Travel News

Nepalese Minister Jumps for Tourism in Queenstown

The Nepalese Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviations first visit to Queenstown today (Wednesday 22 April) was inspired by a bungy jump in her home country of Nepal.

This afternoon Honourable Hisila Yami  was able to compare jumps by leaping 43 metres from the first commercial bungy site in the world, at AJ Hackett Bungy’s Kawarau Bridge site .

It was the Minister’s second bungy jump in two weeks, and she said she was keen to promote the ties between adventure tourism in Queenstown and Nepal.

“When I jumped in Nepal they told me I had to visit Queenstown because it was the home of bungy and I wanted to do it because it was here that it all started,” she said.

The Minister said there were a number of similarities between the two countries.  She is in Queenstown with Nepalese Under Secretary Birendra Singh, researching adventure tourism.

“I am keen to promote adventure tourism in my country domestically and internationally and that’s why I’ve jumped.”

The Minister also experienced an exciting ride on Shotover Jet this afternoon.

Destination Queenstown CEO Stephen Pahl said there was a natural connection with Nepal thanks to Sir Edmund Hillary.

“Through Sir Ed we have a connection to Nepal and its people. I was delighted to meet the Minister this morning and exchange ideas which will have reciprocal benefits.

“We’re known as the adventure capital of the world, and I’m delighted that her visit has been inspired by this reputation, and delighted she’s been able to experience two iconic New Zealand innovations, bungy jumping and jet boating. It has been a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase our stunning location and nurture future connections with the country.”

Minister Yami said she would continue to develop opportunities for adventure tourism in Nepal.

“I encourage visitors to come and explore my country. There are many new places to be discovered.”

Related Articles

• Tourism Students Reach New Heights in Queenstown
  Friday June 19 02:08 PM
• International Football Clash Kicks off Winter Festival
  Thursday June 18 06:49 PM
• Holidays are on their way
  Thursday June 18 04:12 PM
• Snow Blesses The Remarkables Before Opening Day
  Wednesday June 17 02:26 PM
• Kawarau Jet Rewarded for Responsible Tourism
  Tuesday June 16 06:39 PM