News
A very rural visitor attraction is being welcomed by those seeking to grow the number of commissionable tourist oriented activities within the region.
Tim Hana of the Lumsden Hotel and No 8 Diana Street Gift shop owner Gordon Lawrence are soon to start regular shearing demonstrations for the growing number of visitors to the Northern Southland town.
Photo: supplied
Venture Southland Group Manager for Business and Strategic Projects Steve Canny welcomes the addition of the very Southland rural visitor orientated product.
“This is exactly the sort of product innovation the region needs. Southland has a reputation as a leading agricultural region and the need for farm related tourism opportunities is a natural fit and an area of interest for inbound tourism operators.”
“Venture Southland is working closely with tourism operators to increase the time visitors spend in region through the creation of new commissionable activities and attractions.”
“Surveys have told us that visitors are interested in the primary sector and its processes. Shearing is a classic example of an everyday activity that can be taken for granted here but is of great interest to those unfamiliar with the harvesting of wool.”
Tim Hanna said that as Gordon had been the star shearer for the show at Walter Peak for many years the opportunity was too good to miss.
“We are both really grateful for the support Venture Southland has given us. They have greatly encouraged us and helped out with invaluable practical assistance.”
The 30-40 minute demonstration includes tea, coffee, food and a photo opportunity for visitors who want to share their woolly experience with family and friends.
The demonstrations are scheduled to begin before next year’s World Shearing Champs in Invercargill.