Kiwis’ desire to go beyond the more popular Pacific Island destinations was made clear at the Discover the Best of Melanesia/ Polynesia event this year.
Host Richard Skewes, who represents both Tonga Tourism Authority and Tourism Solomons in New Zealand, says agents are desperate for alternatives.
“Their clients have done the big-name islands,” he says. “Now they’re asking for something real, unscripted and uncrowded—and that’s exactly what the Solomons and Tonga offer.”
Skewes says the agent feedback showed strong interest in product that feels like the South Pacific used to be, with small locally-owned accommodation, genuine community connections and space for clients to slow down.
“For agents, the Solomons and Tonga are a chance to refresh their South Pacific portfolio and stand out with something different— while still offering easy access, good value and a warm island welcome.”
Both Tourism Solomons and Tonga Tourism Authority plan to work with the trade on follow-up training and increased product awareness to convert this interest into bookings, he adds.
