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Air New Zealand Puts Economy Skynest Sleep Pods On Sale
Air New Zealand is set to transform ultra‑long‑haul economy travel with the rollout of its world‑first Economy Skynest sleep pods, which go on sale from 18 May 2026. Initially available on the Auckland–New York (AKL–JFK) route aboard the airline’s new Boeing 787‑9 Dreamliner fleet from late 2026, the pods will give Economy and Premium Economy passengers the chance to enjoy a fully lie‑flat sleep without paying business class fares. Economy Skynest: Lie-Flat Sleep In Economy Economy Skynest consists of six individual lie‑flat pods arranged in a bunk‑style layout between the Economy and Premium Economy cabins. Each pod features a full‑length mattress, pillow, sheets and blanket, plus an integrated seatbelt so customers can remain safely tucked in if the seatbelt sign comes on. Designed around natural sleep cycles, the pods are intended to help travellers arrive more refreshed after one of the world’s longest commercial flights. Two four‑hour nap sessions will be offered per flight in the initial rollout, priced from around AUD 495 per session, with each passenger able to book one session per sector. Sessions are scheduled outside main meal services to maximise uninterrupted rest time, with availability limited to passengers aged 15 years and over in Economy or Premium Economy. Comfort, Tech And “Nestcessities” Each Skynest pod is equipped with thoughtful amenities to support better sleep at 30,000 feet. Alongside the lie‑flat bed and bedding, travellers will find individual USB charging outlets, a personal reading light, adjustable cooling ventilation and a privacy curtain to create a cocoon‑like feel. Ambient lighting is tuned to encourage relaxation, and every guest receives a complimentary “Nestcessities” kit, which includes an eye mask, socks, earplugs, Aotea skincare products and a dental kit. The Skynest concept builds on Air New Zealand’s track record with innovations like Skycouch, extending the airline’s focus on experience‑driven products that enhance comfort in the back of the aircraft. For travel advisors, the new product creates a fresh price point to position between standard Economy and Premium cabins, particularly appealing to clients who value sleep on ultra‑long‑haul flights but are not ready to commit to a full business class fare. Routes, Booking And Availability In its first phase, Economy Skynest will be exclusive to select ultra‑long‑haul flights between New York (JFK) and Auckland, operated by Air New Zealand’s latest Boeing 787‑9 Dreamliner (V5) aircraft. Travel begins from November 2026, with Skynest sessions available to add once a customer has booked an eligible Economy or Premium Economy seat. For trade partners using airnzagent.com.au, Skynest availability appears during the flight selection stage; if a service is Skynest‑equipped, it will display “Skynest available” alongside the flight details. Customers booking direct can learn more and check eligibility via the dedicated Skynest page at https://www.airnewzealand.com/economy-skynest. As more Dreamliners join the fleet, the airline is expected to extend Skynest to additional ultra‑long‑haul routes, signalling a broader shift toward sleep‑focused innovation in Economy and Premium Economy cabins. Click the link to watch the video: https://next.frame.io/share/90d6e052-e61a-4ec3-9936-b830db1a17d1/view/32e4eb51-a7af-497e-bf4c-1cde261be03b
New Zealand showcases premium products at FHA 2026
New Zealand is set to make a significant return to Food and Hospitality Asia (FHA) 2026 with a national pavilion at the Singapore Expo from 21 to 24 April. This marks the country's first participation since 2018, featuring 15 premium food and beverage companies. The pavilion aims to highlight New Zealand's reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality products to Asia's retail, hospitality, and foodservice sectors. The event underscores New Zealand's long-term commitment to Singapore and the broader region, showcasing its innovative approach to food production. Joe Nelson, Regional Director for South East and East Asia at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), stated, "FHA is an important meeting point for buyers across Asia, and this pavilion gives interested buyers and partners a direct way to meet New Zealand producers." The pavilion will feature a diverse range of products, from Ao Cacao's award-winning chocolates to Bostock Brothers' organic chicken. Other exhibitors include Blue Frog's premium granola, Canary Foods' dairy products, and Comvita's Mānuka honey. New entrants like Eden Orchards will introduce their antioxidant-rich juices, whilst established brands such as Whittaker's will showcase their chocolate offerings. New Zealand's food and beverage exports to Asia have grown significantly, from $3.3 billion (NZ$5.5 billion) in 2018 to $5.0 billion (NZ$8.4 billion) in 2025. This growth highlights the strategic importance of Singapore as a gateway to the region. The pavilion offers a unique opportunity for buyers to sample products and engage directly with producers, reinforcing New Zealand's role in shaping the future of food This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
Air New Zealand trials digital ID for seamless travel
Air New Zealand has completed a successful trial of a digital identity technology designed to streamline the travel process by reducing the need for repeated passport checks. The trial, conducted in March, involved passengers travelling between Auckland and Hong Kong, allowing them to share their digital ID during online check-in and use biometric scans throughout their journey. The new system enables passengers to add their passport information to the Air NZ app, securely share verified identity details at online check-in, and use biometric verification at selected points. This innovation aims to minimise document checks and queue times, providing a smoother travel experience. The trial also integrated with the New Zealand Traveller Declaration, simplifying the completion of online forms. Jeremy O’Brien, Air New Zealand's Chief Customer and Digital Officer, highlighted the trial's significance, stating, “Our ambition is to make travel easier from start to finish. That means fewer document checks, less time queuing and a smoother experience overall.” Privacy and security remain central to the initiative, with customers maintaining control over their information. The trial involved collaboration with various partners, including the IATA Travel Directory and Hong Kong International Airport’s Flight Token framework. Following the trial's success, Air New Zealand plans to explore broader pilots, focusing on expanding the technology to different locations, with Australia as a key target for the next phase. The airline is also sharing insights with global aviation bodies to further develop the solution This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
Air New Zealand launches Next Gen kiosks nationwide
Air New Zealand is introducing its newly developed Next Gen check-in kiosks across airports in New Zealand, following a successful trial that significantly improved check-in speed and reliability. The rollout begins this week at Auckland Domestic Airport and will extend to all New Zealand airports by the end of July. The kiosks, designed by Air New Zealand's research and development team, feature user-friendly technology such as iPads for touchscreen interaction and built-in cameras for passport scanning. During a trial at Auckland’s domestic terminal, four kiosks processed over 30,000 customer journeys, reducing average check-in time from over two minutes to just 37 seconds. The fastest recorded check-in was completed in 18 seconds. The new kiosks also streamline group check-ins. A recent example saw 21 customers checked in with boarding passes and bag tags issued in just 2.5 minutes, a process that previously took over two minutes per customer. This improvement makes check-in for larger groups up to 20 times faster. Cost efficiency is another advantage, with each new kiosk costing about a third of the previous models. The airline anticipates saving over $1 million (US$) annually in maintenance costs. Jeremy O’Brien, Air New Zealand’s Chief Customer and Digital Officer, stated, “We focus our innovation efforts on better customer outcomes. The purpose of our research and development team is to make travel easy and frictionless.” The project, from conception to rollout, took 13 months and involved extensive testing and refinement based on customer feedback. The technology has also garnered international interest after being showcased at a global aviation conference This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
Air New Zealand and Air China renew alliance
Air New Zealand's alliance with Air China has been renewed until 2031, as confirmed by New Zealand's Ministry of Transport. This extension ensures continued connectivity and choice for travellers between New Zealand and China, supporting tourism and trade links between the two nations. Since its inception in 2015, the alliance has facilitated over 480,000 visitors to New Zealand via Beijing and Shanghai, contributing an estimated $1.8 billion (NZD $3 billion) to the economy. The alliance, which supports up to 17 return services per week during peak periods like Chinese New Year, enhances access to over 30 destinations across China through Air China's domestic network. This connectivity is mirrored by Air New Zealand's domestic network, facilitating easier travel for Chinese visitors within New Zealand. Mike Williams, Air New Zealand's Chief Transformation and Alliances Officer, highlighted the alliance's role in improving access and supporting business links with China, one of New Zealand's largest trading partners. Li Dong, Co-Chairman of Air China's Commercial Committee, emphasised the partnership's commitment to strengthening ties and boosting trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges. Tourism Minister Louise Upston noted the importance of China as a tourism market, with average visitor spending at $5,800. She welcomed the announcement, stating that direct connectivity is crucial for increasing visitor numbers and driving economic growth. Associate Transport Minister James Meager also praised the renewal, citing benefits such as more flights, better connections, and increased traveller choice This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
Air New Zealand and Air Chathams launch first interline flight
Air New Zealand and Air Chathams have successfully launched their first interline flight, marking a significant step in enhancing travel connectivity for regional communities. The inaugural flight, which landed in Auckland today, allows passengers travelling from Whakatāne to seamlessly connect to the broader Air New Zealand domestic network on a single ticket. Michael Williams, Air New Zealand's Chief Transformation and Alliances Officer, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating that it reflects the airline's dedication to supporting regional connections. "Working alongside partners like Air Chathams makes it easier for customers to travel across our country and strengthens local economies and regional tourism," he said. Passengers Gillian and Des Connor, who travelled from Whakatāne to Queenstown, praised the convenience of the new service. "This makes travelling from Whakatāne incredibly easy. Being able to book it all on one ticket and know our bags will be waiting for us in Queenstown takes the stress out of the journey," they commented. Air Chathams CEO Duane Emeny emphasised the partnership's focus on regional communities, noting that it provides simpler access to the national network. Associate Transport Minister James Meager also acknowledged the benefits, stating that improved regional connectivity supports tourism and trade. Following the successful launch, both airlines are planning to expand interline connectivity to other regions, further enhancing travel options for New Zealand's regional communities This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
Marriott to introduce St. Regis in New Zealand
Marriott International has announced an agreement with PHC Queenstown Limited to launch the first St. Regis Hotels & Resorts in New Zealand, set to open in late 2027. Located in central Queenstown, the hotel will feature 145 rooms and offer views of The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu. This marks Marriott's inaugural presence in Queenstown with the iconic luxury brand. The St. Regis Queenstown will include signature features such as The Drawing Room, The St. Regis Bar, and an all-day dining venue. Guests will also enjoy the renowned St. Regis Butler Service, offering personalised services like garment pressing and in-room beverage arrangements. The hotel will boast a spa with hydrothermal facilities, a wellness lounge, an indoor heated pool, and a fitness centre. Richard Crawford, Vice President of Hotel Development for Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific at Marriott International, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, "Securing a luxury presence in Queenstown has been a strategic priority for Marriott." He highlighted the collaboration with the Pandey family, noting the strong relationship between the two companies. PHC's Managing Director, Prakash Pandey, emphasised the significance of the development, stating it will bring a new level of luxury accommodation to New Zealand. The project is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy during construction and become a key employer in the community. The St. Regis Queenstown will join Marriott's expanding portfolio in the Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific region, further solidifying its position as a leader in luxury hospitality This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
Accor appoints Rob McIntyre as VP for New Zealand & Fiji
Accor has announced the appointment of Rob McIntyre as Vice President Operations for New Zealand and Fiji, effective 13 April 2026. McIntyre, who has extensive experience in the New Zealand market, previously held senior roles such as General Manager of Pullman Auckland Hotel & Apartments and regional General Manager positions. His return to New Zealand comes as Accor continues to expand, operating 49 hotels and over 6,300 rooms in New Zealand, and four hotels with more than 600 rooms in Fiji. Accor's recent growth in New Zealand includes the introduction of two new brands, TRIBE Auckland Fort Street and JO&JOE Auckland, reflecting confidence in the market's long-term potential. McIntyre will be instrumental in collaborating with Tourism New Zealand and regional tourism organisations to aid the recovery of the tourism industry. "I’m thrilled to be returning home to New Zealand and to be stepping into this role at such an exciting time for Accor," McIntyre stated. The New Zealand hotel sector is experiencing positive trends, with Queenstown benefiting from increased Australian arrivals and Auckland thriving due to major events. Accor anticipates a rise in occupancy in 2026, bolstered by leisure groups and large-scale events. The upcoming opening of Pullman Hamilton will further expand Accor's presence in the Waikato region. Adrian Williams, Chief Operating Officer of Accor in the Pacific region, expressed confidence in McIntyre's leadership, citing his operational expertise and strong relationships within the industry as key assets for Accor's continued growth in New Zealand and Fiji This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
Air New Zealand’s Electric Aircraft Trial Marks a Major Step Toward Net Zero Flying
Air New Zealand has completed the first phase of its Next Generation Aircraft Technical Demonstrator Programme, wrapping up a four‑month electric aircraft trial that offers a glimpse of how future low‑emissions aviation could work across Aotearoa. In partnership with US‑based BETA Technologies, the airline operated the battery‑electric ALIA CX300 on real routes under real conditions, gathering the kind of operational data airlines need if they are to seriously cut emissions on short‑haul networks. Inside the ALIA CX300 demonstrator programme Over the course of the trial, the ALIA CX300: Completed more than 100 flights. Flew around 13,000 kilometres across New Zealand. Visited 12 airports and aerodromes across the North and South Islands. Two Air New Zealand pilots and eight BETA Technologies pilots flew the aircraft in a range of conditions, working closely with the Civil Aviation Authority and airport partners in Hamilton, Wellington and Marlborough. This was not a lab experiment: it was a live operational trial designed to see how electric propulsion behaves inside New Zealand’s existing aviation system. Baden Smith, General Manager Strategy, Networks and Fleet at Air New Zealand, says the programme was about “learning by doing”—testing everything from pilot training and flight planning to energy use, airport interfaces and airspace integration. Those insights will feed directly into how the airline thinks about future fleet choices, network design and how next‑generation aircraft might be scaled up. First low‑emissions IFR flight and Cook Strait crossings One standout milestone was New Zealand’s first low‑emissions IFR (instrument flight rules) operation in December 2025. IFR flying lets pilots use flight‑deck instruments rather than visual cues, which is essential for low‑visibility conditions and a non‑negotiable requirement for regular commercial services. Achieving a low‑emissions IFR flight with a battery‑electric aircraft is a key proof point that this technology can eventually operate to airline standards rather than just fair‑weather demos. The programme also included multiple Wellington–Blenheim crossings over Cook Strait, giving both Air New Zealand and BETA valuable experience of how the ALIA CX300 performs in one of the country’s more challenging aviation environments. In parallel, the trial carried more than 20 tonnes of mock cargo and allowed around 700 people—from staff to stakeholders—to see and experience the aircraft up close, which the airline says helped shift conversations from “what if” to “how might this work”. Cost and efficiency: $110 vs $20 on Wellington–Blenheim Beyond emissions, the demonstrator highlighted some striking operational efficiencies. On the Wellington–Blenheim route, Air New Zealand compared the energy use of a traditional turboprop with the electric ALIA: A conventional Cessna Caravan burns about $110 of fuel per sector on that route. The ALIA CX300 used around $20 worth of electricity for the same sector. While that doesn’t yet factor in aircraft acquisition, maintenance or infrastructure costs, it shows how electric propulsion can dramatically lower energy spend per flight—a compelling advantage at a time when fuel is both volatile in price and a major source of aviation emissions. Globally, BETA’s ALIA CX300 has also demonstrated low operating costs on other routes, such as a 130‑kilometre passenger flight in the US that consumed just US$8 of electricity, underscoring the broader economic potential of electric aviation. How this fits into Air New Zealand’s net zero roadmap This demonstrator sits within Air New Zealand’s wider Flight NZ0 strategy and its Mission Next Gen Aircraft programme, which aims to: Fly the first commercial demonstrator flight from 2026. Begin replacing the Q300 domestic fleet from 2030 with more sustainable aircraft, likely using green hydrogen or battery‑hybrid systems. The airline has committed to net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and sees next‑generation aircraft as one of the key levers alongside sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), operational efficiency and offsetting. Over the next three years, Air New Zealand plans to focus on supporting the building, testing and certifying of new aircraft and infrastructure, using insights from trials like the ALIA CX300 to guide long‑term decisions. As Baden Smith notes, the programme leaves New Zealand “in a strong position— informed by evidence, experience and people— to make smart choices about the future.” BETA’s Head of Sales & Support, Simon Newitt, adds that New Zealand’s geography and regional network make it a “powerful proving ground” for electric aircraft, with lessons that can be applied globally. Conclusion: net zero aviation is moving from concept to runway Airlines’ net zero pledges often sound abstract, but Air New Zealand’s ALIA CX300 trial shows how quickly next‑generation aircraft are moving from concept to runway. In just four months, the programme delivered: Over 100 commercial‑style flights across real routes. New Zealand’s first low‑emissions IFR operation. Hard data showing energy costs that are five times lower than a comparable fossil‑fuelled aircraft on a key regional route. Taken together with initiatives like Mission Next Gen Aircraft, global SAF testing and similar trials by other carriers, the industry’s push toward net zero aviation is clearly gaining ground—not in glossy concept renders, but in logged flight hours, regulatory engagement and real‑world economics. There is still a long way to go before you can routinely board an electric or hydrogen‑powered flight, but programmes like this suggest that for short‑haul regional flying, the future of low‑emissions travel is no longer hypothetical—it’s already in the air.
Radisson RED debuts in New Zealand with Auckland hotel
Radisson Hotel Group has launched its first property in New Zealand with the opening of Radisson RED Auckland, located in the heart of the city's Arts District. The hotel, which opened on 23 February 2026, is designed to reflect Auckland's vibrant creative culture, offering 322 guest rooms and suites, and the country's largest rooftop space. The hotel is situated at 33 Lorne Street and features a rooftop bar and event spaces, providing a unique venue for social gatherings. It is one of the few pet-friendly hotels in Auckland, welcoming guests with their pets. The design-driven hotel aims to set a new standard for modern hospitality in the Central Business District. Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East, Africa, and South East Asia Pacific at Radisson Hotel Group, stated, "This opening marks a major milestone for our growth in Australasia and a proud moment for our upper-upscale Radisson RED brand, which brings a playful twist to the conventional." Radisson RED Auckland's design incorporates elements of the city's arts culture, with corridor lighting mimicking stage spotlights and lounge seating inspired by opera boxes. The hotel also offers a vibrant all-day dining venue and a soon-to-open rooftop restaurant and bar, promising sweeping views of Auckland's iconic Sky Tower. The hotel's rooftop can accommodate up to 219 guests and is designed for a variety of events, from corporate functions to social gatherings. Reinout Engel, General Manager of Radisson RED Auckland, emphasised the hotel's role as a creative hub, stating, "Every space has been shaped to spark inspiration, encourage connection, and bring a sense of play back into travel." This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
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Webinar: Small Ship Expeditions – Antarctica 23/24 + New Arctic 23
Dive right into Aurora Expeditions' brand new 2023/24 Antarctic season and updated 2023 Arctic & Global season by joining us at our series of Launch Events across Australia and New Zealand.
Webinar: Small Ship Expeditions – Antarctica 23/24 + New Arctic 23
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AHICE South East Asia 2026
PRESENTING AHICE SOUTH EAST ASIA Tuesday 10 & Wednesday 11 March 2026 Pan Pacific Singapore The Asian Hotel Industry Conference
Asian Hotel Industry Conference & Exhibition (AHICE) – 24-26 February, 2025 Singapore.
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AHICE SE Asia 2024 – 27 to 29 February 2024, Singapore
The Asian Hotel Industry Conference & Exhibition (AHICE), hosted by HM Magazine is set to make its South East Asia debut in February 2024 on Tuesday 27, Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 in Singapore.
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