Published on
September 5, 2025
Eight leading tour operators from Australia and New Zealand embarked on an immersive journey across the island of Ireland this week, hosted by Tourism Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland, and Fáilte Ireland. This visit highlights the enduring importance of the Australian and New Zealand markets for Ireland’s tourism sector, which annually welcomes a significant number of visitors from these countries. The initiative is designed to showcase Ireland’s diverse attractions and ensure the island remains a key destination in international travel itineraries.
During their comprehensive itinerary, the group experienced a mix of cultural, historical, and culinary highlights that reflect the depth and variety of Ireland’s tourism offerings. Their journey began in the northwest with a visit to Donegal Castle, an iconic historic site, followed by a tasting experience at The Shed Distillery. The tour continued with a hands-on culinary adventure at the Sligo Oyster Experience and a rejuvenating session at VOYA Seaweed Baths, providing insights into Ireland’s thriving artisan food and wellness sectors.
Visitors were also treated to a traditional sheepdog demonstration hosted by Atlantic Sheepdogs, an authentic showcase of Ireland’s rural heritage. The group explored the National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park, offering a sobering yet essential perspective on Irish history, before continuing to the Irish National Stud & Gardens for a glimpse into Ireland’s equestrian excellence. Cultural immersion continued in Dublin with a visit to the renowned Book of Kells Experience at Trinity College, a journey through Irish medieval artistry, and a behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic Windmill Lane Recording Studios, famed for its contributions to global music history. The culinary exploration in Dublin included a guided food tour with Walking Food Tours, introducing the group to the capital’s vibrant gastronomic scene.
Northern Ireland offered equally compelling experiences, beginning with a stay at Killeavy Castle Estate. In Belfast, the tour operators participated in a food-focused walking tour with Taste & Tour, sampling local specialties and gaining insight into the city’s evolving food culture. The group then ventured along the Causeway Coast, embarking on a thrilling sea safari with Aquaholics and visiting the dramatic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a quintessential Northern Irish landmark. The itinerary also included a visit to Crindle Bespoke for an equestrian experience, allowing the operators to explore Ireland’s long-standing horse-riding traditions.
The journey concluded in Derry-Londonderry, where the tour group visited the Peacemakers Museum to deepen their understanding of the region’s rich history of conflict resolution. A walking tour along the historic city walls provided both panoramic views and a tangible connection to the city’s storied past, leaving the visitors with lasting impressions of Ireland’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
This week-long familiarization trip underscores Tourism Ireland’s strategic commitment to strengthening relationships with key international partners. By providing firsthand experiences of Ireland’s cultural, historical, and culinary attractions, the program ensures that tour operators are well-equipped to design and promote itineraries that captivate visitors from Australia and New Zealand. With its combination of heritage sites, culinary excellence, outdoor adventures, and authentic experiences, Ireland continues to assert itself as a top destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.
Sofia Hansson, Tourism Ireland’s Manager for Australia and New Zealand, said:“We’re delighted these influential tour operators from Australia and New Zealand have taken the time to come and experience the island of Ireland’s superb tourism offering – including our rich cultural and historical experiences – and see for themselves what Ireland has to offer their clients. It’s a great opportunity to familiarise them with the destination for consideration in their future programmes”.
