly know New Zealand is alive and well.”]