Challenge Wanaka has announced a new partnership with one of the region’s leading tourism operators, Alpine Helicopters, who will supply all flying services, including aerial filming, for New Zealand’s largest annual triathlon festival (13-19 January 2013).
Jonathan Wallis, general manager of The Alpine Group, said the company was delighted to support an event that had such a positive impact on the Lake Wanaka region and was so well supported by the local community.
“Alpine Helicopters, a family-owned and operated business, is proud to support Challenge Wanaka as the official helicopter operator for Challenge Wanaka 2013,” he said. “Challenge Wanaka is an exciting event that has a positive economic impact for the district. We look forward to our partnership, to further propel Wanaka on the national and international tourism grid. In addition, I’d like to recognise and congratulate the efforts of the large number of local volunteers and other businesses who play such a valued role in supporting the event.”
“Having the support of Alpine Helicopters will not only provide significant benefits for the event but also indicates that Challenge Wanaka reaches deep into the tourism infrastructure of the region, providing benefits and returns to businesses well outside the sport-specific marketplace,” said Victoria Murray-Orr, race director of Challenge Wanaka. “We’re delighted to be working with such an innovative and respected organisation as The Alpine Group and I know that anyone who wants to see this spectacular region from the air will have a truly memorable experience with Alpine Helicopters.”
As part of their partnership with Challenge Wanaka, Alpine Helicopters will also take ownership of the Alpine Helicopters Swim Leg.
Challenge Wanaka is New Zealand’s largest annual triathlon festival attracting in excess of 2,000 athletes over a week-long celebration of sport involving all ages and abilities. The flagship event, Challenge Wanaka iron distance triathlon (3.8km/180km/42.2km) is part of the Challenge Family global series of long distance triathlons which features 11 races around the globe. For further information, visit www.challengewanaka.com.
Established in 1972 Alpine Helicopters is a division of The Alpine Group Limited, owned by the Wallis family, which also includes Minaret Station Luxury Tented Lodge, Minaret Outfitters and Mountain Kitchen tourism products. For further information visit www.alpinegroup.co.nz
