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A statement issued by a group that has been pushing for government support, including David Coombes of Flight Center NZ and Mark O’Donnell of House of Travel welcomes today’s announcement.
“This is good news for our industry. There is still a long way to go, but we are pleased to receive much needed support in what has been an incredibly difficult time for New Zealand travel agencies.
“Our people have been working tirelessly for the past six months to repatriate funds from travel providers at the hands of the Kiwis. This financing will allow us to recoup some of the costs involved in that long process,” the statement read.
Until now, travel agents have been trying to get commission-free credits and refunds as the travel industry shrinks.
“I know that travel agents and wholesalers have been working hard to recover refunds and credits owed to New Zealand consumers, but they are under heavy financial pressure, with many facing the prospect of insolvency.
“The travel reimbursement plan will help increase the likelihood that consumers will recoup refunds and credits owed to them. It will also increase confidence in the travel industry by limiting further bad debt,” Faafoi said.
As of yet, there is no launch date for the scheme, as the government is working with the industry to work out details such as customer rebate eligibility.
