The mayor of a South Island district is urging more tourists from across the country to visit his "little slice of paradise".
A recent survey by the Central Otago Tourism Board said the region has plenty of things for tourists to do – but received just 9% of the country’s tourism last year.
Speaking to Breakfast this morning, Mayor Tim Cadogan said: "You’re missing a little slice of paradise.
"You’re missing a place that’s almost a bit like New Zealand used to be.” "
He advised Aucklanders and others in the hustle and bustle of metro areas of Aotearoa, "you’re missing a piece of peace".
"It really is lovely and quiet here. It's a place where you can find yourself and not too many others."
Cadogan highlighted local attractions such as “beautiful lakes” and a rail trail. “It’s the grandaddy of all the bike trails in New Zealand – it’s just wonderful.
“You ride, it’s silent, just you – the only noise you hear is the birds and your wheels scraping on the gravel.
"And then you stop at a country pub, and you might have a beer, or you might have a glass of Central Otago pinot."
He said the real hidden gem for the region was the Lake Roxborough bike trail – calling it “absolutely gorgeous”.
“You have the lakeside views, and you have the riding along the edge.
“Just that little bit quieter."
When asked why he thinks his city is the best to visit, Cadogan said: “A lot of mayors in New Zealand will say these sorts of things, but I’ll give you a tip – the rest of them are lying."
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