Repatriating more than 300 vehicles including stranded tourist buses and rental cars from Kaikoura back to Christchurch will begin this week.
The first convoy of 80 vehicles is scheduled for departure today.
More than 15 companies own the many campervans, cars and coaches left behind when visitors were evacuated from Kaikoura in the days following the November 14 earthquake.
Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) is working with the operators, the Rental Vehicle Association, Civil Defence and the New Zealand Transport Agency to coordinate removal of the vehicles.
“Local people are being given priority among those wanting to use the inland route during the hours of access,” says TIA chief executive Chris Roberts.
“Many rental vehicle operators provided replacement vehicles so customers could continue their holidays. Now they are keen to get these vehicles out of Kaikoura to meet booking commitments,” he says.
Some Kaikoura locals have volunteered to help drive the vehicles out, along with members of the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association who will travel into Kaikoura to drive the vehicles to Christchurch.
Drivers will be given comprehensive health and safety briefings before they join the convoy.
“We’re very grateful to the NZMCA for their help in this effort,” says Roberts.
“Vehicles are being prioritised on a pro rata basis depending on how many vehicles each operator has in Kaikoura. We’re hoping to get all the vehicles out of Kaikoura by the end of next week,” he says.
“Working together means that all affected operators get a fair go, and TIA has been pleased with the support from players for a coordinated effort led by thl and Jucy,” says Roberts.
“The number of vehicles left in Kaikoura highlights the importance of tourism to the town,” he says.
