Hamilton & Waikato Tourism Membership Programme

We are pleased to offer our new membership programme designed to connect operators with potential visitors and support the growth of the Waikato region. Members will gain a range of benefits, including elevated exposure through our marketing channels, access to resources and networking opportunities.

Primary objectives of the new membership programme is to:

• Streamline collaboration between Hamilton & Waikato Tourism (HWT) and tourism industry, maximising the impact of industry contributions to drive strategic growth
• Provide clarity of expectations around the benefits members will receive
• Offer a flexible membership that meets the diverse needs of tourism operators
• Provide a destination management approach to marketing the region, focusing on the quality of the overall visitor experience and targeted marketing efforts effectively
• Provide a membership model that generally aligns with the level of benefit received and the scale of the member's business
• Raise industry contribution to collectively drive effective strategy execution

Why become an HWT member?

Your membership with HWT is an investment in the growth and success of your business and the region as a whole. By joining our membership programme, you'll gain access to a range of benefits designed to elevate your profile, increase visitation, and contribute to the thriving Waikato tourism industry.

Boost your business

• Increased visibility: Benefit from prominent placement on our website and in our marketing materials, ensuring your business is seen by a wider audience.
• Access to Targeted marketing: Reach your ideal customers through marketing campaigns, leveraging digital channels, traditional media, and industry partnerships.
• Expert guidance: Access valuable insights and support from our team of experts, helping you make informed decisions and optimise your business operations.
• Networking opportunities: Connect with like-minded tourism professionals, share best practices, and build strong relationships within the industry.

Be part of something bigger

• Contribute to regional growth: Your membership supports our efforts to promote the mighty Waikato as a tourism destination, driving economic growth and job creation.
• Enhance the visitor experience: Collaborate with us to create exceptional visitor experiences that leave a lasting positive impression.
• Champion sustainability: Join us in our commitment to responsible tourism practices and protecting our region's natural and cultural heritage.
• Shape the future: Influence tourism policies and initiatives through your involvement in industry forums and discussions.

Specific benefits for HWT members only

• Priority access: You’ll be first to receive new marketing opportunities and have early access to register for our events
• Professional development: Enhance your skills and knowledge through workshops and training programs, with specific member only events and discounted ticket prices to HWT organised events
• Digital Marketing Activities: You’ll have upweighted listings on our website and feature on the home-page on a rotational/shared basis. We’ll make specific/individual posts on HWT social media channels and newsletters about your visitor offering
• Access to one-on-one support: Up to two hours of personalised business and digital marketing support  
• Industry information portal: You’ll have access to our industry section of our website, with additional tools and information not available to the general industry
• Data insights: Access valuable data and analytics to understand your target market and measure your performance.
• Famil hosting: You’ll have first priority for inclusion in famil hosting if/when opportunities ariseRepresentation at industry events: Our team include information about your visitor/venue offering at domestic industry exhibition events, ie: MEETINGS, eXplore

Annual Membership Fee (excl. GST)

Additional Joint venture opportunities provided to HWT members (excl. GST)

Joint venture opportunities are available for Members only and include activities such as being featured in our marketing campaigns and participating in business events activities, ie: event bid inclusion. Unlike our previous partnership model, where some of these activities were included in the partnership fee depending on the level, these additional JV opportunities are now separate and not covered by the annual membership fee.

• Domestic marketing & media activities (i.e. domestic marketing campaigns, media campaigns): $5,000 pa
• Business events activities (i.e. joint famil hosting, inclusion in bids): $3,000 pa
• Professional photography/video*: $1,000
• Social media content creator*: $1,000
• Regional features in print: $POA
• Trade show attendance: $POA

*Dependent on number of operators who commit 

Opportunities for all Waikato Operators

• Visitor Guide
• Symposium attendance

Booking Deadline: 30 September 2024

Please note this membership programme is only available to businesses and tourism operators operating within the Hamilton & Waikato Tourism RTO boundaries. For full Terms & Conditions please click here

By becoming a member of HWT, you're not just investing in your business; you're investing in the future of our region. Let's work together to create an even more vibrant and successful tourism industry.

Sign up today to maximise your benefit