New Zealand targets Indian tourists with direct flights

Tourism New Zealand is increasing efforts to attract Indian tourists. They have signed agreements with nine Indian travel companies, including popular names like EaseMyTrip and MakeMyTrip. These partnerships aim to create travel experiences tailored to Indian preferences. One major goal is to improve travel connectivity. New Zealand plans to explore direct flights between India and New Zealand, which would make travel easier for visitors. The country hopes to launch flights between Delhi and Auckland by 2028. Recently, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Christopher Luxon, oversaw a Memorandum of Understanding between Air India and Air New Zealand for this purpose. To boost tourism, Tourism New Zealand is working with Indian travel companies. They have signed an agreement with Auckland Airport and Air New Zealand for a seasonal marketing campaign. This campaign aims to attract Indian tourists during autumn, winter, and spring, presenting New Zealand as an ideal destination during these times. René de Monchy, the CEO of Tourism New Zealand, noted that India is one of the fastest-growing markets for New Zealand tourism. There has been significant growth in tourist numbers from India, and they are focusing on high-impact marketing to convert interest into bookings. Tourism is a crucial part of New Zealand’s economy, second only to agriculture. Indian tourists often travel during India’s peak holiday seasons, which aligns with New Zealand's quieter periods. In 2023, over 72% of Indian holidaymakers visited during off-peak months. With many potential travelers from major Indian cities considering New Zealand, these new initiatives are expected to boost the arrival of Indian tourists.