The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, in association with the Sri Lanka High Commission in New Zealand, conducted two Tourism Promotion Roadshows in Christchurch and Auckland on 31 August and 1 September 2026, respectively, with logistical assistance from Digital Media Solutions, Melbourne, Australia.
A total of 44 leading representatives from Sri Lanka’s tourism sector participated in the two events, showcasing a range of tourism products, specially curated for the New Zealand market, as well as resorts and hotels. The roadshows provided an opportunity for Sri Lankan tourism stakeholders to engage with leading members of the New Zealand tourism trade and promote Sri Lanka as an attractive and diverse travel destination.
The Christchurch Roadshow was graced by Hon. Dr Hamish Campbell, Member of Parliament for Ilam, as the Chief Guest. In his remarks, Dr Campbell highlighted the importance of people-to-people links between Sri Lanka and New Zealand, as well as the role of sports and cultural exchanges, growing air connectivity, and the Sri Lankan expatriate community in promoting Sri Lanka as a travel destination among New Zealanders.
Mrs Winsome Dormer, Dean of the Consular Corps in Christchurch; Ms Chami Abeysinghe, CEO of Southland Regional Development Agency; Mr Paul Rutledge, President of Willows Cricket Club; and representatives from Christchurch International Airport, Business Canterbury, Canterbury Cricket, and the City of Canterbury were among the special invitees at the event.
The Auckland Roadshow was attended by Rt Hon. Sir Anand Satyanand, former Governor-General of New Zealand, as the Chief Guest, together with Lady Susan Satyanand. Other distinguished guests included Mr Scotty Stevenson, prominent New Zealand sports broadcaster; Ms Suzie Bates, former Captain of the New Zealand Women’s Cricket Team; award-winning New Zealand chefs Karena and Kasey Bird; Mr Vernon Winitana, Director of KGH Aotearoa Group Ltd; Ms Rachael McGuckian, Market Manager, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise; Mr Iresh Tennakoon, President of the Sri Lanka Business Association of New Zealand; and Mr Brett Shields, Manager, National Clan Lab Teams of New Zealand.
In his remarks, Sir Anand Satyanand recalled the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality, his interactions with Sri Lankan dignitaries during his official visits to Sri Lanka, and the natural beauty and diversity he experienced during his travels in the country. He also spoke of Sri Lanka’s passion for cricket and rugby, noting the strong affinity New Zealanders share with these sports.
Mr Scotty Stevenson and Ms Suzie Bates shared their fond memories of Sri Lanka, including its people, cuisine, cricket, and rugby, and encouraged New Zealand tour operators to promote Sri Lanka more widely as a holiday destination.
The Bird sisters, Karena and Kasey, spoke about their recent visit to Sri Lanka in June 2026, as well as their previous visits and culinary experiences in the country. They also shared details of their latest culinary adventures in Sri Lanka, which will be featured in a television programme to be broadcast in New Zealand shortly.
The two roadshows were officiated by Mr Prasanna Gamage, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to New Zealand, and Mr Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, representing the Government of Sri Lanka.
The events also featured vibrant Sri Lankan cultural performances, followed by dinners showcasing the richness of Sri Lankan cuisine. The combination of tourism promotion, cultural engagement, and personal experiences of Sri Lanka helped strengthen awareness of the country as a diverse, welcoming, and compelling destination for New Zealand travellers.
Sri Lanka High Commission
Wellington
09 September 2026