Technology enriches New Zealand self-drive experience
The New Zealand driving experience is now more entertaining and educational with the advent of the Kruse system.
The Kruse uses GPS navigational technology and a vehicle’s stereo system to provide a commentary about local landmarks, history, legends, culture, flora and fauna as travellers drive throughout New Zealand.
It’s the brainchild of Jonathan Kruse, who came up with the idea while producing multi-lingual commentary tapes for tour bus operators in 1996.
‘Although other technologies have been experimented with, these systems were designed to meet the needs of bus and boat tour operators,’ says Kruse. ‘Until the advent of Kruse, self driving tourists have had to rely on guide books.’
Using the Kruse is a simple matter of plugging the ‘box’ into the cigarette lighter, turning the radio to the right frequency and driving away. Where appropriate, Kruse incorporates characters, music and sound effects to bring the stories to life.
‘We have had very positive responses from those who have used the Kruse including international travel media, wholesalers, travel agents and of course the tourists,’ says Kruse.
‘People have said they have learned so much more about the country and how fantastic it was to have the information provided automatically as they drove throughout an area.’
The system was officially launched in September 2004. The commentary for the Kruse has been researched over four years and is an ongoing process. ‘We are always looking for more interesting stories and history about areas and as these come to light they are added to the systems.’
Jonathan Kruse believes the concept of Kruse for self-drive tourism is a world first, and says several countries have expressed interest in the system.
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