Anzac Lucky Loop to drive visitors back to the Coromandel
Published on 18 April 2023
The tourism promotion agency Destination Coromandel has launched a world-first driving lottery to encourage Kiwis to take the coastal route of State Highway 25 and visit the district more regularly.
“Following a rough start to the year with visitor numbers down significantly, we wanted to do something that reminded Kiwis that the Coromandel district is open and we’re ready to host them. The Coromandel is still a fabulous destination to visit, and we want to be back on the itinerary,” says Mayor Len Salt.
During Anzac weekend – from Friday 21 April until Tuesday 25 April - any vehicle that drives SH25 Coromandel Loop will be in the draw to win a range of epic prizes including three nights at Hāhei Beach Resort in a beachfront bach, boat trips, snorkel tours and even dozens of Coromandel oysters.
The Lucky Loop game uses cameras set up in secret locations on SH25 from Thames to Waihi. Vehicles photographed at computer-generated random times will receive the corresponding prize. Details on the winners will be posted to luckyloop.co.nz after the weekend.
Destination Hauraki Coromandel general manager Hadley Dryden says this campaign is the first of its kind in Coromandel and believes it’s a world-first. “Travellers will notice some more signs this long weekend, but instead of bad news, these signs will prompt people to visit luckyloop.co.nz to see if they’ve won.”
“There’s still a perception that the Coromandel isn’t open and uncertainty about access, so we wanted to encourage visitation by doing something really fun. Not only can travellers win prizes, but they’ll also help out all the local businesses who have been affected by adverse weather this year.
“Despite the coastal loop taking a tad longer than driving over the hill, travellers will also be rewarded with fantastic views and a diverse range of homegrown local experiences. As locals know, it’s worth taking your time and stopping off along the way,” adds Hadley Dryden.