Economic Statistics & Market Research

We invite you to explore, indulge and dream amongst the gentle hills and warm-hearted people who call the KwaZulu Natal Midlands home. The Midlands Meander route is situated between the city of Pietermaritzburg in the East and the majestic uKhahlamba Drakensberg mountain range (a World Heritage Site) in the West, in the uMgungundlovu district, one of eight regions of the ‘Zulu Kingdom’. In the Midlands, life is lived at a gentler pace, we take time to chat to strangers in the trading store and shell our own peas. On your visit, explore the forests and farmlands and the small villages inhabited by interesting characters. Gather inspiration and original art from world-class crafters, enjoy gracious hospitality, savour new flavours and celebrate memorable moments. May you be enticed to return to this Good Place.

• The Midlands Meander is South Africa's first, largest and most popular arts and crafts route in South Africa, and is currently consulting to the European Union on tourism route development through the Collabor8 programme.
• The MMA will be celebrating its 25th birthday in 2010.
• The Meander extends over a distance of over 80 kms between Pietermaritzburg and Mooi River.
• The Midlands Meander Association comprises a voluntary group of like-minded people who share a vision, formally constituted in 2000 as a Section 21 company.
• Since its humble beginnings, the Midlands Meander has grown into a vibrant network consisting of 210 members, which make a substantial contribution to the local economy in terms of expenditure and employment as well as undertaking social responsibility activities (tourism and environmental education in 19 rural schools, and studies of the Karkloof Blue Butterfly.)

Statistics from UKZN Research & Other Sources:

• Main sources of turnover are accommodation 36%, food and beverages 20% and arts and crafts 19%.
• The value of the marketing conducted on behalf of the MMA members is estimated at over R6m per annum.
• Market value of land and buildings R1.15 billion.
• Annual turnover: Approximately R359 million
• Annual wage bill: R63 million.
• Employment: 2100 in all categories.
• Purchases from the local economy (excluding Pietermaritzburg) R38 million.

For more information, contact pr@midlandsmeander.co.za