Touchwood Fishing Charters strives to make fishing accessible, enjoyable, and memorable for all. With support from the Trust’s RTO team, owners Amber and Mike Clarke have enhanced their tourism offerings through product development, marketing, and new opportunities for collaboration across the tourism sector.
Touchwood is one of the region’s unique marine tourism experiences, offering everything from fishing trips and private charters to scenic cruises and family‑friendly experiences on the water.
After a challenging period that saw 28 consecutive trips cancelled due to poor weather, the pair began exploring options outside of Tairāwhiti.
“We didn’t want to leave, but we couldn’t ignore the financial reality. That’s when a passenger recommended getting in touch with Trust Tairāwhiti,” says Amber.
With business capability support from the Trust, they were linked with a business mentor and successfully refinanced their business through BNZ.
Engagement with the RTO also supported a rebrand, new website and marketing materials, helping the business better showcase its experiences and making it easier for customers to book trips.
“For the first time, the business felt fully ours. We finally feel like we’ve put our own stamp on it,” says Mike.
“Before the website, I was constantly reposting information on Facebook and hoping people would see it. It’s taken a huge weight off my shoulders,” says Amber.
"The refinancing, the rebrand and the website changed the direction of our business."
Since connecting with the RTO, Touchwood has expanded beyond fishing charters to include scenic tours and birdwatching, attracting a broader range of visitors.
Connections made through the Trust's tourism networking events have opened the door to new partnerships and ideas for Touchwood.
"People were really keen to work together after last year’s Tairāwhiti Tourism Day Out, and we discovered potential partnerships we hadn't previously considered," says Amber.
The business is exploring possible collaborations with other operators to offer coastal cruises with local food and wine, offering more ways for visitors to experience Tairāwhiti.
Touchwood continues to welcome everyone, from seasoned anglers to newcomers trying fishing for the first time, remaining true to Amber and Mike's goal of making time on the Tairāwhiti waters more accessible, enjoyable and memorable.
