Travel News

Queenstown Provides Thrills Off the Court for the NSW Swifts

The New South Wales Swifts, in Queenstown for a pre-season tournament prior to the ANZ Championships, took time out this afternoon (Sunday 22 February) to enjoy a jetboat ride on the iconic Shotover Jet.

The team, which won the ANZ Championship last year, flew into Queenstown on Thursday for a three-day tournament at the Queenstown Events Centre which showcased some of the world’s best netball players.

Hosted by local team the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel, the Swifts also faced teams the Northern Mystics, Central Pulse and the Australian Institute of Sport. The Swifts won four of their five games, losing to the Northern Mystics this morning.

NSW Swifts Head Coach Julie Fitzgerald said the team had enjoyed their time in the resort town and hopes they will return for the pre-season tournament next year.

“The whole trip has whetted our appetites for Queenstown.  It’s the most beautiful place in the world. We all can’t wait to come back.”

“The Shotover Jet was a great activity to do as a team.” Julie said. “It has been an awesome experience, so much fun!”

Destination Queenstown CEO Stephen Pahl said the tournament was a great example of how events could drive visitor numbers and tourism marketing.

“This tournament not only showcased how well equipped Queenstown’s infrastructure is for hosting sporting events but also how events can help attract our target markets.  Netball is extremely popular here and the games gave our regional drive market great reason to visit Queenstown for the weekend.  Equally, the tournament offered us an opportunity to showcase our town both nationally and internationally. 

“We were delighted Queenstown could host the Swifts and everyone enjoyed the trans Tasman rivalry that resulted,” he said.

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