World Masters Games 2017 And Airbnb Form Winning Partnership   30 May 2016

Monday 30 May, 2016

World Masters Games 2017 (WMG2017) organisers hope a new partnership with Airbnb, the world’s leading community-driven hospitality company, will inspire Aucklanders to put the ‘host’ in ‘host city’.

With approximately 25,000 athletes and 3,000 supporters expected to gather in Auckland during the event from 21-30 April next year, Airbnb will provide a way for residents to welcome out-of-town and overseas guests throughout the Games.

WMG2017 Chief Executive Jennah Wootten believes the partnership with Airbnb will open doors for participants to experience Auckland like a local.

“We are thrilled to have Airbnb on board as a partner of World Masters Games 2017,” she says. “With three-quarters of the athletes and supporters expected to come from outside of Auckland, we want to ensure there will be enough accommodation on offer to suit a variety of needs and budgets.”

“Local hosting through Airbnb is an important part of the solution, opening up opportunities for participants to experience the Games, and a way for local hosts to welcome participants and make them feel at home.”

Sam McDonagh, Airbnb New Zealand Country Manager, says the partnership with WMG2017 is a natural fit.

“We’re honoured to have the chance to support World Masters Games 2017 – an event that promotes friendship and understanding which are philosophies we truly value at Airbnb,” he says.

“Kiwis have a wonderful reputation of warm hospitality, which is one of the reasons why Aucklanders have already taken to Airbnb. We think this is a great opportunity for everyday people to support the Games by providing athletes and their supporters with a home away from home.”

As the largest multi-sport event in the world by competitor numbers, 2017 will mark the first time the World Masters Games have been held in New Zealand in their 30-year history.

The 28 sports in the Games programme will be spread across more than 45 competition venues throughout Auckland and the Waikato. With more than 4,000 properties and rooms already available across all of Auckland, Airbnb is capable of providing accommodation options near all venues.

“International athletes and their supporters take part in the Games to experience everything the host city has to offer. It’s about the competition, the camaraderie and the chance to experience new cities and cultures,” Ms Wootten says.

“The World Masters Games is a unique event for everyday people who are passionate about sport. Whether they are teams or individuals, competitors often save and fundraise to be part of this amazing event every four years.

“We hope Aucklanders, and in particular the sporting community involved in the Games, will consider involvement as local hosts. We’d also like to encourage visiting athletes to consider Airbnb as an exciting alternative to traditional accommodation options,” she says.

For more information, to register or volunteer, visit www.worldmastersgames2017.co.nz.

To list a room or property on Airbnb, visit www.airbnb.co.nz.

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