Around a third of Kiwis are still booking their Australian holidays via a travel agent, shows the the latest data from Tourism Australia’s recent Consumer Demand Project.
The survey found that Kiwis also like to book around three months in advance and spend a significant amount.
Unsurprisingly, New Zealand travellers are the market most likely to be considering travel to Australia, shows the data, with 70% considering a trip in the next four years, and 5.5% having already booked a trip. As to why, 70% of those polled said the appeal lies in the fact Australia’s easy to get to with its world-class beaches/coastlines and is family- friendly. Safety and security are also listed as drivers. Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Brisbane were the most popular spots for Kiwis within Australia.
. . . Agent Bookings
Looking at bookings, a majority of Kiwis stated that they book their Australian getaway directly with the airline, at 52%, however 32% still prefer to book via a travel agent. Of this 32%, 56% listed face-to-face as their preferred communication method. Some 12% rely on agents for Australia recommendations, with a majority, 59%, relying on recommendations from family and friends. Youtube, airline websites, and Google reviews also ranked highly for this. Most Kiwis book flights and activities between one and three months prior to the trip, with this samebooking timeframe for accommodation. Four to six months out is the next most popular planning window.
. . . Big Spenders
Around 70% of Kiwis bound for Australia were defined as high yielding travellers, with a minimum spend per trip of $1613 whilst in Australia, excluding airfares. Building on this more, a further 7% are luxury travellers, spending at least $1000 per person per day on accommodation, touring and attractions. These travellers span multiple geographics, aged anywhere from 25 to 74 years, and they are most likely to travel as a couple, with the purpose of their trip visiting friends or relatives.
. . . Indigenous Options
Currently, just one in five book an indigenous experience, while Kiwis list cost, and concerns over authenticity and exploitation listed as why they are not booking an indigenous experience—alongside a lack of awareness.
