Westland launches Regional Education Network to boost off-season tourism

Hokitika Westland isite with support of the Rotorua Education Network (REN) are excited to announce the launch of the West Coast Education Network (WEN) a collaborative initiative aimed at growing off-peak and shoulder season tourism by attracting school groups to the district.

Modelled on the highly successful REN, established in Rotorua in 1997, WEN will deliver engaging, curriculum-aligned learning experiences that showcase three core elements of the West Coast’s identity our people, our businesses, and our environment.

REN has a proven track record of increasing visitation through high-quality, out-of-classroom experiences. Each year, thousands of students, teachers, and whānau visit Rotorua through REN itineraries, often returning later as leisure travellers. Westland aims to replicate this success with its own distinctive approach, blending the REN framework with the unique stories, landscapes, and experiences of the region.

“Westland is set up for this,” says Lucretia Maitland, Hokitika Westland isite Manager. “This is an important step in district-wide collaboration between our established businesses, the isite, and our community. As a region, we have some of the most diverse landscapes, and are proud to share this with New Zealand.”

Hokitika Westland isite is inviting local tourism operators, businesses, and educators to get involved, whether through partnerships, hosting, or providing support services.

Westland launches Regional Education Network to boost off-season tourism

Hokitika Westland isite with support of the Rotorua Education Network (REN) are excited to announce the launch of the West Coast Education Network (WEN) a collaborative initiative aimed at growing off-peak and shoulder season tourism by attracting school groups to the district.

If you are interested in learning more, or getting involved, please contact them here.