NZ Tourism Tax? Sydney BridgeClimb Changes?

Saw a couple of recent news items of potential interest for those planning "adventures" down under.

From TravelWeekly earlier this week, they had this headline: “New Zealand to introduce tourism tax”with these highlights: “The New Zealand government is finalising plans for the levy which is expected to be up to NZ$35 per person – about £18 – paid on entry to the country. The levy will be collected through visa fees and via a proposed Electronic Travel Authority process. Between NZ$57-NZ$80 million is expected be collected a year annually, which will be split between tourism infrastructure and conservation activity, according to the New Zealand government.”

From Australia's local ABC broadcaster two weeks ago, they had this headline: “Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb awarded to Hammons Holdings for next 20 years” with these highlights: “Hammons Holdings Pty Ltd, the operator of Scenic World in the Blue Mountains, had won the contract over current operator BridgeClimb Sydney. Hammons Holdings director David Hammon said 'We're really looking at ways to make new climbs on the bridge.' He said that the company plans to use 'new technology' so that people can 'experience the history of the bridge and the story of the bridge in new and exciting ways'.”

Good luck for those planning upcoming climbs on this famed and scenic bridge in Sydney. Hopefully, the transition works smoothly. Personally, we super loved doing this Harbor Bridge walk. Great experience!!

Full stories at:

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/articles/306444/new-zealand-to-introduce-tourism-tax

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-06-15/sydney-harbour-bridge-climb-hammons-holdings/9875158

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 205,867 views for this posting.

climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge from both ends[/b]' date=' in the future, so more people will be able to climb. For those who wish to take photos, I can [b']recommend the Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout, but there are a lot of steps[/b].

Appreciate various, helpful follow-ups on another CC Board. See one above. From the "Broadsheet" publication in Sidney within the past week, they have this headline: “Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge From Both Ends”with these highlights: “More people than ever before will able to conquer Sydney’s famous Harbour Bridge climb, with new operators Hammons Holdings announcing climbers will soon be able to access the bridge from both ends. The tour company will take over from BridgeClimb Sydney on October 1. In its bid, Hammons Holdings outlined its vision which includes new routes and improved accessibility. Previously, climbers were only able to access its southern end.”

While this change will mean increased access and allow more climbers, I am not sure if there will be equal popularity for the north versus south climbs. From my one climbing experience, the current route seems to offer the better photo opportunities for having the Opera House, main downtown buildings, etc., in the background. Be interested to see how all of these changes work out for the future. Was impressed as to how the original company had its safety and logistics set-up and operating. Fun experience!!

Full story at:

https://www.broadsheet.com.au/sydney/city-file/article/construction-begin-new-sydney-harbour-bridge-climb

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

SE Asia/Mekong River, Etc.! Just completed a Jan. 21-Feb. 20, 2018, first adventure through Southeast Asia with stops in Hong Kong and Bangkok, before traveling all over Vietnam and Cambodia. This includes seven days sailing on the Mekong River. Now at 26,373 views. Lots of fun, interesting pictures!! See more at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2591474