Expat New Zealanders are being encouraged to tell their mates and business contacts what the country has to offer, in the build up to the Rugby World Cup 2011.
Kiwi Expat Association (Kea) chairman Sir Stephen Tindall and hip-hop star Savage today launched a website Pass It On which aims to network with New Zealanders and friends of New Zealand living overseas.
"From our fashion designers, to musicians, yacht designers, and superb pinot noir, we have talent and products which our international supporters club can spread the word about - before, during and after Rugby World Cup 2011," Mr Tindall said.
There will be monthly prize draws for participants, including the 'Expat Reconnaissance Tour', an opportunity for four New Zealanders living overseas to bring their non-NZ mates back for a week of "experiences".
Kea executive director Ross McConnell said musicians, film-makers, fashion designers, and other business people could an use Pass It On to network overseas.
"Many Kiwis have done incredibly well overseas, and have fantastic international networks as a result. This is a great opportunity for New Zealand to make the most of those connections, while Rugby World Cup 2011 is generating interest in everything we have to offer," Mr McConnell said.
Recording artists heading overseas would have a much better chance with a foot in the door from Pass It On, said Music Commission chief executive Cath Andersen.
"It is not easy to make it overseas. Pass It On is exactly the sort of initiative which can help our emerging talent break through on the world stage.
"The project will give us a legacy and a lasting database of contacts well after the final whistle has blown at Eden Park," she said.
