A flock of 25 Kiwi tourism operators has landed in the United States showcasing the best experiences of both Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland and Queenstown and encouraging more travellers to enjoy the majestic landscapes and rich cultural experiences of Aotearoa.

The trip follows the strongest ever December-January summer period for US visitor arrivals into New Zealand, up 4 percent on the pre-pandemic high of 2019-2020, and up 31 percent on the 2022-2023 December to January period. This corresponds with New Zealand also enjoying the strongest ever connectivity with North America, and a favourable exchange rate.

The group of New Zealand tourism operators are visiting seven cities across the United States (US) to promote three nights in each Auckland and Queenstown as the perfect foundation to any New Zealand itinerary, and sharing the Tiaki Promise – a commitment to care for Aotearoa while here and for future generations.

Annie Dundas, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Director of Destination, is travelling with the group and says: “It’s clear that demand for New Zealand is very high, and that airline capacity and frequency - particularly the direct flight from New York - is a game changer for many. Travel Advisors can’t get enough of the information we are sharing about Auckland and Queenstown. Golf, particularly the renowned luxury resort Te Arai Links, has also piqued a lot of interest. Our exchange rate also makes a New Zealand vacation incredibly good value.

“It’s been powerful to share New Zealand’s indigenous Māori culture and the story of the Tiaki Promise which has resonated strongly,” says Dundas.

As complementary destinations, leisure travelers to Auckland and Queenstown can experience luxury accommodation, enriching arts and cultural experiences, unforgettable dining, world-class golf, adventure, and the unique nature and wildlife of New Zealand.

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city; an urban oasis offering rich cultural experiences, an amazing food and wine scene and world-class beaches, islands, and expansive harbours. Queenstown is renowned for its distinct four seasons, huge range of attractions and experiences and innovative approach to destination stewardship.

“New Zealand is an incredibly special place, and everyone who lives and travels here has a responsibility to care for our people, place and culture. In Queenstown we encourage visitors to slow down and experience a deeper connection with our people and place. Our tourism operators are committed to sustainable practices to ensure travelers tread lightly, leaving the least impact on our environment as possible,” said Mat Woods, Chief Executive of Destination Queenstown.

Tourism New Zealand research indicates there is an audience of around 51 million Americans who are actively considering a visit to New Zealand within the upcoming three years.

Auckland Airport Chief Customer Officer, Scott Tasker, said air connectivity options between North America and New Zealand have never been better, with more airlines flying more direct routes into Auckland.

“We have Air Canada, Air New Zealand, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, Qantas Airways and United Airlines flying non-stop to Auckland from eight North American cities during the Southern Hemisphere summer. For those exploring beyond Auckland to Queenstown, there’s easy connectivity on one of 15 daily flights. It really is a great time for North Americans to start planning – and booking – a trip to New Zealand,” said Mr Tasker.

Auckland is the most connected city in Australasia to North America, with eight airlines offering significant customer choice of up to 84 flights per week over the summer period. Queenstown is arguably the most popular visitor destination in New Zealand and has a strong connection to Auckland with 93 flights per week.  

Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Auckland Airport, and Destination Queenstown work in partnership to promote a compelling proposition for North American leisure, business and incentive travellers to enjoy an Auckland-Queenstown experience. The partnership sees relationships and partnerships collectively leveraged and the three organisations working together on joint sales calls and in-market representation, road shows, media and travel agent visits and promotion.

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