Jam-packed adventure incentive for US top performers
Key Objectives
The brief was to show our clients’ guests an adventure-filled programme that highlighted the best New Zealand has to offer.
They wanted the group to be mentally and physically challenged whilst experiencing new adventure activities that created both connections amongst their attendees and lasting memories to share with colleagues back home.
Additional requirements in the brief included….
- 5-star accommodation
- exclusive high-end dinners with quality entertainment and elevated AV
- concierge airport arrival services
- jet airplane charters between regional destinations and door-to-door luggage transfers
- exclusive priority access and transfers for VIPs for all activities and venues
- incorporate a CSR activity to give back to the local community and leave a lasting positive impact
- event branding at every activity and on charter vehicles
- a completely separate and unique partners program catering to guests’ partners who chose to travel to New Zealand
- local hosts/concierges assigned to each guest for a personal touch.
Impact
HQNZ’s proposal was to inspire attendees with the perfect combo of New Zealand’s biggest city, Auckland, the city of sails and Queenstown, the Adventure Capital of the World, nestled in the Southern Alps. This incentive program was specifically to focus on challenging fears and experiencing new adventures.
Our client had amazing feedback from the guests with some even moved to tears by the unique and mind blowing experience.
Highlights of our programme included…
America’s Cup Racing on the Auckland Harbour
The group kicked off the week in Auckland by experiencing what it’s like to be an America’s Cup competitor. They participated in a bespoke private sailing regatta around Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour, with multiple boats involved, a special guest America’s Cup commentator and champagne-style prizegiving on the wharf to cap off the experience.
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Lord of the Rings Welcome Dinner
To close out the first day in New Zealand, the group enjoyed an out-of-this-world immersive Lord of the Rings themed dinner, featuring themed, larger-than-life art installations and roaming Dwarf and Elven characters.<Br>
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Thrilling Jetboat Arrivals in Queenstown
After stunning aerial views on two charter A320 Air New Zealand jets the group was greeted by the HQ team in Queenstown. A lakeside glass of mulled wine was followed by the adrenaline rush of a jet boat arrival, navigating the twists and turns of the river, to arrive in central Queenstown in style. Guests then checked in to their hotel with their bags having made their way from their Auckland hotel to Queenstown hotel room without ever being seen by the guests.<Br>
Ultimate West Coast Heli Experience
Participants embarked on a breathtaking helicopter tour, exploring the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s West Coast. They witnessed dramatic coastal scenery, majestic glaciers, and lush rainforests from above, landing at remote spots for guided walks and photo opportunities.<Br>
At midday, the group enjoyed a private lunch at a backcountry lakeside lodge. They dined on gourmet local cuisine in an exclusive setting, with beautiful views of the tranquil lake providing a perfect backdrop.
Adventure Duo Day – Oxbow and Bungy
This day started with an exclusive morning of activities at Oxbow Adventure Co. Participants enjoyed thrilling outdoor adventures, including heart-stopping jet sprint boats, ultimate off-roading, and clay bird shooting, providing an adrenaline-filled start to the day.
Following the morning’s excitement, the group headed to the beautiful Kinross Winery for a lunch of exquisite wines and gourmet dishes while taking in the serene vineyard views.
In the afternoon, participants experienced the ultimate thrill with an exclusive session at AJ Hackett’s Nevis site. They faced their fears with the Nevis Bungy and Swing, the highest in New Zealand, creating lasting type two memories! <Br>
Mountaintop Farewell Dinner at Coronet Peak
The final day concluded with a spectacular finale dinner at Queenstown’s unique mountainside venue, Coronet Peak. The group ascended to the peak by exclusive 4WD ski coach to enjoy a gourmet meal with red carpet entrance, themed cocktails, stunning panoramic views, custom fireworks display, light projection onto the mountain, live 5-piece band and endless photo opportunities. The evening was filled with laughter, reflection on the programme’s activities, and a sense of camaraderie, making it a memorable and outstanding end to this unique trip.
