Tourism New Zealand invites Australians to seek stories in latest campaign via TBWASydney

Travel

October 16 2024, 3:25 pm | BY Ricki Green | 3 Comments

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Tourism New Zealand has launched ‘If You Seek Stories’ in collaboration with TBWASydney. ‘If You Seek Stories’ is a local interpretation of Tourism New Zealand’s 100% Pure global brand campaign.

The campaign aims to ignite Australians’ interest in New Zealand as a holiday destination you return from with unforgettable stories.
Says Andrew Waddel, general manager, Tourism New Zealand Australia: “Stories are the one thing we’re guaranteed to bring back home to share with friends and family, ultimately creating advocates through our visitors in the process. With the combination of experiences in close proximity and the manaakitanga, or hospitality, of New Zealand’s people, stories just happen in Aotearoa New Zealand.
“Sure, there’s also jaw-dropping scenery, deeply relaxing experiences and adventure around every corner. But when you’re open to it, the country will open up to you and deliver an experience you simply don’t get anywhere else, like abseiling into a cave filled with glow worms, and that stays with you.”

Says Evan Roberts, CCO TBWASydney: “Aussies think they know New Zealand and are often quick to overlook a holiday there in favour of a more predictable trip to a far-flung destination. We wanted to show people that all sorts of stories can unfold in Aotearoa New Zealand if you’re open to it.
“By using New Zealand landscapes and experiences as a backdrop to tell deeper stories, we’re inspiring Aussies to create their own.”
Directed by Mark Albiston of The Sweetshop, the films feature one plucky Aussie, unpacking the twists and turns of her New Zealand story as she travels through different locations. Experiences include heli-biking at Kaimanawa Alpine Adventures, oyster tasting at Waiheke Distilling Co, and soaking in hot pools at Wairakei Terraces.
Each element of the campaign – film, OOH, digital, social – reveals more of her story, rewarding the viewer and encouraging them to seek their own story in Aotearoa New Zealand.

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Client – Tourism New ZealandIf You Seek Stories campaign – TBWAOriginal If You Seek global platform – DDBProduction Company – The SweetshopDirector – Mark AlbistonMDs – Greg Fyson & Edward PontifexEP – Kate RoydhouseProducer – Andy MaugerDOP – Marty WilliamsPost – ARC EDITEditor – Harrison CarrColourist– Alana CottonMusic – Otis StudiosMedia Agency – Mindshare

Not a dying business

Business News

Death is brisk business for garland maker R. Jayaselvam these days. Out of every 100 garlands he crafts, 60 are for funerals, while the rest are for weddings.Over the past five to six years, he has seen a 10 to 15 per cent rise in demand for funeral garlands.“Many people are ageing, and the number of departed souls is also increasing,” said the 59-year-old owner of Anushia Flower Shop in Little India.“For the Indian community, the garland is deeply symbolic as it becomes part of the ashes and accompanies the deceased on their final journey.”The self-taught garland maker with 40 years of experience now works alongside his two sons to meet this growing demand. The change in Mr Jayaselvam’s client base is reflective of a wider trend: Singapore’s ageing population is driving the funeral industry here.In September, The Straits Times reported that the number of citizen deaths could exceed the number of citizen births in 10 years or so.There were 24,726 citizen deaths in 2023. This is a 40 per cent jump from 17,691 deaths in 2014.The rise comes on the back of Singapore’s rapidly ageing population. In 2010, about one in 10 Singaporeans was aged 65 or older. By 2030, that figure is expected to rise to about one in four.The end-of-life journey is the inspiration behind an upcoming festival organised by non-profit organisation My Community, which is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, Lee Foundation and Ang Chin Moh Foundation.Themed My Last Journey, the festival from Nov 1 to 17 will feature events, tours and behind-the-scenes experiences that offer an insight into end-of-life traditions and practices.These include funeral services and processions, hospice care, and traditional crafts such as Mr Jayaselvam’s garlands.For some, the death trade has become a side hustle.Car insurance agent Thomas Tan, 56, is also a Chinese funeral band major when the need arises.He has 18 to 20 clients monthly, and said that business has picked up after the Covid-19 pandemic. He used to see up to 10 clients every month.Mr Tan started offering band services in 2015, and leads a team of about 30 to play mourning music at funerals. Most are for elderly Taoists and Buddhists, although he has also started seeing Hindu clients in recent years.However, he is less sanguine about the long-term prospects.“Maybe it will be in good demand for another five years. Though we have an ageing society, some Singaporeans prefer simpler funerals without a band.”Another person who has ventured into the death business is IT professional Martini Constance Lim, who began offering decluttering services as a passion project in 2020.A year later, she started receiving requests for grief decluttering. A follower of Japanese expert Marie Kondo’s decluttering methods, she has since helped four clients manage mementoes of departed loved ones. Since she can offer her service only on weekends, she has to turn down weekday assignments.“I do see a demand for decluttering services. With increasing awareness, more people are reaching out for professional help,” said Ms Lim, who is in her 40s.Those for whom death is a full-time job have reported a similar boom in business.Mr Terry Ong, who is a Chinese Muslim, had a slow start when he founded Dapur Kubur Singapore in 2016 to provide Muslim tombstones. But since three years ago, the tombstone engraver has seen orders for the tombstones increase to about 100 per month, and now plans to expand into Malaysia.The 46-year-old said: “It’s like the last house of the deceased. We insist on a proper job and more people will come to us naturally.”Mr Ang Ziqian, the fourth-generation steward and managing director of Ang Chin Moh Group, said more people are planning their funerals in advance to ensure their last wishes are met.Other trends include an increased demand for repatriation services as more Singaporeans die while overseas, as well as a growing interest in having memorial diamonds made from the cremated remains of their loved ones to pass on as a legacy. Mr Ang said more people are also joining the industry now that there is less taboo and superstition about the trade. More than half his team of about 40 are below 45 years old.“When the death rate rises, we need enough people to service the dead and their families,” he said. “It’s a 24/7 calling as death can occur any time.”Mr Ang took over the helm at his company in 2004.“When I first started, some people crushed my name card when they saw that I am a funeral director,” he recalled. “Now, people are curious and ask us questions about our profession instead.”There is less stigma surrounding the funeral industry these days, thanks to more public awareness and education, Mr Ang said. He started the Ang Chin Moh Foundation in 2012, which embarked on several public education campaigns, working with the Lien Foundation and aged-care support groups, hospitals and government agencies.This included the “Die Die Must Say” campaign in 2014, which used getai shows to demystify death and funerals, sending the message that discussing such topics will not bring bad luck or an early demise.Mr Hoo Hung Chye, executive director of the Association of Funeral Directors, said the acceptance of death as being a part of life will reduce its taboo.But he pointed out that challenges remain for the industry, even though it provides an essential service to the community.“While the profession has many young people, the nature of providing 24/7 service on time remains a challenge,” he said.“The retention of staff will continue to be challenging, given that bereaved families need this essential service immediately when it happens.”There is one other challenge, Mr Hoo said. “The appreciation and recognition for the funeral profession are relatively lower than for other professions.”The Straits Times/ANN

China vows enhanced international cooperation in space science exploration

Science and Health

(Xinhua) 10:09, October 16, 2024

Researchers conduct an experiment for a satellite named Einstein Probe at the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Shanghai, east China, July 20, 2023.(Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of CAS/Handout via Xinhua)
BEIJING, Oct. 15 (Xinhua) — China will pursue extensive and in-depth international cooperation in space exploration, according to a press conference held on Tuesday unveiling the nation’s mid and long-term space science development program.
Wang Chi, director of the National Space Science Center under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, said that international cooperation in space science can significantly multiply scientific output and foster mutual understanding and friendship among countries worldwide.
Wang cited the development of the Solar wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer satellite as an example of the comprehensive collaboration between China and Europe, from its development to its operation.
The establishment of multinational collaborative scientific teams with complementary advantages will be encouraged in space science projects, and the sharing of scientific data will be expanded to promote significant scientific achievements, Wang said.
Such international collaborations have been established in space science missions like the Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory and the Einstein Probe.
According to Yang Xiaoyu, director of the Department of System Engineering of the China National Space Administration, China has signed cooperation agreements with 17 countries and international organizations on the construction of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) initiated by China, offering various levels and forms of collaboration opportunities.
“We will engage in extensive cooperation in areas such as joint verification, design and implementation of overall tasks, as well as scientific data sharing in the ILRS program,” Yang said.
Yang also emphasized the role of space science and technology in promoting the growth of developing countries when responding to a media inquiry.
He said that China, as the largest developing country, deeply understands the numerous challenges that developing countries face regarding survival and development. “Having gone through similar experiences, China recognizes the crucial role of space technology in overcoming these challenges.”
Yang added that China has been actively engaged in extensive cooperation with global partners in space initiatives, particularly by helping developing countries enhance their space technologies and capabilities in tackling climate change, protecting the environment, and preventing and mitigating disasters.
“This support aims to improve people’s livelihoods, promote economic and social development, and foster sustainable progress,” Yang said.
(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)

Inspiring journey of Naomi Modise and the launch of her Pleasant Looks business

Business News

Naomi Modise, an entrepreneur from Midrand, has taken a significant step in her career by launching Pleasant Looks, a makeup services brand that caters to various occasions.
The brand aims to provide diverse makeup solutions for a wide clientele. Pleasant Looks was officially launched on October 5 at Hyde Park Corner, marking a pivotal moment in Modise’s entrepreneurial journey, and introducing her to the Gauteng community.
Read more: Community Business Owners hosts breakfast in Kyalami to share ideas
Although she has an established clientele in her hometown of Rustenburg, this launch allows her to connect with new clients.
Dr Lindelani Mkhize and Naomi Modise chat during the launch of Pleasant Looks.
At 29, Modise holds a qualification in media practices, which she credits as vital to her success, providing her with valuable networking opportunities in both the media and business sectors.
Modise’s passion for makeup began in childhood when she embraced her ‘girly girl’ identity.
“Heels, modelling, dresses… That is the girl I was when I was young. It is no shock that I navigated towards a love of makeup, and embarked on a journey to apply makeup on people. I am a self-taught makeup enthusiast. So, the realisation of my makeup skills becoming better, motivated me to start doing it as a business,” she said.
Also read: SME Growth Summit 2024 empowers small businesses
Pleasant Looks aims to be accessible to clients from all backgrounds, offering house call services. Modise believes the beauty industry has ample opportunities for aspiring professionals and encourages others not to be intimidated by competition, asserting that there is room for everyone to succeed.
Reflecting on her journey, Modise remarked, “if you asked me where I saw myself five years ago, I would have never imagined that we would be here today, celebrating my business and officially launching it.”
While she may not have envisioned her current success, she always believed in her potential. “What I knew, for a fact, five years ago was that I would be great. So, in the next five years, I will be even greater.
Midrand-based entrepreneur Naomi Modise.
“I always say that I am not an entrepreneur because I do not have the brains to come up with new ideas for business. I am not innovative.” Instead, she identifies as a businesswoman who effectively executes existing ideas, demonstrating her ability to run a successful operation.
Throughout her journey, Modise has learned the importance of resilience, patience, discipline, and seeking financial advice, which she considers essential in business.To celebrate her launch, Modise expressed heartfelt gratitude to several contributors, including Michelle by KayN for the wine sponsorship, Amanhle Flowers for exquisite floral arrangements, and the enthusiastic guests who attended.
Details: Instagram @pleasant_looks_ or call 077 293-3080.
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Related article: Avid coffee connoisseur and local businesswoman re-launches her coffee brand

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Govt Offers 50% Off Travel to Boost Flood-Hit Northern Thailand

Travel

BANGKOK — After the northern region was hit by severe flooding in September and beginning of October, the government not only urgently needs to restore and provide aid to the affected residents, but also to boost the economy quickly.The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has responded to the private sector’s proposals by announcing the “Travel to the North at Half Price” program. Businesses are preparing to recover and return to normal business operations, taking their cue from major tourism festivals in the north such as the Loy Krathong Festival and Winter Festivals. The program will begin on November 1, 2024.
Suwong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, said on October 15 that the TAT is currently collecting tourism-related products and packages to be included in the TAT’s application-based system. Businesses, hotels and accommodations can participate in the program through this app, while the public can enjoy the benefits by scanning a QR code through the app.
Soldiers help spray water to clean mud during the restoration of residents’ homes in Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province, on Oct 14, 2024.
Details of the incentives for tourism spending under the “Travel to the North at Half Price” program include:Advertisement

10,000 participants
A spending limit of 800 baht
The government will cover “half” of the cost from the TAT budget, 400 baht per person/tripTourists pay the remaining 400 baht per person/trip
Eligible expense categories include hotels, accommodation, restaurants, cafes and activities at tourist attractions
If the program is well received, it will be proposed to the Cabinet for further expansion to boost the economy as much as possible

This initiative will be implemented in all 17 northern provinces, including Chiang Rai, Nan, Phayao, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Phrae, Lampang, Lamphun, Tak, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Phetchabun, Phichit, Kamphaeng Phet, Nakhon Sawan and Uthai Thani.
Chiang Mai, an important tourist destination, suffered considerable losses in September and October. According to an estimate by Assistant Professor Dr. Phairach Phiboonrungroj, Vice President and Head of the Faculty of Economics at Chiang Mai College, the total revenue from tourism in Chiang Mai is about 200 billion baht ($6 billion) per year, with an average of 50 billion baht ($1.5 billion) per quarter. The period from October to December usually sees the highest revenues.
Tourists pose for photos with the 400-year-old mural painting “Whisper of Love” or “Phu Mhan Ya Mhan” inside Wat Phumin, Nan Province, Thailand, on Oct 14, 2024.
This October, however, Chiang Mai has already lost an entire month’s revenue as the city is being restored and buildings repaired. It is estimated that tourism revenue could fall by about 10 percent, or around 5 billion baht ($150 million), in the last quarter of this year, depending on how quickly the city can recover and restore confidence, Dr. Phairach said.
Phakphum Phonpisit, President of the Chiang Rai Chamber of Commerce, revealed to “Prachachat Business” that the Chiang Rai Chamber of Commerce has assessed the damage to Chiang Rai province affected by flooding to be approximately 20 billion baht. Of this amount, the damage to the economy and tourism sector accounts for another 10 billion baht.
Chamnan Srisawat, president of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), said that while they had never asked the government for such a campaign during the peak season, this year’s peak season was not normal and was considered a crisis.
If the government does not act quickly to restore destinations and revitalize tourism, especially in the domestic market which is not performing well, tourism revenue targets may not be met. Normally, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai alone generate around 10 billion baht ($300 million) per month.
Foreign tourists watch the sunrise at Doi Inthanon, Chiang Mai Province, as temperatures drop to a cool 11 degrees Celsius, on Oct 15, 2024.
Phallop Sae Chiu, acting president of the Chiang Mai Tourism Council, said the economic impact of the first flood (Sept. 25-28) is estimated at about 70 million baht per day, totaling about 280 million baht over four days, as daily tourism revenue averages about 200 million baht.
The second flood, which began on 3 October and affected a larger area, reduced tourism revenue by around 100 million baht per day. The city and businesses will recover during October. Losses from the second flood are expected to amount to 2 billion baht, bringing the total damage from both floods to about 2.28 billion baht.
Previously, the TCT had proposed that the government support a “half-price travel” program” of 2,000 baht per person per trip to promote tourism in 55 attractive provinces (secondary cities) and flood-affected areas during the high season. The aim was to encourage tourists to visit lesser-known destinations, as most tourists usually focus on the big cities.
Two women in traditional local dress promote tourism in Uttaradit Province.
Advertisement

If this program helps boost travel to these cities, it would increase spending and help reach the target of 900 billion baht in domestic tourism revenue. This would also offset the low season, when business confidence indices indicate a decline in tourist numbers and tourism products and services are sold less.
Minister Suwong stated that if the Half-Price Northern Travel program is successful in boosting the economy and restoring confidence, the government will consider additional measures to stimulate tourism, such as expanding the “Half-Price Travel” program to the whole country, if the program receives a positive response in the north and cooperation from relevant agencies.
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Citizen Science: A New Way To Travel And Make A Difference

Travel

A lot of question arises in your brain regarding safety before heading to a new place and rightly so.Through such initiatives, travellers not only enjoy the holidays but also play a key role in saving the earth.In recent years, more and more people are traveling to escape their busy lives, but they are also becoming citizen scientists. While the concept of citizen science might be new, individuals have worked closely with researchers for many years. In simple words, anyone without professional training can provide valuable data that helps researchers solve some of the world’s biggest challenges, like plastic pollution, climate change and saving endangered species. Many travellers, who are passionate about nature or want to help protect for future generations, are eager to participate in similar programmes. Through such initiatives, travellers not only enjoy the holidays but also play a key role in saving the earth.Speaking to Times Travel, Vivek Menon, co-founder of Wildlife Trust of India, Councillor IUCN, Steering Committee Species Survival Commission IUCN, said, “The age old practice of trained scientists being the only ones contributing to science is long gone. Even in those days, amateur naturalists did contribute to taxonomy and discovery of species. Today, the interested naturalist, especially the perennial traveller, can contribute to citizen science by documenting all that they see around them and uploading photos and notes onto sites like iNaturalist or eBird.”How Does Citizen Science Travel Help Save the Planet?The Earth is a vast place and there are countless species, which means that not every area can be studied thoroughly. Traditional research methods often require a lot of time and money, which makes it harder to gather information from large areas. As a citizen scientist, one can help fill this gap by providing data from your own community that scientists might struggle to reach.In Tamenglong in Manipur, Mordecai Panmei, the Director of Rainforest Club Tamenglong, explains that during the migration of Amur falcons, they rely on local residents living near the areas for information. According to Panmei, his organisation becomes a link between the communities and the State Forest Department. When locals provide updates, the organisation passes information to the forest department, which then goes into the database for future use. This process allows local communities to get directly involved in protecting their environment and taking care of the surroundings.Many travellers now look for ways to connect with local communities. In Costa Rica, tourists can help with sea turtle protection by monitoring their nesting sites. Similarly, in the Galapagos Islands, visitors can work alongside local guides or research teams to record invasive species and their impact on the environment.Numerous organisations encourage individuals to take part in simple tasks, like photographing clouds or measuring tree heights, which can be entered into a database. This information helps NASA during climate research. By monitoring sea ice or tracking glaciers, regular people can participate in important research studies and help find solutions to solve environmental issues.About the AuthorNishad ThaivalappilNishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and t

Citizen Science: A New Way To Travel And Make A Difference

Science and Health

A lot of question arises in your brain regarding safety before heading to a new place and rightly so.Through such initiatives, travellers not only enjoy the holidays but also play a key role in saving the earth.In recent years, more and more people are traveling to escape their busy lives, but they are also becoming citizen scientists. While the concept of citizen science might be new, individuals have worked closely with researchers for many years. In simple words, anyone without professional training can provide valuable data that helps researchers solve some of the world’s biggest challenges, like plastic pollution, climate change and saving endangered species. Many travellers, who are passionate about nature or want to help protect for future generations, are eager to participate in similar programmes. Through such initiatives, travellers not only enjoy the holidays but also play a key role in saving the earth.Speaking to Times Travel, Vivek Menon, co-founder of Wildlife Trust of India, Councillor IUCN, Steering Committee Species Survival Commission IUCN, said, “The age old practice of trained scientists being the only ones contributing to science is long gone. Even in those days, amateur naturalists did contribute to taxonomy and discovery of species. Today, the interested naturalist, especially the perennial traveller, can contribute to citizen science by documenting all that they see around them and uploading photos and notes onto sites like iNaturalist or eBird.”How Does Citizen Science Travel Help Save the Planet?The Earth is a vast place and there are countless species, which means that not every area can be studied thoroughly. Traditional research methods often require a lot of time and money, which makes it harder to gather information from large areas. As a citizen scientist, one can help fill this gap by providing data from your own community that scientists might struggle to reach.In Tamenglong in Manipur, Mordecai Panmei, the Director of Rainforest Club Tamenglong, explains that during the migration of Amur falcons, they rely on local residents living near the areas for information. According to Panmei, his organisation becomes a link between the communities and the State Forest Department. When locals provide updates, the organisation passes information to the forest department, which then goes into the database for future use. This process allows local communities to get directly involved in protecting their environment and taking care of the surroundings.Many travellers now look for ways to connect with local communities. In Costa Rica, tourists can help with sea turtle protection by monitoring their nesting sites. Similarly, in the Galapagos Islands, visitors can work alongside local guides or research teams to record invasive species and their impact on the environment.Numerous organisations encourage individuals to take part in simple tasks, like photographing clouds or measuring tree heights, which can be entered into a database. This information helps NASA during climate research. By monitoring sea ice or tracking glaciers, regular people can participate in important research studies and help find solutions to solve environmental issues.About the AuthorNishad ThaivalappilNishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and t

Popular Culture To Vineyards: Bookmark The Hidden Gems Of Moldova In Your Travel Itinerary

Travel

Moldova has recently captured global attention following Russia’s invasion of neighbouring Ukraine. (Photo: Shutterstock)With its picturesque landscapes, ancient monasteries, affordable stays and warm hospitality, the country is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.Tucked between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova is Europe’s hidden gem that’s finally stepping into the spotlight. Known for its picturesque vineyards, rich history and unspoiled countryside, this nation is perfect for travellers craving an offbeat adventure. Moldova has recently captured global attention following Russia’s invasion of neighbouring Ukraine. This ex-Soviet nation, home to 2.6 million people, is now at a critical crossroads as it heads toward presidential elections and a significant referendum on joining the EU on October 20.With stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, affordable stays and warm hospitality, here are 5 reasons you should explore Moldova before the EU referendum reshapes its future!Between Russia and EuropeAfter Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Moldova swiftly applied to join the EU, and accession talks commenced in June 2024. The country is caught between two spheres of influence — Moscow and Brussels — reflecting its polarised society and complex history. Before becoming part of Romania, Moldova was under Russian rule within the Ottoman Empire for centuries. It later became the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic in 1940 before gaining independence as Moldova in 1991.Wine and tourismMoldova has drawn on its long tradition of viticulture to become one of today’s top producers of outstanding wines, exporting to over 70 countries worldwide. The wine industry is a significant economic sector, representing 3% of GDP and 8% of the country’s total exports. With around 300 days of sunshine annually, Moldova’s climate is ideal for agriculture, particularly vineyards. According to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), the country has approximately 117,000 hectares (290,000 acres) of vineyards and ranks among the world’s top 20 wine producers.A budget traveller’s dreamMoldova is ideal for budget-conscious travellers. Its affordability means they can explore its landscapes, historic sites and enjoy world-class wines without breaking the bank. With low-cost accommodation and reasonably priced food, exploring Moldova can be done at a fraction of the cost of other European destinations.Popular cultureMoldova’s status as one of the least-known countries in Europe has inspired authors to create fictional nations with similar names. British comic Tony Hawks famously documented his attempt to win a bet by playing tennis against the entire Moldovan football team in Playing the Moldovans at Tennis. Additionally, a group of Australian comedians wrote a parody travel guide to a generic Eastern European country called ‘Molvania.’Breakaway regionFor travellers with a taste for the unusual, Moldova’s breakaway region of Transnistria offers a fascinating glimpse into a place frozen in time. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Russian-speaking region declared independence after a brief civil war. Although it is not internationally recognised, Moscow continues to support the region’s 4.65 lakh inhabitants. Despite Moldova’s repeated calls for the demilitarisation of Transnistria, Russia maintains around 1,500 troops and a large stockpile of ammunition there. All this can provide an extraordinary offbeat travel experience, making it a must-visit especially for history enthusiasts.About the AuthorNishad ThaivalappilNishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and t