MUMBAI: Actor Sidharth Malhotra has been named as New Zealand’s tourism ambassador for India.

The actor will get his first taste of New Zealand next week before beginning his new role. A keen nature lover, traveller and extreme explorer Malhotra says he wants to experience everything a destination has to offer and he has an action packed itinerary during his visit here.

Malhotra’s last movie Brothers released last month and he is currently working on two more films.

As part of his stay in New Zealand, Malhotra will film a video highlighting New Zealand’s scenery, adrenalin packed activities and cultural experiences that will be incorporated into Tourism New Zealand’s campaign work in India. He will also deliver messages about safe driving, encouraging Indian visitors to take care on New Zealand roads.

Tourism New Zealand director of trade, PR and major events René de Monchy said, “Being able to work with someone like Sidharth Malhotra is another fantastic opportunity for Tourism New Zealand. We know from past experience of working with celebrities like China’s Huang Lei and actress Yao Chen, their influence through popular culture, particularly through social media channels is enormous.”

Monchy added, “India is an important emerging market for New Zealand. We saw a surge of interest from Indian visitors as a result of the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup and I am sure the appointment of Sidharth as our ambassador will further add to that interest.”

From 11-19 October Malhotra will visit Northland, Wellington and Queenstown.