In an exciting development for New Zealand's tourism industry, Air New Zealand is teaming up with Air China and Tourism New Zealand to attract more Chinese tourists to the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand. This strategic collaboration aims to boost travel demand and drive growth in inbound tourism from China.

Over the next year, Air New Zealand plans to invest over NZD 700,000 in marketing initiatives through these valuable partnerships. Recognizing the significance of the Chinese market, which accounts for 8% of total visitor arrivals in New Zealand, this joint effort is set to make a significant impact on tourism.

Highlighting the importance of the Chinese market, Air New Zealand's CEO, Greg Foran, emphasized, "China is an incredibly important market for us, and we’re proud of the role our Shanghai service has played in connecting people, cargo, and cultures over the past decade." The investment will not only boost awareness of New Zealand as a unique and welcoming destination but also foster stronger connections between the two nations.

Exciting enhancements are on the horizon, with Air New Zealand planning to introduce brand-new cabins on its 787 aircraft, offering Chinese customers a premium onboard experience. With a 33% increase in premium seats on the Shanghai–Auckland route from October, travelers will have more opportunities to enjoy extra space and comfort on their journey to New Zealand.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon hailed the partnership as a crucial step toward revitalizing the country's tourism industry, particularly in the wake of the impacts of the pandemic. "Stimulating demand from key markets like China is essential to creating jobs, supporting businesses, and strengthening communities across the country," Luxon noted. This collaboration not only aims to drive tourism recovery but also to foster cross-cultural exchanges and promote economic prosperity for all New Zealanders.