Changes needed to cope with aging population

13 Sep 2010 10:22a.m.

Sandra Rhodda wrote:

Not just a consideration for our own ageing population but for our economy and export earning too. For example, tourism is currently second biggest international exchange earner, but our tourism industry/government seem blind to the fact that our tourists are going to become older, less able. Already almost half our domestic and international tourists are 45 or older (over 70% of our cruise passengers too) and the % older visitors has been steadily increasing over the decade. Yet TNZ still insists on marketing to the young (who have less $$). Unlike in other countries, we are not gearing up for the silver tsuname of older visitors who will need better access to products and services. When they don't get them in NZ, they will go to countries that have been gearing up for a number of years. NZTRI at AUT is holding a one-day conference on these issue on October 4th with national and international speakers - hopefully govt and industry will sit up and take notice. Sandra Rhodda, Senior Research Officer, AUT.

08 Sep 2010 04:28p.m.

Greg wrote:

Wrong government to be asking for help, National party is known for breaching the rights of the elderly, sick, injured people.
Only have to go back to the 1990`s to see what the Shipley govt did to pensioners and the health system!.