If you’ve been out and about lately, you might have noticed some eye-catching messages around town – "Wait, What? Manawatū has more eateries per capita than Wellington?" or "Wait, What? There’s glow worm caves in Manawatū?" Well, we’re here to let you in on the secret – it’s all part of our campaign to reignite pride in our region and remind us all why Manawatū is such an incredible place to live, visit, and do business.

How the campaign works

The campaign is a mix of traditional and digital marketing, engaging key businesses and community leaders to amplify its reach. It features:

• High-visibility assets, including billboards, bus-backs, and street advertising
• Targeted media and digital content, to really get in front of our locals
• Layered storytelling, featuring “Day in the Life” stories from local advocates
• A regional quiz competition, where locals can test their knowledge and go in the draw to win an incredible “$3,000 weekend staycation.
• Business engagement, encouraging major employers and retail operators to participate through POS materials, newsletters, and digital channels

To launch phase two of the campaign, which will run through to the end of May, we hosted a quiz event last Tuesday evening in partnership with George & Co. We invited key business leaders and influencers to come and put their Manawatū knowledge to the test (and trust us, there were some surprises!) and learn some new and inspiring insights and information about their amazing big backyard.  This event was designed to educate, inspire and reconnect some key movers and shakers – and the feedback has been exceptionally positive!

What’s Next?

This campaign wraps up in May, so keep an eye out for more fun ways to rediscover your epic backyard. Whether it's aweseome eats, hidden adventures, or incredible hospitality, there's plenty to celebrate – and we need you to help spread the word!

Get Involved: