News & insights.
Topical updates, policy changes and destination spotlights from across the New Zealand, Australian and South Pacific travel industry — written by the people planning your groups' journeys every day.
VietJet Plans Australian Domestic Launch for 2027, Challenging Qantas and Virgin
Vietnamese low-cost carrier VietJet Air is filing for an Australian Air Operator Certificate and could begin flying the Sydney–Melbourne–Brisbane 'golden triangle' by the first half of 2027 with a fleet of ten Boeing 737 MAX 8s. Here's what a new domestic entrant could mean for inbound group programmes.
Read article →New Zealand Triples the International Visitor Levy: What Group Travellers Need to Know
From 1 October 2024, New Zealand increased its International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) from NZ$35 to NZ$100. Here's how it impacts group travel planning and why it ultimately benefits the destinations you love.
Read article →Australia's ETA App Streamlines Entry — But Group Leaders Should Plan Ahead
The Australian Electronic Travel Authority is now exclusively processed via the official mobile app for most eligible passport holders. We unpack what tour leaders should brief their groups on before departure.
Read article →Rotorua's Geothermal Renaissance: Why 2025 Is the Year to Return
From the reopening of the Whakarewarewa boardwalks to a major upgrade at Te Puia, the heart of New Zealand's geothermal tourism is enjoying a quiet renaissance. We share what's new and worth building into your North Island itineraries.
Read article →Air New Zealand Adds Direct Auckland–Rarotonga Capacity for the 2026/27 Season
With three additional weekly rotations confirmed through to April 2027, group planners now have meaningful flexibility to combine a Cook Islands extension with North Island programmes. We break down the connection windows that actually work for inbound groups.
Read article →Great Barrier Reef Operators Adopt New Reef-Safe Certification Standard
Cairns and Port Douglas reef operators have rolled out a unified Reef-Safe Tourism standard covering anchoring, sunscreen policy and citizen-science contributions. Here's what to ask suppliers before confirming your 2027 shore excursion programme.
Read article →Vanuatu Reopens Tanna Island Volcano Access After Infrastructure Upgrade
Following a twelve-month upgrade to the Mt Yasur access road and viewing platforms, Tanna Island is back on the incentive map. We outline current charter options from Port Vila and what to expect for groups of 20 to 60.
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