Michael Nees says his new venture feels a lot like the internet boom of the 90’s.
When Michael came across virtual and augmented reality, he quickly recognised the business potential.
He says he saw the possibility to continue telling New Zealand’s story, but in an entirely unique way.
“VR is a great story telling tool. You can take people to places that they ordinarily wouldn’t get to.”
Through his research Michael identified that there are several types of travellers, who can all be reached through this new immersive medium.
After connecting with world-renowned industry experts, he felt encouraged to set up his new business, Virtual Journeys NZ.
Virtual Journeys NZ is a story-telling platform creating a 360-degree virtual development that immerses the traveller into breath-taking places like Key Summit, Mt. Cook, and the Abel Tasman Regional Park.
“If done well, it’s like a ‘real’ travelling experience.”
Michael says that we are at the beginning of the digital revolution, with metaverse and digitalization, and believes that Aotearoa could be world leading.
His virtual experiences can be found on video hosting platforms like Vimeo, YouTube, Veer, and the revolutionary Oculus.
Michael says, for people to achieve their dreams and aspirations of seeing different places, it’s quite clear that the only way to do it is digitally.
He wants to make the travel industry aware that if done well you can reach millions of people without all the carbon footprints.
A key aspect of Michael’s new business journey during the last couple of years has been the assistance he received from the Nelson Tasman Business Trust.
“I was very fortunate to have Scott Burnett as a mentor. Even if you have all the years of experience, as a business owner sometimes you are on your own.”
If you are interested in accessing a Business Mentor, please contact the Nelson Tasman Business Trust on 03 539 0824 or visit their website www.ntbt.co.nz for more information.
By Rasam Moghimi
